Engagement Photos

I got to take some pictures of the cutest couple last weekend. We were able to get some neat shots overlooking the temple and spent some time at the Opera house. They were really fun and a great looking couple! Here are a few of my favorites!

About Me & My Philosophy

About Me:

Hey! I’m just Jenny. A Mom/Wife/Photographer/Teacher. I’ve been married for six years and lived in Saint George, Utah for three years. We LOVE the warm weather and beautiful scenery and recreation here. I’ve always loved being creative and expressing myself in artistic ways. I took my first photography class in High School and have been in LOVE ever since. At one point, I wanted to major in photography in college, (Yup, shoulda done it.) but ended up going into elementary education. (I taught 3^rd grade, and currently teach preschool at my house.) Now I take classes, read, research online, and anything else I can think of to further my skills and get new ideas. I love to learn new things about photography, and anything else that comes along really. I have two and a half wonderful children and an amazing husband that supports me unconditionally! Besides taking pictures, I love to camp with my family, read, take baths, cook (when I have time), dance, serve in my church, sleep, and play with my little ones. Heavenly Father has truly blessed me with the ability to use my talents for good and has placed great people in my life.

My Philosophy:

I love taking pictures of people how they are. Pictures of their BEST self. I HATE when people want me to change their eye color, make them skinnier, fix their nose, remove ALL their wrinkles, etc. etc. The list goes on and on of things people don’t like about themselves. I CAN do all of those things, but the resulting image will not be the REAL you that God loves just how you are right now! Of course I will remove blemishes, smooth out a few prominent wrinkles, fix crazy stray hairs, and minor things like that, but I LOVE when the final image reflects a REAL person that people know and love. If you saw a picture of your 90 year old grandma with no wrinkles, an hourglass figure, and brown flowing hair would you even recognize her? Would looking at that image make memories of baking cookies and reading stories come flooding over you? NO! Because it’s not the real her. (Unless your 90 year old grandma really doesn’t have wrinkles, has an hourglass figure, and brown flowing hair of course.) My goal is to create beautiful, colorful images that stir up emotion and reveal character and relationships. I’m fine with waiting until the right moment when a child is in the mood to be themselves despite the lens in their face, even when that wait becomes lengthy at times! I love clients that have an idea of what they are looking for in their portraits and we can put our heads together and come up with some GREAT images that they will TREASURE for a lifetime.

Copyright Information {Saint George, Utah Photographer}

All images captured by Jenny Lynn Photography are copyrighted.
Please don't steal from me! I'm a nice girl.

I love helping you create artistic memories to display in your home from start to finish. This includes printing! Once I went into a clients home and saw one of "my images" printed on plain copy paper from their home computer. I almost cried. Not only because it looked HORRIBLE, but because that person was telling EVERYONE who saw the photo that is was MY WORK. YIKES!! I keep my prices affordable while still giving you QUALITY heirlooms that will last. Consider this: I've spent a small fortune on cameras, lenses, lighting, backgrounds, and know-how. I take the photos, optimize them on my computer system using a fully color managed workflow with a calibrated and profiled monitor. I spend a lot of time color correcting and retouching your images. If I then supply the images on disc for you to view them on a monitor that is probably NOT calibrated and profiled, then you print the pictures, probably without sharpening appropriately for the output size, on cheap paper from a cheap printer with cheap compatible inks. Those "prints" from Walmart or your home printer then get passed around as examples of "my" work. PLUS more importantly, you have a sub-par picture that could have been GREAT! Sorry to keep rambling. I just feel really strongly about providing each of my clients with a SUPERIOR experience from start to finish. (Of course, I will sell you the files if you REALLY want me to. I would rather provide you with a beautiful finished product!)

Please don't scan prints from me. I am happy to order additional copies of images for you! If you use my images on Facebook or other online sites, please be kind and leave my small logo on them to help me out just a little bit!

THANKS for respecting the time, talent, and expense that goes
into every single image I proudly call my work!!

That being said, I will release the copyright if you REALLY must have the digital negatives. Just promise you will treat them nicely. ha ha ha. Pricing is as follows:

Digital Negative Pricing

(Please click on Copyright Info above for more info.)
1 image $50
10 Images $350
All images on disc are included with print orders over $400

A low resolution CD of all images from your session with Jenny Lynn Photography's logo is available for $50, or free with a minimum print order of $200. You MAY NOT crop the logo out or print from the CD, but you are welcome to post online, email, etc.

Marianne Drenthe from Professional Child Photographer Consumer Guide explains why prices for custom photography are higher than your neighborhood Department stores. I love what she says! If you are questioning whether or not you should use a custom photographer, or just go to a chain studio, you should take this into consideration:

The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and ability to control various factors during the image taking and making process. Photographers, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur all benefit from this ability to manipulate pixels. However, with flexibility comes a price. Digital camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into creating a work of photographic art.

We all know that you can go to the local Walgreen’s and pay a $1.99 for a print – as a client you may wonder why you may pay upwards of $50, $70, $90 for a custom photography print. Photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

“How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at x store?”

The truth of the matter is the answer to this question is multifaceted. Much of the cost of a photographic print produced by a professional photographer has a lot to do with the time, equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer not to mention expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

The cost of TIME

Approaching it from a time standpoint, let’s imagine that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love. This photographer is traveling an hour to your destination to photograph your session. Here is an example of a time break down:

Time to email, talk on the phone, and market to potential clients.
Session prep time (30 min. - 1 hr.) Includes equipment and back up equipment checks, vehicle prep and loading.
Travel time to the session.
15-30 minutes prep time at the location or clients home.
90 min. - 3 hrs. photographing subject.
Travel home from the session.
30-45 minutes spent uploading digital cards to computer.
30-45 minutes backing up original images.
2-5 hours (AT LEAST!!) editing images to present you with a gallery of images.
1 hour to prep images for printing.
2-3 hours with the client for ordering images.
1 hour sorting through and checking the order after it arrives.
30 minutes to package the products.
30 min. - 1 hr. to go ship the package.
Any additional time on the phone for add-ons, questions, and other issues.

