I thought since it has a been awhile since I addressed some FAQs that this might be a good down time moment. (I'm currently waiting for files to back up online and they're taking forever. I am however too paranoid to walk away from my computer while they are uploading.)
The most common questions is obviously...
How much do you charge?The answer is that the fee varies. I book sessions on an hourly basis so it costs $80 for a session anywhere within city limits that doesn't require me to set up a studio. $80 for a session in my home studio. $100 for a session that I set up a studio somewhere other than my house.
The second most frequently asked question is...
Why do my photos take 4-5 weeks after my session?The reason your disc takes a few weeks is because I try to go through and give each photo the love and attention it deserves. I will tweak anything from a scratch on a newborn's face to a stain on your shirt. Post processing (or photoshopping as some call it) plays a big role in photography nowadays.
Maternity
I'm so many weeks pregnant, when should I book a session?
I tell anyone, even if they don't book with me, to book their maternity session as soon as possible. Photographers schedules can book up very quickly. I know I book up at least a month in advance and find myself always trying to find a way to squeeze last minute clients in. Do you and your photographer a favour and book as soon as possible. That gives you more time to think about your session and get excited about it!
Do you provide props? What should I bring? What should I wear? Can I bring more than one outfit?For maternity sessions I don't usually provide props because they are a fairly personal kind of session. Bring anything you like! Baby boots, sonogram photo, whatever you want! I had one couple who wanted to incorporate a baseball theme into their mat session so we put mini baseball helmets on her belly and even a full sized baseball!
Can I include my other children or pets?
You betcha! They're a part of your family after all. Just give me a heads up so I can prepare for them.
Do you do nude maternity?At this point in my photo life I have not done nude maternity. That doesn't mean I would be opposed to it because I have seen it tastefully done. However I'm not sure it's something I want to jump into so it's best to let me know right away if that is the kind of session you have in mind.
Where do we shoot? Outdoor? Indoor?Wherever you want to have your session is where we'll have it. I prefer to shoot maternity sessions outdoors but have recently started shooting more indoors, both in studio and in client's homes.
Newborns
When should I book?
The sooner the better! Although newborn arrivals can't usually be calculated down to the day (except for in the case of c-sections) it's best to let me know right away if you're planning on booking a newborn session.
What should I bring to the session?
Obviously you'll want your brand new baby bag complete with diapers and wipes. I'd also recommend any props you want to include or anything of sentimental value you would like to include, like your wedding rings or a special stuffed animal. If you're planning on being in photos with your newborn I definitely recommend a 2nd outfit just in case of emergency.
Please do not bring friends or family to your session without discussing it with me ahead of time.
Can I include my family in the session?
Yes but please make sure I know that you're planning on including yourself or family members in the session. This is only extended to immediate family though. A lot of planning goes into any session, especially a newborn shoot.
Should I feed my baby before a session?This is a tough question. There are no hard and fast rules as far as this goes. If you want sleeping baby pictures then you'll either want to feed right before your session or right when I arrive and am setting up a mock studio. If you want your little one awake then usually timing the feedings far enough in advance that they have time to nap and time to wake up before the start of your session.
Will you come to my house?
Sure. It costs a little more but I can come to you.
Babies
What timing do you recommend for photo sessions?
I would recommend newborn, six months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months and so on and so on. That being said, if you want photos on a more regular basis I will be more than happy to oblige.
How should I prepare for my session?
The most important thing you can do to prepare for you session is make sure that your baby is in the best possible mood. That means well slept, fed and not sick. I can't stress enough how much of waste your session will be if you drag your little one out in to the dead of winter when they have a cold! I know it sounds silly but you'd be surprised how well we can rationalize things.
Also, I high advise bringing more than one outfit, or bringing accesories. Nothing spices up a photo session like different outfits or a cute bow tie or headband.
Do you do cake smashes?
You bet I do! And I love them! I prefer to shoot them for first birthdays only though.
You can provide your own cake if you want to try your hand at baking or I can offer a cake smash package that includes a one hour session complete with cake!
Family & Children
Will you photograph children and older kids?I don't really specialize in children ages 6+ but that doesn't mean I'm not willing to try. Shoot me an email and we can discuss the details.
Will you photograph my family reunion?Large group shots aren't my speciality so I would have to politely decline. I could should your reunion and provide candids and fun action shots but at this time I don't provide group shots.
I want the same type of family studio photos as department stores, can you provide that?No. Those stores, although powered by great photographers, are not my style. I believe in spontenaity, creative and creating a fun enviroment during your session and I don't feel you get that ambiance from that syle of photography. I prefer to shoot outside of a studio when possible, either in your home setting, backyard or a park.
Wedding
I am looking for a bare bones wedding package deal, can you help?I can work with nearly any budget as far as wedding photography is concerned. I specialize in customizing packages so feel free to shoot me an email to discuss the details.
Do you do destination weddings?I have photographed a destination wedding before but it all depends on the time and place.
Can you provide a second shooter to make sure you capture EVERYTHING from my big day?I can definitely provide a second shooter should you want an additional photographer. Lately I have opted to bring assistants to weddings I am shooting.
We don't really need an engagement session, can we cut that?I discourage folks from not doing an engagement session before their wedding for several reasons, but the first is primarily the most selfish. An e-session gives me time to get to know you and your fiancee and to learn and understand what aspects you like about yourselves and how to photograph you. I'll be following you around on one of the most important days of your life, it's nice to get to know you beforehand!
Boudoir
I'm looking to do some fun/sexy boudoir type shots for a gift for my husband/self. Do you take those kind of photos?Although my experience in this type of photos is limited I will consider boudoir photos on a client to client basis.
