The Consultation: Detailed

Every portrait session begins with a consultation. Most consultations take 30–60 minutes.

This is where we clarify your vision, the logistics, and the final image count so your session unfolds smoothly and intentionally.

It’s 100% collaborative and I guide the process. This is your chance to shape the experience you want. I'm an idea person, and enjoy collaborating to create something better than either of us could achieve alone.

Planning in advance is the most straightforward way to prevent issues during the shoot and to get the shots you want to have.

Prep: Before We Meet

After you've scheduled the Consult, but before we talk, I would love to know or have:

• Links to your website/socials (if relevant)
• Any known third-party requirements (e.g. studio rental, permits)
• If you already know the ideas you want to explore thematically, or practically
• If you require the Rush Option, and your ideal dates
• If you need me to sign an NDA: please send the contract in advance.

I’m a conceptual photographer and highly-allergic to mood boards but storyboarding with you is part of my process (I'm a visual-thinker).

How We Meet

Consultations are available by phone or in person. No Zoom at this time.

In-person meetings are held at a local Starbucks or in a semi-private conference room. Details on the Contact page.

Choose whichever option feels most comfortable. You can book these options from the Contact page.

During: What We Discuss

• It's best if I can meet your pet during the consult so they're not meeting a stranger on photoshoot day.
• If you're having portraits made with another person, I'd love to meet them for the exact same reason; and because I value their input on the pictures they're co-starring in.
• The story or message behind your portraits—your why. Your goals for the final results, if any. This includes printing. We'll look at pricing together. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at your options.
• The shot-list! This is the most important part, IMO. This is where I storyboard with you, if needed. The photoshoot is created here.
• If you want to experiment with video, this is when we plan it.
• The location(s) and if they have any special considerations.
• Props, accessories, outfit changes. More ideas!
• Number of final images you want. This is part of what determines my Creative Fee, and we can only figure this out after working on the shot-list and knowing the desired final results.
• How you want to Proof: immediately post-session, or via a private online gallery; or schedule to review printed proofs.
• Any general scheduling constraints or special requests.
• Any third-party costs, such as location rentals or rental equipment needed.
• A quick discussion on image usage and rights, which is reflected in your contract. It's a little more complex if the shoot is commercial.
• If you'd like a Privacy Clause added to your Session Contract, make sure to let me know.

By the end:

• You'll have the Creative Fee, which is valid for 30 days after the consult.
• I'll create your Session Contract, which I will send to you after the consult, along with a deposit invoice.
• You'll know the exact process and schedule, from today until you receive your final images. 
• You'll have a good idea of any third-party costs and their payment schedule, and a rough estimate for your print order (if you're going to order).
• You also won't be sold to, pitched to, or pressured. You'll have an understanding of how I approach this work, and it's not about sales.
• Everything I've described can be covered in well under an hour, with rare exception.

After: Contract and Invoice

Later that day, or early the next day, you'll any materials we discussed, plus:

• You’ll receive the Session Contract that details the photoshoot, though it may generalize the shot-list to save space. You'll sign it electronically.
• A 25% deposit secures your contract.
• Pay online or through banking options. If you plan on paying by check, bring your deposit check to the consult.
• Final invoice is due on or before the photoshoot. You'll be notified accordingly. Due dates are noted in the Session Contract.
• Any third-party expenses are taken care of as discussed, based on their requirements.
• You'll be able to quickly reach me for any questions between the consultation and your session.

Hopefully, you anticipate your portrait session with joy, and feel confident when facing the camera.

Special Considerations: Rush Option, Video, Pets

These three things you must discuss with me about during the Consult, or even when you're scheduling the Consult.

The Rush Option

I offer a Rush option for certain portrait sessions, particularly headshots. Let me know if you need the Rush option as soon as you can. It may not always be available, so the more advance notice, the better.

The Rush option requires digital proofing immediately following the session, and the final images are delivered within 24hrs of the proofing session. The Rush Fee is +$1000 and includes no more than five final images. Even if you purchase more images during the proofing session, only your chosen five are included within the Rush time-frame. Your other images are delivered following my regular schedule.

Video!

My cameras are capable of recording fantastic video but I’m at the beginning of a steep learning curve. I have no formal videography training or training in editing. If you know you'll be able to edit raw footage, then you're welcome to it.

If you're willing to take a chance, we plan for your video during the Consultation just like any other aspect of your photoshoot.

Your Non-Human Companion(s)

Pets are welcome with proper planning.

Please let me know if you think your pet would react badly to strobes (i.e. a bright, flash of light). Alternatives can be planned during the consultation. Though, even if we use natural light, I'll still have awkward, heavy equipment, and pet-safety measures apply.

Pet-Safety Notice: They need to be contained when not interacting with you and under your control. A leash allows too much movement. My equipment is electrical, heavy, and not pet-proofed. A carrier/cage/crate/separate room with closing door is required for all of our safety.

Make sure their basic needs are cared for: treats, water, comfortable bed in their carrier. If they need bathroom breaks, don't make them wait. I want them safe, not miserable.