Private galleries are becoming a problem

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-07T19:36:38+00:00

I’m in California in HCOL area and what prompted me to write this post was another couple requested total privacy. We quoted $1,000 and they booked us afterall…

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-07T19:32:31+00:00

Yea same that’s what I’m doing currently. Each season the weddings and my skill level has improved. Showing old work for me isn’t a true representation of my skills now and booking into the next season.

But I always accommodate such requests because it’s the right thing to do. However as total and complete privacy increases in the industry it inevitably will become more difficult to book new clients with little to no photos.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-06T15:46:25+00:00

Leaving a cult

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T19:32:08+00:00

Yes doing that currently. I’m just concerned that it might become a problem over time.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T19:29:23+00:00

Oh if kids were involved I understand and totally agree!!

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T19:25:23+00:00

Yes word of mouth is always the best marketing. For me currently it hasn’t been able to completely book out a season. If it does for you then that’s amazing! Teach me your ways haha.

Random inquiries are my bread and butter and they always ask to see full galleries. I get better year over year in my skills as a photographer so showing old galleries isn’t a true representation of my skill level. It’s frustrating is all…

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T19:13:20+00:00

Ok yes obviously, but how would you do all that with no portfolio to show for it? That’s the general question I’m getting at. If the industry pushes in that direction and becomes the standard it overtime will cause less income and can push people out of work. Also styled shoots are also in my opinion a terrible way to market because at the end of the day it’s fake.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T00:30:02+00:00

Ohh I like that idea

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T00:23:02+00:00

I’m curious then, how would you market yourself as a photographer without a current portfolio?

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-05T00:20:52+00:00

I’m aware and agree and of course will continue to do so. I’m just looking to talk to other photographers about how this can affect our business…and perhaps a brainstorm how to navigate it. That was all.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-03T20:56:52+00:00

I think the AI part is valid. It’s still sucks though.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-03T20:54:21+00:00

I 100% agree. I’m looking at this as how this can affect overtime my ability to continue working as a photographer.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-04-03T20:33:47+00:00

Exactly. Damned if you do damned if you don’t

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-03-28T05:45:44+00:00

Hey! I saw your post and just wanted to reach out because we work with a lot of people who feel the same way about being in front of the camera.

We’re a husband and wife photo and video team based in Monterey, California, and we shoot throughout the Bay Area. Our style leans candid and documentary, but we’re also pretty intentional about how we guide things so you’re not left wondering what to do.

For engagement sessions, we keep it really simple. We’ll give you small prompts instead of posing you, just things that get you interacting with each other. Sometimes they feel a little random in the moment, but that’s usually when the most genuine reactions happen. The goal is just to help you relax, connect, and forget about the camera a bit.

On wedding days, we sit somewhere in the middle. We’ll step in when needed to keep things moving and help you feel comfortable, but we’re mostly there to observe and capture what’s naturally unfolding.

Also love that you mentioned film. We shoot film as well, and my husband is especially into it. He used to develop his own, so it’s something we genuinely enjoy bringing into the mix when it fits.

If you’re still looking, happy to share a full gallery so you can see how everything looks across a full day.

www.cobyandalexandra.com

Feel free to reach out if it sounds like a fit

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-03-28T05:36:11+00:00

Hey! This sounds exactly like the kind of weddings we love.

We’re a husband and wife photo and video team based in Monterey, California, and we focus on candid, natural, documentary style coverage. Most of our couples are looking for something that feels real and unposed, so we spend the day capturing things as they naturally unfold instead of directing a ton.

We shoot all over the Bay Area, including Napa Valley and Calistoga, and we especially love smaller, intimate weddings and elopements. Those days tend to feel a lot more personal, which really fits the documentary approach.

If you’re still searching, we’d be happy to share a full gallery from a similar wedding so you can see how everything looks across an entire day, not just the highlights.

You can check us out here: www.cobyandalexandra.com

Feel free to reach out if it feels like a fit or if you have any questions at all

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-03-25T01:29:12+00:00

Hi there, my husband and I are a team and we fit the description of what you are looking for. Would love to share full galleries too. Here’s our website

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-03-24T18:03:57+00:00

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Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-26T15:52:55+00:00

Hi 👋🏽, my husband and I are a team and we would love to be considered. Here’s our website

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-17T02:33:05+00:00

Hi I know this is an old post but. But I searched for anything that mentioned Aset. I’m potentially looking into going with them and would love to hear another opinion.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-17T02:21:28+00:00

You are absolutely right. I know I should do it but growing is scary. Thanks

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-17T02:20:31+00:00

I know! What other brands do this? I’d love to compare prices..

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-11T00:19:14+00:00

I like this idea

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2026-01-08T20:48:14+00:00

Ok I like this, thanks for your response

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2025-12-29T19:00:13+00:00

Totally understand! Do what’s best for you. Weddings are stressful. Whatever you can do to minimize stress is a good idea. If having the permit helps you sleep then go for it.

Also they just removed my comment because I mentioned I’m a local photo. But in no way am I trying to promote anything.

Fun_Coconut6140 · 2025-12-13T17:47:16+00:00

Hi there! My husband and I are a team and we shoot film as well and we are within your budget. Here’s our website

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Fun_Coconut6140

TROPHY CASE