I came across an article written by Anne Ruthmann answering the question "Why do wedding photos take so long?" It may be written about wedding photos, but I thought it would also answer any questions about why custom portraits in general can take so much longer than when you go to say a mall chain photo studio. Please take a moment to read the article.
Custom portraits are a work of art. Every session is as unique as the individuals being photographed. As an artist, there are no formulas for creating the original image or for transforming it into the final product that you see. I don't have a studio set up with standard lighting or use a set of poses for each session. I craft each image individually, from tweaking the exposure and color, to fixing blemishes, to any other processing that the image inspires. If I don't love it, I won't show it. The end product is a representation of my artistic vision, no two images will ever be the same.
This sums it all up for me:
The Photographers Prayer
Dear Lord, as I bring my subject into focus & prepare to make each portrait, never let me forget that I'm creating treasures for a family, a keepsake for loved ones. Make me sensitive to the qualities and virtues of others, that I may draw out into the light the beautiful radiant belongings of their hearts.
Help me to be an artist, collecting the beauty of every soul, the glow of youth, the gentleness, the laughter or tears of each life that is precious in Thy sight. Deeper than a means of livelihood, give me the perspective to see my photographer's art as a service to others, making life richer and more memorable.
And, dear Lord, between the lights and shadows, the ups and downs and the rolling years, keep me from getting out of focus or off center, so that my life and work may be framed with dignity and colored with contentment. Amen.
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