Photography Studio Faces Controversy Over Enchanted Fairies Photoshoots

A photography studio in Brighton, Michigan, has found itself entangled in controversy after its association with Texas-based company Enchanted Fairies led to a series of problems and customer complaints.

Photographer Dawn Flowers initially joined Enchanted Fairies with hopes of expanding her photography business. The company provided her with costumes and fairy-themed props for magical photoshoots. However, issues arose when Enchanted Fairies began booking appointments at an overwhelming rate.

Flowers claimed that the company expected her to work 10 hours a day, six days a week, a schedule that was not in line with her original part-time intentions. She also pointed out that Enchanted Fairies failed to disclose pricing information to families, leaving them shocked when they learned the cost of the photoshoots.

After Flowers expressed her inability to commit to a full-time schedule, Enchanted Fairies terminated their agreement. This left Flowers in a difficult situation, as she had to turn away customers who arrived for scheduled appointments.

Despite the termination, customers continued to visit her studio for appointments that the company had not canceled or rescheduled, potentially harming her reputation.

Flowers plans to keep her studio open by finding another photographer or small business to share the rent. She is also negotiating compensation from Enchanted Fairies through her attorney.

Enchanted Fairies, which contracts photographers across the country, has faced numerous complaints. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) lists 51 resolved complaints against the company in the last three years. Additionally, a Facebook group called “Enchanted Fairies Scam Victims” has over 2,000 members and features hundreds of detailed complaints.

Customers have alleged that they were initially enticed by a $25 booking fee and an offer for a complimentary photo, only to later discover high photo package prices, some exceeding $10,000. Complaints also mention high-pressure sales tactics and difficulties in obtaining the promised photos.

Enchanted Fairies has responded to the complaints, stating that they accept only a small percentage of photographer applicants and that any concerns raised by contract photographers are taken seriously. The company maintains that a photographer recently making claims about their experience is no longer affiliated with them.

The company has a 1-star rating via the BBB and is involved in an open case with the National Labor Relations Board, filed by a former employee who alleges labor violations.

Despite some negative feedback, Enchanted Fairies asserts that it values its customers and continues to grow and improve its business.

The controversy has prompted a Facebook group where customers and photographers share their stories of dissatisfaction with Enchanted Fairies, further highlighting the ongoing issues faced by individuals who have interacted with the company.