Need to vent alittle

[windrivermaiden]

Today we had a photographer come in to take some photos of products for our website.

He had all the fancy gear and talked a good talk, but as I watched him set up I knew that we were going to get substandard shots. (yeah, why didn't they hire me?...well, I'm the techinical drafter/writer, they've never seen my photography.)

He will be working his photoshop expert over time to make up for his poor form. Exit sign...that'll be in there...ugly fire door...yep! soft box reflections...by the bucket full. GRRRRR!

I only hope he was cheap...but by the looks of his new BMW...Probably wasn't.

[fotosbysylvia]

I get it. In real estate it's "location, location, location." In photography it's "Background, background background". If you are not really looking at your shot, you can get a lot of "extra" garbage, and the client does not pay you for the picture of the trash can. Unless he/she is paying for the picture of that trash can.

[RogerAylstock]

Crystal,
Can you offer to do the shoot also? Then wow them with your stuff? I'm thinking it would be much easier to hire a known quantity rather than go looking for a guy with a camera each time.

[Lilikoi the cat]

Unless it was a one time deal for eternity, I would certainly offer up some pictures. Even if it was not, who knows maybe they might need some portraits done at some time.

[Clicker Rick]

Ditto what Roger said. Be as much an asset to your job as you can, they'll appreciate it. I took a peek at your gallery...you have the skill. Go for it.
I'm an old pro wedding shooter, done hundreds over three decades, and took my work very serious, keeping up with all the trends and packing all the right gear. Your story reminded me of a few times I was a guest at a wedding and I cringed with embarasement for the trade to see a sloppy or lazy shooter at work. No posing skills, poor timing, and unprof appearance.

[fotosbysylvia]

So true, in this business image is everything. Both photographer and prints.

[Killjoy]

I say go ahead and shoot that same images he shot.
Only do it better.

Then when he produces his work, show them yours.

See which they prefer. ;)

We all know the quality of your work. It's time to show other people as well.

[windrivermaiden]

Yep, vindicated.... produced crap.

As for me doing the job...I'm up to my eyeballs in doing my actual work. At least the vendors will have good drawings for the things they make for us. I'd offer to do the photos, but I am over loaded as is.