Answers...to frequently asked questions:
How do I make a portrait session appointment?
All portrait sessions are conducted in the morning or evening to take advantage of the best light of the day. Please send an email with the date/time that you prefer and I'll let you know if it's available. Appointment times will change during the year depending on the sunrise/sunset.
What setting should I choose?
Are you looking for a natural or urban setting? Is there a particular place that is significant to you? Do you have a favorite park or garden? Give me your ideas and I'll be happy to discuss all the options with you. I have photographed in many near-by locations including Old Salem, Tanglewood Park, Wake Forest University, Salem College, C.G. Hill Memorial Park, Runnymeade Park...the possibilities are endless. We can even use my backyard "studio"! If you would like to have your portrait taken outside of the Winston-Salem area I am happy to travel to the destination of your choice. Travel fees will apply.
What should I wear?
The setting you choose will influence your clothing choices. Usually casual clothing works best for outdoor photography. Well fitting, simple outfits are always a safe bet. Avoid plaids, stripes, and big letters/numbers. Your shoes and socks WILL show so make sure they match!
For group portraits, coordination of clothing is extremely important! For example, a family that wears khaki pants/skirts/shorts with various earth-toned shirts will all compliment each other nicely. Avoid extreme contrasts - such as one person wearing navy and another person wearing pale blue.
For individual sessions, I suggest that you bring several clothing options.
The question of "what should I wear" seems to cause more anxiety than any other. I am happy to help you plan!!!
What should I bring?
Consider bringing snacks, drinks, and even favorite toys for the children (if you are having a family portrait made). I work at a very relaxed pace so be prepared with whatever will keep everyone happy for the length of your session.
You'll also need your signed portrait release (I'll email this to you before your session) and your session fee.
What about hair and make-up?
Haircuts look best when they are fresh but not brand-new. One to two weeks after having a haircut is good timing. Bring a brush or comb with you and also consider bringing some hair product to control frizzies.
For the men - make sure you shave!
For the women - consider these make-up tips:
*Don't use glittery make-up (it makes crazy looking white spots in your image).
*Pay close attention to your mascara. Extra mascara is good - clumpy mascara is bad!
*Take it easy on the eyeliner. Too much can make your eyes look smaller.
*Lip color is really important! Bring your lipstick/gloss with you to refresh as we work.
*Bring some loose or pressed powder to help control shine.
What about touch ups?
Basic Photoshop retouching is included. If you are concerned about something specific that you would like for me to work on, please let me know ahead of time. Often, I can adjust the way I photograph you or your family based on a particular concern.
Should I try to get a tan before my portrait?
NO! Stay away from the sun and the tanning bed. Overly tanned skin doesn't photograph very well and sunburned skin will need to heal before we can do your portrait session. Tan lines are also not very attractive and can possibly cost extra to retouch.
Should I wear my glasses to have my portrait taken?
If you'd like to wear your glasses, you will need to remove the lenses for your session. Your optician can help you with this or may let your borrow some frames with no lenses.
Can I bring a pet to the session?
Absolutely! If you'd like to include your pet, you will need to bring along a pet sitter. Your pet's safety comes FIRST. Having someone there to take care of your pet while we are working is important.
When will proofs be available for me to view?
Your proofs will be uploaded to an on-line gallery within 10 days of your session.
Can I have both black and white and color prints?
I will take all of the original images in color. During post-processing, I can convert your images to black and white, sepia and a number of other options.
Besides just normal portrait prints, what other products can I purchase?
If you can imagine it, I can probably find a way to have it made. Check out my "products" list for the most frequently requested items, which includes canvas prints, custom cards, albums, books, etc. If what you want isn't on the list, just ASK and I'll do my best to make that happen for you.