Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Picking Up Speed

For the past few months I was struggling with having to do it all.  I was slacking on my editing time, getting orders shipped and so forth!  So far, the new business goals I've set are working out wonderfully!  My editing is going so quick!  Just from the V-Day sessions I've done so far, I've edited and uploaded to proof gallery 4 of them today!  That now is a record for me!  The new methods are really working!  I still have 9 more kids to go, but that will all happen soon!

Don't forget, I no longer ship, you have to pick up from my home office!!

You have 2 days left to purchase a discounted Newborn session as well!
Share this blog with someone that you know that is expecting!!  After Feb. 1st, the normal creative fee of $100, will increase to $150!!  So for $50, you can't beat this!

All mini sessions will continue to receive sneak peeks from here on out.  All regular sessions done beginning Feb. 1st, will have to do in home ordering, or choose to pay for proof gallery, and you will no longer see any sneak peeks on Facebook or my blog!  I want to see your emotion when you see your images for the first time!!  We will try this method out and see how it works, but I believe it will be a great experience for both of us!

Now, you know how much I love each and everyone one of you, but I don't accept friend request from clients!  My personal page is well personal, and I want to keep it that way!  However, look up Bellies To Toddlers, and you can add me there!  That is a page I created just for my clients and I to interact that way!

Another thing, and I don't mean to be calling anyone out, but I do not meet, nor text.  The way I look at it, even if I work out of my home, I am still a business, and a legit business doesn't run around and meet others. However, since I do not ship, and you want me to hand deliver, I will travel and hand deliver your order for .55 cent a mile!  That is the fee by law!  I do love y'all, but please help me make a successful business!!

I want to wait till I have all V-Day sessions edited so I can blog about them at one time!  I will have that up on the blog this week!!

If you have any request, or any comments, please leave them for me to read so I can continue to grow and better my customer service!

Oh, and FLASH SALE on all 8x10's and 11x14's, they are HALF off until tomorrow night!!  So, 8x10's are on sale for $12.50 (plus sales tax), and 11x14's are on sale for $22.50 (plus sales tax)!!  Rack up and save!!
Monday, January 28, 2013

Ava {6 month GWMP Baby} |Dothan, AL Baby Photographer

I have been photographing precious Ava since she was a newborn!
 The above picture was taken with natural light!  Before I upgraded to my Alien Bees from Paul C. Buff!


Ava is in my old baby plan, the Grow With Me Plan.  So, she comes every 3 months for her pictures, so we can watch each milestone!  This image was from her 3 month session!
Now, bare with me on logo hopping.  I went through many last year, till I created my own that is my new brand!!

Ava is a chunk of love!  She loved licking that face with her tongue and trying to sit up, she can for a little bit then was a little wobbly.  We had to pad the floor quite a bit for her safety!  I can't imagine how she will be at 9 months!




Now how cute is that 6 month old baby :)  She is the cutest!  I am so blessed to have the opportunity to photograph so many beautiful babies!!
Friday, January 25, 2013

Brycen {3 month GWMP Baby} | Dothan, AL baby photographer

I love watching my babies grow!!  Oh I got his sugar like something good :)  Totally the happiest 3 month old ever!

Usually babies go through stages.  Most at newborn will sleep, then at 3 month be fussy, 6 month be super happy, 9 month crawling and want hold still, then 1 year either walking, or enjoying their yummy cake!  I don't know how his 6 month old will go, but I do believe he will be entering that crawler stage super fast!

Many might remember Brycen, he was was my Lorax baby!
I will bring the Lorax back to his 6 month session, which will be one to keep an eye out for :)

Look how he has grown, in just three months!







How stinking adorable is he :)  So, without further notice, Mom and Dad, your handsome little man's gallery is up :)
Thursday, January 24, 2013

Little Bitty Changes

So, I am trying to keep my clients and fans updated as possible!!

