Why are Custom Photographers so expensive?

Have you ever wondered why a Custom Photographer charges so much? Afterall, Walmart & JcPenny only charge xxx amount. There is a big difference in a Custom Photographer and an Associate from a Walmart who just poses their subjects and snaps the picture. After the photo session, they might order the prints and give you customer service, but that's about the extent of it. Custom Photographers spend so much time on one session. Not only do they go on location usually, they customize each session to the client's personality and liking. I cannot tell you how many times I have been out photographing subject and showed the client a sneak peek on my camera and had the response, "Your camera takes amazing pictures!". What most do not understand is the picture looks amazing on camera, because of the screen. We custom photographers work our magic and that's the beautiful images you receive. Look at the example below.

SOOC = Straight out of Camera

See the big difference? A few tweeks in Photoshop and the picture turned from "blah" to "beautiful"!