02/19/2026
And it’s as quick and smooth as that! As a volume sports photographer- it’s up to us to create systems that flow seamlessly, especially when working with teams who have to get to practice! Each school is different as to their needs and what they want for the end result. Some want banners, some don’t. Some want their teams shot with a natural backdrop and some don’t. We shoot either way! Some want the hype session, some wish they could but their schedules won’t allow! The whole process is planned in advance down to jersey numbers, groupings, grade levels and more. There’s more behind the scenes that goes on for a team shoot that actual photo day! It’s being prepared upfront- it’s being on the backend with a voice on the phone when a parent has a question. When you book a local photographer who knows the kids, who knows some of the PARENTS- and you KEEP that relationship going year after year and not bounce around with a different photographer every year, it gives us a chance to form relationships and for the kids to get to know us. I’m sure most of you have heard about the “chain big box photography company” in the news. If you haven’t -
Google it! I’ve said this before- when you hire a huge company who comes in and promises large kickbacks you aren’t only taking away the chance for a local photographer to make a living, you are taking away personal touches to your whole photo day experience. I know many people in other towns who’s school used that large company- if anything went wrong for orders no one would answer emails or return phone calls. Most of the so called photographers they send on phot day were recently “trained” to shoot. They don’t have years of experience and schooling and certifications. And they definitely aren’t donating to the local kickoff bbq, many silent auctions, giving away free senior shoots etc. example- I went to sonic out of town a month ago- random stop. A young girl came to deliver my drink and she said “hi Mrs. Janis!” She asked how I was doing and I asked how her year was going . She remembered me from shooting her fall sports! Made me feel so happy! The other day girls were stepping in front of this same backdrop, I knew them by name. Not a number because I’ve been shooting them for sports or cheer over and over .
Back to serving the client- when a coach reaches out months later and says hey we need a headshot from so and so for a poster we want to create - it’s an immediate reply YES I’LL SEND IT RIGHT OVER. When the AD greets you each and every time you step foot on school property and asks how we’ve been doing and has a genuine concern for us- it’s a great feeling! When you walk into a front office and are greeted with smiles and turn around and see ALL YOUR WORK being ran on a large tv screen , flashing past teams images and they look FANTASTICALLY SHARP AND CLEAN- that’s a great feeling! I LOVEEEEE shooting high school seniors and I LOVEEEE shooting sports teams, cheer, drill, band with the energy each one brings!
We love giving back to the community in various ways- recently we provided a free senior session via donating a session to the auction to raise funds for the Edna Theater! When you support a local business - we can support the community in many ways!
