How do I book a photo session?
A.There are three major details we need to lock down before booking a session - DATE, LOCATION & TIME. It's best if you have a date and a location in mind prior to contacting me. If you don't have any locations in mind, I'm happy to give suggestions.
Serving the Northern Virginia & Washington DC area, location options for photo sessions are endless. Pick from ample open fields, wooded parks, parks with water, quaint historic towns or iconic DC. Utilizing a location that matches your aesthetic is key.
What's the best time of day to book a photo shoot?
A.Timing plays a HUGE role in how your images turn out. As a natural light photographer, I tend to book most of my sessions in the evening to get 'golden hour' sunset lighting. If your schedule won't allow for that, we can meet earlier than recommended, but we must pick a location that offers ample shade to avoid harsh shadows. Meeting while the sun is high up will create harsh, unflattering shadows and that will ultimately compromise my style and your images. If it ends up being overcast the day of our shoot, we'll have the flexibility to meet earlier in the day since the sunlight will be defused.
If you're interested in an in-home session, the best time to meet is when you get nice, even window light - not direct sunlight shining in.
How does the booking process work?
A.Once we lock down the details (date, location and time) I will send you a personalized contract. Once it's emailed over, I require the contract to be signed and sent back along with a 50% nonrefundable retainer within 24 hours in order to book your spot. Once both are submitted, your session will be 100% secured. Please note - seasonal mini sessions are required to be paid in full.
How do you accept payment?
A.Retainers must be submitted via Venmo, Zelle or PayPal. The balance can be paid via Venmo, Zelle, PayPal or cash.
How will I receive the images?
A.With every single package I offer, I send out digital galleries to all of my clients. With the digital gallery, you'll be able to view, share and download the images at no additional cost. Once you download the images onto your desktop or laptop, you'll be able to print and post your images online.
The best option for downloading your high-resolution image gallery is by using a personal computer. Individual images may be downloaded from a mobile device but this process does take longer and it may lower the quality of the images.
Do you travel?
A.I am happy to travel to different locations in Virginia, DC and Maryland. I offer complimentary mileage to any locations within 30 miles of where I live (22192 zip code radius.) To any location outside of that 30 mile radius, I charge 50¢ per mile round trip. To any location outside of a 50 mile radius, I charge $1.00 per mile round trip. If you're interested in a destination photo session or elopement, email me for a personalized package.
What happens if it rains the day of our shoot?
A.In the case of inclement weather, we'd just reschedule for the next available date that works best for the both of us. You won't lose out on your session or retainer, so no need to worry. Once you have submitted a signed contract and retainer, your retainer is good for one year.
What should I wear?
A.I am happy to give outfit suggestions on a case-by-case basis. I can help you find flattering styles, colors and accessories for your photo shoot.
Do you do any indoor sessions?
A.I offer in-home lifestyle sessions, ideal for newborns, families and maternity. In order to match my style and get the best possible shots, I highly recommend making sure that the rooms we're using have ample window light. It's also ideal to have clean, organized and decorated rooms.
Do you offer props?
A.As a lifestyle photographer, I use my natural environment and focus on my subject aka YOU. I find beauty in simplicity, so the answer is typically no. You are more than welcome to bring any props you'd like and we can incorporate them in your shoot.
Can you help pose me?
A.Absolutely. Sometimes it takes a few minutes to get into the swing of things, which is totally normal, but my goal is to capture true authentic moments (like genuine hugs, real smiles and unprompted kisses during an engagement or family shoot.) I encourage you to be yourself, let loose and have fun.
Before your session, please let me know if you're feeling self-conscious about anything. That way I can cater to your needs and help guide you into poses you're more comfortable with. If you have any "must-have" shots or poses in mind, please let me know upon scheduling.
Who are your ideal clients?
A.My people are the ones that value my time and craft.
They understand that this is a collaborative process, especially during booking and throughout the photo session. We have to work together to bring this to life.
They understand the importance of their outfits/appearance and take the shoot seriously.
They are open minded and want me to capture emotive, meaningful moments.