FAQ
Q: You take way more than 30-40 images during a session. Why do you only show 30-40?
A: This is for my client’s benefit. I have found that most people have difficulty narrowing down their selection, even when they are only looking at this number. Also, when photographing on location, there are a number of variables that affect how people look in the photographs. Sun, wind, snow, and rain all make an impact. Nobody wants to look through 100 images where one person is blinking, or squinting because the sun was in their eyes, or has an unflattering expression on their face or truly messed up hair. I begin my editing process by eliminating all of those. While photographing your family I take several of each pose, in anticipation of such things, so I also eliminate virtual duplicates.
Q: I want more than 30-40 images.
A: First, ask yourself, “Why?” Are you really planning to hang 80 images on your walls? Or, are you working on a special project (scrapbooking, etc.)? If you are certain you need more than 30-40 images for some reason, I recommend scheduling additional time, or schedule an additional session on a separate day. My sessions are generally relaxed, and that is how you will get the best results and most natural expressions out of your children. Most children are not able to handle “being onstage” for extended periods of time, unless multiple breaks are given.
Q: Can you take lots of candid photos of us?
A: Yes! Candid photos are so much fun! But please understand, candid photographs don’t happen when people are standing around waiting to be photographed. The key to good candid photographs is for your family to be doing something together. So, if you want a candid session, plan our session around a barbeque, a picnic, an afternoon at the beach, or some other activity your family enjoys doing together. For the best candids, I recommend limiting the number of posed images requested during this type of session.
Q: Why do you do the preview/ordering session in person? Wouldn’t it be easier for me to order online?
A: The in-person preview/ordering session is for my clients’ benefit, for several reasons. Most people have a difficult time going through 30-40 images online and narrowing down their selections to the number they had planned to order. My job in this session is to help with that process, as your personal facilitator and note taker. During this time, if you want to know how an image would look cropped a certain way, or in black and white, I can SHOW you, right there on the spot. Certain custom items, such as albums or books, cannot be purchased online, but I can help you with these at this session. As an added bonus, clients receive 10% off any orders placed at this session.