I feel the need to vent a little something about gratitude today... I was recently in a pretty significant car accident (May 6, 2008). This accident left me alive... that is the first thing... secondly I had to have sixteen stitches on my face around my eye and temple. I have neck, shoulder, knee(s), and head injuries to boot, mostly contusions and bruising. I am lucky, but I haven't been able to find the gratitude in this luck... this is where I believe the problem originates [in me]...
Then to top it off, it seems that my favorite client in my photography business is not happy with me because I charge too much... and let me clarify from my point of view... I have lowered my hourly rate by 33%, I have 'given' unlimited usage on my photos (handed over all my negatives), I walk in with over $20,000 in camera equipment, and I have 25+ years experience in creative photography...
Then it dawned on me why I was taking this whole thing soooo personal... that is why I created the graphic above. I realized that all I have heard is complaints [over money]. I have told the client how much I appreciate the work, and that I love the project. I always say thank you... but apparently it's not enough. I'll admit, I am hurt and I really don't know what to do.
So I have decided to hand this over to my higher power (God, Budda, the Universe, etc...). There is nothing more I can do for this client in the way of pleasing it seems but to give my services for cheap... I have lowered my fees where if I go any lower, I bring harm to myself and my business. No one seems to understand the hours I spend in post production for "NO PAY" every time I shoot... and that is the 33% discount that was taken away AND I get no pay for usage on my work [a photographers bread and butter]. I'd love to keep doing the work, but it's hard to work for someone who doesn't understand.
This blog is about life, love, and laughter... this situation encompasses all but laughter... but let me say this: I am grateful for all the experiences that I have gained from these jobs, the prosperity, the friendship, the resume credit!
