Letter From The Founder
Dear Friends,
We are deep into our tenth year together here at Harpen Studios. I can't believe a decade has past, but looking back it feels like you all have been in my life forever.
When I started my photography journey, it was to capture my first born and her years ahead. Now, she enters middle school.
And just like my own, I've watched your babies grow, too. I've seen some of you engaged, married, first, second or third births. Our older kids have gone off to college. Some of them are now parents, too!
Words to describe these emotions are stunned, and humbled.
In ten years, my photography has grown (thank gods) and evolved. From shooting literally anything that came across my DM's, to curating my style, I feel at home now, here in my tiny studio.
Tiny but mighty, my "Shedio" contains all of the tricks and tools needed to create lovely heirloom memories. We get to know each other here. You tell me your birth story, their milestones. Children discuss their Christmas lists, tales from school. We sing, we dance, sometimes we cry.
Gods, this is so much more than taking pictures.
That is why today, I want to tell you about our future at Harpen Studios.
The other day, I read an article that described professional photography as a luxury. While I agree that photography is a want rather than a need, I don't believe it should be considered a luxury. Luxury implies something unattainable, reserved only for those with limitless budgets and exclusive access. I couldn't disagree more. I believe every family deserves beautiful photographs that preserve the moments they'll one day wish they could relive. Those memories shouldn't be reserved for a select few; they should be within reach for everyone. I've always been an affordable option. Recently, I've increased pricing to keep up with inflation, to cover fees, and to provide fair competition with other photographers (I've been told that I'm undercutting the business by not charging enough).
I will be slightly reducing my fees to help you. My only ask is that you continue to entrust me with your families memories and book, or if you cant, refer. You are my greatest allies, my best adverts.
To increase your value, I'll be offering a small, but growing, client closet. This will include curated items for newborn, babies, toddlers, and maternity. These options will be available to wear for my studio sessions, and guides will be provided for dads and older children to keep the look cohesive. These will be found on my website and shared when you book your session.
As a reminder, I always include digital downloads for all sessions and smash cakes for first birthdays. If you've ever had to purchase either of these, you can appreciate the value.
Keeping things simple. The white space that is my studio will provide a clean, nuetral backdrop to frame your family. Whether its your childrens portraits or a holiday mini session, you will be captured in a world of light and love.
My photographs are made to be printed. Because phones and computer screens vary so much, I edit and color grade them specifically for prints with my lab. Prints will now be available to purchase directly through your gallery, and will be shipped to your home.
Finally, this blog. I will write weekly "love-letters" to you, my clients and friends. I will feature upcoming projects, featured sessions, tips and tricks and so much more. I encourage you to follow along, leave comments, ask questions, and share what memories your're hoping to preserve.
I'll leave you today with a quote:
"We look at the world once, in childhood. The rest is memory." - Louise Glück
Cheers,
Melissa
