Oh you crochet? Me too!

Beanie by ReiLynn Designs Photography Props
Image by Abba Color Photography

Hello again!
I just wanted to pop in to chat about something that is near and dear to me- crocheting and newborn photography. I talk with about 50 photographers a month, and while that isn't a lot compared to some prop creators out there, I like to keep relationships with photographers personal. We chat about things usually not related to work, but sometimes it does creep in there. I used to dread the words "Oh you crochet? Me too!" coming from the mouth of someone who gets to play and photograph newborns all day.

So wait, you get to be cozy with newborns AND yarn? No Fair.

Besides that, how do you find time? I totally get it though- props can be pricey- and taking 3-4 hours out of your day to whip one up is worth it..... right? Then it was put into perspective. 

I asked one of my close photographer friends just that- her reply was so honest. "Well you take your own product images." She was right- my shop was full of HORRIBLE images, barely colored right and with my own joke of a logo. From that moment on, I decided to leave my images to the professionals. I box up a bunch of precious props and send them on their way- beautifully modeled images return. I also hired a graphic designer to fix my logo and watermark. 

Now I would like to say that instead of taking the time to photograph my props, I work on marketing, shipping orders, e-mail lists and blog posts, but that would be a lie. I work on nothing. That is right. When is the last time you worked on nothing? I drink my coffee slow, I watch the sunrise, read a book for pleasure or go on a walk with the family. Let me tell you- it feels great. So good in fact, I am moving my shop to a new provider so they can work their amazing SEO magic.

There comes a time in business when you realize that you shouldn't do it all. Not that you can't- because you can be everyone in your business, but that you shouldn't. You are an expert of something- so own it! Be the absolute BEST at what you do- and let the people that are the best at what they do- work for you. Find a website designer for your website, let the local painting company paint your studio, and let the prop makers make your props. 

If you are nervous about finding your own prop vendors- don't be :) I made up a list last week of my favorites that can be found HERE. 

Oh - and here is one of the HORRIBLE images that I took years ago. How embarrassing.