What to expect

Here is a general idea of what you can from start to finish.

The business end basics:

When you decide to book, all details and time frames will be worked out via phone and email.  We will all sign a contract and a non refundable deposit will be made to ensure the appointment will be met.  If for some reason the appointment must be canceled we will all do our best to reschedule within a specified time frame.  Your deposit will be good for 90days.  Full payment must be received before the session (time frames vary per session type).

  • I accept credit  and debit (card via paypal), checks and cash. Checks must clear the bank before any proofs or images are distributed.
  • For more specific details regarding payments please contact me.  Especially regarding weddings.

Before the session:

This is your story, not mine. Therefore, I am available to consult with regarding any details that need to be worked out throughout our entire experience together.  This is a group effort, and I want it to be the best possible for you.  You can feel free to contact me regarding concerns, ideas, for brain storming etc.  The best shoots are ones that are coordinated efforts and the client is a part of the creative vision from the start.

Day of the shoot:

It is very important that we all meet at the designated place on time.  Even one minute late takes away from the time you paid for. If it is possible, we can arrange to arrive a few minutes early.  The first part of the session is the meet and greet.  Getting to know new clients and catching up on old.  I like to let the kiddos relax a little and get to know me.  Even though we may have a tight schedule, this time is important.

Depending on the type of shoot a change of clothing may or may not be possible.  Most of the time it will be fine, but we need to discuss it before hand so we can plan for a very quick change.  Below is a list of more specific idea of what you can exepect with different types of sessions.

 

Kids and Families

  • It is very important that children have been fed watered and well rested.  Scheduling the shoot around them is best. You know your kids schedule and what situations work best for them.  I will rely on you to help me know and understand your children and family’s needs.
  • Getting frustrated because someone isn’t cooperating is understandable and generally expected when working with the kids.   I find that going with the flow of the child is best rather than trying to get that one perfect shot.  It is better to get a handful of great photos than 20 really bad ones.
  • Outfit changes are generally discouraged for large families but for kid sessions, an outfit changed is encouraged as long as it is quick and easy.
  • Coordinating a large bunch of people and kids is challenging.  Please be patient with the process and help things run smoothly.  It can get tricky but if we all work together we will get some amazing photographs!
  • We will go over all this and more in the planning stage.

Seniors and Young Models

  • This is your time to shine and let that personality loose!  Changes of clothing and accessories are fun and a great way to bring out your special flair.  I love working with teens. They are creative and fun and always ready with fresh ideas.  The best way to prepare for this type of shoot is have some fun outfit choice and creative ideas for locations.    Consulting before hand is a must in order to truly capture your teen’s personality and taste.
  • I do offer retouching and blemish correction on all my photos.

Couples and Engagement

  • Have fun coordinating your outfits and helping with locations ideas.  Remember, this is your story so it needs to reflect your relationship with each other.
  • This is this type of shoot that I try to direct less and let the couple engage with each other in a natural way.  I find that in doing this the end result is more natural than a staged pose (although we may do a few of those too!)
  • As your relationship progresses so do your package discounts!  Engagement session fees are free when you book your wedding!

Weddings

  • Weddings details are in a category all their own.  Please refer HERE  for more details as it is a very different type of photography with many details.
  • What I can also say about weddings is that I love love doing them, but they need to be scheduled well in advance on my books.  Size and location are a very integral part of whether I will book your wedding.  I am an independent photographer and generally do them alone or with an assistant.

Maternity

  • To me, nothing is more beautiful than a mother expecting!  What a wonderful time to capture in a growing families’ life.  The mother will be the most important factor in these sessions.   We will consult beforehand to make this session as meaningful and relaxing as possible.
  • Maternity and newborn packages go hand in hand.  It is this time we want to get you on the books to prepare for the arrival of you sweet bundle; therefore I will always offer you a competitive discount package.

Newborns

Newborns details are also in a category of their own for the same reason. Please refer to THIS page.

The most important thing to remember is:

Don’t worry and try to relax.  Your photos will be all the better for it.