Shannon Garber Photography, Utah Photographer

Monica

2011-11-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

This post has been a long time coming. Monica won my big giveaway last march and because of crazy conflicting schedules we weren't able to take the pics until september. But WOW so worth the wait! She is so gorgeous and so genuine. She even offered to babysit my kids. (But I wouldn't do that to her ;)

Anna + Mitch

2011-11-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

This is another one of my gorgeous sisters (I have 3 of them). I'm so excited for these 2 to be getting married. They haven't known eachother for long, but by the way that Mitch is able to snap Anna out of one of her panic attacks is proof enough that their love is real :) And to make up for not posting in FOREVER...I will make this post HUGE!

Good light....

2011-09-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Here is the thing about good light....if you have it, you can give your photos whatever kind of feel you want, but then you have to decide what kind of feel you want. I guess it's a good conflict to have.

P.S. More from this awesome session to come :)

Congratulations!

2011-09-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

To my beautiful baby sister Maddy and her now husband Braiden! I love you guys!

Time out...

2011-05-16T23:22:00.000-07:00

I have so much to get finished before this baby comes, and tonight I had my last photoshoot. We went for a beach theme and thanks to hair and make-up by Melanie (Thanks Melanie!) and some awesome light tonight I think we nailed it!

I can't wait to get back at it in July! Let's just hope I can finish all my editing before I pop :)

Note to self: Next time I definitely need to bring some bug spray....oops.

I'm just sayin...

2011-05-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

My friends have CUTE kids!

WINNER!!!!!

2011-04-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you thank you everyone for signing up! It was so much fun and I really wish I could give it away to every one of you! The winner is.....

MONICA PITCHER

Congrats Monica!!! Make sure you claim your prize by the end of the day tomorrow! I can't wait to work with you.

And just because....

IT'S GIVEAWAY TIME AGAIN!!!

2011-03-23T13:44:00.001-07:00

And this time it's BIG!!! Ok so here's the deal....remember last years giveaway of a session to THIS special family. Well I enjoyed it so much that I vowed to do that every March in honor of my Mom. (Even though my Mom's birthday was last friday)

This year it will be a little different. My beautiful SISTER is graduating from High School and I wish so much that my Mom could be here for her. There are so many milestones like this that she will have to miss out on and it really breaks my heart. Life really is just not fair. But I do understand the importance of a woman's self worth and that is why this giveaway is dedicated to all you girls out there....starting at age 14* to 99. Married or Single, Moms or childless. Really who doesn't want to feel like a model for a day? *If you are 17 or younger just make sure your parents are on board.

This session giveaway will include....

1) A portrait session by me :)
2) Professional Make-up to doll you up for your big day.
3) The high resolution of your 10 favorite images (something I have NEVER given away before)
4) A 16x20 collage of your favorite images
5) A $20 dollar gift certificate to ORANGE LEAF FROZEN YOGURT (locations include Farmington, North Salt Lake or Highland) ...because who doesn't need a little frozen yogurt after a hard days work of looking pretty for the camera?

Here is how you can enter and yes if you do all 3 you get 3 entries!

1) Comment on this blog post with your name
2)Follow me on facebook and then comment again to tell me you did it
3) Find your favorite portrait picture of mine via facebook, this blog, or my website and comment again to tell me which one it is and why.

This giveaway will close on April 1st at midnight. Winner will be chosen at random and prize must be claimed within 24 hours or another winner will be chosen. Also session must be booked by May 31st of this year.

Now ENTER and make sure you tell everyone you know!

A picture of my mom (left) and my sister (right)....the resemblance is CRAZY right?

FREE PHOTO SESSION!

2011-03-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

Go to Milan Maternity, http://www.milanmaternity.blogspot.com/ to enter to win a free photo session by me! They do great giveaways all the time and plus their Maternity/Nursing tops are AWESOME! Good luck!

Today

2011-02-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

I am moved by this picture. Something about a mothers love...

Us

2011-01-20T09:25:00.000-08:00

I am embarrased to say that these pics were taken back in September. Wow, where are my priorities? The fabulous Jessie O'neal took these pics and I did the edits. She was so great with us and our crazy family. Thank you Jessie!

Jude already looks so different. But I knew that we would be expanding our family soon so post pregnancy weight and all I wanted to document our family with just 3 kids. And I am so glad I did! Just goes to show you if you are waiting to document your families when you are back to your goal weight....DON'T. Don't miss out on documenting your life as a family and YES your kids want you in those pictures. I promise!

Kirstie...

2011-01-19T09:20:00.001-08:00

So her wedding was last week and it was fabulous! You will see much more from her and her new husband, but for now I am so excited to finally share her Bridals. She is absolutely beautiful! I can't believe she is only 19.

