Consumers know what they want. Some are looking for bargain basement discount stores; others are seeking quality with a boutique shopping experience. The reason most people select a custom photographer are similar to the reasons why we:
- Dine in a fine restaurant from time to time rather than simply cook something at home;
- Select an upscale hair salon over having our neighbour cut and colour our hair;
- Drive an Escalade rather than a mini-van;
- Buy roses for someone instead of picking flowers from the backyard.
What each of those has in common is that the preferred choice is based on quality in product & workmanship, a boutique experience, a special treat, or to celebrate a milestone (such as baby’s first birthday/Christmas; graduation; weddings and anniversaries; Mother’s Day/Father’s Day, a retirement; family reunion, and so on.)
The other common thread is that custom photography, just as trips to the spa or dining in fine restaurants, is not a frequent expense. Many view it as a special occasion once a year or whatever block of time that suits them as individuals. Some people save up in advance because they value custom photography so much. It’s a boutique experience.
Boutique: a small shop selling specialized goods or services; designating products, services produced on a small scale and marketed to a discriminating clientele.
Customize: made to order or modified according to individual requirements.
Custom photography is focused on and dedicated solely to you and your photographic needs. Yes, the chain studios have a place for some people but with their ubiquitous backgrounds and a 15 or 20-minute appointment with predictable poses used on everyone who walks through the door, they are not there to provide quality or personalized service. Children or adults don’t appreciate being placed in unnatural poses. Instead, let the kids run and frolic in a park to capture their true essence. This is really what lifestyle photography is all about — you being you; the kids being kids; the family interacting naturally. Diane Schuller is a modern, lifestyle photographer and values quality service and premium results. Isn’t that better than artificial poses and having to grin and say, “cheese”?
Custom photography may not be for everyone but for those who value quality and personal service and wish to have visual keepsakes that reflect the real person, this is your starting point. Please browse through this photo journal and take a trip to Diane’s website to view her portfolio and to learn more about the sessions. If custom photography is for you, please contact Diane.
To learn more about custom photography visit this site for a great explanation or this page that explains the cost of photography.
Caveat Emptor: Beware of amateur photographers masquerading as professional photographers — frequently found advertising on places such as Kijiji or Craigslist.
