We are now offering DVD-quality videos of your photo shoot or wedding. A 30-second video is free with your paid portrait photo session. A longer video (on DVD) is available for an additional $25. All wedding packages include a long video (or 2!) on DVD.
This is a sample of a short video. Long videos range from 3 to 4 minutes.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Wedding Photography in Arizona - Bonus!
New special; limited time only! Book a Complete Package wedding and get a free iPod iTouch loaded with your wedding photos! (Revision: the iTouch has been added to the Complete Package at no additional cost; email me for a complete wedding package price list).
Aaaaand We're Back!
Spent a week in Disneyland with the fam for a much-needed vacation! Now it's back to reality.
Something new: we used to do random giveaways (and we still do!) but we've decided to now do monthly contests to giveaway great prizes. See our first contest here: http://millermillerphotography.blogspot.com/2009/05/june-contest-is-on.html
Enjoy!
Something new: we used to do random giveaways (and we still do!) but we've decided to now do monthly contests to giveaway great prizes. See our first contest here: http://millermillerphotography.blogspot.com/2009/05/june-contest-is-on.html
Enjoy!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Out For a Bit
Just wanted to let everyone know we'll be unavailable from Sunday the 24th through Friday the 29th. If you've sent an email or client inquiry through our website, we'll answer it as soon as we are back in the office.
Have a gorgeous week!
smooch!
s
Have a gorgeous week!
smooch!
s
Friday, May 22, 2009
The EYES Have It!
Are these some of the most gorgeous eyes you've ever seen?! They could be straight out of the book, Twilight, seriously. This is one of my daughter's bff's, Cayli (or Cay-J to me). She's a cool chicklet; I just love her! (Thanks, Cayli, for plopping down in my grass on my whim so I could take a few shots! Love ya, girl-ann!)
Thursday, May 21, 2009
HOT PICK: This One's for the Girls!
So, I've always had bra issues. I'm bearing my soul here, stay with me (unless you're a guy, then get lost!). After 3 kids and 2 years each of nursing them (during which time the girls are the size of torpedoes), and being a little too large up top for my frame anyway, the girls have had issues fitting comfortably into a bra. I've tried wireless, underwire, WonderBra, etc. etc. etc. all with less than fantastic results.
So while window shopping last night, I decided to pop into Victoria's Secret and see if they finally had something for us women whose boobs have been through the ringer and now hang like empty gym socks (did I just say that on my photog blog?).
Biofit 7-way. It has revolutionized bras. It holds the girls in place in a comfy and pleasing manner, no spillage, no slipping. Ahhhhhh, sweet relief!
So while window shopping last night, I decided to pop into Victoria's Secret and see if they finally had something for us women whose boobs have been through the ringer and now hang like empty gym socks (did I just say that on my photog blog?).
Biofit 7-way. It has revolutionized bras. It holds the girls in place in a comfy and pleasing manner, no spillage, no slipping. Ahhhhhh, sweet relief!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tip - Before Being Photographed
If you are planning to have photos taken, be sure to wait 10 days to two weeks after having your hair cut. Freshly cut hair can sometimes look unnatural. Giving a new cut a couple weeks to relax back into shape will make for a more natural portrait.
Monday, May 18, 2009
A Word on Copyright and Files on Disc
This post is for both the aspiring professional and the consumer, since I get the question occasionally from both.
Clients sometimes inquire whether they get a copy of their print-ready photographs on CD. I'm not sure when this became expected or customary. It truly baffles me. Some photographers give them away at no charge (they probably have no overhead and don't *need* to make money to feed their kids; they may be more of an amateur or hobbyist). Others allow you to purchase a CD of your photos after you have made a print order of a particular amount, say $500. Others still will absolutely not sell their digital files at all. You would certainly not expect a disc of your digital files if you went to Wal-Mart or Sears or Olan Mills or any other studio, right?
