Minneapolis, MN MATERNITY, newborn, & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

Let’s clear things up: all-inclusive photographer vs full-service photographer – MN family photographer

First off, let me just say how happy I am that you found your way to my website! You obviously have good taste, and I’m hoping you’ll read through this and learn a bit about the two most common types of photography sessions offered, and how I can help you with your portrait needs.

 

When searching for a photographer, you may come across a few different terms. “All inclusive”, “boutique” and “full service” are just a few that are used, and it can be confusing sometimes.  But don’t fret – I’m here to help!  Keep reading to find out  more about all-inclusive photographer vs full-service photographer, and what type might be best for you.

 

ALL INCLUSIVE: These are typically photographers who offer digital files included with their session fees. Some offer “all” digital files from their session, and some offer a limited number included with the session fee. It’s always best to find this out beforehand so you know exactly what you’re getting. All inclusive photographers typically send you the edited images via electronic download, and it would be on you to order your prints. This is more for clients who don’t want or need a high level of service, and are OK with printing images on their own.


PROS: You have some or all digital files from your session and can print them wherever you want, whenever you want. You know exactly what you’ll be paying up front and what you’re getting as far as digital files.


CONS: You have to figure out where and how to print your images. You need to make time to do this on your own (which, let’s face it, doesn’t always happen with how busy life is). You may end up with low quality prints that don’t look the same as they do on your computer or phone if you don’t use a high-quality print lab.  There is sometimes a much higher cost up front before ever seeing your photos.

 

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BOUTIQUE or FULL SERVICE: Photographers who offer a boutique, luxury or full-service portrait session typically charge a session fee that does not include any prints, products or digital files. What it does include is a higher level of service. For example, these types of portrait studios will often offer a consultation before your session to meet in person and discuss your ideas for the session. The session fee covers the consultation, as well as the session time (which can be anywhere from 1-3 hours), editing time (which can be anywhere from 2-10+ hours), and sometimes includes an ordering or design appointment as well.

These photographers offer professional, high-quality prints, albums and other products (most offer digital files as well), and they do all the leg work for you.  Therefore, all you need to do is choose your favorite photos and they’ll help you decide what to do with them to create beautiful, high-quality artwork for you and your family.

 

PROS: You have professional help from start to finish, and you don’t have to worry about doing anything on your own if you don’t want to. You will have prints and products from a professional photo lab, which will be much higher quality than what you would typically get from a consumer lab (Walgreens, Shutterfly, etc).

 

CONS: I really don’t see any cons, but I may be biased. :)

 

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WHAT I OFFER:  I am a mainly a full-service/boutique photographer.  From time to time I do offer special all-inclusive sessions, but my clients still get my full attention and service.  I love working with my clients from the beginning stages of planning their session to the final delivery of their finished artwork. I am big on communication and making sure you know what’s going on every step of the way.

 

Want to meet ahead of time and discuss your session visions in person? Great! We can meet at my studio, have some coffee or water (or meet at the brewery next door) and work together to come up with a session plan.

 

Not sure what to wear for your session? No problem! I’m always happy to help clients with their clothing choices. I can send you links to blog posts from similar areas (studio, fall outdoors, spring outdoors, etc) so you can see what looks good together. You can text me photos and ask for my input, and I even offer a full studio wardrobe full of gorgeous, neutral options for mothers, babies and children (and some for dads, too). A lot of my clients especially love this and the high-end curated wardrobe options I offer, as they don’t have to worry about finding a gorgeous dress and matching outfits for kids and babies. I take the worry out of wardrobe planning, and you don’t have to spend extra time or money shopping. Click HERE to see some of what’s offered in my studio wardrobe.

 

Not sure what to do with your photos? I’m here to help with that, too. We can meet at my studio and you can physically look through 4×6 proof prints from your session. You can sort them, choose your favorites and I’ll be there to help you decide what to do with them. I can design an album, a wall gallery or anything else you have your heart set on. 

 

Want beautiful, high-quality prints and artwork?  I’ve got you covered.  I only work with professional framers and print labs to offer my clients true heirloom quality prints and artwork that comes with a lifetime guarantee on craftsmanship.  I specially sharpened each image according to the size and material it will be printed on, and inspect every single piece before it leaves my studio.  I want your images to be perfect, and I want them to be enjoyed not only by you, but by future generations as well.

 

Was this helpful in deciding between an all-inclusive photographer vs full-service photographer?  No matter which type of photographer you choose, make sure it’s someone you are comfortable with and confident in. This is a special time in your life, and documenting it is important for you and for future generations.

 

xo,
Melissa

MN newborn photographerMN print photographer

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I am a custom portrait photographer in Lino Lakes, Minnesota specializing in maternity, newborn, baby, and family photography. Serving the general Twin Cities area, including (but not limited to) Minneapolis, St. Paul, Anoka, Andover, Apple Valley, Blaine, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Edina, Forest Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, New Brighton, North Oaks, Richfield, Roseville, Shoreview, Stillwater, Vadnais Heights, Wayzata, White Bear Lake, and more.

 

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