Rhonda Mathis Photography

studio B

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:24:00 +0000

Need tween to high school senior reps for new division of Rhonda Mathis Photography - Studio B...Disc of session provided plus discounts!!! Message or call me if you are interested! (rhonda.mathis@comcast.net or 316-5702) I have realized that there are no photographers that offer anything special for middle school/underclassmen (only high school seniors) and I want to offer some of the same special promotions and products that are offered for seniors to them. I am choosing 3 boys and 3 girls to represent studio B from the sixth grade through high school seniors...These reps will receive discounted products plus be able to participate in the reward schedule below: studioB Ambassador Reward Program You will receive an additional reward based on the number of people you send to us for a paid Portrait Session. You will be credited for each person who turns in one of your studioB Ambassador Cards at the time of their sitting. You will receive a disc of the images from your session and a 25% discount on any product or promotion offered by studioB. Also, you and your friends will receive 8 free wallet portraits. You may start earning these credits as soon as you receive your set of 24 Ambassador Cards and will continue accumulating credits until November 15, 2012. If you need additional Ambassador Cards, please let us know and we will order an additional set of 24 cards for you. The sooner you book your session, the more time you will have to pass out your cards. 2 Referrals (from any middle/high school): 16 additional wallet portraits 5 Referrals (from any middle/high school): $50 gift card to Hamilton Place Mall* 10 Referrals (from any middle/high school): $125 gift card to Hamilton Place Mall* 15 Referrals (from any middle/high school): $200 gift card to Hamilton Place Mall* 20 Referrals (from any middle/high school): $300 gift card to Hamilton Place Mall* 25 + Referrals (from any middle/high school): $500 gift card to Hamilton Place Mall* *The gift card earned from the paid Portrait Sessions will be rewarded by December 1, 2012. Only one gift card will be issued per Ambassador based on total referrals. Complete and return the attached form to be considered as a studio B Ambassador Representative. Rhonda

It's Been a While

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:06:00 +0000

Wow...It's been a while since I have blogged but I have been busy!!! I am starting a new division - studio B! studio B will be geared toward tweens to seniors to give them the more edgy urban portraits that really express who they are!

I am looking for tween to senior representatives for this new division. Call or email me if you are interested in becoming a representative! Disc of session provided plus discounts!!! Message/call me if you are interested!

Rhonda

Parkridge Session 2

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 23:20:00 +0000

We had the second series of sessions today and the babies just keep getting cutier and cutier! Thanks to all of the families for today!

Parkridge Hospital Baby Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 06:11:00 +0000

We had the first 9 sessions for the Parkridge Hospital Baby Contest today and they were fabulous! I want to thank all of the families that I photographed today - Ya'll were AWESOME!

PARKRIDGE EAST BEAUTIFUL BABY CONTEST

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:16:00 +0000

Twenty babies will be randomly chosen to decorate the Birth Place at Parkridge East Hospital!

And we will be donating a free session to all of the lucky winners!

For mor information contact Ashley Brown at 423.499.2083.

Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:42:00 +0000

Digital technology is brilliant. The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and amazing amounts of control for the photographer, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur. With flexibility comes a price though. Camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into all of this.

Even though you pay $1.99 for a print at your local drugstore and paying for film is pretty much a thing of the past (although you still pay for memory) you may be wondering why you may pay upwards of $40, 50, 70, 90 for a custom photography print. Some photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

“How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at the local drug store?”

The answer is multifaceted and has a lot to do with the time, aforementioned equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer, expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

TIME of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:
Approaching it from a time standpoint, for instance let’s imagine if you will that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love and that is travelling an hour to your on location session. TIme break down:
session prep time (30 mins – 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
one hour travel time TO session
15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject
one hour travel time FROM session
30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images
1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
2-3 hours time with client for ordering images
1 hour sorting through and checking order
30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped
any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues.

As you can see, average client time for a session ranges from just under 13 hours to 19 hours dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to your session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.

COSTS of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:
Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run up $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.
Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES:
Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $25 for an 8×10 or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. According to several articles at the time, did you know that in February 2007 a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough – those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait studios in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the true “loss leader”.
Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:
Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..
Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.

Article written by: Marianne Drenthe

Our Philosophy

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 21:05:00 +0000

For anyone who has visited with us, you may have noticed we're a little different. Our photography is different, and so is our philosophy.

We consider our lives blessed to wake up each day and go to a place we like to be, surrounded by people we enjoy, and do something we love. Each day we find time to share and laugh — not just to work, but to live.

We have the privilege of sharing in people’s happiest moments. Whether it is the miracle of a newborn child, the excitement of a new milestone, or the celebration of graduation—our goal is to take an instant out of time and create a memory to be cherished for generations.

We hope you see a pattern here. Our philosophy, so to speak…Life is short, so take time to live in the moment, laugh each day, surround yourself with the people you love and collect lots of memories along the way.

Birth Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:33:00 +0000

Check out our new Birth Announcements!

