See my process


Whether it's your first or tenth time taking professional photos, it helps to know the process of the photographer you'll be working with. On this page you'll find a step-by-step walkthrough of how a typical portrait session works. You can also read through the FAQ to get a better understanding of what to expect.


How does this work?

01.


Fill out the form


Whenever you’re ready, just fill out the contact form. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible so we can discuss the details of your session!

02.


Connect


We'll continue talking and solidify the details. This is your chance to ask any questions or let me know if you have any specific ideas. Keep in mind most sessions require a 25% retainer fee. I'll send a prep guide with helpful info before your session.

03.


The day of


On the day of the session, I'll contact you to confirm meeting details. We’ll walk around the location to find different backgrounds and I'll make sure to get a variety of shot types and poses so you have plenty to choose from.

04.


Gallery delivery


After we're done, I'll take 1-3 days to narrow down your photos. Then, I'll share a gallery of proofs for you to select your favorites. Let me know when you're done selecting and I'll get the finished photos back to you within 10 days! Remaining payment is due after you receive the final gallery.

FAQ

This is my first time and I’m nervous.

If you're not sure what to expect, don't worry! I'll send a prep guide before your session with plenty of helpful information and tips, including advice on what to wear. During your session, I'll guide your posing to feel natural and flattering.

What should I wear?

Wear whatever you're comfortable with, but keep the location in mind. During cooler weather, bring a jacket/blanket/gloves you can take on and off between photos (or even better, incorporate the layers into your outfit). If you plan on a location that requires a bit of a walk, it may help to bring some extra closed-toed shoes. Solid earth tones and creamy colors are always a safe bet!

How will I get my pictures?

After the session, I'll narrow down the photos I took to make it less overwhelming. This will be anywhere from 50-250 photos. I'll send those unedited photos to you in a gallery where I can view which ones you "like". Just let me know when you're done selecting your favorites (within the amount specified in your package) and I'll edit them within 10 days. You'll receive an email from me when your photos are done with a link to the gallery and a download pin. Those edited photos are yours to use for whatever you'd like! You can view sample galleries in the "client galleries" tab.

Are you available outside of Flagstaff/Arizona?

I am willing to travel throughout Arizona, but sessions outside of Flagstaff will likely incur an additional fee to cover travel expenses. I generally do not accept portrait bookings outside of Arizona, but may take on weddings in neighboring states.

Can I keep the unedited photos?

The proofs you see in your selection gallery are watermarked and not available to download. They are my sole property and screenshotting or sharing these photos to social media are not permitted as they are not included in your package and do not accurately reflect my work. RAW files may be available to purchase at an additional price.

Do I have to pick the location?

If you have a location in mind, I'm happy to check it out! If you have no idea where you want to take your photos, I have plenty of experience and can recommend spots all over Arizona to fit whatever vibe you're going for.

Can I bring a friend?

You are more than welcome to bring a friend or parent along to keep you company, hold your accessories, fix your hair, or whatever else you need them for. I'm happy to snap a few pictures with both of you, but if you're hoping to turn your solo session into a group shoot, you will have to pay group pricing.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are more than welcome to join, but bring them at your own discretion. If you think they could distract from the session, it might be best to leave them at home. You can also bring a friend to watch your pet while we get some solo pictures.

The photos are all so good and I can't narrow down my choices!

If you selected a package before the session but want more photos than the amount specified in the package, you do have the option to pay an additional $3.50 per photo.

Will you edit my face/body?

My edits are primarily with light and color, and I will never alter your body without permission. If you're looking through the unedited gallery and notice something you want me to fix (acne, flyaways, smudged makeup, etc.) just let me know and I'll do my best to touch it up.

Will I get physical copies of my photos?

My portrait and wedding packages only include digital downloads. If you'd like physical prints, I can link your gallery to a professional printing lab where you can directly order your favorite photos to get shipped to your home.

I can also provide a USB flash drive of your photos for a $10 fee.

How does payment work?

I require a 25% retainer fee upfront to secure your booking, with the remaining 75% due 7 days after you receive the finished gallery. I'll send a digital invoice where you can pay with your credit/debit card, but I can accept other payment methods upon request. Tips are always welcome but never expected!

What is a retainer fee?

Most sessions will require a 25% retainer fee. This counts as a deposit toward your total payment and ensures that the date/time will be reserved for you. If you fail to pay the fee, you risk the date being taken by someone else. The fee is nonrefundable, but can sometimes be credited toward a different date.

What if I have to cancel or reschedule?

If your session required a retainer fee, it may not be refunded. If you have already paid in full, the remaining amount will be refunded. Rescheduling may require a new retainer fee to reserve that date.

What if there is poor weather on the day of my session?

I value your safety and comfort, and I'm usually happy to reschedule for a clearer day without requiring a new retainer fee. You can read more about my weather policy in the contract you sign before booking the session.

What if I forget to pay?

You'll receive an email reminder on your due date, and again 3 days after. Once that grace period has passed, your invoice may incur a late fee. Please see your contract for specific details.

Will my photos be shared or posted?

As a photographer, I own all photos that I capture and I often share them to find more clients. Unless you request otherwise, there is a possibility that your photos may end up on my website, social media, or other marketing materials. I value privacy and will take all requests into serious consideration.

If you're hoping to see your photos show up on my instagram, please keep in mind that I deliver dozens of galleries in my busy months. To avoid overwhelming my followers, I only post a few times each month. I promise it's not personal if I don't post your gallery!

Do I have to choose one of the pre-designed photography packages?

I am always happy to work around any budget or needs. If one of my packages isn't quite what you're looking for, reach out to me and we can design a custom package that fits exactly what you need!

I'm worried about working with a male photographer.

That's completely understandable! As a queer photographer, I work with people of all identities/backgrounds and I'll do my best to make sure you feel comfortable throughout your session. I'll never make you do a pose or location that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. In the event that any photos are too revealing (like the wind blowing a skirt up), I delete them immediately. I also delete any extra raw files after sending the finished gallery, so the only photos I keep are the same ones you see.

Do you use AI in your work?

Photography is all about capturing human moments, and I believe that's something that can only be done by a human.

After a session, I manually sort through the hundreds (or thousands) of photos I took to narrow down the best options. All of my primary light and color edits are done entirely by hand, tailored to fit the lighting conditions and environment of your specific session. I never use presets, filters, or AI editing software.

When it is not possible to remove background distractions or complete Photoshop requests with the typical manual methods, I may use generative AI as a last resort. In the rare event that I need to use this approach, I examine the finished result carefully to ensure that it remains completely authentic to the original intention of the photo.

Your photos are never kept in AI databases or used to train AI models.

Do you send other photographers in your place?

If you book with me, I'll always be the one taking your photos. If I get sick or have an emergency on a day that can't be rescheduled, like a wedding, I'm connected with a web of photographers all over Arizona and will make sure to find a replacement. I'll keep you updated throughout the entire process so you're never blindsided.