Ok…for those of you who know me….I rarely sweat the small stuff in life. Mostly because I think after 18 years of marriage my super mellow husband is wearing off on me. I also believe that competition is good. It makes everyone strive to be better and is a motivator. But lately, I am a little upset and maybe suprised at what lengths competitors will go to. I seriously try not to bash on other photographers even when people are saying bad things about them right to my face. I don’t actively look at someone else’s web site and then call their clients and try to “steal” them away. I also do not promise people free stuff if they will be my “models” and then not follow through with it. These are all things that some out of town photographers have tried.
What do I offer???? Professionalism!!! I strive to try new things that I come up with…not copy off others. I don’t send “spies” out to look at others work and report back. I attend at least 3 professsional conventions a year so that I can see what is fresh and new out there. I am very flexible….I tell people all the time…that I can do anything if I just see it….so if you have an idea just let me know…I’m always glad to try something new. I love people and kids and hope that when people tell Tracey, my office manager, how nice I am that they know it is geniune and not an act. I have a strong sense of community. I always try to shop Marshall first. Sometimes, like anyone else, you can’t find what you need here, but I want to make sure I give local businesses a chance first. Last year, I donated over $7500 to charities IN Marshall. That’s right $7,500 ( I actually was a little suprised myself!) Things like after proms, project grad, the Theta Phi Alpha Alzheimer walk, the MS walk, all area Booster clubs, T-Ball, Marshall Optimist, Marshall Youth Soccer, the Saline County Fair, the Safe Kids Golf Tournament, the Shoes That Fit program, the Heart Gallery, just to name a few.
Out of town photographers do not typically donate anything to the Marshall community. Maybe that doesn’t matter to you, but when programs start to disapear because local businesses can no longer afford to help, it matters to the people envloved. For example, ask any child who had no shoes, how much of a difference, the Shoes that fit program matters to them.
Out of town photographers also do not shop at other Marshall businesses. They do not get their cars fixed by local mechanics, do not buy their clothes here, do not get flowers for sessions from local florists. etc.
OK….enough said….you get the picture.
On a more positive note…..For my clients who do value not only my work but the other things about me….I have to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!