I'm back...

2011-01-06T15:06:00.000-08:00

Wow, fall season is just crazy crazy crazy. For many reasons. I hope now I will be able to catch up on my blogging and other things that have been neglected. I hope you all had a great Christmas. Here is one of my many fall families. More posts to come soon.

P.S. Yes the rumor is true we are expecting #4 due in June. Only 1 year after Jude was born. And to be honest at times I feel overwhelmed but YES we wanted this and we are very very excited!

Neglected...

2010-11-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog,
I am sorry you have been neglected. It is crazy busy season and something had to be limited. I miss you and I promise soon to update you more often and also to update your design. But until then I hope you will be patient. And because I can't decide which of my wonderful families to blog, I will choose to blog my own Max. I took these back in September.

P.S. I am absolutely, without a doubt, booked for the rest of the year. :( Thank you everyone!

Win win

2010-10-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love WIN WIN situations?...when we headed down to Park City for my sisters senior pics I couldn't leave my baby for the whole day yet so I asked Maddy if she had any friends that wanted to watch Jude for me while I took her senior pics then I would give them so free shots. Well I must say it was a win win situation. I got Jude with me but not really with me and I got to take pics of 2 beautiful girls. Thanks Karlee! And thanks for being patient.

Make it Custom...

2010-10-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

This session was SO much fun. But I always have fun with her...hence the reason she's all over my website :). And I just can't get over her serious faces. They are the best!

We figured out by default that she could write her own name. My boys don't ever write their own names and they are a couple of years older. Very impressive Lucy!

Want a session like this? All you have to do is tell me you want to make it custom. And we'll collaborate together to create something unique and special just for you. From hairstyle, clothing, props and location. I promise you won't regret it.

Milan Maternity

2010-10-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything about Milan Maternity since last year and they have gotten some great new styles in. This is ALL I wore when I was pregnant, and now that they have nursing items and transitional pieces, I still wear it. Here are some of their latest styles for fall...

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-09-20T11:56:00.000-07:00

Ok my Dad's birthday is actually tomorrow but since I am thinking about it now and I'm sure I will forget tomorrow I will give a shout out to the best Dad / Grandpa I could ever ask for! Love you Dad!

MJH

2010-09-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

OK so what ever happened to Junior High kids being in the awkward stage of life? Is that just something my Mom told me to make me feel better about myself? Because every single one of these girls are gorgeous. No fair. I should post a picture of myself in junior high on here just to show you the difference. It would not be pretty...too bad for you I can't find one. :) Thanks to these Cheerleaders for making my job easy!

I promise we are related...

2010-08-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

She has handled this past year with so much strength and courage, I am so proud to call her my sister. And she is lucky enough to look the most like my Mom. Isn't she stunning?

Busy...

2010-08-09T22:07:00.000-07:00

Aren't we all crazy busy right now. I am...and it isn't all photos. Mostly it's THIS that is taking all of my time. But I'm so excited for it!

P.S. More to come of this little honey. Seriously her and her brother were beautiful!

Before and Afters...

2010-07-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share a few before and afters. It's always interesting to me to see a photographer's straight out of the camera shot.

P.S. Will someone please tell me why on this computer when I upload pictures it makes the colors a little off. It drives me CRAZY!

Before

After

Before

After

Time Out...

2010-07-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

I love being a Mom and being able to be home with my kids. But sometimes you just need a little creative time out and this was mine. It's always a good sign when things turn out better than I actaully played out in my head.

Thanks to the friends who supplied all the props and thank you to my Model who was so adorable and perfect, for some reason she reminds me of the precious moments dolls.

2010-06-12T19:08:00.000-07:00

I told these girls that their job was to send me into labor and they failed. Oh well it was still so much fun shooting these best friends and they are both gorgeous!...And my baby is here safe and healthy so I guess I won't hold a grudge. ;)

2010-06-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

My sweet little guy is 1 week old today. Here are a few things we have been up to the last week.

Jude
1. Eating
2. Sleeping
3. Eating
4. Sleeping
5. Being extremely cute!

Me
1. Getting lots of sleep at night (thanks to my mother-in-law)
2. Trying to master the art of editing with one hand
3. Being emotional
4. Being tired...which doesn't make sense considering #1
5. Loving my new little guy

Thanks to my clients for waiting patiently with me while i try to catch up on editing and orders. More pics coming soon!

I know I've said it many times but....

2010-05-17T22:19:00.001-07:00

I LOVE SENIORS! Seriously nothing better, especially when they have awesome style...just like her!