Understand that when a consumer pays a sitting fee of $100, $150, $250, $500 or whatever the case may be, that pays for: the photographer's hourly pay; a fraction of the cost of the equipment used to capture, edit and store the images (camera, lenses, lights, reflectors, computer, hard drives, software programs, association and license fees) and whatever additional expenses the photographer may have to keep their business running (and there are many such expenses). You normally wouldn't pay a sitting fee (or would pay a smaller one) at chain store studios; their stores can absorb the cost of equipment and running the studio.
If a photographer charged $150 for a sitting fee, spent an hour of his/her time taking the photographs and several more hours carefully editing them, only to give the files away for free so the client can go print off as many as he/she wants, leaving the photographer with no further profit from print orders, you would find a photographer who is quickly out of business. Or, one who doesn't *have* to work or have kids to feed, or uses only non-professional equipment. You get what you pay for, right?
Consumers, remember: You will enjoy your portraits for the rest of your life, while the photographer typically only earns money from it just once.
Aspiring photographers, remember: that camera (and other equipment) won't last forever; you WILL be replacing them at some point. Put some money in the bank for that day!
So, if you're in the market for photography, decide what you want. If you don't want or need high-quality custom work that will last a lifetime, then you might be happy with a standard photo from a department store studio. If you want something that's high-quality, custom, and unique, then you may be more happy investing in an independent photographer.
For those of you starting or interested in starting a business: Your time and work are valuable! Outside of charity work, don't give it away! If you do, you will surely go under before you have a chance to get started. Everyone wants something for free, and you will be tempted to give it, but that could well be the death of your business. If you have invested thousands of dollars in professional-grade equipment and provide high-quality work, don't be afraid to make enough money to survive and grow on!
As a member of several professional photograhers' organizations, I read articles and discussions continually about how "shoot and burn" "photographers" are damaging the photography industry. And of course, I see it all around me. It is heartbreaking. The industry may have to make some changes to compensate for such practices; I can't begin to guess where that will go.
Tip: The industry standard (from the Professional Photographers of America) recommends an average of $150 for a sitting fee with one 8x10.
For more tips on starting a photography business, click here.
So, that said, where do I stand on the issue of copyright and selling digital files? I do sell them, after the sitting fee, for the following amounts:
one image: $350
2-5: $500
6-10: $750
10-20: $1,000
over 20: $1,500
Once you purchase your files, you own the copyright which means you can print as many as you want at whatever size you want. Once you purchase them, I MAY NO LONGER STORE THEM ON MY HARDDRIVE so be sure to protect them and back them up! The only right I keep after you purchase them is the right of photo credit. For example, if you entered one of the photos in a contest and it won, it should say, "photo by sandi miller."
Do I turn in people who unlawfully duplicate my photographs? Yes, I do. Please don't duplicate copyrighted photographs (and ALL photographs are automatically copyrighted; it does not have to state that), either mine or any other photographer's! It causes more damage than you think. Thanks!
http://mypicturesofyou.com/
Clients sometimes inquire whether they get a copy of their print-ready photographs on CD. I'm not sure when this became expected or customary. It truly baffles me. Some photographers give them away at no charge (they probably have no overhead and don't *need* to make money to feed their kids; they may be more of an amateur or hobbyist). Others allow you to purchase a CD of your photos after you have made a print order of a particular amount, say $500. Others still will absolutely not sell their digital files at all. You would certainly not expect a disc of your digital files if you went to Wal-Mart or Sears or Olan Mills or any other studio, right?
Understand that when a consumer pays a sitting fee of $100, $150, $250, $500 or whatever the case may be, that pays for: the photographer's hourly pay; a fraction of the cost of the equipment used to capture, edit and store the images (camera, lenses, lights, reflectors, computer, hard drives, software programs, association and license fees) and whatever additional expenses the photographer may have to keep their business running (and there are many such expenses). You normally wouldn't pay a sitting fee (or would pay a smaller one) at chain store studios; their stores can absorb the cost of equipment and running the studio.
