FAQ

It's always good to plan at least 1-2 months in advance for family photos.
It's definitely ok to book even more advanced than that if you feel more comfortable in doing so.
I also take last minute sessions, if I am available, doesn't hurt to ask!

To guarantee a booking date, I ask for a non-refundable deposit which will be applied to your final payment due day of shoot. If you choose to cancel, you will not receive that deposit back.
Weddings/events require a 10% deposit depending on what package you choose.
Other photo sessions require 1/2 down.
Contact me for more details, as each booking is different and unique.

I accept cash, check or credit card (small surcharge with credit card payment) I also accept payment through PayPal.
Your session must be paid in full before you receive access to your online gallery.

I like to introduce myself to you and your children, for children I like to get down on their level, smile and I usually ask them a question or two to get them talking or smiling, if they seem more shy and not responsive to that, I might say something like "oooh I like your cool shirt or shoes" and then back off and start talking with the parents and go from there (again, this may vary as each child is different)
Once I see that everyone is warmed up (which might mean having the kids play a little like at the park, or with the parents) while I back off a little and maybe start shooting some candid shots and then I may have you group together to get some more formal shots. Since each family is different and each person is unique, I always feel it out and try different techniques until I know that everyone is feeling the most relaxed and stress free in order to get those formal poses, otherwise I typically capture your family playing and interacting together as I may throw in some direction during those times. It's all about you and your family enjoying time together and having fun while I shoot away.

The best suggestion I have is that everyone is well rested and well hydrated & fed, but not too full! Try and stay away from too much sugar within on hour of your session (especially the kids). You might want to bring water & snacks. It's also a good idea to bring a brush or comb for light touch ups if needed.

I usually suggest to keep your outfits all in the same color coordinating families. Solid vs. patterns are much better and help the focus remain on your faces instead of the outfit. Neutrals are usually more flattering , but try and stay away from white if possible. Sometimes you can each add a pop of the same color to your outfit for fun. I'd be happy to discuss more in detail in regards to your questions on what to wear.
As far as other or multiple outfit changes, an extra shirt is always a good idea to bring for younger children, but not necessary. I have packages that have the option to change your outfit, so it really all depends on what package you choose.

Some of the best locations are city or state parks, farms are fantastic as they offer many variety of settings like dirt paths, fields, ponds, barns and so on, so if you know someone or you yourself have access to a farm, those tend to be ideal for family photos. otherwise your back yard, in front of your home. I can also offer suggestions ahead of booking to give you some more options and then you can check them out to see if it's a good fit for your family.

No worries! I offer one back up date to be re-scheduled within 2 weeks, and after that there may be an extra fee for other "rain checks"

You certainly may! Let's discuss options and I will help you make that decision based off my expertise and what you are truly looking for.
After talking with me, if you still decide to choose more time that day or before hand, extra time is typically $50./hr. paid at the latest day of. (overtime pricing may differ or change)

You are investing in high quality, creative detailed and storytelling work of mine. You will be getting the best service I can give you, helping you feel comfortable, at ease and as stress free as possible. After the shoot, I sit down and spend hours and hours sorting and editing each individual photo to make sure you get the best of the best images. When I'm finished, they will be uploaded to a private online gallery for you to view for up to one year and you have the option of ordering prints and more directly from your online gallery! You can also share this with your friends so they can see and order as well! If you choose not to order through us, you will automatically be receiving a print release form. If you want to purchase your images on flash drive for safe keeping, you may do so for a small fee.

Typical turnaround time for wedding photos is 4-6 weeks.
Typical turnaround for portraits is 2-4 weeks.
Special unique sessions may vary.

We offer great deals on professional prints which you can order directly from your online gallery! However, you do not have to order straight through us, you will receive a print release form which means you will be able to order prints elsewhere, although we highly recommend ordering prints from a quality professional printing company.. color variations and quality will vary with some companies.