Winners...

2010-05-17T12:19:00.001-07:00

Remember the session giveaway I did in march...well this family won that session giveaway and I couldn't have been happier to do it for them. Suffice it to say that this mom is an absolute SUPER woman and has taken on a LOT of responsibility in the last few years of her life...and isn't she just GORGEOUS! I just fell in love with her and her family during this session.

More from this family...

2010-05-10T21:21:00.000-07:00

I am so behind. And lets be honest, with only 3 weeks left until baby comes, catching up does not seem to be in the near future for me. But I will try to do more posts before he arrives. For now, enjoy more from this cute family!

Had me some fun in Arizona...

2010-04-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

Millie get's the best baby award. 10 hours in a car and she cried less than I wanted to. And she is just so cute too!

Another one of my sisters...yes they are all gorgeous!
This is how this picture went down.

Me: "Maddy, will you sit here for a second so I can get my lighting right"

Maddy: "sure and do you want me to look hot while I'm at it"
(ok she didn't say that but she might as well have. She's so natural in front of the camera.)

Ben, my cousins baby and yes his eyes really are that big and blue. He makes me excited to have my little guy...only 6 more weeks!

Friends, they are some of my most favoritest people in the whole world and I was lucky enough that they just moved to AZ so I could do this session while I was down there.

Other than that my days consisted of laying out by the pool, laughing, reading and of course eating at my favorite Chinese restaurant, Flo's. I can't wait for next year!

Out of town...

2010-04-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

All emails and phone calls will be handled when I get back next monday. Yay for girls trips!

Part II

2010-04-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

And I like these even more...

2010-03-31T14:44:00.000-07:00

Dang, two posts within 24 hours, I think that is some sort of record for me and for my reward I am going to the Michael Buble concert tonight! Wahoo!

My Sister...

2010-03-30T23:56:00.001-07:00

We decided to have some fun before she leaves on her mission in a few weeks. I styled her and she got her makeup and hair done. Part 2 is coming soon!

I know I know...

2010-03-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

I should be blogging about all the things I've been up to lately but all I've eaten today is.....

And all I can think about is ....

remember you can get them here.

I promise some fun pictures are coming soon. Until then I will be filling my face full of stuff that I really shouldn't.

Update on Contest...

2010-02-25T15:17:00.000-08:00

There were a few people who wished to keep the story anonymous and because their stories were so special I couldn't leave them out of the contest. Because of this I will not be posting the stories on my blog. I have turned all the nominations over to a trusted few people who will then collectively make their decision. I left all names out so there would be no bias.

Thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination. I can't wait to see who the winner will be and to take their pics!

New Header

2010-02-17T13:58:00.000-08:00

It was time for a change....don't you think?

Fridays...

2010-02-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

Fridays can be a little crazy at my house...who am I kidding, Friday's are very crazy. I take care of my sisters 3 kids + my 2 boys + a very hyper puppy. Most days I am just glad to survive, even if my house never does. But there is a highlight to my Friday's and his name is Jax. How can he not bring a smile to my face?

P.S. A reminder to nominate someone for the giveaway! I need a few more entries so I've decided to extend everything for one week. Which means you have until Feb. 21st to submit an entry. Come on people!

Session Giveaway!

2010-02-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

Ever since my mom passed it has opened my eyes to a whole world of people hurting all around me. I do not know if I was just completely selfish and ignorant about others suffering before but I am definitely much more aware and sensitive to it now. I can not believe some of the things that you and those you love are having to go through. It inspires me not to feel sorry for myself but instead be grateful for all that I do have.

Since this is the month of LOVE I decided that it would be appropriate to ask you to nominate someone who you feel is going through a difficult time in their life. Whether it be loss of a loved one, financial trouble, health, or maybe someone with just way too much on their plate. Send me an email to me shannongarber@gmail.com and tell me their story and why you think they deserve to win. Feel free to nominate as many people as you want.

I will pick my top 5 nominations (which will be the stories that although make my heart ache, also inspire me) and post them up on my blog and then turn over the voting to all of you. The person with the most votes will win a session and a 16x20 mounted pictures plus 50% off of all other prints.

I really hope this will be a success so I can make this an annual giveaway in my mom's honor. She was the most loving and selfless person I knew. Please don't hesitate to nominate someone. This could be a great way for you to show someone you care and are aware of their trials.

All nominations must be in by Valentines Day, Sunday Feb. 14th. The top 5 will be posted on my blog on Tuesday Feb 16th and voting will be open for 1 week. Winners will be announced on February 24th.
*Please make sure the person you are nominating is aware and OK with their nomination.
*The session must take place by April 2010.

