Photography Snob

OK, so I think I'm a photography snob. This past Sunday, we had an appointment with a local photographer for Annabel's three month photos. Yes, she's actually 3.5 months, and yes, I do feel like I've taken lots of great (and in my "delusions of grandeur" mind) "professional" photos of our sweet Bellie. Why pay for someone else to take pictures of her?

Because I want to be in the picture too! I've been wanting professional family photos of Chris, myself and Annabel, which is really hard to do when I'm behind the camera. So I went to many local resources to try to find a great photographer who wouldn't break the bank (because my maternity photos nearly did!). I found one whose website I really liked and who was running a special, $125 flat fee includes the session fee and a CD of all the images. I'm not going to say who this photographer is, even though I've mentioned her business name before. I removed it because what I have to say about our experience on Sunday is not going to be the "glowiest" of reviews.

We arrive on Sunday to her studio admittedly about 15 minutes late. I think that we have yet to really estimate well how long it takes us to get ready with Annabel. In any case, I think we're almost always 15 minutes late to things. She greeted us and was very nice; she has a cute, simple studio. White background, two light set-up. There was a wall with a bunch of props, blankets, outfits and add-ons.

I had dressed Annabel in one of her signature bows, of course, and a cute outfit to match. The cute part of the outfit was all these ruffles around her midsection and butt. The rest of it was white with a little flower and some trim to match the ruffles. So what does the photographer do? First thing, she has us put Annabel in a bumbo seat. I mean, I know that at this point, Annabel cannot sit up on her own, but I also know that are tricks you can do with camera angles to keep Mommy's hand that is supporting the baby from being in the photo, too. The bumbo seat completely covered the pretty ruffles of her outfit! (On a side note, I'd like to also mention that she offered NO suggestions as to what to wear, colors to avoid, etc. prior to our session, even though I specifically asked.)

Next, we have an outfit change for Annabel, and then a family photo. No suggestions from the photographer as to where to sit or how to position ourselves, so I just put Annabel on my lap and Chris sat next to me. Then photos of just Annabel and me. Again, no suggestions or direction from the photographer. Then photos of just Chris and Annabel. Still, no direction from the photographer.

Finally! A suggestion from the photographer! Take off her clothes and put her in that cute pink tutu! We got some cute ones there, since at this point, Annabel decides she doesn't want to do anything but suck on her fingers. Then, the photographer makes some comment about how Annabel's smiles are pretty much just her mouth wide open and how her son was the same way. Her next comment is, "And I was always frustrated because that never photographs well." Ummm... excuse me? Aren't I paying you to photograph her well? And why haven't you told me yet how cute my baby is and what great pictures you're getting? Yep, she didn't say any of that. Well, until she decided she was done with the session and said, "OK, I think we got some good ones." What??? You THINK???

Even if I have the ugliest baby in the world, it is the job of the photographer to extoll the beauties of my child, how photogenic she is and how much fun it is to take pictures of her... that is, if you want me to hire you for future photo sessions. Am I wrong here? Am I expecting too much? I mean, I've been to a portrait session at Target-- with my friend's kids -- where the photographer (some college student who pretty much just has to point and shoot) was more enthusiastic and complimentary to the children.

Chris says we should wait and see how the photos turn out before we pass final judgement, but with digital technology these days, I'm sure some of those pictures will turn out well. I'm looking for more than just a good picture. I can do good pictures. I'm looking for creativity, for a little enthusiasm and, ok I admit, compliments on what a cute baby I have! Is that too much to ask?

I eagerly await the proofs and will provide you with an update when I get them.

In the meantime, how great are the Olympics this year?? Go TEAM USA!

Cheers!