I think one of the biggest challenges faced by photographers like us who want to create spectacular images for regular women is the persona created in media today. It’s even hard to see all the production value of images posted on social media by big companies. Those photoshoots have a ton of people and equipment working behind the scenes. When you and other women see it you dream of having something like that, but at price you can afford. Unless you are incredibly affluent it’s probably not going to happen. My engineering education has actually proven to be an extraordinary asset in everything I do as a photographer; to be able to do more with less!
However, photographers have the challenge of combating a budget that wants to be high-production. The solution is innovation and creativity. Something I ironically learned in my engineering education where learn to do as much as possible with the few resources we have. Even though I’m a photographer now, I would never give up this experience as it has given me a huge advantage in this industry.
THE PHOTOGRAPHY PRODUCTION TEAM
In commercial photography, for big shoots, there is an entire team that includes the photographer. Think…Victoria’s Secret, Chanel, Coach, and any other brand you’d find in a Vogue magazine. There’s nothing wrong with you wanting something similar, if not exactly the same. You want to feel like a model right?
Here are some of the major roles in photography production teams that are needed to create epic images:
- stylist
- producer
- creative director
- photographer
- hair and makeup
- lighting and grip assistant(s)
THE MADE BY TEN WAY
At the bare minimum our team consists of just me, the photographer. Most of the time there will also be a hair/makeup artist. For those who want an even more model-like photoshoot experience we’ll also have a stylist/assistant.
Why don’t we always have a whole team? If we did, we’d be talking about photoshoots costing into the 5-digits. All of these people bring on a crazy amount of expertise.
Even though I can’t replicate it, it’s my duty to do so as best I can. That’s where my engineering education comes in. Over 5 years (an extra year was added for business courses) of university I learned how to do more with less. That includes less time, less resources, less sleep/energy, etc.
HOW WE GIVE MORE WITH LESS
Without the big supportive team, I’m still able to help women:
- develop a photoshoot theme that speaks to them
- pick out the best clothing
- look stunning with the best hair/makeup choices
- scout an appropriate location
- provide guidance on the right sizing of artwork for their home
- create artwork that is timeless and meaningful to them
I know one day I’ll be able to have this, but right now I want to give all “regular” women a chance to be photographed so that they look and feel their best. There are some photographers who will also provide exquisite results, but cost more. On the other hand, there are some who’ll charge a little less than us, but they just can’t compare to the unique experience we offer. I owe it all (or mostly) to my engineering education that gives me the experience and confidence to be able to wear all the “hats” in order to provide the best experience I can possibly give to women!
If you’re looking for a timeless image of yourself I would highly recommend booking a session right now before things change. You can find more information on the experiences and services we offer.
Jonathan How is the photographer behind Made by Ten and calls Milton his home. He specializes in creating beautiful, creative portraits of real women. He uses photography (and this blog) to help them build confidence and love for themselves and creates artistic images for their homes and offices. You can see him driving around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in Ontario, Canada from portrait to fashion shoot and back again.