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PHOTOGRAPHER
Below are answers to some of the most common questions I receive and a few tips to get the most from your shoot
I'm not comfortable in front of the camera and I don't like picture of me. What do I do?
No worries — I’ve got your back! The truth is, most people are not trained models or actors and are not comfortable being photographed. However, I have decades of experience working with all kinds of ‘real’ people, making them feel special, relaxed and in their power. In the end, I strive to make the shoot fun and easy — and when you’re enjoying the experience, you’ll shine for the camera.
Plus, I know the tricks of lighting and composition to make you look your best ;).
What wardrobe is best?
Neutrals rule. Unless you have a unique brand identity which incorporates bold or stylized patterns and colors, avoid them. Favor simple, elegant, carefree clothing with minimal patterns and soft colors — and especially neutrals (grays, beiges, silvers, whites and darks) and layers that can add interest and texture without distracting from YOU.
For an additional cost, I can arrange for a professional stylist to either work with your own wardrobe, or procure new clothing options for you. The right wardrobe can add incredible value to the shoot.
Any other tips for a great shoot?
Drink plenty of water the day before and day of the shoot.
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption the evening prior to your shoot.
Get a good sleep the night prior and, ideally 2 nights prior to the shoot.
Meditate or engage in a calming practice a few times the day before and morning of your shoot. Include affirming mantras of your innate beauty and worth, and think about serving your clients at the highest level.
Give thought to the shots you might want for all of your possible needs — from website to events to sales pages and social media — and write them down. We may not get to them all, but at least we’ll have a shotlist to discuss and prioritize.
Gather tearsheets from magazines, websites or other sources of images that inspire you.
Clear your calendar completely for your shoot day. You want to have minimal distractions. If you’d like having a friend join you for moral support, to tend to your or your home’s needs, or to bring out your best energy, by all means, include him/her.
Relax — and trust. Mostly, have fun!
What if I need to cancel or postpone my shoot date?
After the shoot date has been confirmed, your deposits are 100% non-refundable. However, if you need to change your shoot date, your deposits can be fully applied toward a new date.
What if it rains on our shoot date and we are shooting at an outside location?
Together, we will follow the weather patterns. If inclement weather is likely to impact the shoot or if another ‘Act of God’ event arises, I will work with you to reschedule without penalty.
What about hair and makeup?
I will arrange for an experienced, professional hair/makeup artist to be on set (or if you have a fave, that’s fine, too!). I want you to look your natural best — nothing heavy or overly styled, but rather fresh, radiant and relaxed. We’ll discuss your ‘look’ with consideration of your brand, wardrobe, desires, etc.
Tip: Bring tearsheets that you like from magazines, catalogs, etc. that can serve as inspiration and direction for the artist.
What is the best location and how can I figure that out?
Your location choice is very important — both for the creative alignment with your brand, and also for allowing variety for your image library. It’s really about two things: Supporting your brand messaging and practical logistics. Choosing a location is one of the most important details we will discuss during your initial free consultation.
While I recommend shooting outside in natural light for at least some of the images (parks, gardens, city streets, woods and beaches are wonderful), interiors can also be important. The obvious choice is to consider what you have at your disposal — your home or office, a friend’s home, and public outdoor spaces near you. You may also want to consider a civic building in your area, such as a library, or a public garden or arboretum that will allow photographs. Often even a hotel will permit photos being taken with discretion.
Alternatively, for a rental fee, you can find incredible locations on Airbnb, VRBO, and Peerspace (this one is especially great for more creative spaces — modern, vintage, funky, lofts, etc.). Or, you may decide that a studio is the right environment for some — or all — of the shoot. Again, I can help you with this important decision.
I’ll also travel to wherever your heart desires. The boulevards of Paris, the vineyards of Tuscany or the beaches of Malibu? Let’s go!
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