Frequently Asked Questions

couples

ARE YOU LGBTQIA FRIENDLY?
I’M NOT SURE WE WANT AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION….
DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?
DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?
DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?
WHAT DO YOU EDIT IN EVERY PHOTO?
DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS TO OUR LOCAL HEROES?
WHAT IS *NOT* INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?

Elopements and intimate weddings

ARE YOU LGBTQIA FRIENDLY?
IS AN ELOPEMENT RIGHT FOR US?
DO YOU TRAVEL?
HOW DO WE BOOK YOU AND HOW FAR IN ADVANCE?
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET SICK AND CAN’T BE AT MY WEDDING?
H0W MANY PHOTOS WILL I GET?
I’M NOT SURE WE WANT AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION….
DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER?
WILL YOU HELP US PLAN OUR EVENT?
WILL YOU HELP US FIND A LOCATION?
DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?
DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
DO YOU DESIGN WEDDING ALBUMS?
CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?
WHAT DO YOU EDIT IN EVERY PHOTO?
WHAT IS *NOT* INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?

Family Sessions

DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?
DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?
DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?
DO YOU STILL DO NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY?
WHAT DO YOU EDIT IN EVERY PHOTO?
WHAT WILL THE EXPERIENCE BE LIKE?
WHAT TO WEAR FOR A FAMILY SESSION?
DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS TO OUR LOCAL HEROES?
WHAT IS *NOT* INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BEACH PHOTOSHOOT AND WHAT TO EXPECT
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
HOW WILL MY PHOTOS BE USED?
MY CHILD WON’T STAY STILL, WILL THAT BE A PROBLEM?

General questions

DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?
DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?
DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?
DO YOU STILL DO NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY?
DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS TO OUR LOCAL HEROES?
WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
HOW WILL MY PHOTOS BE USED?
MY CHILD WON’T STAY STILL, WILL THAT BE A PROBLEM?
WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE THE PHOTOS?

Maternity sessions

DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?
DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?
DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?
DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?
DO YOU STILL DO NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY?
WHAT DO YOU EDIT IN EVERY PHOTO?
WHAT WILL THE EXPERIENCE BE LIKE?
DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS TO OUR LOCAL HEROES?
WHAT IS *NOT* INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?
WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?
WHAT TO WEAR FOR MY MATERNITY SESSION?
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY PREGNANCY SESSION?
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BEACH PHOTOSHOOT AND WHAT TO EXPECT
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
HOW WILL MY PHOTOS BE USED?
MY CHILD WON’T STAY STILL, WILL THAT BE A PROBLEM?

ARE YOU LGBTQIA FRIENDLY?

To be honest, I don’t like that this is a frequently asked question (no one should be questioning anyone’s love!), but I often get asked it. To me, love is love, and I have been honored to capture and celebrate all types of love stories, including LGBTQIA weddings within my very own family. I welcome all couples and ensure that everyone receives the same level of care and attention. I would be thrilled to work with you and create beautiful, lasting memories of your love.

PS: The more unconventional, the better! 😉

IS AN ELOPEMENT RIGHT FOR US?

Eloping is not for everyone the same way big weddings are not for all. Nowadays, eloping doesn’t mean that you don’t get to plan ahead for all the special details that can make your day memorable and unique. From dream wedding attire to your favorite flowers, some VIP guests, and a first dance – you can still configure your day to be just what you want and you will have my help to do just that! Still, it is important to put some careful thought into what you want and make sure it is possible not only for you but for your partner and any special guests that you might want with you.

CONS AND PROS OF ELOPING

Pros:

No stress of a big party, have ONLY those who really matter (or not!)
Exchange vows with no audience and surrounded by nature
Avoid the wedding drama
Save money and spoil yourself without cutting corners
Combine your wedding with your honeymoon
Leave no trace – eloping is certainly the green choice
The day would be only about you
Be as traditional or non-traditional as you want
You can get married in a location that would normally not allow a big wedding
It will be an adventure!

Cons:

Limited guests
If you’ve always dreamed of a big wedding
No venue to host a dance party
If your significant other is not on-board
if you want some VIP to be part of it, they might not be able to make it

DO YOU TRAVEL?

YES! I travel world wide, please get in touch for a customized quote.

HOW DO WE BOOK YOU AND HOW FAR IN ADVANCE?

