Why are Digital Files So Expensive?

The image above represents a digital file. It's a versatile thing. You can make prints from it, albums, books, cards, pillows, and mugs - endless options. You can also use it online, share it on social media, email it to friends and family and show it off on your smartphone's camera roll.

That's a lot of VALUE. Digital files are a luxury item.

And once a photographer sells the digital file to a client, they won't make one more cent off that image. Therefore, digital files are luxury items priced based on VALUE, not cost.

Next, consider that the image above didn't come from the camera looking that way. When your photographer shows you the images from your session, each image has been backed up, colour-corrected, and hand-retouched. The photographer has already invested in creating the photographs, usually with minimal upfront investment from you. After all, you don't want to pay for something before you know if you'll even like it.

What is a RAW File?

Geekspeak: RAW files contain more data than JPGs and give the photographer much leeway in creativity. Like film must be developed, the RAW digital file needs to be processed by the photographer during the editing process to create the final image you see.

This is the straight-out-of-the-camera RAW file. It's just ok. Am I right? It appears lower in contrast and not quite as sharp.

So Why Shoot RAW Files?

So why do most professional photographers shoot in RAW? Because we're creatives. Not only do we want to create a one-of-a-kind image, but we also want to express our artistic style through the editing process as well.

You likely base your decision to hire a specific photographer based on their portfolio. You like their work style, and you can envision that photographer creating meaningful images like that for you.

So I know what you're thinking. "But I can get all the digital files from photographer A cheaper."

Awesome! If you love their work, you should hire them ASAP!

Look a Little Closer - Professional vs. The Hobbiest

But ask yourself this. Is this their livelihood, or is it just a hobby to help cover the cost of some nice camera gear?

I can't speak to what other photographers charge. I am still waiting to learn of their business cost, client experience, processes, or whether they'll be in business next year. A good camera and a few lenses are only a tiny fraction of the expenses of operating a photography business.

As a solopreneur and small business owner, I contribute to my local community and support other small businesses. I put my heart and soul into creating the perfect pictures of your pet for you, examining every whisker and detail before showing you the images from our session. I've invested time, money, and effort in education and learning to be a good photographer and to produce high-quality images. I'm grateful every day that it's my passion AND it's my livelihood.

As consumers, we always have choices. We can buy the white t-shirt that will look like a shapeless, grey rag after a few washes or invest more in something that will last. Each serves a purpose; only you can decide what is worth the investment.

So, to answer the question, "Why are digital files so expensive?" it comes down to what you value. I offer a custom photography experience where you can purchase beautiful finished products or a la carte digital files to preserve your most precious memories. Regardless of the medium, a photograph is presented in, the price reflects the creation of the image, not the cost of the file that is sent to you or the canvas it's printed on.