Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge and what's included in a portrait package?
For information regarding pricing and details, click on the investment part of the website. Also, feel free to email or message if you need any clarifications.
Do you weddings, events or boudoir?
Maybe. I know that isn’t much of an answer, but message me with your inquiry. I’m really excited by new ideas and possibilities. I’ve done many events and weddings (many years ago). As for boudoir, anytime. I treat it like a full session.
What should I wear?
At some point I’ll make a style guide for this question! Here’s the quick version (or you can look on Pinterest). Avoid lots of black or white – both can become “blobs” of space in your pictures. Consider a color palette of mix and match on each person, with subtle patterns/textures too. Avoid logo wear – do you really want to remember the Nike swoosh? Be comfortable and keep our location in mind. Are heels a good idea at the park?
Many clients snap a few pictures and send me what they are considering. I am happy to provide feedback in advance.
Should I hire a make-up artist and have my hair professionally done?
This is up to you. I can recommend a make-up artist if you’d like. Bottom line, some clients do, many don’t. I would encourage you to dress and do make-up that is consistent with who you are. For example, make-up artists are great at doing “natural” make-up. I’d avoid new hair styles and new make-up colors for picture day. Be yourself!
Will you tell us how to pose?
Yes and no. For some sessions, particularly studio work, definitely yes. For full family sessions, yes and no. I’ll give general guidance and arrange where you may sit, stand or play with your children. I’ll ask you to look at me or move around as I work to capture both natural and posed shots. For Fresh 48 and Newborn Lifestyle, I do virtually no posing at all. I am not a full-fledged lifestyle or documentary photography, but do include elements of this type of work in many of my sessions.
What time of day do you schedule sessions?
Sessions are scheduled during morning and evening hours, usually within 90 minutes of sunrise/sunset.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes! As long as your session location allows animals, I would love to include your furry family member into your session. There is no extra fee for this.
Do you provide props?
Yes and No. For seasonal box sessions I do offer a whole series of fun props. For cake smashes and newborn studio sessions I work with families on what props they would like or plan to bring. For family sessions, I do not use props. If you have prop questions, please inquire. I love to be creative and incorporate your ideas into our session time.
Q: What locations do you recommend?
There are many factors that go into this decision, starting with your preferences. Do you want a park? Historic town? Castle or palace? An amazing playground? If you are unsure, I can share options and speak to advantages/disadvantages of each. In Germany, we have many beautiful options.
Q: What about rain?
It rains in Germany. A lot. If weather does not permit our session, it gets rescheduled. In all the years I’ve been doing this, I had ONE family last year that was unable to get a full session in because of THREE reschedules. It was crazy! In the end, we did a box session and a mini playground session (this picture is the cover image on the home page of this website). We make it work! And, I love umbrella pictures.
Q: I’m worried about my young child’s inability to sit still or smile for pictures. What can I do? What do you do in this situation?
I’m a “master” at toddlers during full family sessions. Trust me. Let me provide direction to your child. He or she will have the opportunity to play and have fun. And I’ll get the pictures you want. I have a plan…!
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
I take cash, check, PayPal and credit card. A 50% non-refundable retainer is due at the time of booking for most sessions. This guarantees your date on my calendar. The remainder is due one week prior to your session. Mini sessions fees are due 100% at the time of booking.