FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT TYPES OF PHOTOGRAPHY DO YOU OFFER?
I offer a magazine-style studio portrait experience that promises not just stunning, timeless portraits but an unforgettable and transformative experience, culminating in a gorgeous printed magazine or album for you to treasure.
WHERE WILL MY PORTRAIT SESSION TAKE PLACE?
Your portrait session will take place at my studio, located on beautiful Bangs Lake in Wauconda, Illinois, about an hour from downtown Chicago. The studio is a dedicated space within my home that I remodeled in 2019 specifically for professional photography. Clients are welcome by appointment only.
DO YOU OFFER BOTH COLOR AND BLACK & WHITE?
I specialize exclusively in black-and-white studio photography. While I understand this aesthetic may not resonate with everyone, black-and-white portraits posses a unique beauty, a distinct film-like quality, and a classic timelessness that never goes out of style.
WILL WE PLAN THE LOOK OF THE PORTRAIT SESSION TOGETHER?
Absolutely. I will take you through a collaborative process that helps me gain a clear understanding of your preferences and the types of images you love. Together, we will shape the vision of your perfect portrait session.
WILL HAIR AND MAKEUP SERVICES BE PROVIDED?
Yes, if you choose the Complete Portrait Experience, a professional stylist will ensure you look your best, plus, the pampering experience alone is well worth it!
HOW LONG WILL MY PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE LAST?
The Complete Portrait Experience typically spans three hours including time for hair and makeup styling, while the Essential Portrait Experience lasts only one hour.
HOW MUCH DOES A PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE COST?
My portrait pricing is designed to be simple, flexible and accessible for every budget. Please visit my Pricing page to better understand the various portrait experience options and costs.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO WEAR?
We will discuss in detail the specifics of wardrobe, however, my general advice is to select outfits in which you feel comfortable, confident, and maybe even a little daring. This could range from your favorite casual t-shirt or cozy sweater, to a gorgeous gown or lingerie you've always wanted to wear. Additionally, my studio is equipped with a selection of staple wardrobe items, which will be at your disposal.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY PORTRAIT SESSION?
Upon booking your portrait experience you will receive a detailed prep guide covering everything you need to know to prepare for your session, including things to do as well as some things to avoid. Every step of your experience, from preparation to delivery of your stunning portraits, will be carefully guided and supported.
WHAT IS YOUR RETOUCHING PHILOSOPHY?
When it comes to retouching I believe less is more. Generally speaking, I subtly enhance images by removing blemishes, bruises, dry skin, and stray hairs. My retouching method is not about striving for an artificial standard of perfection. Instead, it's about celebrating you, highlighting your uniqueness, and presenting you at your absolute best. Prior to your session, we'll discuss any specific elements you'd like removed, reduced, or included in your images.
WHEN WILL I SEE MY PORTRAITS?
Before you leave the studio we will schedule a time for you to review and select your favorite images, usually a week or two after your portrait session. This can be done in-person at the studio, or via a Zoom meeting.
WHAT PRINTED PRODUCTS DO YOU OFFER?
My selection of high-quality printed products includes luxurious fine art albums, professionally printed magazines, beautiful matted prints, and a variety of elegant wall art options. Each product is designed to beautifully showcase your stunning portraits and to serve as a cherished keepsake.
CAN I PRINT MY PORTRAITS MYSELF?
While it's certainly possible to print your own portraits at a local photo lab, I don’t recommend it. Professionally printed photographs offer a significantly superior and discernible quality that truly does justice to your portraits. Despite what some may think, professional prints are quite affordable and are an investment in preserving your memories in the best possible way.
CAN I POST MY PHOTOS ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
Yes, you are absolutely encouraged to share your stunning portraits on social media platforms, and to tag me as well! I understand the joy that comes from sharing these beautiful moments with your network. However, I kindly request that you refrain from modifying the images in any way, such as using filters or cropping. This is to ensure that the integrity and aesthetic of the image is maintained and is consistent with my brand.
WILL YOU PUBLISH MY PORTRAITS ONLINE?
While I would certainly appreciate the opportunity to feature some of your photos in my portfolio or marketing materials, your privacy is of utmost importance. I will only publish your images with your express permission, and any preferences regarding which images you are comfortable sharing will be fully respected.
CAN I BRING A GUEST WITH ME TO MY PORTRAIT SESSION?
You're welcome to bring a supportive friend to your portrait session, but please don’t bring your spouse or partner. This experience is all about you, and I want to ensure you feel completely comfortable and uninhibited bringing your true self.
DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH MEN?
Yes! Black and white portraits of men look incredible, so while women are my primary market, I really enjoy photographing men when given the opportunity.