Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?
What locations should I get pictures taken?
What styles of pictures are there?
Why are you charging a small  sitting fee?
When should I get pictures done?
Do you do pictures of large groups?
What information do you need about me?
Why do you have online proofs?
Can I get my proofs password protected?
Can I give my password to friends and family?
How long after my session until my proofs are online for review?
What sizes can I print my pictures?
Do you offer any other products besides prints?

What should I wear?

This is the most common question. My best answer is, wear solid colors. Solids are the best bet and usually look the best in the pictures. Patterns are fun, just makes sure that you like them and they don’t accentuate things that you don’t want the focus to be on.

Color is always fun to play with, especially with children. However, if these pictures are going to be displayed in your home, you might want to consider matching you wardrobe to the décor of your home. Or use the color palette in the pictures to decorate your house.

It’s really important that you all coordinate but don’t match. Matching is really dated. Some people might like the look of everyone in white shirts and jeans, while others might go for a more modern color scheme. Overall, it’s your call. If you have any questions or concerns about wardrobe choices, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Clothing with texture and layers is always good and adds interest to the pictures. I try to choose spots with a fairly neutral background so that you will stand out and the background won’t compete. If you have a location in mind, think about what will be in the background. For example, if you want to get pictures done in a green park, green shirts will really blend in. Choose colors that would really stand out like pink, orange, red, brown, purple, or yellow.  You get the idea. Feel free to bring a change of outfit – we’ll fit in as many as time permits. Fun accessories are great additions to your outfit whether it’s a hat,  tie, scarf or shoes. Little girls are great in fun dresses with big bows, hats, tights, etc. If you have a fun prop you’d like to bring, just let me know and we’ll plan for it.

If you are ever not sure, just ask. Even emailing me a picture of it can be really helpful.

What locations should I get pictures taken?

There are many locations to get pictures taken. If you have something specific in mind tell me. I want to make sure that what we capture on camera is what you want. Location will really reflect the style of the pictures. I’ll be adding a list of locations soon. Often locations need to have permission before use. If the location requires travel I will charge a traveling fee depending on location. Keep this in mind as you are planning your session. Contact me with details.

What styles of pictures are there?

I want the pictures you receive to reflect your family, your style, and your taste.  I’ve made a little list to help you so we are both on the same page and your vision is my vision.

YOUR STYLE vs SESSION STYLE | Which one fits you best?

Classic/Traditional
gardens with trees and flowers
golf courses
parks

Historic
Opera House
Temple grounds
University

Urban
Trendy style with lots of random elements
Behind old buildings
City streets
Alleys
Exposed Brick

Rustic
Old barns
Fields
Hillsides

Many locations require advance permission or fees to be paid. If you have a spot you’d like to go, let me know when you book so I can make those arrangements.

Why are you charging a small sitting fee?

I’m  charging a small sitting fee because I am currently still learning and I really want to build up a fantastic portfolio. The sitting fee that will need to be paid at the beginning of the session. The fee will be non-refundable and the date can only be changed once or twice given specific circumstances. This fee covers my time taking the pictures, travel, and time editing. Once I gain more practice I’ll begin charging more. So now is a great opportunity for you to get some family pictures done!

When should I get pictures done?

Depending on your family and situations the answer is different.

Maternity sessions are best done around the 7-8 month mark. This generally when you feel the best about your body and I don’t have to worry about baby coming too soon.

Newborns are best around the two weeks of life mark. They are still very sleepy and moldable. It’s best to book this session two week to a month before your due date and we can nail down a specific date once baby has arrived. It’s best if baby is changed and fed before the session starts. Moms should wear a black shirt just in case we need to do shots against mom. This provides a great background.

Families with small children should plan on a session lasting around an hour to an hour and half. Kids should be fed and if needed already had naps. That makes them the most happy and willing for pictures. With small toddlers some sort of distract is always helpful, something like a special treat, toy, or even bubbles to distract them.

Senior portraits should be done in plenty of time before graduation announcements need to be sent out. It also depends on when you would like your senior pictures taken, fall, winter, spring, or summer.

Families with large groups need to just make sure that everyone is happy and fed too. I have a husband and daughter who need food before we go out to do anything. It is also very helpful when doing large groups to make sure everyone is there when we start. We can only do individuals and family shots for so long.

Of course the best photo opportunities are usually around dusk and evening time. This is when the light is most flattering. If there is a specific time you need please contact me. I am a natural light photographer, which means that I prefer to use any natural light source available.

Do you do pictures of large groups?

I am very willing to do large groups, the tricky part is finding a great location. Depending on the size I will charge a higher fee. Please contact me with details.

What information do you need about me?

I have a new client information form that I fill out before our session. This just allows me to get to know you better. I collect information for mailing/delivering purposes. I also collect an e-mail address to notify you when your proofs are ready for online review. I promise not to give out any personal information.

How long after my session until my proofs are online for review?

It usually takes me about 2-3 weeks for complete editing to have your prints online and ready for review.

Why do you have online proofs?

I have found through personal experience that having proofs online is much faster and easier for everyone. Because your proofs are online you can review them in the comfort of your own home and in your pajamas! This works well for both me and the client because it allows you to take as much time as you need to look over the pictures without being rushed by me unintentionally or not having enough time to choose.  I want to make sure that your pictures are perfect and you are satisfied with the end result.

Another benefit of having your proofs online is that you can show your friends and family your pictures and get their input before you purchase your pictures. I know I always enjoy hearing any comments or suggestions from my family about my pictures. Especially if grandma is across the country she can see pictures of the new grandbaby.

Please remember that not all your pictures will be in the online review. I will choose the ones that I feel are best. If you decide to purchase a CD with your pictures, I will include all the edited pictures, including those that aren’t online. As part of your Picture CD I will include a reprinting permission form. You are allowed to print the photos at your local photo center up to an 8×10 print.

Can I get my proofs password protected?

Yes, if you would like your online proofs password protected please contact me and I can set that up for you.

Can I give my password to friends and family?

If you choose to have your proofs password protected you can definitely give your password to anyone you want to see your pictures.

What sizes can I print my pictures?

I have a list of prints that you can choose from. Please contact me for further details.

Do you offer any other products besides prints?

I do offer more products than just prints. I offer design services for photo and other press printed cards, posters, key chains, photo picture books (i.e. coffee books),  etc. If you have something specific in mind please contact me.