Why Shopping Small Matters — And What It Means When You Support a Local Photographer
Every holiday season, we’re reminded to shop small—to choose local makers, service providers, and creatives over large, impersonal corporations. But for photographers like me, shopping small isn’t just a slogan. It’s the heartbeat of my work, this community, and the connections I build with the people who trust me with their memories.
If you’ve ever wondered what shopping small really means in the world of photography, here’s a closer look at the impact your support makes.
1. You’re Supporting a Real Person Behind the Camera
When you book a session with a small local photographer, you’re not just scheduling photos—you’re supporting someone who pours their passion, time, and energy into their craft.
Your session might help me:
Invest in new equipment so I can produce even better images
Rent studio space or maintain a creative workspace
Continue education and training
Support my family and business sustainably
Every booking truly matters. You’re not adding to a corporate bottom line—you’re helping a real person do work that they love.
2. You Receive a Personal, Thoughtful Experience
One of the biggest benefits of choosing a small photography business is the experience itself.
You’re not a number or an order in a system.
You’re a person with a story.
I take the time to:
Learn what you envision
Help with styling and location ideas
Meet you where you’re comfortable
Guide you through posing and the flow of the session
Make sure your final gallery reflects your personality and connection
This isn’t a quick snapshot service—it’s a tailored experience designed around you.
3. Your Photos Are Crafted With Heart
Small photographers aren’t creating mass-produced content. We’re crafting heirlooms.
Behind every gallery is:
Careful planning
Thoughtful shooting
Hours of culling
Detailed editing
Artistic storytelling with intention
When you shop small, you’re choosing images that are made with attention, artistry, and genuine passion—not automated filters or one-size-fits-all editing.
4. You Strengthen Your Community
Local photographers are deeply intertwined with the communities they serve.
When you book with a small business, you help:
Support the local economy
Create vibrancy in the community
Keep creative talent in your area
Encourage local events, collaborations, and charity efforts
Small businesses help communities feel like home, and photography—at its core—is all about celebrating the people in it.
5. You Become Part of the Story
Every session I photograph becomes part of my creative journey. And when you return year after year—whether it’s for updated portraits, branding images, or family milestones—it becomes a relationship, not a transaction.
Shopping small means you’re not just hiring a photographer.
You’re partnering with someone who genuinely cares about capturing your life, your moments, and your memories.
6. Your Investment Has a Bigger Impact
Choosing a small photography business is a decision that makes a real difference.
Your investment allows me to:
Grow my art
Continue doing meaningful work
Offer unique sessions and locations
Provide a personalized, hands-on experience
Every booking, every referral, and every share on social media truly helps my business thrive.
The Heart of It
Shopping small is powerful.
It’s personal.
It’s intentional.
As a photographer, I’m incredibly grateful for every person who values local artistry and chooses to support independent creatives. When you shop small, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting a dream, a craft, and a community.
Thank you for making that choice.
Interested in learning about some of my favorite artists, makers, and shops? Check out the list below!
The Workhouse (my favorite spot to shop local makers)
Sweet Pea Cole (maker, artist, amazing human)
Sheila Dunn (fine artist and owner of Sound & Color Studio with husband Joel Chadd)
Locavore (a sweet shop with local goods and groceries)
Vanilla (the best little boutique in town)
Bronwyn Jewelry (handmade in Bend!)
Iris & Stout (the cutest shop with a lovely collection of gifts and an incredible proprietor)
Ash Cascade Design (gorgeous hand-painted wall art, cards and more)
Street Dog Hero (because who doesn’t want a puppy for Christmas??)
Luscious Supper Club (for the foodie lover)
Lone Pine Coffee Roasters (my favorite coffee in town)
Dutch and Bow (gorgeous, modern, well-curated clothing for a special occasion)
Howl Goods (handmade work wear from the heart)
Dudley’s Bookshop & Cafe (books, like photography, are the gifts that keep on giving)
Summer Baz - Summer Glow Skincare (for the best facial in town!)
