What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I have solutions for almost any budget. Many quotes go out automatically based on matching search criteria. Because of this some quotes are subject to change based on your exact needs and any potential variables related to the job. Likewise, discounts and other special considerations may also be applicable.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Photography is personal. We should get to know each other a little bit first. I like to meet in person whenever possible, but a phone call, FaceTime or Skype conversation can be just as good. The more at ease we are with each other the better. This is also your chance to express to me what you're hoping to get out of the shoot in terms of location(s), mood, style etc. and to learn more about how I work.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In college I majored in Communication with an emphasis on Media Studies and Rhetoric and a minor in Art. The subject of photography permeated all areas of my studies from the technical basics to its persuasiveness and rhetorical use in various media campaigns ranging from story-telling to advertising to government propaganda. I started out on film and quickly developed (pun slightly intended) an appreciation for photography as an art-form. I’d spend hours in the darkroom, creating moody artsy black and white prints for exhibition. I was also a part of our school's first ever digital photography class (Yes...I am that old, haha!) Today I still subscribe to newsletters and take online courses covering all sorts of topics from lighting, posing, and editing to how to travel more efficiently while lugging around a bunch of gear.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I'd have to say it was my love for exploring the outdoors, and skiing and snowboarding in particular that fostered my love for photography. Growing up in New England I was always the one with a disposable camera in my pocket on ski trips. As a kid I was glued to lifestyle and outdoor adventure magazines with all of their wonderful imagery of dreamy far-off places. I then went on to study photography and video production in college on the cusp of the digital revolution. I started my studies on film and in a darkroom and then moved on to digital. Fast forward a bunch of years and I’m selling my landscapes out of restaurants as fine art prints. This got me some notice and publication in the construction and infrastructure industries. After that the shift to doing portraits and lifestyle work just felt like a natural evolution that I like to think is well informed by those early days of artistic exploration.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Commercially I've created art and marketing content for ski resorts, restaurants, designers, engineering and construction companies, non-profits, and various small business owners.
When it comes to portrait sessions I like to work with adventurous couples, families, pets, musicians, athletes, and professionals.
I am also available for small weddings, parties, corporate outings, and sporting events.
Ask me about my my social media special!
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I was found here, on Thumbtack, by BeTheMatch.org. They hired me from a pool of roughly twenty photographers to do portraits of a bone-marrow transplant recipient and his wife for an up-coming coffee-table book profiling cancer survivors and their care-takers.
This was probably the most meaningful body of work I've ever contributed to. The purpose of the book is to share the stories of people who have endured and beaten the odds with other people currently in the program.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Skills and mastery are important, but good chemistry can take your photos to the next level. Take a little time to find a photographer you feel comfortable enough to be your authentic self with. Ask them why they do what they do, get to know them a little, and likewise, be prepared to let them get to know you too. A good rapport, honest communication, and/or some witty banter often leads to classic timeless images.
Also- photography is a subjective art. Understand that you are hiring an artist who has (hopefully) worked very hard at understanding and mastering their craft. Express your wishes and concerns, ask questions, but then if you decide they are a good fit, let go, enjoy yourself, and trust them to do what they do.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
How many images are you hoping to get out of it?
What is the intended output of the photos? Web-use, portraits, large print, publication etc?
How many locations/looks would your ideal shoot involve?
Do you have a specific location or would you like some suggestions?
What style of imagery interests you? Modern, sharp and vivid with high contrast? Or perhaps more of a rustic film look with a bit of mystery?
If your shoot is outdoors are you prepared for weather? (I am and honestly, I love what weather can do to enhance photos.)
Does your shoot require special lighting?
How would you prefer your images be delivered? Online downloadable gallery, CD, flash drive, prints?