First of all, let’s talk! It is very important that we get better acquainted and decide if we are a good fit. After that, you will receive my photography contract and a request for a 50% booking deposit. Once that’s done, you’ll be confirmed for your event date in my calendar. The next step will be to schedule a video chat to discuss all the big and little details (style, planning, expectations, shot list, first look, no look, etc.).

The sooner you book, the better. Any dates that you inquire about are not confirmed in my schedule until the booking process is completed. This year we expect to have an unprecedented number of weddings so wether you decide to work with me or not, I strongly encourage you to seal the deal with your wedding pros of choice ASAP.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET SICK AND CAN’T BE AT MY WEDDING?

First off, huge knock on wood!!!! During my entire photography career, I’ve only missed one non-wedding scheduled session due to sickness. However, sh*t does happen occasionally – In the event that I can’t be at your wedding, I will make sure to reach out to all my photographer acquaintances that are comparable to my work, all payments/deposits made to me will be transferred to the replacement photographer.

H0W MANY PHOTOS WILL I GET?

The number of images ranges anywhere between 40-60 fully edited photos per shooting hour. And don’t worry, I never hide any images I know you’d love!

I’M NOT SURE WE WANT AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION….

About 98% percent of the couples you see on my website told me that they were awkward and un-photogenic and an engagement session is a way to change that mindset, that’s why I offer a 20% discount off my engagement sessions to my booked wedding clients. Once people get their engagement images back, they’re so much more confident and relaxed about being photographed on their wedding day and that confidence will go a long way.

DO YOU HELP US WITH POSING?

Most people think that they that they are not photogenic, even I have felt terribly awkward in front of the camera myself. For that reason, I’ve develop an “unposed” system to make you feel at ease with me while trying to make the thought of “camera on your face” go away for a moment. I always focus on the connection amongst my subjects rather than the connection with the lens, you’ll be busy talking, playing, dancing, and having fun instead of freezing into poses. And yes, when needed, I’ll adjust you to look your best!

WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER?

Well, let’s first hope that this doesn’t happen, mostly because I want you to be as comfortable as possible on your wedding outfits! But if the weather happens to be less than ideal, don’t worry about it! I’ve been a photographer for well over a decade and I’ve shot my good share of yucky weather days. My equipment is weather sealed and my rain coat is ready. Additionally, I will help you navigate the extra steps you might need to take to prepare for the day.

WILL YOU HELP US PLAN OUR EVENT?

I’m more than just a shutterbug – I’m here to help you plan your special day. From scouting dreamy locations and securing permits to recommending my favorite local vendors, I’ve got you covered. Let’s chat and make your elopement day the perfect one.

WILL YOU HELP US FIND A LOCATION?

Absolutely! Not only do I have a very thorough location guide, but I am often out exploring new unique spots and can certainly help you find the perfect location for your elopement or intimate wedding.

Likewise, I will be able to provide you with a list of venues that I love .

DO YOU OFFER PRINTS?

I do offer professional printing services that will be available to you through your final edited gallery. All prints purchased through my professional lab will be guaranteed for quality and color accuracy.

Additionally, I also offer custom designed album services.

DO YOU HAVE PERMITS?

YES! Most locations require some sort of permit, you’d be surprised!

DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?

I DO! No loose ends left untied 😉

WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?

It depends on the type of session and the collection you select, but ALL collections include:

Session plans, it is paramount that we discuss in detail what your expectations are and for me to get to know you to come up with the right plan JUST for you. During our video chat or phone call, we’ll go over clothing recommendations, timing, how to prepare, what to expect, etc.

Styling guide, a very comprehensive visual styling and color palette guide to help you make the most informed choices for your photoshoot wardrobe according to your preferences and the location where we shoot.

Location guide, I will help you find the best scenic location for your elopement or family adventure. While I already have a very thorough location guide available to all of my clients, I am often running out on scoping trips trying to find unique new spots.

Photoshoot time, 1 hr – 8 hr depending on your needs.

Online gallery, a password protected online gallery that will allow you to select your favorites and print directly through it once you receive the edited images.

DO YOU DESIGN WEDDING ALBUMS?

Certainly! I will share the pricing guide for my albums upon request. Discounts are also available for those clients that want to purchase an album(s) along with their package.

CAN WE HAVE THE RAW OR UNEDITED FILES?

No. Raw files are the canvas to the images I create, I manipulate these files with professional software to be able to deliver images of the same quality that you see throughout my portfolio.