Finally!

2010-02-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

My Website is finished! Check it out at http://www.shannongarberphotography.com/ . And stay tuned because tomorrow I will be posting an exciting new giveaway.

Wow, who knew a website would be so time consuming. Thanks for being patient!

Newest member of my family...

2010-01-14T17:37:00.001-08:00

She arrived a little earlier than we expected (about 5 years earlier). But we love her still the same. Check out the story here.

P.S. My website is almost done I promise! I can't wait!

My 2 boys...soon to be 3 :)

2010-01-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

I love these boys more than anything. I'm so blessed to have them in my life. They drive me crazy most days and then Max leans over grabs my face and says "Mom, I love you" or Brigham notices that I've put eyeshadow and tells me I look cute. It makes it all worth it.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-26T21:59:00.000-08:00

I love boys and I am very very excited to be adding another one to our little family in June but I must say that if I wasn't able to photograph the cutest girls ever it would make me a little sad....

P.S. My family and I would have never made it through these last few months without these 2 little girls Grandparents. They have been the best to us and so I hope they especially love these!

Wow can you say MIA....

2009-12-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, it's been FOREVER since I have posted but yes I am still here. And I have so many things to post but I thought I would start out with my trip to Grand Rapids Michigan where I got to attend the seriously AMAZING workshop with Amy Wenzel. She is like a rock star to me and I got to spend 3 whole days with her!

Here is a shot I got on our senior shoot....LOVE IT!

Changes...

2009-10-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

Update....I am now booked through the rest of the year. Thanks everyone! I still will have lots to post so check back often.

New Year, new website and new prices. Book now to get my current prices! I've only got a few spots left in November and December.

I'm so excited about some of these changes. Stay tuned to see exactly whats new for the new year.

PS. This is the cute family that won the session giveaway a few weeks ago. I've been totally swamped with work so just one for now. If it was up to me this is the 16x20 I would get. :)

{K} Kids

2009-10-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

There is something about shooting families and children that always makes me so nervous and a lot of it is because I hope so much to capture the beauty that the parents see in their family at that moment in time. So I hope I did...

Aren't they SO cute!!!

It's never "Just" another senior...

2009-10-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

I really can't get enough of senior sessions! I love being totally creative and seeing the personalities come out in these awesome girls!

She was no exception...really down for anything! And it may be my favorite shoot ever....because I got ice cream out of it ;)

Who says eyes don't talk...

2009-10-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Love senior sessions, loved her style and loved her personality! Thanks!

Happy Birthday...

2009-10-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

To my gorgeous sister in-law who is the GREATEST AUNT to my boys and has a wardrobe that most grown women would die for! Love you!

{G} Family

2009-09-28T22:04:00.001-07:00

I knew it was going to be a great session when this photo was the first one that came out of my camera...

{R} Family

2009-09-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

So one of my favorite things about my job is getting to meet so many fantastic people. I actually went to school with this mom but it was so fun seeing her again and catching up, and she has the most darling boy! Thanks so much you guys!

Oh and P.S. I want that jacket, isn't it so cute?

Hilary 2010

2009-09-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

Meet Hilary, my senior rep from Davis High School. Isn't she GORGEOUS?

{T} Fam

2009-09-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

So glad the weather held up for us tonight and ended up being PERFECT!

This cute little guy didn't want anything to do with having his picture taken until he wasn't supposed to be in it. Then all of the sudden it became very appealing.

Hungry?

2009-09-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

Ok so let me preface this by saying that I am not a cake lover. Never been a big fan. I would much rather eat brownies and ice cream, cookies, etc. Well, I have had a change in heart, but not for all cakes just for these CUPCAKES in particular. OMG. They are moist and rich and AMAZING! Check out Baby Cakes here and make sure you order some. Seriously I can not describe the deliciousness, you HAVE to try them!

There are 11 FANTASTIC flavors but here are a few of my favorites. (And I'm only saying that because I haven't tried all the flavors yet, I am trying really hard to pace myself)

Baby Cakes

Carrot Cake

Pina Colada

Grasshopper

Stay tuned...

2009-09-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to show more from this session!

Can't decide color or black and white? What do you think?

Pictures!!!

2009-09-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted any pictures and really I've got a lot of them to post. These are from a recent session I had with such a fun and relaxed family!

Da da da da

2009-08-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Winner #1 never claimed her prize (s0rry Mindee), so I picked a new winner today.

And the NEW WINNER is....

On a much lighter note...

