How did you get started with this type of work?
I worked in a commercial studio for two years where I learned the fundamentals of portrait photography such as posing, lighting, composition, and editing techniques. During that time, I was submitted as a candidate for the Chairman's Award for creative photography, and a collection of my images was selected for the company's national marketing campaign. Following my work at the portrait studio, I worked as the exclusive photographer for a summer camp for several years, capturing the events and activities taking place throughout each day. Each summer, I processed nearly 10,000 images and curated the photos into a feature slideshow at the end of each camp session. I'm now a freelancer, with almost 10 years of professional photography experience, and I specialize in weddings as well as nature and travel photography. I love to sharpen my skills and learn new things, so I regularly attend photography workshops in New York City. Annually, I attend the Depth of Field and OPTIC Conferences to participate in digital photography classes, and I enjoy the opportunity to be a photographer at B&H's sponsored photo shoots.
What is your typical process for working with a new client?
My clients and I get to know each other through an initial consultation, whether it be over the phone, via Skype, or in person. We'll chat about their photographic needs, their style, and the overall project timeline...and we'll also chat about budget. I enjoy working with my clients to formulate a combination of services and products that will suit their needs and budget. If our personalities and style already click, I want to make sure they're happy about the money-side of things, too!
What are your rates?
Wedding photography is an investment. As your photographer, I will produce hundreds of beautiful, high-quality images from your big day that you will forever cherish, and it's really hard to put a price tag on that. However, you'll eventually have to land on a realistic sum that you're comfortable with. Don't forget to leave some room in your budget for extra things like prints for your parents, or a custom heirloom album. Let's discuss your options and we can formulate a package that suits your needs and your budget. I also offer realistic and flexible payment plans.
Are there any other fees?
When you receive a quote from me, the price is all-inclusive. If you require additional hours of photographic coverage, you can let me know in advance or on the day, and we can add that in to your invoice. I'll never leave your event without checking in with you first! Tax and shipping is charged on physical products (images backed up to flash drive, prints, albums, etc.) No travel fee is charged for events within a 75 mile radius of downtown Portland, Oregon.
When will our photos be ready?
In less than 24 hours after your event, you'll have a handful of edited images to enjoy and share...just to hold you over until the rest of your fully edited images are delivered 3-4 weeks later!
In which format will we receive our images?
I'm a printographer at heart. I want your beautiful wedding photos to live on in print: framed on your walls, tucked between the pages of an heirloom album, or on a canvas above your fireplace. Still, we live in a digital age, so all of my clients also receive digital proofs of their images in order to preview their wedding photos and share with friends and family via email and social media. Some couples prefer to purchase the high-resolution digital images a la carte, choosing their favorites from the mix. Some couples choose to have the entire collection backed up to a flash-drive. Each of these options comes with a different investment, so I prefer to discuss this with my clients in our initial consultation so we can work together to figure out the best mix of offerings to suit their needs.
Is your business licensed and insured?
Yes and yes! I have the ability to legally operate my business anywhere in the world, and my contracts are governed by the laws of the state of Oregon. Furthermore, my business is insured for up to $2,000,000 in liability coverage.