May 28, 2020
TO: State of Michigan Government Leaders and Clients of Jim Schuon Photographer
RE: Reopening for business – Jim Schuon Photographer (Real Estate & Construction related photography)
Professional photographers serve as the primary keepers of our world, national, and family histories. Prior to the mid-1800’s, almost everything we knew about our world was written by hand. However, when we think of our world today, we think in terms of the images created by highly skilled professional photographers.
As a member of the professional photography industry, I have embraced the need to reduce the spread of COVID-19 through social distancing including shelter in place orders. I am a member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which is a leading organization in the industry and adhere to the professional standards of the organization. The PPA has urged members to be responsible community members and are grateful for the thousands upon thousands of professional photographers, including myself, who are doing all they can to ensure the safety of others during this difficult time.
As the smallest of small businesses, professional photographers are often the hardest hit by the financial loss resulting from economic downturns. That is especially true with the current circumstances. I am eager to get back to work quickly once restrictions are lifted. In preparation for that, I am agreeing to adhere to the following guidelines as established by the PPA for all member professional photographers to use as they follow state and local leaders phased-in efforts to re-open businesses:
Adherence to State and Local guidelines
Above all, professional photographers believe in being good community citizens. We urge all members to work cooperatively with their state and local leaders to provide a safe environment for all. By adhering to guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control, we believe we can reopen photography businesses safely, and at the same time, contribute in to the emotional and financial healing process that needs to take place in a post-COVID-19 world.
Personal Protective Equipment
The use of PPE such as masks should be used while working with clients. We recommend that this measure continues through the end of phase three as outlined in recently released federal guidelines. The guidelines can be found at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/
Individual Guideline
As a sole proprietor, I will stay at home if I feel sick. I will adhere to the guidelines training and educational materials available through the CDC website on proper sanitation, hand washing, cough and sneeze etiquette, use of PPE, and other protective behaviors. The equipment that I take into the field will be properly cleaned and sanitized.
Social distancing / No touch
As stated above, my photography is primarily related to the real estate and construction industries. I will maintain social distancing and not be in any structure that has more than 10 people. If I find myself in a situation where I am photographing people, I will use no-touch posing methods when at all possible. Until further notice is received from the CDC and other health officials, the maximum gathering for a photographic shoot of 10 or fewer persons will be observed.
By appointment only
Professional photographers should hold to strict appointment times allowing enough time to sanitize photographic equipment and common areas after each client session.
Temperature checks and screening questions
Prior to a photo shoot I will do a self-check and cancel the photoshoot if needed based on the following:
I will check my own temperature to make sure it doesn’t exceed 100.4.
I will then check off these screening questions:
Once at the site to be photographed, I will ask anyone present the following and cancel based on their answers:
Adherence to sanitation protocols
Prior to each photo session and during each photo session, I will adhere to Standard sanitation protocols including but not be limited to: