Karen Lynch Photography

NEW BLOG!

2011-06-02T17:19:00.002-05:00

PLEASE VISIT MY NEW BLOG!

Jessica & Ross April 10th, 2010

2010-04-12T08:44:00.001-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing Jessica and Ross's wedding this past Saturday. It was a beautiful day! We had lots of fun.

They were married at Holy Angels Catholic church in Wood River, Illinois. We went to Wilson Park in Granite City after the ceremony to take some pictures outside. The reception was held at the NO Nelson Center in Edwardsville.

Congratulations, Jessica & Ross! I wish you much happiness in your new life together. Click on the picture to watch their slideshow.

2010-04-02T12:21:00.001-05:00

Judge Joe Brown knows his stuff. Brides, please do NOT hire cheap photographers. Please do your research well.

Cheap Wedding Photography

Recent Portraits

2010-01-25T10:16:00.000-06:00

I've been horribly neglectful in posting on my blog. I'm not sure why. I do know I post more frequently on facebook so perhaps that is a reason.

I hope you enjoy these.

Meet Zoe

2009-05-13T12:16:00.000-05:00

She has been keeping us very busy!

Great Senior!

2009-05-13T12:11:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures of a senior girl I took recently.

She is full of life! We had lots of fun. Can you tell she loves shoes?

Enjoy!

I Love Babies!

2009-03-23T12:46:00.000-05:00

Babies are so cute. I have so much fun photographing them.

They have a peaceful innocence in them that hasn't been touched by the world.

Prayers Please

2009-03-09T07:50:00.000-05:00

I am asking and begging all of my loyal customers and readers to please pray for First Baptist Church of Maryville and the Winters Family. Pastor Fred was shot yesterday during church. He passed away.

While we don't understand God's ways, we do know that God is still in control.

Please pray that many people will come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior because of this tragedy.

New Products!

2008-12-02T18:48:00.001-06:00

I just ordered the cutest products from a company to try and I love them! One of them is an 8 x 10 in a shabby chic frame. I love the frame. They come in variations of pink and blue and are very cute. They'd make a perfect Christmas gift.

The next item is the one that I really think my clients will go crazy over. It is a wallet folio. It folds out and contains 10 wallet size pictures. It fits very nicely in my purse. They would also make a nice Christmas gift.

I am going to have a special to introduce these products. I am going to sell the framed 8 x 10 prints for $60.00. The wallet folio will be $40.00. These prices are very low.

I will post some pictures of these items as soon as I get a chance. Because of theChristmas rush, I have no idea when that will be! But, you are more than welcome to come on by and see them.
Call first please ;-) 618-444-7216.

Have You Ordered Your Pictures Yet for Christmas?

2008-11-22T21:05:00.000-06:00

My Christmas deadline is December 1st. If you would like your portraits back in time for Christmas, I will need your order by December 1st.

Thank you and I hope you have a Merry Christmas!

Fall is Beautiful!

2008-11-08T20:44:00.000-06:00

I love fall. The world is still and leaves are vibrant. I've been very busy this fall and I appreciate all of your business and your faithfulness. I know that we are all going through tough times during this economy.

I hope you enjoy these images as much as I enjoyed creating them.

Le Bebe

2008-10-15T21:53:00.001-05:00

This baby has a lot of personality! I think she is going to grow up to be a comedien. She thinks everything is funny. I can't wait to watch her grow. It is always so interesting to watch them develop. They really don't change that much. I hope I can take her senior pictures. I am sure she will be just as funny then as she is now!

Gorgeous Senior!

2008-10-04T21:15:00.000-05:00

I have to share the pictures of the latest senior I have done.

She is the star pitcher of the Edwardsville Highschool softball team. We had a lot of fun taking these pictures today. The weather outside was beautiful.

This is a side of her, you may not have seen. She may not have seen this yet. This is the side of her I saw today.

Warren Dunes, Michigan

2008-10-02T20:00:00.001-05:00

Several weeks ago, my daughter and I went to Warren Dunes, Michigan.

I spent many of my summers on the shores of Lake Michigan in Holland, Michigan. I was talking to Katie about this and she told me she had never seen a sand dune. What??? I couldn't believe it!

So, I took her to see some sand dunes. We drove through Hurricane Ike to get there. It was stormy weather. The day after we arrived, I took these pictures of the sky. This is the remnants of Hurricane Ike.

The Cost of Custom Photography

2008-09-24T07:15:00.000-05:00

I am copying and pasting this article from the Professional Child Photographer's Association. Perhaps it will give you a bit of insight as to why you should hire a professional photographer vs taking your own pictures or going to a chain store.

Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?

