I have been asking myself this question lately. Walmart or Saks? What is the difference? What makes one preferred over another? We see many "people of Walmart" sites, but not "people of Saks". Why is that? And how does this relate to myself and my brand as Amanda D Photography?
A lot of these questions have come about as I create my studio. What do I want my space to feel like and what is the best layout for my portraits and the experiences I want my customers to have. And there was the key word...experience.
Experience is why I decided to start working in photography in the first place. I had negative experiences at some of the big box stores...the "Walmarts" of the photo industry. I was taking my 2 year old to get his portrait made very frequently and all of the pictures looked the same. There was zero processing done with them other than placing a sepia filter on them or maybe the "new" and exciting feature of selective color they had (YIKES). All the locations had the same backdrops, same props and none of the "photographers" knew how to use them. The sessions were stressful as I wrangled my toddler, had to direct the photographer as to what props to include, and then edit my own photos.
Another location I went to had a great idea of giving me all the digital files unedited. "Yes!" I thought, this is what I want! I get home to disappointment. Many photos showed parts of the studio, the photographers finger, and other generally not pretty elements I didn't want to see in my photos. Half of them were my son running off the "staging" area. I was so upset. It took some time and some editing to be able to see the photos for what they could be.
This is why I am creating Amanda D Photography in the manner I am. I don't want to be Walmart. I don't want to be self-serve. I want to be the full-serve gas (do they still have those anymore?) I want to create a fun and enjoyable experience for my customers. I want to create ART that is truly as special and unique as each individual I photograph.
If you choose to work with me, you will receive an EXPERIENCE. From the consultation, I gather information that helps me determine the best locations, "props" and find the experience that best suits you. My new studio will accommodate the fun and unique events (my Mommy and Me sessions with massages provided) that you wont find anywhere else. Finally the the actual, tangible, piece of artwork to adorn your walls and pass down for generations to come.
Do I want to be Walmart? No. I choose to be Saks.
Below are portraits. These are examples of my artwork and how each images is unique and tailored to fit the subjects I am portraying.
