I know that many people, who have only been to portrait studios at the mall or department stores, wonder what the benefits are in booking a custom session with a photographer like myself. My sessions, on average, take 1 to 2 hours for the session and an additional 3 to 4 hours in editing time. This time does not include my setup, travel time, or print ordering process. Custom photography involves much more personal attention than portrait studios. I do my best to give my clients the most enjoyable experience possible, as well as beautiful images they will cherish forever. I put my heart into each session and each individual image in order to create a lasting moment for my clients. Please read the excerpt below, from an article I came across on www.professionalchildphotographer.com, which provides insight on why custom photography may fit your needs. To better understand the value of the editing process in my photography, take a look at the “before and after” gallery below.
“The photographic art you choose to place on your wall is ultimately the result of the vision of the photographer. This vision, coupled with what you wear to your session, the environment, the lighting, even the mood the subjects are in at the time of photographing creates the work that you will want to proudly display on your walls forevermore.
Your first step in the process is more about determining who you are, who your family is and then seeking a photographer that reflects your style. What custom photography ultimately is all about is choice and experience. Custom photography is about finding someone who will photograph your family, give you devoted 1:1 attention without worry of who is next ‘in line’ or the feeling of a crowded portrait studio.
A custom photographer will typically show you a fairly extensive gallery culled to only show the good images that meet the photographers’ creative sensibilities.
Often the images are fully edited images-color corrected with blemishes and undereye circles removed.
Custom photographers are also known as boutique studios, offering a range of products and unparalleled service. Think Lexus vs. Hyundai, think Nordstrom vs. WalMart.
A custom photography experience should have you, the client and your experience in mind.”
Example 1 – Color enhancement and softening the skin.
Example 2 – Color enhancement and removed mud off of bottom of foot.
Example 3 – Color enhancement and enhancing the skyline to a more sunny day!
Example 4 – Color correction, skin softening.
Example 5 – Added texture, added vintage coloring (notice foot heater in top right corner? My trick at keeping newborn babies asleep. 
Example 6 – Color correction, digitally moved two boys closer together.
