What Sets a Professional Photographer Apart: Key Differences for Richmond, Indiana Clients

Written By Erica Hartwick

Photography has come a long way since 1826 when Joseph Nicéphore Niépce took the first photo using “heliography.” Today, while technology has evolved, the heart of photography—capturing emotions and preserving memories—remains the same. In a world of quick snapshots, a single, thoughtfully crafted image can boost confidence, evoke deep feelings, or even inspire transformation.

I’m Susanna Tanner, a professional and brand photographer based in Richmond, dedicated to creating images that tell your authentic story. Whether you’re looking for professional photography in Richmond, Indiana, or couples photography in Dayton, Ohio, let’s explore the power of documenting moments that truly resonate.

What Sets a Professional Photographer Apart: Key Differences for Richmond, Indiana Clients

What is the difference between a professional photographer and a photographer? 

Photography is an art form. It captures more than an image; it reveals a piece of someone’s inner world. But not everyone can deliver this depth. Truly powerful photography requires experience, intuition, and even psychology. 

So, when someone books a consultation with me, I don’t just ask what kind of photos they want. I ask:

  • What experience do you want to have?

  • What are your goals and dreams?

  • How do you want your photos to reflect who you are?

These questions invite clients to open up, share their stories, and explore how a photo might empower them. A professional photographer, therefore, goes beyond the lens to ensure you feel seen, heard, and valued.

We take equal parts empathy and confidence to bring forth an emotional experience. One that drives past your fears and creates an image that makes you feel beautiful, strong, and unstoppable.

So, how do you feel about photography? Do you feel excited about the prospect of someone snapping your photos? Or do you feel a bit shy? Wherever you lie on this spectrum, remember, the main difference between a professional photographer and a photographer besides experience is dedication throughout the entire experience. Before, during, and after. 

A professional photographer, like the iconic Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, who took the first photo, values the client. They put in the discipline beforehand and adjust throughout the photoshoot to read body language, set a different tone, and comfortably help you become the main character of your life - your fears take a backseat as you boldly step into the person you are. 

It Takes More Than A Camera

At Susanna Tanner Photography, I offer more than just images; I create a transformative journey designed just for you. My mission is to provide a holistic and uplifting experience that empowers you to express your true self without fear of judgment. 

This experience sparks a chain reaction of positive emotions, enriching your view of yourself and how you perceive the world around you. 

Is it really possible to achieve this through one photoshoot? While inner work takes more than one photo shoot, I believe photos have the power to transform our self-perception.

For example, we all have parts of ourselves that we want to conceal or wish to change. Perhaps you’re unhappy with how you look, you desire photographs that make you stand out, or you want to downplay certain features. Through emotional intelligence, I weave psychology into my art to ensure a photoshoot becomes a collaborative adventure.

I take on the role of your guide while you become the hero of your own story, bravely overcoming the “villain” of any existing self-doubt and insecurities. 

With every click, we capture not just images but the essence of your transformation.

Experience & Insight: A Proven Approach to Professional Photography

What sets me further apart is a unique blend of expertise and experience. I bring over 20 years of industry knowledge, backed by a degree in telecommunications, a minor in psychology, and hands-on experience as a TV news videographer. This foundation, combined with my ongoing professional development in current industry trends, equips me with unparalleled insights to create visually striking and emotionally resonant images.

Through this experience, every detail, from our pre-session consultation to the guided posing, is crafted to empower you and deliver results with authenticity and artistry.

We’ll also collaborate closely to define your desired experience through thorough preplanning and open communication. 

Whether we connect via email or phone calls, you’ll have the opportunity to share every detail—from how you envision your hair styled to the specific shades that will make your eyes pop. Your vision matters, and I’m here to bring it to life through these elements: 

  • Pre-session consultation: We discuss your vision and goals for the shoot, ensuring you feel confident and prepared.

  • Details and styling: Together, we’ll curate a look that represents your personality, from wardrobe choices to accessories.

  • Makeover options: If you want extra pampering, I have makeup artists and hairstylists available to help you feel your best.

