FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Every job depends on the scope and scale. I ask people to pay what's fair. I'm a reliable artist with a unique eye who delivers every time. The highest costs come with event and wedding photography, which can range from $600-$3000 depending on number of guests, expectations, location, etc. Single person headshots or a pet session can run as little as $100, but a family, fashion, or corporate office group could range up to $600. Each situation is unique. That's why Thumbtack is a great service, it allows you to name a price range.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
I usually get hired to perform a "varietal portrait session." OK, I totally made that up, but here's what I mean: Most people are parents or kids or siblings and may want to deliver a photo to Mom. Many people want to look like business professionals. All people want a fun portrait of themselves with a natural smile. You may need a dating profile picture. So why hire a separate photographer for all of these types of photography? I believe that nature will work with me and the person to provide all of the images above and more IN ONE SHOOT. I always speak with clients in advance and talk about what inspires you, or your love for your spouse, what kind of art you like, and what makes you comfortable. I talk a lot to people while shooting about how they feel and what is going on in their lives. This isn't meant to be invasive, it's meant to give you time to think about what makes you unique, beautiful, passionate, and emotional. The portraits end up speaking for themselves, but that's because it's your own face speaking.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
That a photographer shouldn't need to carry 20 pieces of equipment or use photoshop to change your face. A photograph is about you! I believe that every client wants something different (some want to look like comic book heroes, fashion models, abstract art, or loving parents) and each of these requires a different thought process from a photographer. It's not about changing the image into some final over-edited piece. Special effects lighting can be achieved by utilizing a strange sunset with a blue reflector placed in front of a model, perhaps with a side flash, intense depth of field, and a striking pose. Every model or client has it in them, but a good photographer knows that it's not about the camera or the equipment, but letting a client's personality shine! I edit each shot to try to perfect the image, but believe it or not, I hardly ever use Photoshop and minimally edit. This allows me to save time and give you a wider portfolio, perhaps 5 headshots instead of one, so that you can update them regularly without having to hire another photographer.