Jann Denlinger Photography

I spend time talking with each client by email, phone or personal meeting before their shoot asking questions about their expectations, and learning a little bit about them. I like to be sure that I understand what it is that they are looking for. My specialty is creating photos that show personality. Sometimes that means finding a great location, other times it means including creative props or pets. Each client is different, and I enjoy helping to create unique portraits!

I have taken many photography classes, but I have learned he most from experience snapping tons of photos!

I started snapping photos using film cameras when my children were small.  I then changed to digital and took many photos while being a youth leader. That lead to doing senior portraits.  I would charge chocolate chip cookies for my work.  Then I realized that I enjoyed taking portraits and decided to start my own business!

I have been snapping photos for a long time.  I have worked with many types of customers.  Some who are looking for very professional portraits, and others who want to show some fun and personality in their portraits.

I recently donated a gift certificate to a youth auction for a photo session. A woman purchased the certificate. She asked if I could take a group photo of her family. It turns out that she has four married children, many many grandchildren, and even a few great grandchildren! After chatting with her for a while, we decided it might be best to have each of the families dress in a particular color. Then when people looked at the photo, they could tell who was in each family. The photo turned out great! I even did individual photos of each of her childrens' families. That was a great day with lots of laughs and plenty of smiling faces!

Figure out what it is that you really want to show in your portraits, and why you want them taken. Then look for a photographer who understands that!

Ask a lot of questions. My session fees are lower than other experienced photographers because the photos are not included. I also don't have any packages because I like to let my clients order whatever sizes and quantities they want. I don't limit the number of photos in online galleries, or charge extra for basic editing. Comparing photographers is sometimes like comparing apples to oranges!  You need to ask a lot of questions to understand how each photographer does business. 

Think about asking a photographer about a previous experience that is similar to what you are looking for. Listen to their answer, but listen more closely to their attitude!