Hi Bev-
It's unfortunate, but I think it's simply the fact that many people prey (for lack of a better term) on tgirls who are more or less closeted for whatever reason. To me, and I hate to tar all with the same brush, lots of places that claim they cater to crossdressers and transgendered people simply use the opportunity to charge whatever they feel the market will bear. This goes for makeovers, photo shoots, an evening out, a shopping expedition, clothing in a size for larger girls, you name it. I think it's a shame when the same services are available to the general public for a good deal less. And please don't misunderstand, there are many places that do provide services of all sorts for our community without taking advantage. They're to be commended and we should give them our business whenever we can.
Anyone can go into a salon and get a makover for a reasonable price, anyone can go to a photo studio and have their picture taken professionally and pay a reasonable price. As a for instance, the pix in my "Just Another TGirl" album were part of a package deal through the salon I used to go to before I moved to Seattle. I had a makeover, then drove over to the studio and had pictures taken, the price included an 8x10 print and five additional photos of my choice on a disk all for one price. The photographer took about two dozen pix total, I had my choice of the ones I wanted to keep. How much was it? I paid $75 total, though I did choose to get more pix which were extra. Was it worth it? I think so.
As in so many things, we can be taken advantage of only if we let it happen.
Hugs...Joni Mari