In this example, the time spent per client can range from just under 13 hours to 19 hours – dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to ONE session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot (aka SESSION FEE) you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.

The COSTS of Maintaining a Custom Photography Business:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run from $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip many of the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES to BANANAS:

Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $19.99 for an 8×10 “sheet” or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. In February 2007 leased photography retail space by a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough – those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait services in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the “loss leader”.

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.

http://www.professionalchildphotographer.com

Order Prints {Saint George, Utah Photographer}

To place an order, click on the order form below and print a copy of it. Please fill out all information on the form. Important Note!! Please use the proof number that begins with your name (Or other text) for example: SmithFam006. Do NOT use the randomly generated number at the top!! (Like "47 out of 90" or something like that)

--OR--

You can also shoot me an email with what you'd like to order and I will send you and invoice.

And don't tell, but I always add a few little freebies just because my clients rock and I love to surprise them!

Note:If you want your images mounted on styrene or mat board, textured, or UV coated please indicate on the order form and price items accordingly.

Give me a call if you have any questions!

Print Pricing {Saint George, UT Photographer}

I can email you an order form, or you can use the plain generic one by clicking "to order" at the top of the page.

Click HERE to see our newest product! Shaped boutique greeting cards and announcements. They are stunning, unique, and just plain fabulous!

Individual Item Prices

Click on the images below for a detailed print price list.

Digital Negative Pricing

(Please click on Copyright Info above for more info.)
1 image $50
10 Images $350
All images on disc are included with print orders over $400.

Session Pricing {Saint George, Utah Photographer}

Sessions Prices include photographer's time to take and edit pictures, including minor retouching. You will also have access to an online gallery of the edited, watermarked pictures for proofing. Proof gallery can be expected up to 4 weeks after your session date. Prints and/or digital images are not included in your session fee. 50% non-refundable payment is due when you schedule your session. Your session is not considered "BOOKED" until this payment is received. Remaining balance is due before your session begins. Custom greeting card design is also included when placing a minimum order of 25 greeting cards/announcements. Prices subject to change.

Travel outside of Saint George . . . . . . $1 per mile
Family and Children Sessions . . . . . . . $100
Up to 2 hours
1 Location
Up to 6 people

Senior Portraits, Engagements,
and Bridal Sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $150
Up to 3 hours
2 Locations
Unlimited Wardrobe changes

Wedding Ceremony/Temple . . . . . . $275
Unlimited time
1 Location

Wedding Reception Coverage . . . . . $225
2 hours
1 Location
Additional 30 minutes . . . $50

Maternity Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $150
30 min. session around 35 weeks
Newborn Session (before 2 weeks old)
30 min. family session (Before 2 months old)

Commercial Session (Per Hour) . . . . $100
Includes CD of retouched images

What to Wear?? {Saint George, Utah Photographer}

Getting your portraits done by Jenny Lynn Photography, but don’t know what to wear?? You have come to the right place! I will give you some tips and ideas to make your images reflect your personality and create great photographs. If you want a family photo with everyone wearing jeans and a white shirt, you have come to the wrong place! Okay, I will do it, but I won’t LOVE it.

-Darker colors are better as well as ¾ or long sleeves. We want the viewers to be drawn to your FACE not your ARMS.
-Stay away from busy patterns for the same reason.
-Stay away from big logos and writing on your shirt.
-You DON’T all have to match exactly! Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and textures to add a little variety and “pop” to your images.
-DON’T be afraid of BOLD and BRIGHT colors! Add touches of color with accessories and props as well, not just your clothing.
-Layer clothing to add personality and color.
-Choose clothing that you and your family feel COMFORTABLE in. Things you would wear somewhere else besides just to get you pictures taken! (Those outfits will reflect who you really are and what you want to remember anyway.)
-Make sure your shoes match! They WILL be in some of your photos!
-Ladies make sure your nail polish is either removed, or free of chips and chunks.
-Babies work best in their birthday suits! If you would like some images of your baby in an outfit as well, keep it simple and not to bulky. It’s easy to loose those little ones in to much “outfit.”
-Seniors bring a “dressy out-fit” (Think something Mom and Dad will want on their desk at work) a Casual outfit (Something that you would wear to school.) and a Funky/Fun outfit that really shows your style and personality.
-The above rule works well for Engagement sessions as well.
-Consider the location we will be shooting at when choosing your outfit.
-Brush your teeth. (It has to be said!)
-Especially with little ones, make sure their hair is not in their faces! We want to see those cute little peepers!
-Bring hats, scarves, jewelry, sunglasses, and other accessories. Also, bring favorite toys or athletic equipment etc. that will personalize your images.
-Please DON’T go tanning or use self tanning lotion before you session! I LOVE Oompa Loompas, but don’t much like photographing them. Try to avoid getting to much sun for a week or so before your session also.
-Senior gals consider getting your hair and make-up done professionally to help you look your best! Who doesn’t love a little pampering anyway!
-Gals, wear a little bit more mascara than you usually do and a little more blush. PLEASE make sure it is well blended. Bring all of your make-up to your session for any touch ups you may need to do.
-I like to lay everyone’s outfits out on the couch or bed to make sure they go together well, have enough variety of textures and colors, and I like the overall “look” of the ensemble.
-I’m ALWAYS happy to chat with you about what you should wear/bring to your session, so give me a call if you still have questions!