  • Guided posing: During the session, I’ll guide you through poses that highlight your individuality and flatter your body shape, helping you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

  • Results to remember: The final product is a tangible memory of the milestone you conquered, the insecurities you overcame, and the moment when you felt entirely yourself. 

This personal alchemy—equal parts detail, contrast, light, and a balance of simplicity and depth—makes my images art. I strive to find and show the essence of each person, turning a moment into a masterpiece. Yes, you are a masterpiece. Let’s show the world your beauty! 

My services:

Each session, therefore, is an opportunity for self-discovery and enhanced self-worth. My goal is to help you see yourself in a new light, creating images that reflect how you look and who you truly are. Together, we’ll design a memorable experience that leaves you with beautiful memories to love forever.

Capturing Confidence: A Behind-the-Lens Look at Roxie's Photoshoot

When Roxie first reached out to schedule a session, I could sense her hesitation. We’d known each other for a while, but it wasn’t until we met for her consultation that she opened up about her doubts. She admitted she felt insecure, often wrestling with imposter syndrome despite how confident she may seem to others. 

To ease her concerns, I asked Roxie questions beyond just wardrobe and location. I wanted to understand her story, her dreams, and how she wanted to feel in these images. Her answers revealed a mix of nerves, excitement, and a desire to see herself differently. This discovery process is something I treasure, as it lets my clients reveal the depth and authenticity that makes their portraits so powerful.

“During the photo shoot, I was still nervous but Susanna made me feel comfortable and kept the energy high for me to feel more excited. Her eye for an incredible shot is unmatched.”

By the time we were done, she was radiating an undeniable glow of self-assurance that lit up the new direction she paved ahead.

“When I walked out of the studio that night, I was in the best mood. I felt like I could take on the world. I can’t explain the energy that filled my bucket but it was one of excitement and confidence.”

But the magic didn’t end there. When Roxie saw her portraits, she shared:

“I had never seen that version of myself. There was one specific photo that I didn’t even recognize as me. It felt like I was looking at the woman I dream of becoming. But she was right there, in the photo.”

Watching her reaction, I felt a deep sense of gratitude to witness and contribute to her transformative journey. Since that session, Roxie has shared with friends that every woman deserves to experience this empowering journey:

“I have told friends that they need to have this experience. Every woman should. Recently, I told my friend Amanda Marquis that we spend our entire lives caring for others, working on their problems, not ours. We often forget to pour into ourselves. This is that moment.”

Seeing how her portraits uplifted her reminded me why I love what I do. This isn’t just photography. It’s about helping people see the strength, beauty, and potential within them, captured in a moment they can return to at any time to light up their soul and sense of self.

The Power of Professional Photography: Embrace Confidence Through The Lens 

After everything, you might still be asking yourself, “Is it really worth it to hire a professional photographer?” If you’re looking for an experience that leaves you speechless, fills you with self-confidence, and captures your unique beauty from every angle—then the answer is absolutely, yes.

Professional photographers don’t just snap photos; we take the time to truly see, hear, and understand you. Every detail matters, and we’re committed to bringing out the authentic essence of who you are in every image. 

So, whether you’re dreaming of a transformative boudoir session, a magazine-style portrait, or a family photoshoot from a Richmond-based portrait photographer serving Central Indiana, Eastern Indiana, and Western Ohio, let’s start with a consultation. I’m here to help you tell your story and bring your vision to life:

“Susanna continued to remind me that these photos are not like anything else, she was showcasing to the world the person who lives within me. Someone who is strong, bold, and incredibly capable of handling whatever the world throws at me (...) I felt like Beyonce during the photoshoot. It was incredible! My hair blowing, my outfits making me feel confident and comfortable, the world was at my fingertips.”
— Roxie

Curious about how Roxie wove her family story into her photo shoot? Roxie wore her great aunt Glady’s coat, her grandma Brooks necklace and her mom’s watch. In some of the images we incorporated a smoking stand Roxie brought with her that originally belonged to her great, great grandparents. “It was finding the stories that inspired my mom, that then were passed on to me. It’s the web of women who continue to have an incredible impact on my life,” said Roxie.

Erica Hartwick http://www.bigcatcreative.com
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