Question 1

What is a custom session?

Accepted Answer

A custom session is a full length photography session with me, and 90% of my shoots are custom session. Since they are custom, every session is totally different and designed just for you! We will work together to choose a location (studio, home, or outside), clothing, styling, activities, posed and/or more candid portraits, etc. Custom sessions are usually one family (Mom, Dad and kids), but it may include grandparents or pets. This may be a family session that is mostly focused on Mom during her pregnancy, it may focus on a group of siblings, or it may be a newborn baby with Mom, Dad and siblings. There are all different types of families, and I have many ideas and lots of experience with most situations! We will spend around 1-2 hours capturing your portraits, and you will have 30+ gorgeous images to choose from. Custom sessions include complementary hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling.

Question 2

How can I prepare my child for a portrait?

Accepted Answer

My goal is to create a fun and happy environment for your family so that we will get genuine expressions and wonderful portraits of your child.

Please tell them they are going to have a fun day with the family and that I will be joining you to take pictures of all the fun. I encourage you to avoid bribes or threats because this may take away from the concept that the session itself is a treat!

For older babies or young toddlers, you might bring toys that they love that might look nice in a picture.(Wood toys, blankets, classic toys, tricycles, wagons, and blocks all look great.) Other fun session items: bubbles, baby blanket, favorite toy or lovey.

Make sure to feed a meal or snack before your shoot, and avoid treats until after the session is completed--you don't want a photo of your child with M&M's in their mouths, believe me!

Question 3

Do you have a Baby Plan?

Accepted Answer

Of course I do! My Baby Plan includes a custom newborn session, 1-3 baby sessions (usually one at 6 months and optional 3 and/or 9 month sessions), and a custom family session to commemorate the first birthday. More details about our Baby Plan here.

Question 4

Can you teach me about photography?

Accepted Answer

I teach individual classes and also corporate training. Soon I will be offering a much wider assortment of classes online. Join my email newsletter and I will keep in touch with the latest updates! For individual classes and corporate training, please dee my Photography Education page for more details.

Question 5

Where will we be shooting my headshot?

Accepted Answer

Headshots are usually taken in my studio located in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania. I have great lighting and beautiful backdrops that will make your portraits look great. You can even have you hair and makeup done there!

For branding portraits, we can shoot on your site, on location, outdoors, or in my studio.

Question 6

What camera equipment do you use?

Accepted Answer

Click here to see what's in my camera bag!