Getting your picture taken can be a scary experience. Most of us are nervous and uncomfortable posing in front of the camera. Never fear! Everything possible will be done to make your portrait session not only comfortable but a lot of fun!
Before The Shoot – Planning
For a successful time together we usually start with a casual conversation. A local coffee shop is a great place to meet and talk over your portrait session. Fox Valley coffee choices include Copper Rock Coffee, Acoca Coffee (my favorite), Atlas Coffee Mill and Shellattes in Neenah.
We can get to know one another, talk about the style for the session, locations and some wardrobe tips. The key takeaway is for us to plan out a session that best reflects your personality and style!
A Few Days Before…
A few days before the session is a great time to finalize your wardrobe decisions. I recommend a favorite outfit or two. Usually the best choices are to avoid too bold colors or patterns so you don’t get “lost” in the picture. Pure white and pure black clothing can be a challenge we have to plan for – make sure the background contrasts enough. If we are going to meet somewhere is it a good idea to make sure you know how to get there and how long it will take. We will also check the weather if it is an outdoor shoot. I will also contact you a few days before to confirm final details.
The Portrait Shoot
Our time together has finally arrived! We will have a lot of fun together in a relaxed and safe environment. I love to chat during our session and have been known to tell a bad joke or two. I usually bring some lighting and may need to use my light meter to get everything just right. We will try a lot of poses and move around a bit to find something comfortable for you. If you need a break – no problem! I like it when you bring a friend and I can always use some help with equipment or lighting. I will show you pictures if we are using digital and give you some tips on posing and expression. Almost always we will have some spontaneous ideas and change things up to get the best photos possible. I will also keep an eye on your energy level and we can cut things short if we need to.
Locations
Sometimes we will move to another location or change things up. I have a big truck with plenty of room and great music! Public restrooms are abundant in the Fox Valley and I know where most of them are.
After the Shoot
I will pack up and load up and if we have time maybe we can grab a coffee to relax after the shoot. I immediately back up all our pictures as soon as I get home. My backup system is kind of paranoid but it helps me to sleep at night! Within one week I will have a set of proofs posted on my website for you to review. The exception would be film as it usually takes 7-14 days for developing and scanning. You can then select your favorite pictures for careful editing and finalization. Depending on whether you want prints or just files I will deliver your shots within a week or so of your final selections.
Next Steps?
Now that we have gone through the portrait process are you ready for the next steps? You can contact me for more information or to set up a coffee time – Contact Jeff.
You can also look at my Portfolio for some ideas.
Here is my pricing page for some Portrait package information.
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions if you want more information.
FAQ
The Fox Valley offers a wonderful variety of locations for portraits. Lakes, rivers, cityscapes and woods make for great backdrops. I know a lot of cool nooks and crannies and can help you find something the be awesome!
My Pricing & Packages page covers all the bases. Portrait sessions start as low as $127.
The best option is an outfit that you love! I don’t recommend using something totally new for the shoot as it might not be comfortable on the first wearing. Usually bold colors and patterns are not the best choice. White and black can be an issue that we need to plan location around.
There is no limit to the changes – the only limit is our time together and how easy it is to change. We can usually find a suitable place for you to change but sometimes the location makes that difficult. My truck is pretty big and more than a few people have changed in the back seat – with me guarding against interlopers!
I use a professional photo labs that deliver the best quality at reasonable prices. My main compensation is the photo session and I only use a small markup on my prints. I always provide print ready files so you can use your own printing if you like.
Any time is the best time! Direct sunlight is not usually flattering and cloudy or rainy days can be wonderful. The golden hour around sunset is a great time to get dramatic portraits. I also like to take photos at night.
Of course! I recommend bringing a special friend to share the time with you. I usually put them to work holding a softbox or maybe carrying equipment.
Depending on the photo plan weather can be a challenge. If it is too cold or stormy we will reschedule. Of course, a little rain can be great fun or maybe even a snow storm! It is up to you and rescheduling is no problem.
Depending on the session a deposit may be required. I have a standard contract that will lay out expectations so we are most clear on everything. Final payment is due when I deliver your prints and/or files. While I am not responsible for some things (weather, emergency evacuations) I will do everything I can to make sure you are satisfied. I offer a full refund or re-book if I have failed in any way to deliver on our agreed session. I have never had to refund yet so we will make sure you are happy!