Sneak peeks on Facebook, and blog sneak peeks, will only be done so, after order has been made.  This will be more hard for me than for you.  I enjoy sharing my creations, and I know you enjoy tagging, and using as profile picture, but all regular sessions from now on out, will come with a in home ordering.  The proof gallery is being tossed out the window, and will only be used for mini sessions.  However, if you are gun ho, on using the proofing system, it will be $35 a week to view your images, and you will have to pay that up front.

Booking sessions.  I am a business, I do not text my clients.  For now on, you can leave your number, or call my home office (334) 479-0256 to book your session and to have a phone pre-consultation.  I will do phone consultations with each client when booking.  Please note, when booking your session, you are required to pay half down of the creative fee to reserve your spot.  I take all debit/credit cards, and Paypal.  The day of the session, you are to bring the rest of the money.  I do accept cash at that time.  You will receive a recipe for everything as well.  If you choose to pay in full, you will receive 15% off of your order.

Print packages are being tossed out the window.  For now on, I will have collections.  Collections will be up to you to make, and you will have the option to add on gift prints of A La Cart.  All of this will be changed up by next week.  Print prices, and product prices are remaining the same though.

The CD for digital images is being tossed out the window as well!  BUT don't fret!  I am introducing my new product Custom Swivel Flash Drive.  They will be encrypted with my logo and colors.  They will have your print release on it, so you don't have to worry about forgetting it, and are easy enough to put on your key chain so you can have your images with you at all time!



These will take place by March!  They will have a slight price difference, but it will not be by much.  They cost a tad bit more for the product than for the CD's, but will be so much easier!!

Session fees are being tossed as well, and a creative fee is taking place.  It takes more than just a "click" to create a beautiful image.  It takes time in prepping for it, setting your mode Manually to capture it almost right, and making art with it in Photoshop.  So, my creative fee is now $75 an hour.  Mini sessions are not available in the pricing anymore, and will only be available for seasonal/specials that I run.

I will also introduce "Charlotte's Babies".  Charlotte's Babies, are for those who can't afford a full session, but would still like to have newborn images, and so forth taken of their child.  For $40, you will receive a 30 minute session.  With newborns, we will only do 2 poses, for children much older, we will only do 2 set ups. This is only my creative fee.

In home ordering will be set up the day of your session.  You will have a change to look at my schedule and see when is best for just one parent to come in.  What is in home ordering?  It is where you will actually view your images for the first time.  You will have an order form, and will place your order the same day.  You will have to pay half down at the time you place your order, and pay for the rest when it comes in.  However, if you see that you do not have the funds at the time to pay for your order, lets discuss my payment plan.

Everyone here's "Professional" and thinks that they can't afford them.  Let me tell you, you CAN afford to have a Professional Photographer.  Cut out buying those $100 Miss Me jeans, or save a little on running to get fast food.  There are corners to take to make it work, and I offer a 0% interest free payment plan.  It's like a layaway plan.  You put a little down, and pay by weekly.  Payment plans on orders have to be paid within a month, or you loose out on your money, and a slight interest fee of 5% will kick in for being late, per week after the initial first 4 weeks.

I only keep sessions on my hard drive for 6 months.  At the end of 6 months, if you wish, you can buy your images for a little fee.  Saying that, it does't mean, not buy anything!

Each month, I will offer an incredible deal!  Right now, you can book a newborn session for only $50, which is $100 savings!!  Sometimes, it will be a % off of your order, or a discounted creative fee.  You never know!

Facebook is no longer my main concern as for marketing.  Make sure to be constantly checking my blog for updates, and specials.  I will update my Facebook still, but this will become my main concern.  I will also be putting together a newsletter that will be mailed.  If you would like to be on that mailing list, please message me your address.

All clients will fill out a New Client Form.   You will also have to sign a release form for now on out, if you want your images on Facebook!

If you should have any questions on my policies, please make sure to email me, or even comment!  Would love to hear feed back!
Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Back With Goodies!

