When you're looking for a professional photographer, the question of "why are my digital files so expensive" is one that may cross your mind. You might be wondering if it's worth paying such a high price for something that will only exist in cyberspace and not on paper or film. Digital cameras have improved over the years to make them more lifelike than ever before. But there's still something special about having photographs printed and framed to hang on your walls, or sitting on your coffee table and being able to flip through the pages of an album while reminiscing with friends and family.
So, you start spending time googling photographers in your area and narrowing down the list to a favourite few. You love their work & they seem like the perfect fit! But when it comes down how much it costs, that price tag seem so expensive. I mean you are not really interested in products, you just want the digitals.
Have you considered that digital files are a luxury item?
I said what I said.
Take a look at the image above, let's assume it's a digital file. Think about that for a moment, that file can allow you to make prints, albums, large canvas prints, book covers, mugs, t-shirts. It's endless possibilities if you are creative. Don't forget the social media aspect, mail it to family, create a digital greeting card with it, save it as a screen saver.
That's a lot of VALUE.
And once a photographer sells the digital file to a client, they have ended their ability to make any more from that image. That's it they have ended their ability to profit off that product. So if you think of it that way, are not digital files a luxury item and are priced based on their VALUE, not on their cost.
Also, keep in mind the images above did require some time to finish. What I mean is there is a process, each images has to be culled from the session, then backed up, colour corrected and then enhancement in the digital editing process t o make each image extra special. That is hours worth of work that photographer has already invested in creating the photographs, usually with a small upfront investment from you. Which makes sense, what if you don't like any of your images?
You likely chose the photographer because you perused their site, socials and liked their work. You can also imagine working with them to create some amazing images of you and your babe.
Then the dreaded - "But I can get all the digital files from another photographer for less."
Awesome! If you love their work, you should hire them ASAP!
No one can speak to what other photographers charge, we each have our own cost of doing business, a process and client experience. You may think the only expenses are a good camera and a few lenses to operate a photography business. But do they have a business license, do they pay taxes, or have insurance? Then there's software, computers, websites, continuing education, marketing, samples…the list goes on.
As a small business owner, I know that success is defined by more than just making money. You can't be successful unless you enjoy what you do and it's your livelihood too! To help my clients achieve this happiness in both areas of life (working with pets AND being creative), I invest time into education to learn about photography techniques as well as spending valuable resources on high quality equipment so people will never regret spending money with me because their images were low quality, looked unprofessional, or were taken at the wrong time with the wrong lighting conditions.
It's about choices, as a consumer, we always have a choice. You can spend your money on the item that will wear out after a short while or invest in something that will last. You get to decide which is worth your investment.
To answer the question, "why are digital files so expensive?" It comes down to what you value. I offer a custom photography experience where you can purchase beautiful finished products or fresh, high-resolution digital files to preserve your most precious memories. Regardless of the medium that photograph is presented in—whether it's printed on canvas material or turned into an engaging social media post with stunning editing skills -the price reflects only my creativity and yours as well!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are digital files so expensive compared to printed products?
Digital files are priced based on their value and the potential for creating various products from them. When you purchase a digital file, you're not just buying a single print; you're investing in the ability to create multiple prints, albums, and other products.
What makes digital files a luxury item?
Digital files offer endless possibilities for creativity. They can be used to create prints, albums, canvas prints, and more. Additionally, they can be shared on social media, used in digital greetings, and even saved as screensavers.
How do photographers determine the price of digital files?
The price of digital files is determined based on the photographer's cost of doing business, which includes expenses such as equipment, software, marketing, and more. Additionally, the price reflects the photographer's creativity and the value of the images to the client.
Can I get digital files from another photographer for less?
Each photographer has their own cost of doing business and pricing structure. While some photographers may offer digital files at a lower price, it's important to consider the overall value and quality of the images when making a decision.
What is included in the process of creating digital files?
Creating digital files involves culling images from a session, backing them up, color correcting, and enhancing them through digital editing. This process requires hours of work and expertise from the photographer.
Why should I invest in digital files from a professional photographer?
Investing in digital files from a professional photographer ensures that you receive high-quality images that capture your most precious memories. Professional photographers have the experience and expertise to create stunning images that you can cherish for years to come.
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