Congratulations to Miss Katie

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:34:00 +0000

Miss Katie won Miss Photogentic in both pagents that she participated in - CONGRATULATIONS!!

What is a professional portrait anyway????

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 04:28:00 +0000

A professional portrait is more than snapshots in time; it is a record of love shared, relationships nurtured and hearts knit together.

Valentine Angels Limited Edition Portrait Session

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 02:52:00 +0000

Christmas is over and the New Year is upon us...

Capture the beauty and innocence of your little one in our Valentine Angels Limited Edition portrait session. Rich earth tones surround your little angels in our version of heaven. This heavenly, heart-tugging scene complete with halos and and wings with rich, romantic colors is one of our favorites.

Join me during the month of Janurary, and create a timeless portrait of your little cherub.

Our special Limited Edition pricing will be in effect, and availability is limited. Call 423-316-5702 now to schedule your appointment. Recommended ages 7 months to 7 years.

Merry Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 17:22:00 +0000

I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Home for the Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 03:34:00 +0000

We are offering a special session for your Christmas portraits...something more personal than the normal studio portriats - Home for the Holidays! These special sessions are limited. Please contact us between November 15th and December 5th to book your session.

Normal-Palooza

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 01:34:00 +0000

I will be at Normal-Palooza on Saturday - come by and say hi!

Since 2003, Normal-Palooza has become one of the most widely anticipated and highly attended community events in Chattanooga. Combining the charm of a traditional street fair with the energy and excitement of a regional music festival, it's a day of fun for the entire family. And it's FREE.

Some of my Favorite Seniors

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 05:52:00 +0000

Photo Tip of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:33:00 +0000

Food Considerations

A full tummy helps keep babies and children happy and satisfied during their portrait session, but please be careful of what foods they eat before their session. Carrots and sweet potatoes are a sweet treat for baby, but can sometimes leave an orange tint on baby's skin. This tint may not always be noticeable to the human eye, but the camera's lens can pick up on such skin discoloration. Other foods such as spaghetti, lollipops and candy may also color the skin. Also, if you feed your baby lots of orange foods, their skin may give off an orange glow around the nose and mouth, but unlike food, this cannot be wiped away.

If your child has a cold, please be sure to wipe your child's nose and mouth thoroughly, because again, the camera may pick up what eyes may not notice.

Some Recent Sessions

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 01:11:00 +0000

Just a Reminder

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:51:00 +0000

Just a reminder - don't forget about the Labor Day Soiree on August 29, 2009...

Also, check out the awesome article in this month's Blush Magazine!

Parkridge East Labor Day Soiree

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:52:00 +0000

I am honored to be participating in the Parkridge East Labor Day Soiree on August 29, 2009!!!

IF

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:09:00 +0000

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master,
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936)

Happy Father's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:35:00 +0000

I wanted to shout out - "Happy Father's Day" to all Daddies!

General Douglas MacArthur
1942 National Father’s Day Award Speech

Nothing has touched me more deeply than this honor given to me by the National Fathers Day Committee. By profession I am a soldier and take great pride in that fact, but I am prouder, infinitely prouder, to be a father. A soldier destroys in order to build. A father only builds, never destroys. The one has the potentialities of death. The other embodies creation and life. And while the hoards of death are mighty, the battalions of life are mightier still. It is my hope that my son when I am gone will remember me not from the battle but in the home.

Certified Professional Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 28 May 2009 18:28:00 +0000

In addition to creating quality images, our studio is also committed to maintaining high professional standards. In order to make sure we’re doing that, I will be participating in the Certified Professional Photographer program offered through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).

Once I complete this process, I and one other photographer in the Chattanooga area will possess this prestigious certification!

While there are several technical requirements for being Certified, the best way to explain it is to compare it to the difference between a regular doctor and one who is Board Certified. While you can assume that both of them have a certain level of knowledge, the certified doctor has been tested…and the certifying agency takes steps to ensure that the doctor continues to add to his or her expertise through education.

It’s the same way with photographers. As a Certified photographer, you can be assured that I possess enough technical knowledge of my art to consistently create good images for you…and I continue to take courses to maintain my technical and creative edge.

Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I embark on this journey.

I will keep you posted on my progress!

Parkridge East Baby Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 02:04:00 +0000

Please come join me at the annual Parkridge East Baby Fair that will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28th. The event will begin at 9 a.m. and end at noon. See you there!

Check out the article detailing the event posted in The Chattanoogan!

I Haven't Posted in a While

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Sorry that I haven't posted in a while. I have been getting ready for the new year! I hope that you all had a great Christmas and an awesome New Year.

Chat back soon!

Rhonda

“Parkridge East Babies”

noreply@blogger.com (Rhonda Mathis Photography) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 01:29:00 +0000

You are cordially invited to the showing of “Parkridge East Babies” by Rhonda Mathis Photography at The Birth Place - Parkridge East Hospital located at 941 Spring Creek Road on Thursday, November 13, 2008 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to TriStar Medline at 800-242-5662.

And check out the awesome article posted in The Chattanoogan!