Frequently Asked Questions
What types of portraits do you take?
Anything and everything! Infants, expectant mothers, children, families, high school seniors, pets, engaged couples, brides, prom couples – you name the type of portrait, and I will photograph it. Note that I prefer to shoot outdoors to utilize natural light, but indoor photo sessions are also feasible.
What types of events do you photograph?
Most everything! While I do not photograph weddings, I do shoot rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, reunions, or any other event you may be hosting.
Do you have a studio?
No. fotogenic specializes in on-location lifestyle photography, so there is no studio. However, on-location lifestyle photography provides you with the opportunity to customize your photo session so that, together, we can create an atmosphere that makes you feel the most comfortable. The more comfortable you feel, then the better your photos will be! My goal is to showcase the real you, and on-location lifestyle photography is a great tool to accomplish that goal.
How do I decide on a location for our portrait session?
Pick a location that is special to you or your family – someplace memorable. It could be Maymont Park, the James River, Monument Avenue, Shockoe Slip, or your backyard – the list is endless. If the location is an area that you like or that has special meaning, then you will feel more relaxed, which makes for a better portrait session. Also, picking an outdoor location allows us to take advantage of beautiful natural light. If you're stumped on an appropriate location, I'd be happy to make recommendations.
What time of day should we schedule our outdoor portrait session?
Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to schedule, although I prefer the afternoon, as I'm not a huge morning person!
How should I dress for the portrait session?
Dress comfortably. As far as the colors you should wear, portraits often look best when everyone in the portrait coordinates outfits. Everyone does not have to wear the same color, but colors should be complimentary. Try to avoid wearing T-shirts, sweatshirts, or anything with a logo, and also try to avoid ripped clothing. I aim for a timeless, classic look in my portraits, so this is why I advise against such apparel. However, if you feel that a sweatshirt with your college's name or ripped jeans is an accurate reflection of your personality, then feel free to wear such an item.
What should I expect from our portrait session?
Lots of fun! I try to keep our portrait sessions as relaxed as possible so that I can capture your true personality. Basically, we will meet at the portrait location, and I will direct you, as needed, to obtain flattering shots. I usually have a list a certain poses that I like to photograph, but if you have any ideas or preferences, I am highly flexible and welcome your feedback. If I will be photographing children or pets, I highly recommend that you bring toys, food, and any other item that they will find comforting, as attention spans tend to be short.
How do I view my proofs, and how soon can I see them?
Proofs are provided in a private, password-protected on-line viewing gallery within one to two weeks after your session. You can take as long as you want to browse your proofs and decide on the photos that you would like to purchase, as I do not delete client viewing galleries. You can also forward a link to the gallery to your friends and family, in case they are interested in viewing the proofs and purchasing prints or other photographic products.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Gift certificates are available in any denomination and make a fabulous gift idea for friends and family.
What's the rationale behind your pricing structure?
fotogenic offers custom photography, which, for a number of reasons, inevitably costs more than chain stores that offer cheap portraits. What is custom photography? Custom photography focuses on quality and service. Custom photography offers you more choices, as you can choose whether to pose formally or casually, and you have the opportunity to choose the mood and style of the portrait session. Also, there are no lines or crowds with custom photography. So, why does it cost more? You are paying for my time and talent, and I will be fully dedicated to our one-on-one session. I spend an average of eight to ten hours on each client’s photo session – from pre-session consultations to the editing of your photographs. Also, I spend money on state-of-the-art camera equipment and lenses. All of these factors contribute to the higher cost of custom photography. Despite the higher cost, I believe you will find that custom photography provides you with higher value than chain store portrait studios.
When do I need to pay, and what forms of payment do you accept?
You may pay any time before the session, including right when we start the session. fotogenic accepts cash, personal checks, and payment through PayPal (credit card, bank account transfers, or PayPal account transfers). To make a payment via PayPal, please visit the Pricing & Payment page and click on the "Pay Now" button. Easy instructions for making a PayPal payment are on the Pricing & Payment page.
Do I have to sign a contract?
Yes. I require all clients to sign a contract. The contract outlines items such as price, number of included images, your license to use the photos, and other legal terms. I will email you a sample contract before the session, which I recommend that you review and consult with your own attorney if you have any questions.
Who owns the copyright to the photos? What kind of license do I have to use the photos?
fotogenic owns and retains all copyright to the photos, which means I can use the photos for any purpose whatsoever, such as marketing or posting to fotogenic’s website. You receive a personal use license, which means you can use the photos for any type of personal use, such as posting to Facebook, displaying in your home, or sharing with your friends. A detailed description of your personal use license is available upon request and is provided to you upon the purchase of your photos. You do not receive a commercial use license, meaning you cannot sell the photos or otherwise profit from them. If you desire to have such a license, then please contact me, so that we can negotiate a higher fee for the license.
