Frequently asked questions
How do I know if you are the right photographer for me?
First, take a look at my portfolio. If you like what you see and want images like this for your family, I may be the one for you. If you want everyone in your family looking directly at my camera for every image you receive, I am not your girl. I want to capture your family interacting and connecting in a genuine way. I want to follow your child around as we explore, watching for the awe of something newly discovered on his face.
If you aren't afraid to get real and you believe there is beauty in everyday moments, we would be a great fit.
Do you use props?
No, I do not. I discovered a few years ago that props hinder me during a shoot. Once I did away with using props, I was freed up to see and capture the emotion, joy, connection, and wonder I see in my clients during a session. Those are my props. Just you and all that is happening in front of my camera. Not using props frees us up to wander and find lots of new and interesting discoveries.
Do you offer any other kind of sessions other than documentary family sessions?
Yes. I offer engagement, maternity, newborn, Fresh 48, small weddings, commercial, and event photography.
Do you do weddings?
Yes, but a limited number per year. Contact me for pricing info and availability.
Do you have a studio?
No. All of my sessions take place either outdoors or in the client's home. Winter months mean that most sessions take place in the home, although I do love a good snow session.
Are you a lifestyle or documentary photographer for your family shoots, and what's the difference?
Lifestyle involves some direction and documentary involves no direction. I'm mostly documentary.
I really love documentary, as this is how I shoot images of my own family on a regular basis. I prefer to start my sessions completely documentary. We plan an outing or activity for the family to do together, and this makes documentary super easy for everyone. My clients find that they enjoy this approach because they don't have to do anything but be themselves and enjoy their time together as a family. During the last few minutes of the session, I will make sure to grab a few loosely posed shots, but the majority of our shoot will be documentary. You will be amazed at how many beautiful images you will receive from our time together.
What should we wear for our session?
My main rule of thumb is to advise you to not wear neon colors or clashing prints (two different kinds of plaid). Other than that, I say wear what you want. If you typically do not wear dresses, do not wear one for the shoot. If your child hates wearing a button up shirt, for goodness sakes, let him wear a shirt he/she likes. If you guys aren't comfortable in what you are wearing, it will show. My goal is to capture your family as you are. Let's be real. Real is beautiful.
How long does it take to receive my gallery of images?
You will receive your gallery within 2 weeks of the session. Full day sessions and weddings will require 3-4 weeks.
Do you edit in both color and black and white?
Yes. I use my discretion to decide whether images should be edited in color or black and white. You will receive a mixture of both, depending on what I see to be best for each image.
Do you offer any products other than the digital images?
Yes. All of my collections include digitals, but you will also choose from tangible products such as bordered press prints, coffee table books, and gallery walls. Digitals are great to have, but you also need to see pictures in your hands and on your walls. It is my responsibility as your photographer to help you make the most out of your photo session with me and I know that you will be so happy with the tangible products you will receive.
Can I pay online?
Yes. I will send you an invoice and contract as soon as you book. The first payment will be your deposit of $250. This will hold your spot on my calendar. The remainder of your balance will be due 3 days prior to your scheduled session. Weddings and travel sessions will differ in deposit requirements.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. I happily arrange payment plans. After paying your deposit, you can make payments up until 3 days prior to your session. Final payment is due at that time.
Are you available for travel?
Yes. I love to travel. Contact me for more information.
Do you offer mentoring to folks who want to learn more about photography?
Yes. I offer one on one mentoring and will tailor our time together to fit what you want to learn. Topics can range from learning camera basics, finding the best light, indoor photography, creative techniques, catching candid moments, and the list goes on and on.
I’d love to hear from you and answer any other questions you may have!