Likewise, unedited images are not available, if you feel you’d like to get more photos from your session, you will have the option to purchase additional fully edited images.

All images delivered to my clients are in .jpg format and are high resolution, meaning that you can print them as large as you need.

DO YOU STILL DO NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY?

Due to the pandemic, I am no longer seeing clients in-studio or at-home for newborn photography sessions.

However, families with newborns can certainly book any of my outdoor family collections. I will carefully guide you through the process to ensure the baby’s cooperation and to capture beautiful family photos with your new family member.

WHAT DO YOU EDIT IN EVERY PHOTO?

After you submit your favorite photos from your proof gallery (if applicable), I will carefully edit them to be consistent with the quality of my work as shown in my portfolio.

Editing covers the following:

Mild skin imperfections and smoothing of wrinkles

Color correction

Teeth whitening

Lightening up of subjects

Highlights manipulation to enhance the image and skies when possible

Double chins

Some fly away hairs

Removal of people in the background

NOTE: My regular editing process does NOT include full retouching with Photoshop, this would involve altering the basic structure of the image as taken such as: slimming, composites, tattoo removal, all fly away hairs, photoshopping of sunsets in the background (when the weather does not cooperate), removal of logos, head swapping, full wrinkle elimination, etc.

Full retouching with Photoshop is available for an additional fee of $100per hour billed in 1/2 hour increments.

You can view a better description of what my full retouching services can cover here.

For any more specific requests, please get in touch with me.

WHAT WILL THE EXPERIENCE BE LIKE?

Your pregnant body is a miracle, your baby will never be as close to your heart.

I understand this is one of the most important moments in your life and I want to freeze it in time for you.

To make sure you get the images you’ve dreamed of, the process is broken down as follows:

Phone consultation to customize your images. You are unique, you deserve to have your images designed just for you. This consultation will help me know you. We will talk about your expectations, taste, location, clothing, and style.
Outdoors photo-shoot with social distancing taken into account.
After the session, I will email you an online proof gallery (if applicable) for you to select the images you want me to edit.
Once your images are finished, you will receive an updated gallery that will allow you to order products from my professional lab or to download.

WHAT WILL THE EXPERIENCE BE LIKE?

All you have to do is wear something beautiful and come have fun with us.

We are not afraid of energetic little kids, this is what we do! I will guide you every step of the way to make the best of our time together.

To get the images your family deserves, the process is broken into 4 steps:

Consultation to customize your images. You and your family are unique, this consultation is necessary for me to get to know you and your needs. We will talk about your expectations, taste, clothing and style, location, etc.
Socially distant outdoor photoshoot.
After the session, you will receive an online proof gallery that will allow you to select the images that you want me to fully retouch and the ones that you want only as light edits.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR A FAMILY SESSION?

While I offer a very thorough styling and color selection guide for my booked clients, here are some of my general guidelines:

Don’t wear sporty tennis shoes, large logos, neon colors or baggy clothes and do not try to match everyone in the session

To create timeless images that focus on the subjects and emotions, I strongly suggest wearing colors that compliment each other and avoid very harsh patterns.

Select something color and weather appropriate if the season is what inspired you to get a family portrait. Otherwise, I suggest earthy and neutral colors while being careful to not fully blend with the surroundings at the location where the photoshoot will take place.

Mix and match patterns with solids but make sure not to overdo it and avoid loud and very busy patterns or black, a good rule of thumb is to wear 1 pattern for every 2 solids at the most.

Males should wear colored slacks or dark wash jeans, little girls and infants should wear bloomers under dresses, and pick accessories that tie everything together.

Beach sessions are better if you are not wearing shoes, so if your session will take place at the beach keep this in mind.

DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS TO OUR LOCAL HEROES?

OF COURSE!!!

I am so grateful to anyone that serves our community. For that reason, I offer 10% off all sessions to:

Military families
Police officers
Nurses
Firefighters
UPS personnel

* Proper ID should be provided.

If you are a local hero and you need a headshot, please get in touch with me to discuss your options.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED WITH MY SESSION?

Most of my work as a photographer lays on editing, for that reason Raw and unedited images are never shared with clients.
Cakes and decorations for cake smashes.
Clothing.
Entrance and parking fees
Hair or makeup

WHAT DOES FULL RETOUCHING COVER?

