Ask almost anyone these days what they do and I bet 80% of the time you’ll hear, “I’m a photographer.” It’s true, photographers are becoming as commonplace as 7-11 stores back in the 80’s and 90’s (did I just date myself, lol?)
With the lowering cost of decent entry-level DSLR cameras, it is becoming more affordable to jump into the world of photography. I don’t blame anyone for doing it, either. Photography is awesome. I loved taking pictures as a kid and would create rudimentary scrapbooks with local newspaper clippings and snaps of middle and high school friends. My dad was an avid photographer himself, although it wasn’t a hobby we shared together (which I deeply regret – he would have been a wealth of information).
Like a lot of pro photogs, the birth of my children truly began to fuel the flame. We spent bushels of money on professional photography for our boys and not one dime do I regret spending on those precious memories. However, I was scrapbooking a lot by that point and was growing more and more frustrated with the quality of my images. Hubby gifted me a Canon Rebel for Christmas, and that was pretty much it. For the next year and a half I studied, practiced, posted my work in forums, took critique that stung to the bone and bettered myself as a photographer.
When friend after friend started calling wanting me to take pictures of their children, I decided to get legit and hang out my hat.
So, with an over-saturated market, how do you, as a consumer, find the perfect photographer? And why should you choose me over that other guy?
Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision:
1. Do they offer a personalized session and service?
Your family and my family are extremely important to me, so I take a limited number of sessions per month, by appointment only. You can be rest assured that you will be provided with exceptional service before, during and after the session. Your trust in me is of the upmost importance and I do not ever want to tarnish our relationship. Each session is guaranteed a pre-session consultation in person, on the phone, or via email so that together we can create your dream shoot. 2-3 weeks after your session we will meet again for your in-person viewing appointment. I want to help you make the best decisions on how to display your legacy. Your order will come beautifully packaged … I want it to feel like Christmas. 🙂
2. Do you connect with them?
I always, always, always want to speak to you on the phone. Do you like me? Do I like you? Will we be a good fit? Choosing a photographer is an extremely personal choice and I want to be your photographer for the long haul … that only works if we make a great team.
3. Are they good with kids & adults?
Seeing that I specialize in newborns and kiddos (and their parents), this is a big one. I genuinely love people, littles most of all. I was an elementary school teacher for 10 years and cherish the opportunities to meet and snuggle kids, photograph their laughs and tiny frowns. People always used to tell me that children grow up way too fast … didn’t really get it until I had my own. Guess what? It’s true. These moments matter and are fleeting.
4. Are they legal?
Yes, I am a licensed business owner not only in the state of GA, but also in the city of Richmond Hill. I belong to the Chamber of Commerce and Professional Photographers of America. I pay taxes, have insurance. Some may not find the legal-stuff important, but I sure do.
5. Have they received any education or training?
Don’t let it fool you, good photography is hard. Once you take that camera out of auto, it’s up to you to make all the right decisions and then use Photoshop to make images sing. I didn’t go to school for photography, but I’ve sure made up for it. I have spent thousands over the last several years attending workshops, taking online courses and investing not only in my business, but also myself. I still have a lot of growth to make, but that is one of the biggest reasons why I enjoy photography … there is always a new skill to master, and I want to tackle it.
6. Do they give back to the community?
God has blessed me with a remarkable passion and talent. It is my duty and pleasure to give it away. Fund-raisers, silent/live auctions and complimentary gifts of photography are all ways I love to give back to my community. I also buy local when possible; it’s important to support other local businesses.
7. Do they offer heirloom quality products?
I hear you, digital images are important and I want you to have them. They are not the main bulk of my collections, though. You are spending your hard-earned money with me and I want you to have gorgeous artwork for your walls and beautiful tabletop albums and books … heirloom quality items that you can pass down to your children and grandchildren. As I mentioned before, your legacy. Do you really want your precious memories to be trapped on a disc in your desk drawer?
8. Do they fit your budget?
Money is last because I honestly feel it shouldn’t be your first deciding factor. A photographer’s style, attention to detail, service, professionalism and knowledge should come before the bottom line. My clients become friends and most like family, which only deepens the desire to provide unmatched quality for them. With that being said, everyone does have a budget. Considering that professional photography is a luxury, it is definitely something to save for. You are showcasing, enjoying and ultimately passing down remembrances of full pregnant bellies, new life, perfect fingers and toes, dimpled elbows, budding teeth, first steps, knobby knees, milestones, celebrations, families and love.
I hope to welcome you and yours into the MMP family for years to come. Current and past clients, leave a little comment below about your experience with me, I’d love to hear it. 😉
“Sometimes I arrive just when God’s ready to have someone click the shutter.” -Ansel Adams
See you soon.
Megan Myrick Photography specializes in newborn, maternity, baby, child and family photography in Savannah, GA and surrounding areas including but not limited to Richmond Hill and Pooler.
