What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to make the process as seamless as possible! First, I connect with my clients—whether it’s a dance studio owner planning recital portraits, a couple looking for wedding photography, or a family needing portraits. We discuss their vision, location, and must-have shots. I provide clear details about my process, including timelines, styling tips, and what to expect on the day of the session. After the shoot, clients receive a beautifully curated gallery with options for prints, albums, and digital downloads.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
With years of experience in professional photography, I specialize in movement-based portraits, including dance and wedding photography. My background in dance gives me a unique edge—I understand how to capture dynamic movement, perfect form, and genuine emotion in performance photography. I stay up-to-date on industry trends and invest in high-quality gear to ensure every image is crisp, well-lit, and full of life.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Photography has always been a passion of mine, but combining it with my love for dance and storytelling is what truly inspires me. I started by capturing performances and headshots for dancers, and as my business grew, I expanded into wedding photography, focusing on authentic, emotion-filled moments. Now, I get to document everything from the grace of a dancer’s leap to the joy of a couple’s first dance, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I’ve worked with a variety of clients, including dance studios, professional dancers, competition teams, engaged couples, and families. Whether it's an intimate wedding, a large-scale dance recital, or a personal branding session, I make sure my clients feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
One of my favorite recent projects was a one-on-one creative session with a dancer who had just moved to Chicago. She wanted something different from traditional dance portraits—something that blended high fashion with movement for a bold, editorial feel. We played with lighting, dramatic angles, and unique styling to create a series of images that felt straight out of a magazine. The session lasted about two hours, and it was one of those shoots that truly sparked my creativity. Watching her confidence grow throughout the shoot and seeing her artistry shine in such a dynamic way made it an unforgettable experience.
I also recently did an engagement shoot for a couple who met through dance. We incorporated movement into their session—spins, dips, and lifts—creating a gallery that felt natural and dynamic. The shoot took about two hours, and the images perfectly captured their love story.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Look for someone whose style aligns with your vision! For dance photography, you’ll want a photographer who understands movement, timing, and the best angles to highlight technique. For weddings, find someone who captures authentic emotions and the little details that make your day special. Communication is key—make sure they’re organized, responsive, and willing to work with you to bring your ideas to life.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
What is your overall vision for the session? Do you want a classic and timeless look, something bold and artistic, or a documentary-style approach?
For dance photography: Will the session take place in-studio, on location, or on stage? Do you prefer dramatic lighting for a fine art look or bright, even lighting for clear details?
For weddings: Do you want a second photographer for extra coverage? What’s your preference for posed vs. candid moments? Are there any family dynamics to consider in group shots?
What final products are important to you? Do you want a full gallery of digital downloads, an heirloom album, or framed prints for your home?
What’s your comfort level in front of the camera? If posing feels intimidating, I’ll guide you through it to make the experience stress-free and fun.
Do you need any retouching or special editing? For dance photography, I can enhance motion shots to highlight clean lines and extensions. For weddings, I make sure every image is polished while still looking natural.
What’s your timeline for receiving the final images? Are you working with a specific deadline (e.g., studio showcase, wedding thank-you cards, or a marketing launch)?