If a photographer charged $150 for a sitting fee, spent an hour of his/her time taking the photographs and several more hours carefully editing them, only to give the files away for free so the client can go print off as many as he/she wants, leaving the photographer with no further profit from print orders, you would find a photographer who is quickly out of business. Or, one who doesn't *have* to work or have kids to feed, or uses only non-professional equipment. You get what you pay for, right?
Consumers, remember: You will enjoy your portraits for the rest of your life, while the photographer typically only earns money from it just once.
Aspiring photographers, remember: that camera (and other equipment) won't last forever; you WILL be replacing them at some point. Put some money in the bank for that day!
So, if you're in the market for photography, decide what you want. If you don't want or need high-quality custom work that will last a lifetime, then you might be happy with a standard photo from a department store studio. If you want something that's high-quality, custom, and unique, then you may be more happy investing in an independent photographer.
For those of you starting or interested in starting a business: Your time and work are valuable! Outside of charity work, don't give it away! If you do, you will surely go under before you have a chance to get started. Everyone wants something for free, and you will be tempted to give it, but that could well be the death of your business. If you have invested thousands of dollars in professional-grade equipment and provide high-quality work, don't be afraid to make enough money to survive and grow on!
As a member of several professional photograhers' organizations, I read articles and discussions continually about how "shoot and burn" "photographers" are damaging the photography industry. And of course, I see it all around me. It is heartbreaking. The industry may have to make some changes to compensate for such practices; I can't begin to guess where that will go.
Tip: The industry standard (from the Professional Photographers of America) recommends an average of $150 for a sitting fee with one 8x10.
For more tips on starting a photography business, click here.
So, that said, where do I stand on the issue of copyright and selling digital files? I do sell them, after the sitting fee, for the following amounts:
one image: $350
2-5: $500
6-10: $750
10-20: $1,000
over 20: $1,500
Once you purchase your files, you own the copyright which means you can print as many as you want at whatever size you want. Once you purchase them, I MAY NO LONGER STORE THEM ON MY HARDDRIVE so be sure to protect them and back them up! The only right I keep after you purchase them is the right of photo credit. For example, if you entered one of the photos in a contest and it won, it should say, "photo by sandi miller."
Do I turn in people who unlawfully duplicate my photographs? Yes, I do. Please don't duplicate copyrighted photographs (and ALL photographs are automatically copyrighted; it does not have to state that), either mine or any other photographer's! It causes more damage than you think. Thanks!
http://mypicturesofyou.com/
Friday, May 15, 2009
Happy Friday!
I'm so happy it's Friday! In honor of today and "just because," the first person from the Phx Far East Valley (QC, Mesa, San Tan, Gilbert) who emails me will receive a half-price portrait session (regular price $150; no obigation to purchase prints; max. 8 people in group (extra fee for more than 8)!
HAPPY FRIDAY!
http://mypicturesofyou.com/
HAPPY FRIDAY!
http://mypicturesofyou.com/
Thursday, May 14, 2009
New! Payment Plan Available
I don't know too many people who haven't been at least slightly inconvenienced by this horrid economy. Many have been hit hard.
But, life goes on. Our children grow, our families change, people get married. We still need pictures to commemorate the special times--the happy moments that still happen despite the state of the economy.
That's why we've decided to start payment plan agreements with our clients who want beautiful portraits but can't afford the cost up front. Contact us for more information.
But, life goes on. Our children grow, our families change, people get married. We still need pictures to commemorate the special times--the happy moments that still happen despite the state of the economy.
That's why we've decided to start payment plan agreements with our clients who want beautiful portraits but can't afford the cost up front. Contact us for more information.
HOT PICK: Hi-Def Make-up for Photo Shoots
Cool!
I was going overboard at Sephora last night when I stopped to investigate a new (to me) line of make up called Make Up For Ever. A salesy approached me and recommended their mascara (I bought it, along with an eyeshadow) and pointed out the HD make up. (There is HD and even "blu-ray" make-up available in other brands.)
