What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I like to discuss with my customers their requirements prior to accepting a session just to make sure we are on the same page and that there are no surprises for either of us on the day of the session. This can be done either in person or remotely using Zoom.

What should the customer know about your scheduling?

In order to guarantee the reservation of a date and time for a photography session, a retainer must be paid in full along with receipt of a signed contract before any scheduling will occur.

Why do you require a retainer?

The retainer is used to secure the studio or location, pay my contractors and vendors for the day of services, and to cover my labor for the preplanning of your session.

What is your cancelation policy? My cancellation policy is if canceled 31 days or more before the date of your session 100% of the retainer is refunded. If canceled between 8 days and 30 days prior to the date of the session 50 % of the retainer is refunded. If canceled 7 days or less prior to the date of the session no refund but your session may be rescheduled within 14 days from the date of your originally scheduled session.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I am a member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and to stay current I attend various workshops, seminars, and classes both by online video and in-person.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

It all started when… my Dad brought home a medium format folding camera when I was 16. The camera made postcard size prints and Mr. Ebner would load my film on empty spools from bulk, and then develop them after I had exposed them. He would provide a very helpful creative critique and that is how I slowly improved. I also studied the photographs in the paper and with time developed an editorial style as I enjoy when a photograph tells a story.

Who are your customers?

I have worked with all types of customers - from nervous brides to accomplished models and in between the two. To ensure no surprises to either of us on the day of your photography session, I require a get to know your photographer meeting or conference call and a signed contract by both of us which details the scope of work, my creative fee, the retainers required, my refund policy, and the deliverable products.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Please do not go by price alone or how an online portfolio looks especially if you are reviewing the portfolio using a cell phone. Today's high-resolution cell phone screens will skew the colors and we photographers are caught in the middle by technology as our images are created using a color-calibrated system to guarantee accurate prints and artwork. Meet your potential photographer and ask to see their printed portfolio. Samples of the artwork and prints that will be hanging on your wall in your home or office are more important items as compared to an online portfolio. If a photographer does not have a printed portfolio then you are not dealing with a professional. Understand your photographers’ retainer requirements and refund policies.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

• What are your retainer requirements?

• What is your refund policy?

• Are you 100% available the day and time I need your services?

• When will the images be ready for viewing?

• Can I see your print portfolio and samples of your artwork?