FAQs

What types of photography do you do?

We specialize in headshots and modeling portfolios for actors, models and creative professionals of all ages as well as high school seniors. Though we don’t advertise it on my website, we also do family, event and corporate headshots and branding imagery by request.

How much are your sessions?

Headshot sessions start at $350. Portfolio sessions start at $330. You can find out more information here.

How far in advance do I need to book a session?

A good rule of thumb is to book 2-4 weeks in advance. However, we’re always willing to squeeze you in when we can.

How do I book a session?

Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you right away. We like to talk with people on the phone. Old fashioned, we know, but it gives us both a chance to see if the vibe is right. We can also connect via text or email, if it’s more convenient.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, we require a 50% non-refundable deposit to book your session.

Do you charge a fee for credit card payments or offer discounts for cash?

No.

Do you offer payment plans?

We offer subscriptions to clients who want to book multiple sessions over the course of the year. We don’t offer payment plans for individual sessions.

Will you work within my budget?

We will always do my best to find the package that fits your budget and suits your needs.

Do you have a studio?

Yes, we have a full studio on 11 acres in Vancouver where we shoot year round. We also shoot on location when the weather is nice.

Do I have input on location?

Of course. When we book your session we’ll figure out where the best place will be to shoot your session.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If we determine the weather will prevent us from achieving our creative goals, we’ll either move to my studio or reschedule at no charge.

Do you charge travel fees?

For standard sessions within the Portland/Vancouver area we don’t charge travel fees. For corporate sessions or large events that require some more travel or carrying extra equipment, we may build a small travel fee into your package.

What happens if I need to reschedule my session?

We offer one complimentary reschedule per session, provided you give us three days notice. If you need to reschedule after the three day deadline, you’ll forfeit your deposit and we’ll start again.

Do you offer hair and makeup service?

We work with several great hair and makeup artists. When we book your session we’ll discuss your needs and find the HMUA who works best for you.

How early should I arrive for my session?

It’s a good idea to arrive 15 minutes before your session.

Should I prepare a shot list?

Sure. Having a list of shots you’d like to achieve during a session is a helpful collaborative tool that will help us book the right session for you.

Will I get to see a sneak peek of my images before they’re done?

If you follow our Instagram you may sometimes see a sneak peek or two from your session.

Do you have insurance?

Yes, I’m fully insured by AIX through the Professional Photographers of America.

Are you vaccinated for COVID?

Yes, we get an updated COVID vaccine every year.

What kind of equipment do you use?

We use Sony cameras and Sigma lenses exclusively. Specifically, we use the Sony A7RIII camera and Sigma 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 105mm and 70-200mm lenses. 

Do you use natural light or studio light?

Both, depending on the situation and what what we want to accomplish creatively.

Do you ever use film cameras?

We still own two of our original film cameras — a Nikon 8008 and a Pentax K1000 — and we’re not afraid to use them!

What is the process for shooting and delivering my images?

All digital images are shot in RAW format, as that gives us the most information to work with in post production. Depending on the session, we may shoot anywhere from 500 - 5000 images. From there, we delete all but the best 5-10% of them. They are then uploaded to a proofing gallery where you’ll pick the images you want retouched. Once the images are retouched, we deliver them as high resolution JPGs.

How long does it take to get my images once the session is done?

Typically 10-14 days to get proofs and another 10-14 days once you’ve made your selections. We offer rush service is you need them quicker.

Can I buy RAW images or proofs?

RAW images and proofs are not available for purchase.

What are my usage and ownership rights of my images?

We retain ownership and full copyright on all our images. You are licensed to use them within certain parameters (typically professional or personal) for an agreed upon period of time. When you work with us, you automatically agree to a standard photo release (listed in our terms and conditions) that allows us to use the pictures for artistic and marketing purposes.

What if I lose my images?

We’ve archived most of the images we’ve taken over the years but that doesn’t mean they’re readily available or we can guarantee redelivery. So, in short: back up your images!

Do you watermark your images?

We watermark proofs because they aren’t finished and approved for release/publication. We don’t watermark the final images.

Do you require me to tag you on social media?

Tags and hashtags are always appreciated when you post but they’re not required.

What’s the difference between editing and retouching?

A lot of people use the words “editing” and “retouching” interchangeably. For us, “editing” is the process of narrowing down your images and making basic corrections so you can view them. “Retouching” is the magical post production process where we add the secret sauce that makes our work unique.

How long have you been a photographer?

I got my first job as a newspaper photojournalist in 1992. For the past 16 years, I’ve been a full time headshot and portfolio photographer.

How did you get interested in photography?

My father was in the advertising business so photography was part of my life from day one. I’m a true fan of photography and am grateful that I can do it as my full time job.

How did you learn photography?

I took one graduate level course in photography many years ago but, other than that, I’ve learned everything from studying the masters (and making a lot of mistakes long the way).

How do your define your style?

Rich, colorful, connected, classic, human.

Are there photographers who’ve had a particularly strong influence on your work?

The list of photographers who’ve influenced my approach is never-ending: the unknown and uncredited advertising photographers of the 60s and 70s, the great masters, new photographers I find on Instagram all contribute to what comes out of my camera.

If I had to pick some favorites I’d point to famous people like Peter Lindbergh, Annie Leibovitz and Richard Avedon, lesser known commercial photographers like F.C. Gundlach and William Helburn and the “artistic” imagery of Erwin Olaf and Nadav Kander.

Do you teach? Can I pick your brain about taking pictures?

Like most photographers, I love to talk shop and am always happy to help people learn (as many people helped me.) If you want more formal lessons about specific techniques, then we can talk about putting together a curriculum.

Need more information? Shoot me an email and we’ll talk!