FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Use the dropdown menu below to get answers to all my frequently asked questions.
all sessions
What is your cancellation policy?
My cancellation policy varies depending on what session you book. I am more strict with mini sessions. If you cancel a mini session, you will only receive a full refund if I am able to find another client to book your time slot. If I am unable to rebook your spot, you will receive a partial refund only, and I keep the rest to offset the lost business.
With custom sessions, if you need to reschedule for any reason (including illness), your rescheduled session must take place within two weeks of your original date. If you do not rebook within a two-week time frame, I will keep your retainer to offset the lost business. Sometimes weather and availability make rescheduling challenging, so I always try to be as accommodating as possible for clients who book a custom session.
What time of day has the best lighting?
One hour before sunset offers the most flattering light. This is known as "golden hour". However, that is contingent upon the weather forecast! If it's overcast, any time of day is fine.
That said, I have experience working in all types of lighting environments, so I'd strongly encourage you to schedule your session when it's most convenient for you versus basing it around lighting (which can be unpredictable).
Where should we do our photos?
Check out my blog for a list of locations in Cincinnati. During the booking process, I will make suggestions for where to meet based on your ideas and feedback, but we are not limited to my recommendations. If you have a really creative idea, or a place not on my list, I'm game.
What happens if it's going to rain?
If it’s going to rain during your session, we will reschedule. I always watch the hourly forecast and will encourage you to wait until the last possible minute to make this decision with me as the weather in Cincinnati is horribly unpredictable.
What should we wear?
Head over to my blog for my best wardrobe advice. Your portraits should ultimately reflect your personal style so always take my advice with a grain of salt. Personally, I like to dress up a bit, but it depends on the location and the vibe I want. I will help you figure all of this out when we're planning your session.
Do you retouch our photos?
Yes. I utilize the very best editing technology as well as 10 years of experience to remove temporary blemishes like pimples, scratches, uneven skin tones, drool, and bruises, but I will not distort your physical appearance in any way or alter clothing. If you have any requests, please let me know in advance.
Things to consider: Try to choose clothes that do not wrinkle easily. If you have a pet that sheds, use a lint roller before your session or choose a shirt color that will hide the hair. Use hair clips, headbands, or hair product to keep flyaways out of your eyes. Remove chipped nail polish, faded temporary tattoos, etc.
Wear clothing that you feel is flattering on your body type and that you feel good in. It's more important to feel confident in the moment than to rely on editing.
When will our photos be ready?
Galleries will be sent via email within 2 weeks of your session unless otherwise noted. You can expect a longer wait time in October and November as those are my busiest months.
What payment methods do you accept?
I accept debit and credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, cash, or check.
For corporate clients, if I need to submit any paperwork or info to be set up as a vendor for payment, I'm happy to do so.
Do you offer albums or prints?
I do! All of my online galleries are linked with my favorite print lab, Mpix. I offer a limited selection of print products for your convenience. Ordering prints or albums through me is completely optional but always appreciated!
Are you willing to travel?
ALWAYS! I'm reasonable when it comes to travel fees, so reach out if you're curious.
FAMILY & newborn sessions
Do you photograph special occasions like first birthday parties, baptisms, or adoptions?
Yes!
I charge $150 for complete coverage of adoption proceedings in Hamilton County or NKY.
For all other special occasions, please email me with additional details so I can provide a custom price for your event coverage.
Are pets welcome?
Generally, yes! Some locations do not allow animals, but if pets are allowed at our location, you are welcome to bring them. Or, if I'm coming to your house, you're welcome to bring them into some of your photos if you want. Just keep in mind: If your pet does not cooperate easily, that may limit the number of photos I am able to get during your session. Please keep them on a leash (if we're out in public) and bring doggy bags for waste.
Do I need to clean my house for an in-home session?
That is truly up to you. I personally do not mind working around a mess. If anything is in our way, I will just scoot it out of frame. That said, if you really love your house and want to feature certain rooms, or if you've put a lot of love into decorating a nursery, it might be nice to do a quick tidy. Totally up to you.
COUPLES
Why should we hire you as our wedding photographer?
I have a lot of experience working as portrait photographer, but I'm also a hopeless romantic. So I LOVE weddings, and I'm always willing to go above and beyond to make sure your day feels special and effortless.
Practically speaking, I've worked with dozens of large family groups over the years so I know how to heard a bunch of cats. And if you can't tell from my website already, I pride myself on being detailed, transparent, helpful, and organized.
I know from experience that weddings can get super expensive super fast. I offer wedding photography by the hour so that more couples can fit professional photography into their budget. Be sure to check out my portfolio for examples of my work.
Do you photograph proposals or elopements?
Yes! Getting to capture these incredibly sacred, intimate moments for you is a dream come true. The best way to figure out if I would be a good fit for your special day is to shoot me a quick email to first check my availability. From there, we'll jump on a call (or Zoom) to discuss your vision, and I'll give you a custom price based on your needs.
How can we learn more about booking you for our wedding?
Send me an email, and we'll schedule a (free) consultation via Google Meet or Zoom (or by phone) to discuss your wedding day in detail. I find this to be the easiest way for you to learn more because there's a lot to cover, and I want to be able to thoroughly answer any questions that come up on the spot.
SENIORS & PROFESSIONALS
Do you allow outfit changes?
I do usually allow 1-2 outfit changes. Let me know if you need help picking out outfits.
Can we rent a studio?
Cincinnati has several studios that I can rent by the hour. If you want to have your session in a studio, you will be required to pay the studio fee upfront along with your retainer. Most studio fees are $60-$80, and they're nonrefundable. Let me know if you're interested in a studio session, and I'll send you more info.
Where do you take headshots?
Headshot sessions can be done at your workplace, a local library, a park, your house, or even my house. Or, for an additional fee, we can rent a studio.
I do have a few portable backdrops (white, black, and beige) and softbox lighting if we need it.
