portsbyjay

Serves Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

35244

Hired 27 times

2 employees

6 years in business

$200

5.0

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

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Credentials

Background Check

Jason Leung
Completed on 1/20/2025

Introduction

Hi, my name is Jay and I have been a photographer/videographer for the better half of two decades. I started HYLO Events (wedding, engagement, party photography) in 2013, and portsbyjay as my boudoir brand back in 2019; and have also worked closely with some of the top studios in weddings, and established brands in the automotive industry. My passion is creating artistic visuals primarily using natural light, but have extensive knowledge with off camera flash. I primarily shoot with the Sony ecosystem, and currently am using the A7RIII for photos, and the A7SIII for video. I do all the editing and retouching myself (disclaimer: I am not a master retoucher), which gives me a more expansive view on what could be improved on during the photoshoot phase. My prices are competitive without sacrificing quality. I do have a bit of a type-A personality, so I pay particular attention to the details, especially for weddings! I compose myself with a fun, yet professional manner at all times (doesn't matter the circumstances). Working boudoir and weddings for numerous years has really taught me about professionalism and a committed work ethic.

Q&A

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

My pricing is based on the industry hourly rate for a seasoned lead photographer, depending on the level of difficulty of the service. Weddings are much more expensive than headshots due to the strict timeline, the expectations, the communication to lead the schedule of the day, the level of experience, etc.

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

I love to learn about my clients first and foremost. I have no problems directing those in front of my camera based on their mood board, but I also want their personalities to shine as well. Throughout the photoshoot I’ll pivot my methods as I learn what the client likes and dislikes. Getting photos taken of yourself is a very subjective experience, and every client is different. So my main goal is to make the experience a fun and memorable one!

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

I held a position as manager, director, and post production manager for an online educational platform that taught basic and advanced techniques for photography and videography. I’ve also held the position of director of photography, camera operator, and lead editor for some commercial projects as well

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I started learning photography with a disposable camera, remember those?!? I gradually upgraded my equipment to a dslr. Through the years as technology advanced I started to learn how to film video with my dslr. And for the past couple decades I have been learning and improving with each job. What sparked my affinity with photography was being able to capture moments at certain angles or compositions that the normal eye would’ve never seen. I also love playing with light and color, which really impacts the post production phase!

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

Thoroughly looking through someone’s portfolio is pivotal, but getting a sense of the photographer in person is even more important (especially for weddings and boudoir). Wedding days are typically long, and being able to have a stress free and fun time with your photographer keeping the momentum of the schedule is super important. For boudoir, being able to feel comfortable, have fun, and instill trust in your photographer should be uncompromising.

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

What was your most difficult experience, and how did you work through it? What inspires you? What styles of photography do you prefer/offer? Why should I choose you?