FAQ
FAQ
Why should I choose to shoot with you?
A: Everyone has a camera, but not everyone is a professional behind the lens. My passion and skills are focused on capturing you, authentically, powerfully, beautifully. I invest the time and energy to build a connected relationship with you that allows the process of capturing the best images of your life to be easy, relaxed, and joyful. Intimacy is the key to remarkable images, and that requires a lifetime of focused skills to create relatively quickly.
Connection and empathy, between photographer and subject, makes the magic possible. From our first conversation on the phone, to the conversation we have while shooting, what comes across is ultimately real and authentic, not posed or forced. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I honor that with all the skills I’ve developed over my many years as a storyteller, behind the lens, shooting film and television, or stills.
How much does a shoot cost?
A: The answer depends largely on what you’d like to shoot and have. We offer a wide range of sessions. We run headshot mini-marathons on specific dates monthly, that are offered at $490. We offer Vanity Fair style Fantasy Portrait sessions, which include elaborate set pieces and movie quality costumes, that are priced around $10K, which includes a large credit towards your purchase of images.
There’s a wide range in between, depending on what you’re looking for, so when we discuss your desires in a discovery call, I will share detailed pricing information unique to your desired package.
Ultimately, what you spend is up to your taste, desires, and budget. We offer image collections, starting at $1,900 for 8 photographs, including both the digital file and a matted print. The more you purchase, the lower the price per image.
How long beforehand should I book my session?
A: For a custom portrait or branding session, 3-4 weeks beforehand is best. We book up generally a month ahead. For headshots, 2 weeks is ideal, so I can coordinate with my Hair & Make up Artist.
What is a discovery call?
A: A discovery call is a chance for us to connect, get a feel for one another, and have a free-form chat about what you want to accomplish in your shoot. Concerns, questions, ideas, brainstorming, we can accomplish a lot in 30 minutes.
What is an In-Person Consultation?
A: For any custom shoot, it’s a great idea to meet in person for an hour or so, well before your shoot. We can meet at my studio, your home, or a mutually convenient location. The opportunity to get comfortable, build rapport and ease, and really dig into your session in detail is invaluable, and always enhances the results.
How should I prepare for my shoot?
A: Before your shoot, I’ll send you my Shooting Guide PDF, which is fairly comprehensive, offering a range of insight and tips on preparation, what to bring, and how to ensure your best results.
How long does a session take?
Do you use music during the shoot?
A: Always, music creates atmosphere, drama, relaxation, emotion. You’re welcome to bring your own playlist, or just share favorite artists and songs, and we’ll use those as we work.
How much do images cost, and what is included?
A: Your session fee includes a credit towards the purchase of images. Ala carte images (including both the digital file and an 8 by 10 print) are $250. What is included depends on the package you select, and we’ll review that during your consult.
Do you offer professional hair and make-up, and grooming services for men?
A: We do, and it is highly recommended, for both men and women. Our highly accomplished film & television professionals will have you looking your absolute best, and ready for the lens! The process is enjoyable and relaxing, and helps get you into the right head space for your shoot. For most packages, this service is included, for some, it is an add-on. For men, this process takes 30-45 minutes, for women, 60-90 minutes.
From undetectable for men, to daytime natural for the ladies, all the way up to dramatic and evening elegant, we ensure you love how you look, and you can confirm that in our tethered laptop computer before we start every look.
Do you advise me on what to wear?
A: Styling is obviously a major part of any photography session, and this service is included in your session fee with any custom session. For a basic headshot session, (or a headshot-mini) we’ll discuss wardrobe beforehand, and I’ll help you make final selections from what you bring on the day.
Actors should bring wardrobe that support the character types you want to portray. Detailed casting targets will be discussed during your pre-shoot consult. Business professionals should bring business clothing options that they feel good in. Be certain you bring options. Two to three wardrobe options for each look is about right, some things will look better on camera than others. Avoid logos, slogans, busy patterns that will distract from you. Textures and layers are almost always an excellent option.
Can we shoot at a location other than your studio?
A: Yes, on-location shoots can be arranged for an additional fee. At my studio, depending on weather, we can add on exterior shots for an additional fee as well. We have beautiful forest areas or lakeshore, all within minutes.
I really don’t have much in my closet that I want to be photographed in, do you offer a shopping service, and help me make the best choices for my skin tone, style, and desired results?
Do you offer retouching and editing of photos?
A: Every shot you purchase will be carefully color corrected, sized, and retouched by hand. Our retouching is light and natural, with the intention of being undetectable. From gentle wrinkle reduction, blemish removal, eye and teeth brightening, and softening any wrinkles in clothing, all our retouching work is professionally done with an eye for the natural result. More extensive retouching is available, including background replacement, special effects, and glamour work, for an additional fee.
When do I see my images after the shoot, and how does purchasing work?
A: Your reveal session is your opportunity to view and choose the images and products you want. You’ll return to the Studio, generally 2 weeks after we shoot, and we’ll view your images together. You’ll have a chance to see and touch our various product offerings, and purchase your selections during this process. You only buy what you love!
When will I receive my finished images.
A: Post processing and individual image retouches are generally ready for you within 2 weeks of your reveal & ordering session. That can vary, depending upon the number of images ordered.
Can I buy just the digital files, and can I buy the RAW unedited files?
A: Each full-size digital file costs the same, with or without the 8 by 10 matted print.
Headshot sessions and Personal Branding Portraits are delivered as digitals only. You decide what you love and want. Image collections start at 8 images for $1,990. Collections are offered in groupings of 8, 16, and 25. The more you purchase, the lower the price per image. We do not offer RAW files for sale; any more than a Chef sells individual ingredients for a meal.