Being "that guy" at the office

[Mr Guy]

So I think I've decided this year is the year I get my revenge. As a young childless man, I'm the one that gets to fund their cookie and popcorn drives and chips in for the showers and flowers. This year I'm getting them back! I'm going to offer some of the families at work Christmas pictures for Holiday cards.

I'm trying to build a portfolio, so I'm really only looking for where to do this at minimal cost. I don't have a smugmug account, yet, but I see that they do that sort of thing. I know I can also put in some templates at mpix and probably like Ritz Camera or CVS and pay per print; mpix looks like it'd run about 50 cents a card which seems steep.

I was thinking of either going to their places and taking pictures with what they have available, or setting up an early tree and maybe a plain green paper backdrop at my house if they wanted something more set looking. Like maybe stools in front of my fireplace and hang stockings with some religion neutral ornaments. (Brass reindeer and stars, etc).

What would y'all recommend for the non-professional?

[shootforgold]

Yes! Do it
I am sure they will let you know what they are looking for as far as backdrops as well. Sometimes a family picture taken outdoors in the fall is great!
Good luck and enjoy the brownie cookies.
LOL

Jill

[TheYorkshireRambler]

I'm afraid i haven't really got any ideas other then setting up an early Christmas tree like you said but just wanted to say that I think its an excellent idea and your very kind. I'm sure the families will really appreciate it.

[prince]

One thing to keep in mind is if they all know each other and if you are using the same backdrop for everyone's photos then it would be a repeat for them as well as your portfolio.

Dont print off the kiosks, they are crap. I have liked RitzCamera's prints. For online when I am not in hurry I have used shutterfly, and recently started using mpix too, depending which gives a better rate.. Quality is good from both..

This idea is a good kickoff to build your portfolio.

[Mr Guy]

That's a good point with the backdrops. I'll have to keep that in mind, although I think it's unlikely these are the people that'd send cards to each other.