What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I have different packages for a client's goal. I can always add something they would like for their particular package. Clients get to work with me in curating what they need to celebrate special moments in their lives.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After a client shows interest in working with my studio, I ask a few questions to see what they are looking for. I want to know if my studio is the right fit for you. When you have officially confirmed that you want to use my services, I will need your number and email to start the onboarding process. Then I will email them within 1 hour giving the package details and all that is included. I will leave my contact number in the email, so you can contact me at your convenience.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have had a camera for 15 years and did it as a hobby. Taking multiple classes and workshops to sharpen my skills. Starting in 2022 I decided to take all of that experience and open my studio. Capturing memorable times for clients throughout the North East. I have now photographed over 30 proposals and 50 engagement sessions.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I always had a fascination with photography and bought my first camera when I was 17 years old. As a senior in high school, I was the president of the yearbook and lead photographer. I learned new techniques, and editing styles and followed other successful photographers so I could get better. I always wanted to be an entrepreneur, and I felt that because of my age, health, and what was going on in the world, there was no time like the present. For 5 years I had kidney failure and was on dialysis, and it was hard for me to get a full time job because of my availability. I was very blessed in October of 2022 to get a call from the doctors saying they had a kidney for me. After more than a full year of recovering, and working with over 30 clients last year, I am ready to take on 60 in 2024.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with many types of couples celebrating different stages of their relationship, anniversaries, proposals, engagements, and maternity. I have done micro weddings and elopements, I like the intimate settings for couples. The most important thing is for my clients to shape their story and I am there to capture it through photography.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
All of my projects I end up loving and remembering the highlights. The reason I wanted to be a professional photographer is the emotion it brings to people when they look at an old photo. Nostalgia immediately takes them back to that day, and that feeling of happiness.
A recent project that I was excited about was a client who wanted to propose to her girlfriend during the New York City Marathon. She planned to stop along the route and give her family hugs and kisses, as they were cheering her on. Then she dropped to one knee and asked her girlfriend of 3 years to marry her. It was so fun and awesome to help set up with her. I don't know how after that moment she was still able to complete the marathon.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
I have 2 major things you should look for when hiring a professional photographer.
The first thing a client should look at and ask is what is your particular style. My photography style is very vibrant, full of color, and looks as natural as possible. I will fix things like red eye, lighting, or things in the background that need to be removed, but I don't make drastic changes to the body.
The second is how are they going to show you in the best light, by learning all about you. They may have had hundreds of clients before, but they never worked with you. Make sure your story is told and honored.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
1. The date, time, and location? Most people would think that is obvious but depending on the location, the time of day will be affected. It may have more people around or it's really hot because it's the middle of the day and now you are sweating.
2. What is the story you want to be told? Now that affects what you are wearing, the type of photographer you are looking for, and how much time the photographer will need to make the session successful.
3. What are you wearing? Are you comfortable moving in it, and do you really like what you are wearing? Clothes reflect the mood a person is feeling which is magnified when you are in front of a camera. Also, everything that you have on, do you want them in the pictures, jewelry, and other accessories like watches?
4. (If it is an event, ex Wedding or a Birthday.) How long will the event be? It helps if the photographer gets there early so they can feel comfortable and set themselves up. If you rush them about the time, it will sometimes affect the quality of work.
