Frequently Asked Questions

I always tell my customers to strive for color. I understand that sometimes this is easier said than done. First, think about what your backdrop will be. What colors will be in your backdrop? Will my session be geared more toward casual or formal? Think about coordinating colors – blues/browns/creams or oranges/reds/golds, etc. Next, consider what your goals are from the session. Will you be framing a large print of the family? Maybe consider the decor in your home. Do you tend to decorate more with cooler or warmer colors? Consider these things when picking your clothing. I also think you will find it a help to have mom select her outfit first. Once mom is comfortable with her decision, you can then figure out the kids. Dad most likely has something in his closet that will work with what you’ve chosen.

I also offer access to an online styling service to all of my customers at no additional charge to help with color and clothing inspiration and styling.

For a family session, booking 4-6 weeks prior to your desired session date is recommended. Weekend appointments do book up fast. Please keep in mind my holiday season is from September through the first part of December. If you want to ensure yourself a weekend date during this time frame, you need to have booked your session EARLY!

I prefer to work with evening/sunset light whenever possible when photographing outdoors. I usually book an outdoor child or family session about an hour and a half before sunset. Depending on the time of year, this time of day may interfere with nap times, sports commitments, etc. In such instances, I work with the early morning light around 8:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. I ONLY book beach sessions in the evening for the time being.

I currently work 1-2 weekends each month, with the exception of the holiday season (September through mid-December), where I work every weekend. During the months of September through May, I only shoot outdoor family sessions on weekends, with few exceptions. During the summer months of June through August, I do book family sessions mid-week in addition to weekends, as the days are longer.

I have a variety of locations that I can suggest based on the type of photos and backdrop you are seeking. I, of course, have my favorite locations and can usually help you make the decision based on the type of photos you want, the time of day of the session, and just by generally laying out the pros and cons of the location(s) you may be considering.

I am always up for trying new places. I do not charge for travel time within reason, i.e., within a 30-minute drive of my studio.

I guarantee 40-50+ images in every FULL session gallery. The number of final images in each gallery will vary for each session.  I do not limit the final total of images included, however. If your gallery ends up with 75-100+ images, so be it! All images in your final gallery represent everything captured during your session and will be fully edited and ready for download upon receipt of the gallery.  There are many factors that will contribute to the number of final images in the gallery such as the number of subjects being photographed, age and cooperation of the subjects, location, time of day, weather, and the overall client goals for the session. 

Most final galleries are available for viewing within 2 weeks from the session date. There are a few circumstances that lengthen this time frame, i.e., if I am on vacation, or certain holidays. I will let you know at the time you book your session if you can expect a delay beyond the typical 2 weeks. Additionally, I do offer an option to expedite your post work for an additional fee.

Yes. I have several coordinating sets for newborn twins, many of which are gender neutral. Although the majority of my props cater to the 0-10-week age group. I strive to offer props that will appeal to all types of personalities, from soft, organic types, to cuddly animals, and bright animal prints. I also have a selection of holiday props.

Absolutely. Please keep in mind that the session is for your newborn. The amount of poses including the parents and/or siblings is limited. Also, please don't ask me to photograph siblings by themselves. 

I do a brief consult at the beginning of every session. We go through the props and some pros and cons of the different options.  At this time I allow parents to choose a handful of selections that they definitely want to see their little one photographed in. Please do not think I am limiting you to just these items. Throughout the session, I will ask the parents to choose additional items, or I will add items on my own. However, I've found that if I do not limit the number of selections chosen in the beginning, we might be setting unrealistic expectations from me and baby. Remember, the baby runs this show!

A digital image is not the same thing as a photo print. A digital image is a high-res JPEG of your choice from your final gallery. You can use digital images to make prints, photo books, cards, and announcements, and have them for unlimited use as you please. I release all copyrights with my digital images. Digital images can be shared with friends and family and used for social media.

As the photographer, I am the owner of the images that I take during your session. Most printers who print photos for the general public and through online websites know that professional photographers own copyrights on the images they take. If they suspect that you are using images without permission from the photographer, they will not print the images or allow you to use them on photo products, etc. If you receive a digital image from me, I provide you with a copyright release allowing you permission to use my images without any restrictions as long as used for PERSONAL purposes.  Professional use of images I take requires permission for commercial or professional use and session pricing for these types of images will reflect this.

Not without your permission. I love what I do and love the opportunity to show off my work whenever possible. While most customers are flattered by the idea, some people prefer their privacy and I totally respect that.

Just as it sounds, metallic paper has a slight metallic shimmer and can be used to print all color finishes, even black-and-white. It especially stands out on images that include a lot of color. The metallic paper enhances color and makes it appear more vibrant. It is my favorite, and I use it on all of my personal prints. I will be happy to show you samples and discuss with you whether or not I believe metallic paper will enhance an image you are considering. There is an additional charge for prints on this paper.

At location shoots, I accept cash and checks only. I do accept credit cards online through online invoicing, by phone, and via PayPal upon request. Please keep in mind that all sessions require a deposit paid at the time of booking. The balance of the session is due at the time of the session.

I limit the amount of cosmetic editing that I do in photos to airbrushing and "fixes" to the backdrop, clothing, etc. I do not typically switch heads around or shed weight from customers. You will look like you when you see your pictures! :)

I am open to special requests, but please note, that some requests may require an additional fee.