FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS YOUR PHOTOGRAPHIC STYLE?
Putting it to words, I would describe my style as EMOTIVE, MOODY, EARTHY Others would add natural, wholesome, crisp, intimate, calm, authentic, and my mom would tell you it makes her heart swell (love that woman!). Ultimately, looking through my work via website, Facebook, or Instagram is going to give you the best idea of my style.
I specialize in lifestyle photography. Capturing the essence of your family, the love & joy that you share, is my passion. I want people to feel like they are getting a front row seat to your family connection and strive to make your session a unique experience. If this is what you are looking for, let's have some fun making memories!
WHEN SHOULD I REACH OUT TO BOOK WITH YOU?
To be safe, I would say reaching out at least 2 months prior to when you would like to shoot offers the best chance of securing your optimal date/time. I generally offer two Saturdays a month, Tuesday/Thursday evenings, and save Wednesday afternoons for newborns.
The exception to all of this is September through November. If you would like a prime weekend slot this time of year, I would recommend reaching out 3 months in advance.
If you are a procrastinator like me, don't freak out! When I am able, I try to work in last minute inquiries; just know that your exact date and time will be totally dependent on my availability.
WHERE WILL OUR SHOOT BE?
Living in Iowa and the Midwest means this is highly dependent on the season. I LOVE to shoot outdoors in areas with lots of trees and beautiful landscapes, and I have many "go-to" locations, along with constantly scouting new spots.
While outdoor green spaces are my preferred locations, I also love to change it up with that urban, downtown vibe and have an ever-growing love for shooting in your home! I am always open to your specific location ideas too - pending photography is allowed! I will typically reach out the week before our shoot to nail down an exact spot!
WHAT TIME OF DAY WILL OUR SESSION TAKE PLACE?
For outdoor shoots, start times are most commonly between 8 & 10 AM and 4 & 6 PM. During those long summer days, start times can be as late as 7 or 8 PM to hit that golden hour - my preferred time of day.
Doing an indoor shoot? Our start time indoors will fall between the hours of 9 AM & 3 PM to make sure we can capture as much of that full daytime sun as possible!
WHAT IF WE HAVE TO RESCHEDULE?
The reality is that life is full of the unexpected. I get that sh*t happens; your kid gets sick, you accidentally double book, etc.. Whatever the reason, I work hard to accommodate my clients and to reschedule when reasonably necessary (and subject to my availability). I do ask for a 24-48 hour notice.
If the weather is calling for rain, I will reach out to you a day or two before to talk about a game plan. Usually this involves establishing a set time to call off our shoot by to avoid the rush of preparing the whole family for a shoot that might not happen.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR OUR SESSION?
Leading up to your session, I will send out an email with all the information on what to expect & have prepared for the shoot.
For now, here are some of the things I suggest you take into consideration:
Decide what you are going to wear well in advance, have any necessary haircuts done a week or so before, make sure everything is washed and ready to go for the day of the shoot including packing a bag of snacks, waters, a small towel if it’s going to be hot; basically anything you feel you might need or want during your shoot.
I DON'T WANT MY PICTURES OVERLY POSED OR STIFF.
DO YOU POSE PEOPLE?
The long answer for this question is to have you take a scroll through the images I have shared. Do they evoke the feeling you desire to capture? If the answer is yes, then have no fear; this is what I will produce for you.
I have lots of tips and tricks to get these images including (but not limited to) posing and prompting. My goal is not for this session to feel stiff and awkward but to be a fun, enjoyable experience for you, your significant other, and your family. Leave the thoughts of traditional photoshoots behind, and come ready to have fun while I work my magic.
HOW MANY PHOTOS DO I GET?
Most "full gallery" packages come with 15 digital images that you can download from a gallery of around 50-60 images. There are some packages where this is more or less, and ALL packages have the option to add images "a la carte" or upgrade to the full gallery for an additional fee.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
The generic answer is your gallery will come within 2-4 weeks. My goal is always to get them turned around as quickly as possible though, so don't be surprised if they come 7-10 days after our session.
Regardless of your package or time of year, you can expect your images within 6 weeks of our session.
HELLLLLLP, MY KIDS ARE CRAZY! CAN YOU HANDLE THEM?
YES! Hahaha chaos is the name of the game and toddlers run the show. I am all about flexibility during our shoots. Something isn't working, great, let's pivot and try a different approach. Little Billy isn't having it, no problem, let him have a break while I do individual or couple shots for a bit.
Weaving in and out of full family poses, individuals, and couple shots is an art form that I have worked very hard to nail down. Take a deep breath, sit back, and have fun with it. I got you!