February 27th, 2008 by admin

Digital technology is brilliant. The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and amazing amounts of control for the photographer, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur. With flexibility comes a price though. Camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into all of this.

Even though you pay $1.99 for a print at your local drugstore and paying for film is pretty much a thing of the past (although you still pay for memory) you may be wondering why you may pay upwards of $40, 50, 70, 90 for a custom photography print. Some photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

"How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at the local drug store?"

The answer is multifaceted and has a lot to do with the time, aforementioned equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer, expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

TIME of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Approaching it from a time standpoint, for instance let’s imagine if you will that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love and that is travelling an hour to your on location session. TIme break down:

session prep time (30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
one hour travel time TO session
15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject
one hour travel time FROM session
30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images
1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
2-3 hours time with client for ordering images
1 hour sorting through and checking order
30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped
any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues

As you can see, average client time for a session ranges from just under 13 hours to 19 hours dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to your session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.

COSTS of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run up $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES:

Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $25 for an 8×10 or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. According to several articles at the time, did you know that in February 2007 a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ "professional" prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait studios in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your "PORTRAITS" are considered the true "loss leader".

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, "SAY CHEESE" experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.

content is inspired by discussions with other photographers, my own personal experiences as well as a well an outline based on an article by San Diego Photographers Caught On Film Photography

October is Family Portrait Month!

2008-09-17T21:02:00.000-05:00

I am offering a Family Portrait Special for the month of October. If you book your session during the month, you will receive 10 free 4 x 8 Christmas Cards!

The reason I am offering this is because I want to highly encourage you to make your appointment in October instead of December.

This year, I can only guarantee that I will receive your portraits back in time for Christmas if you schedule your appointment in October or November. The labs I use get very busy during the Holidays. I also am busy during the Holidays!

So, it is not too early to be thinking about Christmas.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.

I am looking forward to seeing you soon!

I would love for you to comment on my blog. Do you like this special or can you think of something you would rather have?

Gorgeous Actress!

2008-08-13T21:22:00.000-05:00

I must say, I have been quite busy lately with photoshoots. It is very exciting!

I have also been busy getting my twins ready for college. They leave next week. Time sure flies!

Yesterday, I took pictures of a gorgeous actress. She is attending Roosevelt College in Chicago. I watched her perform in highschool.

I love theatre. If you don't know me, you don't know that I absolutely love theatrical lighting and love watching and working in productions. I don't act, I help Tech Direct them and help with the lighting.

Because of this, I love to photograph actors and actresses. I love dramatical lighting and I love dramatical people.

Isn't she beautiful?

Stunning Senior!

2008-07-29T16:20:00.000-05:00

Today I took senior pictures of a girl who is very special to me. I have known her for a long time. She is very sweet and as you can see, she has grown into an absolutely stunning woman!
I had a great time taking these pictures, I hope she enjoyed it also!

Look at this cute newborn!

2008-07-26T17:28:00.000-05:00

I had the most adorable children come to visit me yesterday. This newborn is only 2 weeks old! Can you believe it? All of the children behaved so well. The baby didn't make a sound the whole time she was here.

Isn't she cute?

Beautiful Couple & Baby!

2008-07-17T17:44:00.001-05:00

Today I had the privilege of taking portraits of a couple I have known for quite awhile with their newborn baby.

I had to comment that I can't believe that this young man is grown up with a wife and a child! Wow, am I getting old? Time sure flies by!

Their daughter behaved very well and is very alert. She studies everything and everybody. Someday she may be an engineer.

Here are some of my favorites from the session.

Congratulations Lauren & Billy!

2008-06-22T21:09:00.000-05:00

I was honored to be able to photograph the wedding yesterday of two wonderful people. They were so much fun to photograph!

The wedding was held in a very old, victorian home. It really was gorgeous inside. We went to a park before we went to the reception and just really had lots of fun!

Here are 2 of the images I couldn't wait to share. Sorry, I haven't worked on the dolphin one yet! (They'll know what I mean).

A Good Friend's Sons

2008-06-18T17:11:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, a good friend came to town to visit. We met during Hurricane Katrina. Or, should I say, we met after Hurricane Katrina.

She was in New Orleans when it hit. She spent all of her days at a shelter in New Orleans caring for the pets that were abandoned. She worked long days. She is one of my heroes.

I adopted a dog from Hurricane Katrina as did many of my friends. Don't forget to PLEASE spay and neuter your pets.

Here are her boys. They also love animals! They are being raised with quite a few and they were at home with mine.

Aren't they adorable? Look at their eyes!

Engagement Session

2008-06-12T21:00:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted in quite awhile because I have been busy with my children. My twins graduated this year from highschool. I promise I will post some pictures from their graduation later.

