Steve Fogel Photography

Serves Santa Clara, CA

35244

Hired 98 times

1 employee

13 years in business

Not yet available

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Credit card, PayPal, and Venmo.

Next Service

Hours

Sun 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Mon 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Tues 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Wed 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Thurs 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Fri 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Sat 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Stephen Fogel
Completed on 10/30/2022

Introduction

Hello! With over 200 happy clients, I'm an award-winning, professional photographer with studios in Redwood City, CA. I use cinematic lighting for your headshots and portraits, and the results are stunning. For family portraits, I go for "lifestyle" images that express the love and joy of being a family. I offer a variety of print products for wall art for your home, and I specialize in creating beautiful wall galleries from your family photos. When working with me, you'll appreciate my easy-going personality, creative eye, attention to detail, and stellar customer service. I go above and beyond to make every client feel comfortable and confident so you’ll look your best. Here's what clients are saying: "Steve is amazing! He'll do everything he can so you can have a great experience while taking your photos." "What you'll get from working with Steve is a kind and talented photographer who'll make sure you're getting the bang for your buck." "I've been a model for 20 years and Steve is as good as it gets at his craft. You are guaranteed to get some shots you love. Outstanding equipment, communication, professionalism, eye. He tells you exactly how to pose and takes an interest in your goals and how you'll use the photos to ensure you convey confidence appropriate to your setting."

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

Base pricing for headshots and portraits includes up to three final images, delivered via download. Additional images and expert retouching are available for an additional fee.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I like to have at least a phone chat before each session so I can really understand what my client is looking for. For some engagements, I'm happy to do an in-person visit to meet with my clients, understand their needs, and plan the best possible shoot.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I am constantly studying the work and advice of the industry leaders---the ones who are super creative and at the top of their game. Through conferences, seminars, books, and online classes, I strive to always improve my lighting techniques, posing, retouching, and more. In this business you never stop learning. I've got 1000's of hours of study and training under my belt.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I purchased a professional camera so that I could shoot my daughter's dance performances in low light. As I learned more about the camera and about composition, lighting, and story-telling, I realized that I had a talent for photography, and that I should share this talent with others. So I opened my studio and have met some marvelous people along the way.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I've worked with business people, actors, models, couples, families, and expectant mothers.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

In a recent shoot of a 6-month old, the mom wanted Christmas lights behind the baby. I bought a sheet of acrylic, placed it on the floor in front of the baby, and got a nice reflection of the lights. Mom had a white sheepskin blanket surrounding the baby, and with a little Photoshop magic, I made it look like the baby was sitting on a cloud. Fun image!

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Have at least a phone chat with the photographer, and for family sessions and other larger projects, meet with the photographer in person. Don't just hire based on a few e-mails. Find a photographer that shows an interested in your goals, is easy to talk to, and seems like he will create a relaxed and fun environment for your photo shoot. Photography is fun! Even for commercial portraits and hectic weddings, a good photographer can enhance the experience. Also, see my answers to another question in this section, "What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?" Here's a tip for your next portrait: Try a "squinch." It's kind of a squint, but only with the lower eyelid. It makes you look more confident! Combine that with a subtle smile for approachability, and you've got a winning portrait.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

Here are some things to think about: what image do you want to project to viewers? The answer to that should decide your wardrobe. For example, a person person looking to inspire confidence and professionalism should wear a business suit. What's your budget? Do you need a makeup artist? Hair and makeup? How many images do you really need? If I offer you 3 final images for your headshot and another photographer offers you 10, is 10 really better than 3? Will you want prints or other print products for wall art? Hope this helps!