FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My system is not complicated at all, as I no longer do packages, instead opting to do every session by donation. Basically, the value you place on the photographs and service + what you can fit into your budget, is an effective way to establish your personal donation amount. In truth, I was tired of receiving messages from the less financially blessed, wishing for memories captured of their loved ones, but not being to afford the arbitrary number placed on services. It broke my heart every time, and I often just gave the families a complimentary session anyway. They would usually give me any little bit of money they could, while simultaneously feeling grateful, yet undeniably ashamed. Now, everyone can afford photography, without the guilt, no matter their income or current financial status. Give what you can, and I will always give my all!
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
My process is the same whether with a new client or one I've been photographing for years. A series of messages to establish a date, time, location, and the specific types of images they are looking to capture, be it by text, e-mail, Facebook messenger, Thumbtack, etc. Then comes the actual session, which is usually full of laughter and silliness! Afterward, I import all of the RAW files into Lightroom, tweak where necessary (culling, lighting, cropping, color balance, etc), export all of the remaining images as high-resolution JPEG files. ALL of those images are uploaded to a personal password-protected gallery with full download and printing rights. Once the initial gallery is uploaded, I contact the client again. Once the client views their gallery, they can choose to select favorite images for further creative editing in Photoshop. Both the high-resolution JPEGs and Web Resized JPEGs are uploaded to their galleries for sharing and printing as they choose. I NEVER delete a gallery, so it will always be there. I actually use the same gallery for future sessions and just add a folder for the new images. All of your session images in one place, and you are encouraged to share your gallery with friends and family!
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Ha, education is what I live for! I am mostly self-taught, with the addition of a few college courses in photography. I am also always looking for new information and techniques, whether from Creative Live courses, photography articles, courses, videos, tips and tricks from other photographers -- I love it all! I actually studied advanced mathematics/statistics at Central Washington University (Actuarial Science major with a minor in Information Technology and Administrative Management), so learning is just a part of me. :)