2009-08-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

Well if it isn't apparent enough that I am still in a cloud I do need to clear up a couple of things....first the 24th is not a Friday....it is a Thursday. So sorry that I am having difficulty thinking straight. Mini sessions will be held on FRIDAY the 25th of September. Also because I have a huge monitor screen I didn't realize that the announcement of the mini sessions was cut off for everyone else. It looks great to me but I guess that doesn't do you a whole lot of good. So just click on it to make it bigger...or maybe I'll just redo it. Thanks everyone, sorry for the lack of brain power.

Well it has been a very difficult week to say the least. But I am surrounded by the most wonderful people who have strengthened me and lifted me up. My family and I are determined during this time to move forward with faith, knowing that we will again see our mother's face and knowing until then she will be with us.

With that being said. I wanted to let you know that YES the giveaway is still in effect. So don't feel too shy to sign up. Because of this past week and because things are still a little hectic around here I am extending the giveaway until Wednesday August 26th and I will announce the winner on Thursday August 27th!

I would also like to announce...

If you have a family larger than 6 please call for additional times and pricing info.

We miss you and love you! We were so blessed to have you!

2009-08-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for the outpouring of love!

Ardene Ressler Bullard

On August 18, 2009 the light of our lives and heart of our family was suddenly and unexpectedly taken. Despite her valiant efforts, she was overcome by an aggressive and sudden infection.

Ardene was born on March 18, 1955 to Peter J. and Reah O. Ressler in Roy, Utah. She was the youngest of 10 children along with her twin sister and best friend, Arlene. She was raised in Roy and attended Ricks College and Weber State College. She was married to her high school sweetheart Lonnie M. Bullard on May 5, 1977 in the Salt Lake Temple. She dedicated her life to her husband and to raising nine wonderful children. She excelled in and deeply loved being a mother. She loved the out-of-doors and was passionate about sports and fitness, especially tennis, playing on many teams and in many tournaments. She never shied away from competitive games, even with women half her age. She had a passion for life and was involved in all the activities of her children. She stood side-by-side with her husband in community, business, and recreational events. Ardene and Lonnie were inseparable in life, one name rarely mentioned without the other. They know their relationship is eternal.

Ardene was blessed with an unwavering testimony of the gospel and a great love for her Savior. While raising her nine children, she served in many ward and stake callings, among her favorites were: missionary at Hill Cumorah Pageant, camp director, Young Women’s President and Relief Society President.

She is survived by her husband Lonnie and children Melissa (Samuela) Ita’aehau, Michael (Andrea), Shannon (Cameron) Garber, Kendrick (serving in the Tuxla Gutierrez, Mexico Mission), Anna, Denis (serving in the Johannesburg, South Africa Mission), Valek, Madison, and Dema. Also survived by soon to be eight grandchildren, father, Peter J. Ressler, and siblings Boyd Ressler, Susan Howes, Judy Daugherty, Holly Everton, Chris Ressler, Pam Woodall, Coral Taggart, and Arlene Racker. She was preceded in death by her mother Reah, and brother Laurie.

A viewing will be held at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 North Main Street, Farmington, Utah, on Thursday, August 20th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A viewing will also be held from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the Farmington North Stake Center at 729 W. Shepard Lane, Farmington, Utah. Funeral services to be held at 11:00 AM in the Farmington North Stake Center. Internment at the Farmington City Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the dedicated doctors, nurses and staff of the Intermountain Medical Center for their heroic efforts, compassion and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Perpetual Education Fund or the Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Ardene will be forever remembered as selfless, loving, and without guile towards anyone, always showing unconditional love. Oh, how we will miss her.

It's Give Away Time...

2009-08-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

And this time it's big. It will be one year ago in September when I started doing photography. Hard to believe, I have learned so much and have had a blast doing it. To celebrate the 1 year mark I am giving away a FREE photography session (family, child, senior, engagement, bridals) + a 16x20 mounted print of your choice!

I'm so excited to be doing this. Read carefully so you know how it works. You can enter up to 3 times.

Entry #1: Simply leave a comment with your first and last name.

Entry #2: Blog about my photography give away with a link to my blog. Then come back and leave another comment telling me you you did it.

Entry #3: Make a comment on facebook about my photography give away with a link to my blog. Then come back and leave another comment telling me you did it.

That's all you have to do! Contest closes on Aug. 24th. I will announce the winner on Aug. 25Th (2 weeks from today). The winner must then contact me within 48 hours of the announcement or I will pick someone else. The session must be scheduled by November 1st.

I love my Job!

2009-08-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the stars align and I get a perfect model + perfect lighting! Could she be any cuter!

Girls Camp!

2009-07-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I've been looking forward to this for so long and it's finally here! I'll be back on friday and respond to emails and phone calls then! Wish me luck :)

I'll leave you with one...

