Tell us a little bit about yourself and YouNique Photography.

I’ve been married for 29 years to Renee, with 3 children – Erin, Sean and Moira. We moved from Menomonee Falls to Mukwonago, WI in 1983 to open a portrait studio. My wife, Renee, owns Merle Norman Cosmetics at Brookfield Square.

Did you go to school to study photography?

I went to school at MATC downtown Milwaukee. In my second year, I got a job with Roob Photography in Milwaukee for 6 months, and then moved on to work for PCA (Photo Corp. of America) for about a year, before opening my studio in Mukwonago.

How long have you been a photographer?

Since sophomore year at Menomonee Falls East High School. I was the photographer for the “Olympian Voice”, our school newspaper. Mr. Liska was the advisor.

Who or what got you started in photography?

For Christmas in 1970, my dad, I mean “Santa” got me an SLR camera. The nameplate on it said “SEARS”, but it was actually made by Ricoh. My sister was born that year, so I got a lot of experience taking and developing baby pictures, along with pictures of my five other brothers and sister. My dad and I built a darkroom in our basement, we found a used enlarger for around 5 bucks, and I began to experience the “magic” of photography. Each year I would take a black and white photo of my family that I would develop onto postcards that we would use for our Christmas cards.

How would you describe your style?

I would describe my photographic style as “classically unique”. I try to give my customers a product that will never go out of style, but is different than they might get elsewhere.

What type of camera(s) do you shoot with?

Fuji S5 w/Nikon lenses for weddings and studio portraits, produces the most flattering skin tones. Canon 5D for large groups and detail work.

What is your favorite photography accessory?

I really like my Nikon 10.5mm fisheye lens. It really gives awesomely unique perspectives at weddings.

What is your choice of photo editing software?

My son, Sean, does our editing and special effects. He uses a variety of things.

Do you have your eyes on any new photography equipment?

I just bought a new Gitzo ballhead for my camera stand that is going to make my life a lot easier.

What’s the best part of being a photographer?

Doing what I love and loving what I do, and if there is an aspect of it that I stop loving, I can just change it up and do it differently.

Do you have an assistant/2nd shooter?

No, but I have a great studio assistant, Robyn, who has been with me for several years.

A website/blog you visit often?

Not really

The hardest part of your job?

Being not busy in the winter – if anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Senior portraits are set to take off here soon, what sort of things do you do to prepare yourself for the busy summer season?

Attend seminars, update marketing materials.

What is your biggest pet peeve as a photographer?

Crying kids, and mothers who tell me that their kid never cries.

What photographic organizations do you belong to?

I have been a member of WPPA, WPPI, SEWPPA, PPA.

One way you market YouNique Photography?

Channel 10 auction, it’s a great cause, and gets us great customers.

I see that you have a link to a new website for your business. How important is an eye-catching website for your business?

It is becoming increasingly important.

Three words to describe yourself?

Really, really funny.

If you had one wish…

World peace.

If someone said “how can I be the next Pat Hitt?” What would you say?

It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.

Thank you Pat!