While speaking with people during their search for the perfect photographer, I have learned the questions that they typically have in the beginning. They often wonder: "How does this work? How do I prepare for a photo shoot? How much does it cost? Can they can just "photoshop" it? What if I just want digitals? What if i need to cancel my shoot?" These are all great questions that we can answer right now!

How does this work?

My process involves three steps. A pre-shoot consultation between you and me. We will discuss your vision for the shoot, the wardrobe, your hair and makeup (I have a great hair and makeup artist I work with for a little extra we can set you up), who you want to be photographed with, how you want to be photographed and my studio set up. There is a lot to cover in a short time, so we will make great use of this time. Next we have our shoot day! All the items we planned come together and we will shoot for a few hours. After the shoot I will edit your gorgeous photos and then we will meet for the reveal and ordering.

How do I prepare for a photo shoot?

Everyone prepares in different ways and during the consultation we will cover a lot of how you will be preparing. Some of the items we will cover are on the following list.

Wardrobe

I like to photograph people in about 5 different styles. Each session is tailored to you, so it is recommended that you bring any and everything that you love.

• Wear a button down to the studio. This will make the transition from your first to second outfit less disruptive

• Think texture OVER print. Big, bold and crazy patterns distract from your face, especially in photos. Textures however photograph beautifully. Textures include cable knit, denim, lace, tulle, chiffon, velvet, etc. If you absolutely must have a print, consider pairing it with a jacket to tone the print down.

• While we only photograph you in 5 outfits, bring more. We will go over your selection and pair items according to your vision.

Hair and Makeup

Look, each of us has our own routine but when you're preparing for any kind of photo shoot you really do need to consider the details. Hair, nails, waxing, skin, to tan or not to tan, etc. These are my recommendations:

• Hair cut/color: this should be scheduled 10-14 days prior to your photo shoot. This gives your hair the time it needs to settle into the new style and texture.

• Nails: Take advantage of the purpose for having your shoot ladies. Go hit up the salon for a mani-pedi. Your hands and nails will be in the pictures and you want them to be polished and looking gorgeous. Stay away from bold colors! Go with a clean polish. The buffing and shaping alone will help immensely.

• Waxing: 3-5 days prior to your shoot so redness can fade away.

• Tanning: I do not recommend tanning prior to a photo shoot.

Can they just “Photoshop” it?

My job as a photographer is to not only take the most gorgeous images that you've ever seen of yourself but to create beautiful artwork. Another part of my job is to ensure that you feel absolutely stunning in your images. I engage many methods to this, one of which is Photoshop. Will I retouch you down 40 pounds and 20 years? No. Will I smooth your skin and remove shadows and blemishes? Yes. I don't take away the lines, but I remove the shadows the lines create.

What if I just want Digital Copies?

Digital copies of any product purchased are included at high printable and web resolution. For example, say you purchase a collection of 5 images. You will receive digital files of the 5 images.

What if I need to cancel my shoot?

Once you schedule a session and pay the session fee, cancellations are accepted up to 14 days prior to your appointment. Cancellations made within the 14-day window will require a $200 rescheduling fee. Why? Because once your appointment is confirmed with our calendar, I do not accept any other business during that time frame. Of course, I understand that emergencies do come up, and in some instances, we may choose to waive the fee.