"I love your photography..." It started.
I politely said thank you.
"I have wanted you to do mine for a while, but you're too expensive."
I smiled politely, waiting for what I know comes next.
"I know a photographer who offered to do mine for forty bucks."
"Wow," I said, "that's a really great deal. You should go with that."
Ever since I have picked up a camera and called it mine, I come across this recurring theme. Walmart does portraits for $20. My buddy does pictures for free.
Or the opposite...I'm too cheap. I should charge more...funny that one usually comes from people that have zero intention of actually hiring me though!
I sat down and figured it out once, the hours, supplies, equipment, editing software...man...I've got me one expensive hobby. If I sold everything today, as is...I could likely pay for some food, or a months rent.
And why don't I?
Everyone knows a photographer. Everyone IS a photographer.
Who am I to ask for $5 an hour?
So, this is an end to an era. I am moving forward and putting the "photographer phase" behind me. I'll keep it as my warm little hobby that makes me happy. I will no longer pretend that it was viable or something to live off of. It was a beautiful dream, where those who keep telling me "you can do it" are right.
For those that insist I can do both, I assure you, I cannot. I'm the sort who needs to throw my all into something for it to work.
I've decided feeding myself is a better option.
I am changing my Facebook page to ElizaBeth Art, which it rightfully should have been.
I will refer portraits to the appropriate places, as is my duty as an honest artist.
Thank you everyone who has and continues to support me in all my adventures !!
Namaste