Why does custom photography cost more?

2009-07-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

So I found this on the fabulous Rebekah Westover's blog a couple of months ago and after some hesitation I am deciding to post it. There are some great insights here that truly are only undestood by a photographer. I was so nieve when I started to get into photography, there are endless things to buy and to invest in to get better. You don't just pick up a nice camera and photoshop and call it good, although that is where I got my start. My wish list right now is at a total of 10,000$ and lets be honest...it could be much much more than that (hopefully my husband doesn't freak when he reads that)! Ok so just to enlighten all of your minds, here is what this article says.... (sorry it's long but it really is worth the read)

Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?
February 27th, 2008 by adminProfessional child photographer

The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and ability to control various factors during the image taking and making process. Photographers, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur all benefit from this ability to manipulate pixels. However, with flexibility comes a price. Digital camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into creating a work of photographic art.

We all know that you can go to the local Walgreen’s and pay a $1.99 for a print - as a client you may wonder why you may pay upwards of $50, $70, $90 for a custom photography print. Photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

“How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at x store?”

The truth of the matter is the answer to this question is multifaceted. Much of the cost of a photographic print produced by a professional photographer has a lot to do with the time, equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer not to mention expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

The cost of TIME Approaching it from a time standpoint, let’s imagine that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love. This photographer is traveling an hour to your destination to photograph your session. Here is an example of a time break down:session prep time (30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)

one hour travel time TO session

15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home

90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject one hour travel time FROM session

30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer

30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images

2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images 1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering

2-3 hours time with client for ordering images

1 hour sorting through and checking order

30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery

30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped

any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues

In this example, the time spent per client can range from just under 13 hours to 19 hours - dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to ONE session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot (aka SESSION FEE) you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.The COSTS of Maintaining a Custom Photography Business:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run from $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip many of the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES to BANANAS:Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $19.99 for an 8×10 “sheet” or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. In February 2007 leased photography retail space by a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait services in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the “loss leader”.

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

**** I must say that I am lucky to have clients that appreciate the value of photography. So THANK YOU to all of you! I mainly posted this because the people that I see struggle most with the value of photography are photographers! I hope that photographers can carefully consider how much time and money REALLY goes into running a photography business and try to price themselves accordingly. Place a high value on your art! Don't give out the high-res discs so easily for such a low price. Help bring up the industry!!

Milan Maternity

2009-07-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this is the big project that I have been very exited to announce! I was lucky enough to be asked to do all the photography for my friends awesome maternity clothing line. The clothes are SOOO cute and they really know how to flatter a pregnant woman's body. I'm somewhat excited to get pregnant again just because now i know where to look and the best part is they are priced right. Make sure you check out the website http://www.milanmaternity.com/. Here are a few of the pieces you'll find on her site.

Just one...

2009-07-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

Ok Mer I know you are dying to see some but hopefully this one will tie you over and convince you that it was definitely NOT a wasted day. So sweet!

Seriously?

2009-07-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Ok Jamie, I know my obsession with your little girl probably creeps you out, but hello...how could I not be?

Wow!

2009-07-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

This is my aunts family and needless to say they have had too much tragedy in the last few years. All you critiques out there may find many faults in my first silhouette picture but all I see is a strong eternal family. I love it!

Extended Family

2009-06-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

We waited out the rain for this session and I'm so glad the weather held for us. We crammed so much into one night I didn't know it was even possible. Hope you guys like these few....

Pregnant Model Needed!

2009-06-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

Hey anyone out there pregnant or know someone who is pregnant and is willing to do some modeling work. Send me a pic and some information about yourself to Shannongarber@gmail.com by monday the 22nd of June. You must be able to do the modeling work thursday and friday of next week. You also must be showing enough so pregnancy clothes will fit you well.

Chosen model will get either a free photo session from me with a 50 $ print credit for a future session OR free maternity clothes.

Engagements for the young married couple...

2009-06-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, they are already married. Such a cute story actually. He went back to Chile after his mission and married her and then they waited until they could get a visa for her to come to the US. They finally got it a few months ago and now they are getting sealed in the temple in August. I am so lucky to be able to do all their wedding stuff. Thanks you guys!!!

Still lovin the seniors!

2009-06-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

Another Senior shoot and whoever says its not fun to shoot senior guys are either crazy or I've been exteremely lucky! We tried a bunch of new places and I'm loving them!

FYI

2009-06-13T13:21:00.001-07:00

Update: July spot has been filled! Thanks!

I have one more slot available in July, and am starting to book into August. Seems early but now is the time to start thinking about christmas pictures, the fall will book really fast!