Fully retouched images are a step above edited images and are normally requested at my client’s discretion. The work put into each fully retouched photo can vary anywhere between 30-60 min. Some examples of full retouching services are:

Tattoo Removal.
Any alterations on body size.
Overall slimming.
Hair covering a large part of the face.
Photoshopped skies.
Composites and head swapping (merge two different images into one).
Removal of logos or distracting elements in clothing.
Removal of major objects or crowds in the background.
Specific requests made by the client that are not including in my regular editing process.

Full retouching is available for $100 p/hour billed in 30 min increments.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR MY MATERNITY SESSION?

Dress comfortably! I want you to feel and look like yourself, if something doesn’t feel good, you’ll probably reflect that on the pictures.

While I encourage pregnant women to avoid harsh colors and patterns, some soft floral patterns and one bright color option might be a good idea ONLY if that’s the kind of thing you like. However, I strongly suggest avoiding stripes and plaid fabrics. Knit tops and lacey textures are very welcome! Just make sure that the color choices for you and your partner are complimentary.

If you are going to wear a maternity gown, I suggest that you bring a change of clothes for a more “normal” look of yourself. Wearing a bathing suit underneath can help you change outfits easily.

Long dresses with fabric that flows with the wind can be a great choice.

Other very flattering clothing items are:

Tight-fitting clothes that will show your curvy and beautiful pregnant body.
A maxi skirt with a short top always looks amazing and simple.
Tight-fitting dress with some flare at the bottom.
Unzipped old jeans. Believe it or not, your pre-pregnancy jeans can be a great way to display your belly in a very sexy way (if you are into that sort of thing).
Man-sized button up shirts. Bring your partner’s favorite cami or a button up sweater to take some belly revealing photos.
Change it up by bringing a cardigan or one change of clothes if they come on easily.

Of course, if you can’t make up your mind from several options, feel free to shoot me a text, call, or email to ask.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY PREGNANCY SESSION?

It is always a good idea to get in touch with me as soon as you know you are pregnant to discuss your options for the exact timing and my availability.

Normally I schedule women between 20 and 38 weeks depending on each client’s preference: how big do you want your belly to look? how comfortable are you feeling? etc.

However, I do encourage all expectant parents to get their point and shoot cameras out and take amazing pictures since day 1 (or when you just found out), until the moment they give birth, here are some tips to help.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BEACH PHOTOSHOOT AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Expect to get barefoot, a bit sandy, dip your feet in the water, and to have LOTS of fun!

Here are some important recommendations to help you get the most of your session:

Kids always do a lot better when well fed and rested so make sure to plan accordingly (bringing a snack for the little ones is always a good idea).
Even on warm days, it can get a little chilly by the end of the session, so make sure to bring warm layers.
A change of clothes for everyone. I always encourage families to get barefoot and play on the water’s edge. It is a good idea to bring an extra pair of pants for mommy and daddy and an extra set of clothes for the kids.
Bring a towel. Even if you don’t get wet, beach photos are a lot better if you are barefoot, a towel to clean sandy feet before getting back in the car is ideal.
To comply with the ongoing social distancing rules, it is important that everyone in your family has face coverings available just in case we walk through narrow paths.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?

About a week after your photoshoot, an online proof gallery will be shared with you via email. The images in this gallery will all be watermarked with a “not for public use” legend on it. From this gallery, you’ll be able to select the photos you want to keep as part of your package.

Once you submit your selection as per the instructions, it takes one to two weeks (depending on how busy I am) for you to receive your finished photos.

Make sure to book your session at least one month in advance if you need any printed materials by a certain date (especially during holiday season).

HOW WILL MY PHOTOS BE USED?

I am proud of my work and I like to occasionally post photos from my clients on my Facebook page or website portfolio. As per my photographer contract, I may use your images to promote my business. Breastfeeding and naked photos will never be used. Besides that, I do not share or sell your photos to anyone.

MY CHILD WON’T STAY STILL, WILL THAT BE A PROBLEM?

It is extremely rare for a child to stay still and I don’t want them to! I like to portray who they are and get those genuine giggles. However a well rested and well fed baby/child does a lot better in front of the camera and might be more cooperative to prompts and games.

WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE THE PHOTOS?

I am sorry you are not happy with the outcome of your session. If you feel like you didn’t get what you were expecting please contact me ASAP and we can re-schedule a session. Unfortunately, due to the time that it takes to process images I would be unable to issue a refund, but I am happy to discuss options with you.