Baby, Oh Baby! I've Got An i-Phone, Do I need Professional Portraits?

A couple of days ago I saw a commercial for the new i-Phone that showed a very nice picture of a little girl and the announcer said.."i-Phone, the only camera you'll ever need...". It got me thinking about how one phrase like that along with a really great product could change the perception of many in regards to commissioning portraits. After all, why bother, you've got a great camera (phone) right? Well, maybe no, not right.

While you will certainly capture great moments with your phone, there's a lot to be said for the experience of participating in a portrait. A beautiful portrait of your baby is a co-creation between you and your Artist. From the first consultation, your trained Photographer is learning about your likes and desires, suggesting ideas that meld with your tastes, molding the session to give you a perfect piece of art that is your son or daughter. On Portrait Day, you'll have the opportunity to play with your baby while your Photographer styles the session, with background, lighting and sometimes props to give you a designer image that you will be not only proud to display in your home but also to give as gifts.

A Portrait is much different than a snapshot. A well done Portrait is a study of your child at that moment of life, a personality essay captured in a moment or two of time. It takes into account that your baby's miniscule fingernails will never be so tiny again, toes will never be so round and fat. It's not just a smiling face in a stroller but all the details that are gone way too soon, A Portrait is the most personal art you will ever own,

Marcia The Art of Photography specializes in the first year of your baby's life. Call today to find out how your baby's first stages can be the art of your life. 480.366.4476.

It's in the details and the artistry. A Professional Photographer can take those details and give you art.     ©marciaphoto.com 

Green Wedding Friday - What's A Green Photographer?

One thing I get asked all the time is what makes me a Green Photographer. Like Kermit, it's not always easy being green, but it's part of who I am and extends to my business.

Yes, I am a digital photographer. I came kicking and screaming to the dark side several years ago and once I realized that it was really better for the environment never looked back. But it's not enough to just shoot digitally. It's a commitment to offering eco-friendly products, being mindful of how much energy I use in my business, working with other eco-friendly vendors to offer a Green Team to the couples that share the same philosophy.

Being a Green Photographer means that I don't print anything that is not necessary to print and the same with shipping. For the clients that would like it, I offer a direct download option to share photos. Only prints that are actually purchased are printed. While traditional albums are available, I offer presentation products from companies that utilize recycled products, soy inks, green production practices. I work as much as possible by window light to lessen the burden of electricity and when I need to actually get in the car I bundle all my errands into one trip so that I am as efficient with fossil fuels as possible.

In promoting Green Photography I offer incentives for hiring other eco-friendly vendors for events. I keep a list of event businesses that provide eco-friendly services and when two or more are hired along with me I give a rebate to my client.

I love the idea that I can help my planet while creating family heirlooms that stand the test of time. I love being Green.

Under The Oak Tree                                                      @Marcia Mauskopf