How many images will I get?

Every session is different and we will discuss this in our pre-session consultation. Most packages include a gallery of about 25 images, depending on the shoot and from there you will be choosing the 5 or more that you would like. You may also choose to purchase all of the selected images and/or framed prints.

I do not give originals (although see my next answer to the question on retouching - I do give what is very close to the original). I also do not give every single image taken. See my blog post: the Art of a Few Great Images. This is my art and I care a great deal about how you are represented as well as how I am represented. You will receive the best from the session.

Will you do any retouching?

The shortest answer is: A little bit.

I am drawn to images that feel raw and real and so I tend to shoot that way. I believe we can sense the truth and it draws the viewer in.

I began my career with film (before digital cameras) and I love that look. However, I am also very grateful for the capabilities of Photoshop / Lightroom - editing software.

What I do: After I select the best images, I will do the slightest amount of editing in Photoshop before I deliver to you. This may include: Color correcting, enhancing or toning down the contrast, some cropping, and (if possible) removing any imperfections from the image that are distracting or don't represent you or the location correctly. In other words, I work the images so that they represent you in “your best light”.

I also believe in a lot of preparation so that we can make the original image that is captured by the camera tackle everything from the get-go. I would rather scrub a white table clean first than to fix it through the hours of labor in Photoshop. Let’s pull your shirt down now, as opposed to meticulously correcting it later. Professional makeup, is not necessary, but it can be a great idea to smooth skin-tone before we even begin. Ironing and moisturizing are never a bad idea. ;)

What I don’t (typically) do: While I may tone down or take out impurities that don’t match who you are, I don’t tend to take away those wrinkles completely. I don’t reshape or redesign your body. I don’t drastically change the color of things or the environment - unless it enhances the creative vision. If there is something specific that concerns you, do let me know. If you have a stain on a dress or a pimple that showed up days before the shoot, I will often catch that. More often than not - I can remove or change simple things, but do run it by me first to be sure.

After I deliver the images to you, if something still stands out that you would like retouched, please let me know. Additional editing and retouching is $50/hour. That translates to about $25 per image.

Will you help me pose?

I can help you pose. I will direct to some degree, especially for headshots. However, I tend to shoot in a way that pulls from my beginnings as a documentary photographer.

We will be engaged in the moment and I will capture images along the way. Many have told me that they hardly felt like we were in a photo session at all because we were having so much fun! I’m a bit dorky and silly myself - I’ve heard that can be disarming, ha! When we feel comfortable, our best selves come through and I capture that when I see it. That said, I will not simply watch and shoot. I will give some direction for sure. When I catch you doing something that looks great - I’ll let you know and we will keep working with it. I may say, “rub your hands together as if you are coming up with a grand scheme” or “I like what you did there! Place your other hand in a similar way.” I may give an idea for something to do or something to think about. And I can fully direct the shot if that feels best.

More questions? Reach out!