Catching up...

2009-06-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

Never thought I would be too busy to update my blog, but I have been. I am really excited about the things I have coming up too. Here are a few of a family session I had.

Mini Shoot

2009-06-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

I had a mini photo shoot with my brother in law. He was on his way up to the cabin and I was on my way down to from the cabin so we met in Rigby, ID at the old sugar mill.

P.S. My boys love their uncle!

More of this beautiful bride...

2009-06-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

My first bridal session!

2009-05-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun taking pictures of this beautiful bride yesterday! I will post more later but here's a little taste for now.

(Her skin is not this orange...first flickr desaturates, now it over saturates, I can't figure them out!)

I hope I get to do a lot more of these sessions!

Love this little girl!

2009-05-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

We had some visitors up at the cabin this week. (YAY FOR VISITORS....MORE PLEASE!) We decided to have a mini photo shoot with my niece, she just turned 4.

I am uaually a color kind of gal but I'm really loving the black and white's of these shots...plus flickr desaturated my photos again, so black and white it is.

P.S. For anyone in Idaho (Ashton to Idaho Falls)interested in pictures, I'll be here for quite a bit of the summer so send me an email and we'll work something out :)

Scott

2009-05-14T23:52:00.000-07:00

I don't know how you'll ever choose.

This is my personal favortie (below)

A few from our Vacation...

2009-05-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

We wanted to get a few family pictures when we were at the beach and I volunteered my awesome sister in law to snap a few...little did I know that the dress I picked out would make my arms look like the size of elephant trunks, and the lighting was not great...but we did manage to get a couple.

This is my favorite, they are best buds.

These next 2 are telling of what the kids did all vacation.

Brigham ran in and out of the waves for hours on end. He loved being in the ocean.

Max just chilled on the beach and smoked cigarettes, jk. Really he was too excited that he had a massive sandbox that the ocean wasn't that appealing to him. He found some disgusting stuff in that sand, but he loved every second of it. I'm still cleaing sand out of his ears.

We're back

2009-05-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on vacation, and got back just in time for Mother's Day and my little Brothers farewell. All the grandkids were in town (which is a rarity) so for Mother's day we took some pictures of her and all her grandkids. She definitely doesn't look old enough to have this many grandkids, but they all love her! Love you Mom!

Oh and the last shot is random I know. But isn't my little nephew so cute?

Out of town

2009-04-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

Hey just wanted to let everyone know I'll be out of town on vacation for the next 10 days! I'm so excited for the break with my boys! All emails, phone calls, picture orders, editing, etc, will be done when I get home. Thanks everyone!

Oh and here's a few of a fun newborn session yesterday. So sweet!

I wish boys were this nice when I was in high school

2009-04-22T23:34:00.000-07:00

I was really worried about doing a senior session with a boy because I know how much guys hate sitting in front of the camera...especially for hours. So I was pleasantly surprised when this guy was so willing to do whatever I asked. Such a sweetheart and out of my sisters lips...."he's hot!"

P.S. Flickr is being really retarded with my colors tonight....I wondered whether I should post these or not because the colors are so faded, but I wanted his fam to be able to preview a few, so just know that they really are much more vibrant. I'll try to fix it in the morning.

Dang....his eyes look so green in this picture, too bad it doesn't show here. It really makes it great!

I have no words...

2009-04-18T01:26:00.000-07:00

This girls beauty speaks for itself! And WOW she could work it for the camera!

Because I'm a bad friend...

2009-04-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

These should have been done a week ago and they are still not quite done. So here are a few more to hold you over Shelle....SORRY! I promise it won't be much longer.

This last one is especially for you Shelle...and you know why :)

Getting up close and personal

2009-03-27T17:15:00.001-07:00

Is there anything more beautiful than the face of your own child? I don't think so. I think of my boys as a work of art that I'm lucky enough to see and experience every day. I know that sounds a little cheesy, but it really is true. This is the reason that I love a close up picture, especially of children! A close up picture leaves out all the distractions and focuses on what you are really getting the pictures for, to remember every detail in your childs face before it changes tomorrow.

So my tip to you today is that no matter what type of camera you have, get up close and personal with your own kids to get that perfect picture. Make sure the focus is right on the eyes and you will have a stunning picture!

A few expamples from my most recent shoot...

It's beginning to look a lot like Easter!

2009-03-22T00:55:00.000-07:00

Instead of selling lemonade we used to sell rocks, we rolled our Rs and we went on fun family vacations together. Now we are all grown with our own kids but it was so fun to see them again. With 11 grandchildren and many that are 12 months and younger this could have been a train wreck but they preformed beautifully. Excuse the many pictures, but we took a whole bunch and I just couldn't leave anyone out.

