Yes. I do recommend that you order prints from me. So do many, many other photographers. And it's annoying. BUT... there is a very good reason for it! No, it's not all about the money either. Yes, I can do a session with a CD only. No your prints won't be guaranteed. This is also the same for many, many other photogs out there. So why the big fuss about prints? Let me explain :)
When your pictures are taken, your photographer (whoever it may be), takes each depression of their shutter very seriously. Each shot is planned out according to lighting, positioning, background and a myriad of other factors. Then , all the images from your session are dutifully inspected on a computer somewhere. They are meticulously inspected to see which is most flattering. Editing is completed with print options in mind and the, an order is placed. But with who?
Your photog will normally send prints to a professional lab. Most individuals will upload to CVS or Walmart. The difference here is astounding. Ink, paper and print quality all combined WILL make or break an image. It can be the best shot of a session but with the wrong printing, disappointment can and usually will ensue.
Most printing services at your local chain store have what's called a kiosk where your images can be printed directly to you. These machines print quickly and on low cost paper, using low cost ink. The same normally goes for your ink jet printer at home. Even at its highest performance setting, your picture is still scribbled onto the paper in a hurry. This leads to bleeding colors, smudged details and unwanted clipping and cropping, when the kiosk or computer decides where to fit your image on the sheet.
When ordered from a professional lab, the photographer determines what portion of the image is lost, if any. The printing process is more tedious but the results are well defined and evenly colored images. The paper is acid and lignen free and will last for generations. And the biggest surprise? You will normally SAVE MONEY when you order from the photographer. (Convenience is expensive) Many photographers will even guarantee the quality of prints when ordered directly through them.
Now think of it this way. You are a chef. You cook fabulous food and work in a highly acclaimed restaurant. one night, your kid has the runs so you call in sick. The stand-in chef cooks PB&J for supper and now.... your name is in the dirt because YOU are the chef at that restaurant. It's the same concept for a photographer who has put long hours into preparing your pictures. They want and deserve to have their photography displayed in the best possible manner.
So the next time you have your session done and the photographer says NO. You must order prints from ME!!! Know that it's nothing personal, they really do know what's best for not only their business, but their clients as well. You will be pleased with the results... I promise!
