"High End", precisely what the heck does that mean?

We've all heard the term, we all use it, but.... do we really know what that means?

First, let me explain how this came about.  I do a LOT of research on wedding trends, mostly photography related (I AM a photographer after all!).  In doing this, the term "High End" gets thrown around.  Some friends were referring to me as a "High End Wedding Photographer".  Believe it or not, that can be a bad thing.  I like to appeal to a broad range of brides, not just the ones who have TONS of money to spend.  Having everyone thinking I'm expensive is a BAD thing for business.

Ok, so what is High End after all?

Most of us would think "High End" simply means EXPENSIVE.  In most cases, you'd be right!

Here's a definition by The Free Dictionary:

Sophisticated and discerning: books targeted to the high-end consumer.

Ummm.... why doesn't it mention price?

  Here's why:  HIGH END SIMPLY DOESN'T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH PRICE!  (I'll stop yelling now)

Here's Google's definition of it:

high-end

adjective

Denoting the most expensive of a range of products

Shocker, right? pfft... I think Google has it wrong, but, that's just me.

You're probably thinking, Brian, what are you up to?

Hehe..... I can't let all the cats out of the bag now can I?

I actually found photographers touting themselves as High End!  Now, if you truly are "High End", I doubt you need to remind people of that fact.  Kinda silly if you ask me.  Personally, I keep it personal.  I'm a Wedding Photographer, and a damn good one.  I should be!  Years and years of experience, education, training, practice, and..... I LOVE being a Wedding Photographer.

Am I high end?  YOU BETCHA!  My work is sophisticated and appeals to the discerning client.

I just don't have a price tag on me the size of Texas.

-B