FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
For a wedding, I definitely want to meet the couple ahead of time. An engagement session is perfect for this, because not only do you meet in a stress-free, fun situation, but I get to know you in a photographer-model perspective, and learn how to make you most comfortable. But it's imperative that you have a photographer you are comfortable with and can trust, so it's very important to establish a relationship beforehand. For pet portraits, I also prefer to meet the dog or animal ahead of time if possible. I'm quick to fall for a dog, but some of them are afraid of the big black box I point at them, and some require a little more fun and coaxing before I'm their friend. This way, when it comes to session time, I'm an old friend they associate with treats and pets, and I can get true smiles out of them.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in film making the old fashioned way at San Diego State University, but more than that, I grew up in a photography family. My grandfather was big into photography and taking themed family holiday photos every year, and I spent many a vacation with my dad setting up his exposures on the edges of cliffs.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Think ahead about what you envision, such as location, background, light, clothes. If you don't have an idea ahead of time, a photographer should be able to give you some advice. It's also important to know what you will do with the finished product - are these just for showing off on your phone? Or do you want nice large prints or canvases for your wall? If you want holiday cards, do you know your template already, or have a color scheme in mind? All these can contribute to the photographer's creativity.