My Imaging USA experience was AMAZING!!  I however, did not meet many people, I was there to learn, but had the best time with Wendy from WGP Photography!!  Love her!  I will brag however and say I got to personally thank, and shake Matthew Jordan Smith's hand!!  For those of you that do not know, Matthew is THE fashion/beauty photographer!  He has shot Oprah, Vanessa Williams, Tyra Banks, and so forth!  I do not shoot beauty or fashion, but it was great hearing his inspiration!  I believe it is always great to learn something new, even if it isn't exactly what you do!

So, a quick summary of how this event changed my thought on my business:

I learned, I am worth my quality.  This is not me being big headed, or selfish.  I am a Professional Photographer, not an amateur.  There is a huge difference in the two.  I started from the bottom, and worked myself up, I came from the amateur criteria.

Quick tip:  There are TWO types of amateur photographers.  The first one wants to honestly do Photography as a career and better themselves, whereas the second wants to make a "quick" buck.

One thing I learned this weekend, is if you do not step up your business plan and marketing, you will die out in a few years.  I'm going on my 3rd year of business, and I hope that this is the best year I've had, but in order to meet my requirements, things will slowly change!!  Everything is changing from my packages (they will be turned into collections), print prices will more than likely stay the same, I am adding new products, my baby plan is changing in and out with a new name!

This weekend, one of the instructors said to answer this question.  Who am I?  So, here is my answer.  I am Charlotte King, a follower, a wife, a mother, and a photographer.  I am a professional photographer, I am short and goofy.  I am kind and selfless.  I AM ONE PERSON!

One person can't do anything by herself.  One person, who already juggles four main roles in her everyday life, will have trouble answering emails, calls and just plain customer service.  So I apologize for not getting in touch with you, or it taking a few days or even weeks to get your order.  So, with saying that, this is what I purpose.  I will take on two interns this year.  I am hoping that one of the interns or maybe both will be able to become FULL time employees.  I do however, have certain qualifications to meet.  You must be 18+, if you have children, they must be school aged children, and you must be on time.  You can't call in on big events, and if you call in more than 2 in a month or two, you will be terminated.  I will be setting up interviews in February the 2nd for these.

Another step to ease your wait, is I will no longer ship anything.  All prints, CD's, fine art gallery wraps, and so forth, will be picked up at my home office.  I will soon be looking for a small office to rent in Dothan where we will do in office ordering, and pick up.  Beginning Feb. 1st, you will no longer have sneak peeks, you will have an ordering appointment set up for you to come and view your pictures and order same day.

I want to provide everyone with the utmost customer service, and those who personally know me, know I am really a great gal, just can't do it alone!

My studio will start to transform over the next few months into a Fine Art Photography business!  Help me grow, help me to better serve you.

Now, I was suppose to return to work tomorrow, but I will be out of the office, we had something personal arise that needs my full attention, so I will see you all on Friday!
Friday, January 18, 2013

Briella {Newborn} | Dothan, AL Newborn Photographer

So, Briella is one of my Grow With Me Plan babies, and I've been photographing her since she was in her mama's womb :)









This was one of the most smiliest babies I have ever had!!  She smiled constantly, so she was having some very good dreams!  She let me pose her just how I wanted, as long as she had a full tummy!  Beautiful baby and family!  Congrats Megan and Shane on your beautiful little girl!  Can't wait to watch her grow during her first year!

A huge thanks to Ruffles and Roses, Flawless Fashion and Gifts, Ellie Bellie Designs,  Bits and Bobs A Photographers Prop Haven, Bella Bun Posers, Goodnightmoon Props, and mama (Megan) for all the wonderful props!  To shop these stores here are the links to their fan page on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/RosesAndRuffles?fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/FlawlessFashionsandGifts?fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/elliebelliedesign?fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bits-Bobs-Galore-A-Photographers-Prop-Haven/116403421727829?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/thebellabun?fref=ts
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Goodnightmoon-Props/121384797914726?fref=ts


Are you expecting?  Sign up for one of my Grow With Me Plans!