WOW. Make up made specifically to look great in front of the camera.
I'm liking this.
If you're planning a fashion shoot or heck, even for bridals...or for anything at all, and want to be adventurous, why not try this line? Their products look amazing. I'll let you know what I think of the mascara! I might just go back and try the foundation, etc.
If you try them, let me know and maybe we can do a few test shots! If you're REALLY DARING...they have fake blood and some cool, insane eyelashes. Vamp or Goth session, anyone?
Check out their website...it's cool just to browse! http://www.makeupforever.com/
Update: I've been using Make Up For Ever's "Smokey" mascara and LOVE it. It's dark, dramatic, and makes my lashes LONG and LUSH but not tacky. It stays on all day with no flaking or smudging, and washes off easily with just water! This is definitely my new favorite mascara!
I was going overboard at Sephora last night when I stopped to investigate a new (to me) line of make up called Make Up For Ever. A salesy approached me and recommended their mascara (I bought it, along with an eyeshadow) and pointed out the HD make up. (There is HD and even "blu-ray" make-up available in other brands.)
WOW. Make up made specifically to look great in front of the camera.
I'm liking this.
If you're planning a fashion shoot or heck, even for bridals...or for anything at all, and want to be adventurous, why not try this line? Their products look amazing. I'll let you know what I think of the mascara! I might just go back and try the foundation, etc.
If you try them, let me know and maybe we can do a few test shots! If you're REALLY DARING...they have fake blood and some cool, insane eyelashes. Vamp or Goth session, anyone?
Check out their website...it's cool just to browse! http://www.makeupforever.com/
Update: I've been using Make Up For Ever's "Smokey" mascara and LOVE it. It's dark, dramatic, and makes my lashes LONG and LUSH but not tacky. It stays on all day with no flaking or smudging, and washes off easily with just water! This is definitely my new favorite mascara!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Wedding Photography in Arizona
June seems to be the popular month for weddings from coast to coast. Back in Virginia (where I'm from), June weddings were certainly the standard, and for good reason: gorgeous flowers and flowering trees beautified the scenery and provided gorgeous backgrounds. The weather was perfect, Spring's wind and chill long forgotten and since replaced by warm sunshine and low humidity.
.
June in Arizona is HOT. And sweaty. And did I mention HOT? Even so, it's still a popular month for weddings. Be sure to have some rice paper on hand to blot away any excess shine from the face during your photo shoot. Rice paper blotters are conveniently sold where make-up is. Very handy!
And remember: Stay Hydrated! It will make your skin gorgeous for your photos!
Mailing List!
Have I mentioned I have a mailing list? You can join it by visiting the Contact section on our website: http://mypicturesofyou.com/ (or just email me and put "join" in the subject line).
Why join, you ask?
Well, one good reason is that you'll receive special offers!
$$$
What better reason is there than that? :o)
Why join, you ask?
Well, one good reason is that you'll receive special offers!
$$$
What better reason is there than that? :o)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
It's Senior Season! And I Love Senior Portraits!
I LOVE doing senior portraits. It takes me back to my own senior year of high school...the excitement, anticipation, being top dog in school...senior skip days! Senior portraits have come a long way since 19...well, let's just say they've come a long way and leave it at that. 
Here are some fun senior portraits I did for Josh yesterday. Upcoming seniors, mention Josh and get 10% off your print order through the month of May! And remember, senior sitting fees are on special for $100! Whoo hoo!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Family Portrait Session
Friday morning I had a family portrait session with a fabulous family! They were fresh, fun and sweet...with just enough spice. On the ride over to our location, I noticed the intense blue eyes their sweet baby girl has...you know how a clear blue sky looks just before the sun goes down? How it fades from brilliant blue to a deep midnight, then pure black at the edge? That's her eyes...gorgeous! Here are a few pics...enjoy!
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