Frequently Asked Questions

What is your photography style?

I aim for a mix between posed images and lifestyle/natural images. I love seeing the real smiles and connections that come out during a session. Sometimes the best photos are snapped between “takes” when you don’t even know I’m watching.

Do you photograph family sessions in your studio?

I have a beautiful 700 square-foot studio in Springville, but I prefer to take family photos outdoors where there are far more options and we aren’t limited to simple backdrops. I also love taking photos of your family being casual and interacting, but it can be tough to make that look natural in a studio.

Do you have specific locations you like to use for sessions?

I have plenty of favorite locations ranging from local parks to urban areas in downtown Buffalo, but I cater the location to you and what you want your portraits to look like. Wide-open spaces and country fields? I’ve got them. Cool urban vibes? I’ve got you covered there too.

Can I choose multiple locations for my family portraits?

Yes, if time allows and locations are close. The session-time would include drive time, so if you want to spend a portion of your hour-long session driving to a second location, we can definitely do that.

What time will my session take place?

All outdoor sessions take place an hour or two after sunrise or before sunset. That’s the real sweet-spot when it comes to having the most flattering light possible. If you prefer an in-studio session, we can be more flexible with timing.

What should we wear?

Coordinate, but don’t match. For example, if everyone wears the same color shirt, you can end up with the “blob of color and some floating heads” effect (that’s a super-technical photography phrase). A good approach is to have one person wear a pattern, then have everyone else wear one of the colors from that pattern. If you aren’t sure, feel free to message me in advance; I’m always willing to help plan the attire.

What if it rains?

I try really hard not to reschedule - everyone’s lives are busy enough without having to find another time to have photos taken - but sometimes Mother Nature wins. Unless the day is clearly going to be a total washout, I typically like to wait until approximately three hours before your session starts before deciding if we need to reschedule. If the radar still looks questionable at that point, we’re probably better off finding another time; photos in the rain (or wind, or hail, or sleet) are no fun. If that happens, your deposit will be transferred to your new date.

What if myself or kids are sick?

I ask that you please reschedule if you or someone in your group is feeling ill. No one is up to being photographed while you are sick! I also photograph tiny new babes and if I get sick I can be out of work for weeks until I am symptom-free.

What if my kids don’t behave?

They are kids; I don’t expect perfect behavior. I make it a point to interact with your kids and do everything possible to win them over so they have fun during the session. We take plenty of time to play during the session while I am shooting so that they are involved and having fun.

How long does it take to get our gallery after the session?

It takes about three weeks for me to edit your photos, though I usually post a sneak-peak on Facebook or Instagram within 48 hours. When the full session is edited, you will receive an email with a link and the details on how to access your gallery.

Do we get color photos, or black and white?

Both! I will generally include both a full-color and black and white version of each photo.