Thursday, January 17, 2013

Sara and Layla {Mom and Daughter} | Dothan, AL Family Photographer

So, a few months back, I got the privileged to shoot Sara and her daughter Layla!  Well, after getting lost, several times, finally ending up at the right spot, the sun was starting to set!  So we used what light we had, and I offered to re-do the shoot, and combine the images!  The dirt road and filed was so different and fun!  I love when my clients request a spot that is different!  It just adds to their personality!

I've never in my life been so inspired by a mother as I am with Sara!  I will not get into details, but all you need to know, is that is is a wonderful mother and daughter of Christ!  She shares such a beautiful relationship with her daughter, and it is amazing the bond, you can feel it when you are near!

Sweet Layla!  She is a DOLL!!  I have to say, she is the sweetest little girl!  Giving me hugs, and sugar, and constantly loving on her mama!  They are just perfect for each other!  She talks so well for such a young age, and is super smart!  Sara, you and Layla are truly blessed!  The kindness you have shown me will never be forgotten, but I can pass it along!







In the process of two months, I've went through 3 different logos, but my circle logo is the one that is my new branding, so don't let that throw you off!

Thanks again Sara for letting me into your lives!
Friday, January 11, 2013

Newborn Portfolio Building Discounts |Dothan, AL Newborn Photographer

As of today until 1/31/2013, I will be offering a discount on all newborn sessions.  These are for PRE-BOOKING.  I am currently filled with the exceptions of V-Day minis this month, and here is the details for V-Day minis:
These will be super fun and adorable!  Lots of dress up clothes to play in!

So, back to the discounted sessions!  Here is the flyer for it:
This is a great opportunity to book a custom one of a kind newborn session with me at a discounted rate.  I would like to throw some input out there.

What sets me apart from some Photographers in the Wiregrass?  I am a licensed photographer.  Not only that, I never use the same props in the same way twice.  I may use the props over a time or two, but it will be on a different set up.  I believe that each session should be made "your own", and not redone with another baby using the same props.  I am very patient, and just love snuggling with your little ones!










Those are just a few of my newborn images, I wish I could share all of the cuteness, but this would be pages, and pages long!

Let me know if you have any questions about booking.  When booking, you have two options to pay your deposit, either PayPal, or with your debit/credit card.  A deposit of half down is mandatory, and if you pay in full, you will get a 10% off discount on your order.
Thursday, January 10, 2013

CD Price Change | Charlotte King Photography, Dothan, AL

As many of you know, I am not to keen on selling the CD.  To be honest, I would do away with it, but my clients are completely in love with having the power to have a CD and print as they choose.  I heard your input, and I put it in use.  Prior to tonight this was what the CD price list looked like:
                           20 40 60+
Low $200      $450          $750
Medium            $400     $750           $1500          
High $750     $1500          $2000

Low prints 4x6 images and under, medium prints 8x10 and under, and high prints everything.  Also you were able to take your print release anywhere to print them.  The following are the changes made:


Low         $200                 
Medium    $325                                
High        $450 

The prices include all your images from your session.  BUT, you will only be able to print from two places.  You will have the choice of Mpix.com, or Photorama in Dothan.  It is a HUGE price cut for me.  Now, understand if you buy a low resolution file CD, you can't print bigger than a 4x6.  It will say so on the print release that you get.  

I did a blog about the reason why I do not like to sale the CD.  Here is that link http://belliestotoddlers.blogspot.com/2013/01/2013-price-list-and-new-return-date.html

Also, for purchases and packages over $175, you can purchase your high resolution CD for $125.

That is the newest change, and these prices should be finally set for this year, but however, I can change them at any given time without notification, but I'm very good about notifying you.  

I would like to post a few reminders of some sales:

Regular Session is on sale until 1/15/2013.  This includes my time and talent.  It will include a two week proof gallery as well.  As always, if you order before gallery expires, you will receive a 15% discount!

All prints bigger than an 11x22 (I know it sales 11x14) are half off!  And I have canvas on sale as well!  GREAT sale! Please note canvas take 2-3 weeks to arrive, but they are well worth the wait!  

My class still has spots this Saturday.  It is $50, and will teach you how to use your DSLR.  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!