FAQs

I want to schedule a session. How soon should I contact you?

In order for each client to have the best unique experience, I strictly limit the number of sessions I book a month. I am generally booked a few weeks in advance. The holiday season is exceptionally busy for me (Sept-Dec), many returning clients book me for their holiday session in the summer so it is best to contact me as soon as you know you want to schedule a holiday shoot.

When to schedule a newborn session?

I like to photograph newborns within the first 2 weeks of their birth. Its great when I’m contacted as early as possible to book the session. If the baby arrives earlier than anticipated, text, call or email me and we will fit you in. As long as I know in advance to expect doing your newborn shoot around the time of delivery, I will make sure I have cushion in my schedule. If your baby is already born, please call me as soon as possible and I will try to accommodate your needs. Newborn portraits are super special, I always hear from my clients how their baby has grown and changed in just a weeks time, and having the portraits done within those first few days is priceless.

What is your style?

Hopefully after you browse the archives of my blog, you will get an idea of what my photography style is. I consider it to be a mix of editorial, lifestyle and natural portraiture. My favorite way to photograph someone is in a natural environment-whether that is their home, their favorite place, our a beautiful outdoor location. Although I do have the capabilities to do a more “studio” style shoot-it is  not what I find as fun. If you want more of the studio look (traditional backdrops, traditional lighting) then I am probably not what you are looking for.

What should we wear?

Clothing can make or break a shoot, so its important that you plan out what you want to wear. First of all, pick outfits that you feel good in. And pick outfits that are fun, these pictures are going to be on display in your home for a while-so make it count! If its a family shoot, you don’t all have to wear the same thing-personally I think it looks dated. Instead choose colors that blend well together. For babies, simplicity is key. The photo should be about their features, their chubby thighs, their big eyes and smiling faces. Save the baby doll dresses and fancy stuff for when they can sit up, so we can actually see the clothes better.

Do you bring any items/props to my house?

Yes. If we are doing a newborn shoot, I will talk with you prior to figure out what “look” you are hoping to achieve and then I will bring the proper items. Newborn items include, fuzzy blankets in neutral colors, baskets, knitted diaper covers and hats, an antique scale, and fabric backdrops. For toddlers and older children we don’t need props, instead the focus is on their expressions, clothing and the location of our shoot. Bubbles, balloons and other funky things can add to the photo, but aren’t necessary.

How much should I plan to spend on my portraits?

Custom photography is more of a luxury than your entry level cookie cutter chain experience. Its truly not for everyone, it requires a level of commitment, investment in time and money, forethought and planning on the part of the subject/client and requires an even larger time commitment for the photographer. For me, my work has only just begun after I pack up and leave from the shoot. I retouch each and every image after your shoot is complete, which takes hours. I use top of the line equipment, software and print products. Typically, my clients spend between $1000 and $3000. That price range offers clients such things as owning all the images from their session (proof package), custom birth announcements, custom holiday cards, large wall art, custom flush mount albums and more. Please be sure to look at my complete price list before you book. The last thing I would want is to have you fall in love with the images from your shoot-and then realize that you can’t afford to purchase any.

How long will it take to get my prints?

Images will be ready to view within 10 days. They are online in a private proofing gallery which you can share with friends and family if you wish. The images are online for 30 days. Once you place your order, the images will be to you within 7-10 business days.

Can I have all the hi-res files from the shoot on disk?

I do not offer that whatsoever. If your goal is to get all full resolution digital files from a session with me, then I am not who you should choose. As an artist, this is how I make a living and to offer all the images at full resolution would not enable me to pay my bills.

I do offer a few options however:

1. When you spend a minimum of $500 on prints, you get the images you purchased-sized exactly to the size you paid for- on disk. Not all the images, only the ones you pay for.

2. I offer a proof package, which includes each image printed as a 4×6 print along with a digital copy (4×6, 300 dpi) for $1650

What if I move away or never complete the final shoot from the Watch Me Grow Package?

It is your responsibility to book your sessions with me if you have signed up for the WMG newborn package. The package is non-refundable. I offer a 4 month grace period from the time your little one is 12 months, so please be sure to book the shoot within that time frame.