I had a great engagement session tonite! This couple was so much fun! We went to the Jewel Box in Forest Park. Their pictures are wonderful. I can't wait to photograph their wedding in July! They are very photogenic.

Precious Girls!

2008-04-21T16:14:00.000-05:00

I had some adorable little girls visit my studio today. I can't believe how well behaved they were!

I couldn't wait to see their pictures so I decided to work on a few of my favorites.

The oldest girls are twins. I hold twins dear to my heart because I also have a set. They are so much fun. It was such a blessing for me to watch them interact with each other and with their new sibling. She has even started smiling!

The love that this family has for each other is quite apparent.

Aren't these girls precious?

These Boys are the Best!

2008-04-07T21:22:00.000-05:00

I had some great boys in my studio today! They loved to dress up into the vintage outfits.

I was so excited about their pictures that I thought I would put a couple of them on here right away!

It always amazes me at how much they have grown.

Babies and children grow up and change so quickly. I know this because my babies are now 18 and ready to graduate from highschool.

Enjoy every moment you have rocking your babies and loving your children.

Aren't these guys adorable?

Trixie decided she wanted to try it after they left.

Children's Vintage Portrait Special!

2008-03-06T15:50:00.000-06:00

I am offering a Children's Vintage Portrait Special.
You bring your children, I will provide the clothing. I have beautiful vintage style dresses for the girls and brown vintage outfits for the boys. I will be booking these sessions during the first 2 weeks of April, 2008.

This special is a fundraiser for the MOPS group from First Baptist Church of Maryville. My sitting fee will be reduced to $17.50. 10% of all sales will go to the MOPS group.
Please book your sitting now because times are filling up quickly. Contact me at 618-444-7216.

Books are now Available!

2008-02-13T08:57:00.000-06:00

I am now offering books! This one was created for a wedding. These are really nice and a great way to preserve your photographs.

Amy & Chris Ru...

April 28, 2007

By Karen Lynch Photog...

Book Preview

I had lasik!

2008-01-31T11:42:00.000-06:00

Well, I never thought I would actually go through with having lasik surgery. I am such a chicken. However, I told myself that if I ever got to the point where I could not wear contacts anymore, I would have it. Because of recent problems with them, my eye doctor advised me to stop wearing contacts.

I went in for the surgery this past Monday. It was much simpler than I thought. It was a complete success. No discomfort at all and I can see perfectly! My close up vision is also 20/20.

If you are contemplating having this, do it. It will change your life. I can't stop looking outside at God's beautiful creation. I'm so excited to get back to shooting now without having to worry about contacts or glasses.

Have a great day and thanks for stopping by.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-08T17:56:00.000-06:00

Thank you for your loyalty and for viewing my blog. I am looking forward to adding some exciting changes this year. I am going to begin to start taking vintage portraits of your children.

You won't need to worry about their outfits, I'll provide them!

2008 promises to be a great year!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-17T21:28:00.000-06:00

Well, this Christmas season has been extremely busy for me. I've loved every minute of it, but have barely had time to sleep. That's alright, I'll catch up later.

I hope you take a few moments to reflect the real true meaning of the season. The reason for all of this.

It is hard to believe that the birth of a baby over 2000 years ago could have been such a glorious event. Yet, He is our Savior. He is the reason. He lives.

Merry Christmas and I hope and pray you have a blessed New Year.

Look at the Senior Slideshows!

2007-11-25T21:32:00.000-06:00

I've done 2 senior slideshows lately for 2 of my seniors. One of the seniors is my daughter.

I had a great time taking this golfer's senior pictures. It was a gorgeous fall day and the golf course was the place to be!

Chris

My daughter loves water. You'll see what I mean.

Maggie

St. Louis model shoot

2007-11-12T18:57:00.002-06:00

As promised, here are some great images from a get together in St. Louis a few weeks ago. We had a blast. We attended a workshop that evening after we took pictures of the models. It made for a long and exhausting day, but I learned several new techniques and now I have lots of creative ideas I can't wait to apply. Have a great day and stay happy!

Pebble Beach, California

2007-11-02T16:03:00.000-05:00

I thought I would start by posting some pictures of the fun trip we just took to Pebble Beach, California. The weather was beautiful. Brian was able to golf each day and I took pictures and visited the spa.

I will try to post pictures of the great event I attended last Sunday. I got together with about 10 other photographers. We hired models and took pictures of them downtown at Union Station and then at the Arch. After that, we all attended a photography seminar. What a full day!

Welcome to my World!

2007-10-30T07:34:00.001-05:00

I started this blog to help keep everybody up to date on what is happening in my studio and in my life.

I hope you enjoy it!