Thanks so much you guys...I haven't even been able to go through all the pictures we got, I just chose a few of my favs so far. Hope you like them!

Wahoo!

2009-03-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

It may be because she is one of my best friends but I had SO MUCH FUN during this shoot and I must say she is gorgeous! Thanks Shelle!

And the LUCKY Winner IS....

2009-03-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

Congrats Brooke! I'll be sending an email so I can get your mailing address!

And thanks to everyone else for entering. That was fun, I'll be doing that again!

Free Ice Cream!

2009-03-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

Ok so if you know me at all you know that I absolutely love ice cream and in college I even worked at Cold Stone. That's right folks I gained about twenty pounds in the process as well. So I've been thinking that I love free stuff and I'm pretty sure everyone else likes free stuff too (if you don't, you must have WAY too much money).

So here it is....A CONTEST. All you have to do is either become a FAN of my Shannon Garber Photography Facebook, become a FOLLOWER of my blog or leave a comment to this post. If you do all three of these your name will be entered 3 times!

The winner will recieve a 15$ Gift Card to Cold Stone Creamery!

Do it by the end of Monday March 16th and I will announce the "LUCKY" winner on St. Pattys Day (Tuesday March 17th).

So don't be scared people, this is FREE ICE CREAM we are talking about!

I'm in heaven!

2009-03-11T14:50:00.000-07:00

So you all know how I've been wanting a little girl, and this shoot just fueled the fire. I was seriously in heaven, I mean could these girls get any cuter, not to mention the tutus!

Revisit

2009-03-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

This was one of my first photo shoots back in September, with my sisters, and it was fun to go back and re edit them to see how far I've come. Don't look to closely though because back then I had no idea how to use a camera and that's something you can't fix with photoshop :)

Mr. T x 3

2009-02-21T13:22:00.000-08:00

The reason I don't have a third child yet is because this is my fear....3 boys under the age of 6....but honestly after this session I had yesterday with these boys I faced my fear and found its not scary at all...in fact, I wouldn't mind three boys at all! Now if only I could get over my fear of being pregnant again. NO THANKS!

P.S. Had to throw this last one in just to let mom know that letting him ride that trike was worth it :)

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T08:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks Jamie for the awesome design! The Grandparents went crazy over these.

My Valentines!

2009-02-07T21:06:00.000-08:00

I took the boys out for a little session and let's just say things didn't go exactly as planned, but I still managed to get a few good ones. I'm so lucky these boys are mine!

Ok so he's not very happy in this picture...it was raining and wind blowing...I'm a mean mom.

An hour of taking pictures and I get only one shot of both of them together...at least it's a good one!

Valentine anyone?

2009-02-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

So here are a few valentine photo cards Jamie designed. So cute! I know Valentine's Day is just around the corner so if you wanted to order cards you'd have to do it quick. Oh and it doesn't have to be just one picture on a card we could make two or three work. Order 25 or more for 1.50$ (envelopes included) each. Perfect for Grandparents, Friends, Neighbors. If Valentines don't work out keep a look out for more of Jamie's designs in the upcoming months!

Help Please!

2009-02-04T12:08:00.000-08:00

Update: Thanks to all who voted....#4 is the winner!

Ok so my awesome friend Jamie designed these logos for me (I decided it was about time that I get one) and I am having the hardest time deciding because I love them all. Please help me decide!

De Ja Vu

2009-01-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to get to photog this family for several of reasons #1 They have two boys 13 months apart (just like my boys), I felt myself living that part of my life over again and guess what....I even missed it a little. #2 It was a different type of shoot I usually do, but it was so much fun and I enjoyed every second!

I secretley always wanted to be a red head

2009-01-21T14:36:00.000-08:00

Red heads run in my family but none of my siblings or I got the gene. My cousins did though and aren't they GORGEOUS!

Rachel + Cole

2009-01-18T13:58:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad I was able to photog these two. They were the nicest couple and willing to do whatever I asked them too (which makes for great pictures). Thanks so much you guys!

Hey baby let's go to Vegas!

2009-01-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

I'm heading to Vegas in February and I just thought I'd throw it out there that if you or someone you know is interested in getting pics done while I'm there I'll be available Feb. 10th, 11th and 12th. Leave a comment or email me. I'll even throw in a 20$ print credit.

A few more...

2009-01-12T20:37:00.000-08:00

I'm almost done with these I promise! Here's a few more to tie you over.

I love this picture...There is nothing like a Grandpa/Grandma's love!

I tried something new on the picture below and I really love it.

Before

After

Great picture before but even better after!