FAQs

Q: Where and when do you usually do photo shoots?

A: I do most shoots outside, at a location of your choice.  If you need suggestions I’m happy to give them, or you can browse through the locations shown on my blog.  These sessions are best in the early morning or late afternoon, using natural lighting.  The main exceptions are maternity and newborn shoots, which are done at your home, preferably in a room with lots of window light, in the morning. 

Q:  How long does a session last?

A: I don’t put a time limit on portrait sessions (weddings are different, since they’re set up according to time), but most sessions take about an hour.  Newborns often take longer, since they need to be fed, changed, and cuddled back to sleep, and I expect that, so please don’t stress about it.  All photos are best when we’re relaxed!

Q: What should I wear?

A: Wear whatever you’re comfortable in.  I LOVE bright colors, patterns, textures, and accessories!  I personally think coordinating is better than outright matching, but they're your pictures, so do what looks like you!  If you can avoid mixing very dark with very light colors I’d appreciate it; but if that’s what you’re set on, we can make it work.  Feel free to bring a change of clothing if you’d like some more variety in your photos.

Q:  Can I meet with you first?

A: Sure, if it makes you feel more comfortable!  I often meet with couples prior to their weddings, to sign a contract and discuss preferences.  For other shoots it’s not at all necessary—you can call or email me with any questions—but I am open to meeting if that’s what floats your boat!

Q: What should I expect during the session?

A:  Expect to be relaxed and have fun!  That’s the most important thing I can ask of you.  We’ll move around to different backgrounds throughout the shoot, and find different poses.  I give general directions, but try to let you be yourself. For families, individuals, and couples:  I will loosely pose you; if you have poses in mind, let me know. 

For newborns:  we’ll take all the time we need to let the baby be relaxed, and preferably, asleep.  Parents are often included in some newborn photos.  We can take photos around the house, in baby’s room, and using a few backdrops I will bring.

For children:  I might ask them to do certain poses, but I’m not married to the poses; half the time, the kids do such cute things on their own that I don’t need to direct them.  Usually I’ll ask them to stand or sit in a certain place (or put them there if they’re younger), and then talk to them to get natural expressions and smiles out of them.  I never tell them to say “cheese” and would prefer if their parents wouldn’t either!  The one thing I can hope is that parents won’t get stressed out if their children don’t seem to be cooperating, because most of the time I can get good photos out of their natural behavior.  The only time it is essential for kids to at least stay where they’re put is in family photos.

Q:  What will I receive and when?

A:  All packages include a CD of all touched up images.  You can expect to receive it within three weeks of your session.  If you live near me, you can pick it up—otherwise I’ll mail it to you.  You are then free to print and use the photos as you wish.  I still retain the copyright and will use them on my website and for advertising purposes.  Every session will have a few photos posted on my blog.  You can order high quality professional prints through me, or you can get photos printed at your favorite lab.  Print prices are in my pricing session.  Some wedding packages include print credits through me, which you can order by calling or emailing me.