FAQ

How do I book a shoot with you?

Fill out the contact form! Before sending me a message, be sure to browse the website to make sure your questions haven’t already been answered. In addition to the obvious (name, email etc.) tell me a little bit about yourself and what you are looking for. 

What’s your pricing?

This is usually the first and sometimes the only question that people ask me. Collections begin at $1000 and total spent depends on how many images you choose and how you decide to display them.

Why does it cost this amount?

Rarely asked, but often thought. Think of this experience as an artistic commission. Every photo shoot is tailored to you and I spend between 15-20 hours start to finish on corresponding, designing, creating, shooting and editing your art. That’s half a week of work! You are paying for my experience, my style, and my time to deliver images that you will treasure forever.

Can you just send me digitals?

It would not be cheaper to deliver only digitals as the time and work has already been invested in the finished image. I specialize in heirloom products so I do not deliver only digitals. A digital version of the photos you choose for your collection will be provided as a backup on a crystal USB.

Do you do outdoor shoots/family sessions/lifestyle shoots?

The best way to get an idea of what a photographer will shoot is to look at their portfolio. The work that I show encapsulates what I specialize in - timeless, minimalist, studio based portraiture for women. All of my sessions take place in a private studio setting where I can control the light and atmosphere. Other photographers specialize in location based sessions and they will showcase their specialties in their portfolio.

How far in advance should I book?

You should schedule no later than 6-8 weeks before needing your product in hand. I take only a limited number of sessions per month so the sooner you are on my schedule, the better! My calendar typically fills up 4-6 weeks out.

What if I need to cancel/reschedule our shoot?

If you need to cancel your session, your 50% retainer is non-refundable. If you need to reschedule your session, you may do so one time and your retainer will be applied to the new date. Details are included in the contract upon booking.

What is your turnaround time?

Your gallery will be ready to view 2-3 weeks after your session unless otherwise stated. Due to Covid-19, all image viewings are currently taking place virtually via a video call. If a video call is unable to be scheduled, a digital gallery will be sent.

Your products will be delivered 3-4 weeks after your image viewing.

How many photos will you deliver?

Your gallery will include approximately 30-40 images for you to choose from. The number of photos you receive depends on the collection you choose.

Do you give raw or unedited images?

No. Half of the magic is the photo shoot and the other half is my editing style. I only deliver the best images from your session.

How long will you keep my images?

Images are only kept on my hard drive 30 days after your viewing unless you give me permission to use your images in my Portfolio.

How do payment schedules work?

I take a 50% retainer to secure your spot on my calendar with the remaining 50% due one week before your session date.

Do you offer discounts?

No. My prices are firm. Please do not ask for discounts or free images.

Can I purchase more images later?

All image selections must be made during your viewing. If you are sent a virtual gallery, your gallery will be live for one week during which time you can make your selection. Any images not purchased will be deleted after 30 days.

What’s the difference between beauty photography & boudoir photography?

There are lots of labels in photography, so I know it can get confusing. I specialize in Women's Portraiture. I take beautiful portraits of women. End of story. If you don't feel comfortable wearing lingerie or going nude, that's perfectly fine! We will tailor your experience to your level of comfort. Below, I break down the differences between the two genres.

Chicago Beauty Photography

Beauty Photography

Beauty portraiture is slightly more refined. Finished with an editorial retouch, these fine art images are the perfect option for women who want a smaller collection of portraits. Beauty portraits are camera aware and always include your gorgeous face. If you are drawn to my work, but don't want to do the artsy boudoir thing, beauty portraiture is the best option for you. A little black dress, a form fitting turtleneck and jeans, an off the shoulder sweater are all great options for your wardrobe. At the end of the session, you should have between 15-18 stunning images to choose from. 

blonde in black bodysuit lying on her back

Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography is a little more intimate and focused on the lines and shapes of the body. While I always include beauty portraiture in my boudoir sessions, the goal is to capture more candid expressions. A boudoir session includes many images that are not camera-aware (looking into the lens). My goal is to capture your inner strength and beauty. In addition to images of your full body, I will also focus on capturing details like legs, lips, breasts, back and shoulders. Boudoir images all get a standard retouch and will typically include more artistic lighting and posing.

How much editing do you do? Will you change the way I look?

I focus on a natural edit. While I do edit out blemishes and minor imperfections, I am really focused on keeping you looking like you. I use posing to get flattering body positions and to enhance your favorite features. You probably won't even be able to tell what I've done - you'll just be amazed at how beautiful you are!

Will you share my images on your website?

I would LOVE to, but it's entirely up to you. If you've found me online, it's because of all of the amazing women who have given me permission to share their images online. We will discuss your preference the day of your session!

PREPARING FOR YOUR SHOOT

What should I wear?

This one is easier than you think - whatever makes you feel amazing!  My style is fresh, casual and minimalistic which involves things you are likely to already have in your closet.  A black bodysuit (or swimsuit), a classic LBD, an off-the-shoulder sweater,  a white mens button down, a denim jacket. If you are extra bold, you don't have to wear anything at all!

Every client gets a personalized experience. I ask you questions about what you like and together we collaborate on looks/vibes for your photoshoot. I encourage clients to bring 5-7 looks. From there, I like to narrow down and most often end up choosing 3-4 "winning" looks. In the style department, options are a GOOD thing!

What’s the best way for me to prepare for my photoshoot?

I'm so glad you asked! This is a true collaboration so it will include some prep on your part in order to get the best results. After you decide to book, I will send you a detailed guide that will cover EVERYTHING you need to do to prepare. A few topics that are covered include:

  • Wardrobe tips - How to choose the best outfits.

  • Beauty tips - Prepping your face/skin/body for the camera.

  • Posing tips - That's right! You get to practice your moves alone first!