The photo session experience
Any portrait session is a big deal. When you book a session, whether it is for a headshot or branding series, or a family or senior portrait, you are signing up to get vulnerable and stand in front of a stranger’s camera. A little nerve-wracking to say the least. Not only that, but there’s everything to think about before the session even happens, too! Thoughts like: Where is the best location? What will I wear? What if it rains? Do I need a haircut? and What if I hate the photos? tend to pop up. Sound familiar?
Personal branding session with Bend, Oregon local artist, Sweet Pea Cole.
99.9% of people tend to avoid booking a photo session because it feels like too much to plan for, it’s too uncomfortable, and it takes time. Yep, I get all of that. AND…photos are one of those things in life that are pretty necessary and definitely priceless. We all want photos to capture fleeting, special moments with family or friends, or to celebrate a milestone like senior year or an important birthday. We also need quality imagery to help present and promote our businesses and brands. And let’s face it - a phone pic and a filter can only do so much for those special occasions and professional needs.
Senior portrait session at Dillon Falls in Bend, Oregon.
My passion is making beautiful photos for you, but it’s also about helping people through the process and building good relationships. Besides creating images that you will love, I strive with each and every client to connect personally and help you through each step of the process. When you book a session with me, you’ll get individualized support over the phone, Zoom, or in person, as well as resources emailed to you to help with the planning process. From our first interaction to our last, I want to make your experience easy, stress-free, and fun.
Family photos in Bend, Oregon.
SO HOW DOES IT WORK?
Once you inquire via the quick contact form on my website, I will get back to you in 24 hours or less to set up a phone consultation. During your phone consult, you can let me know what you need and we can look for a day and time that works best. You will pay a deposit, and I’ll get you penciled in. Then, the planning begins!
Every client is different, every session is different, and the weather is definitely always different (unless we are shooting in-studio, which is an option, too!) After we chat on the phone, I will send you an email with a brief questionnaire and a Welcome Guide with a list of location ideas, wardrobe tips, and other good resources to help you plan. You’ll read through the guide, fill out the questionnaire, and we’ll connect again about specific timing depending on the location you choose. And not to worry! I am more than happy to choose a location for you if that’s what you’d like!
Senior portrait session in Bend, Oregon.
Some people already know what they want to wear for their photo session, but in my experience, most don’t. The Welcome Guide has some suggestions, and I have also created Pinterest boards with more specific inspiration depending on the season that I can share with you! I have been known to do a wardrobe consult via FaceTime too, so there are many layers of support available! :) My biggest suggestion is always this: wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Wearing something brand new that you’ve never worn before, or something too tight or too oversized can lead to disaster during the session. That goes for shoes, as well!
Personal branding session in Bend, Oregon.
On the day of your session, we’ll meet at the location you chose and have some fun! I work to keep these very low-key and easy for you. I’ve got many poses for you to try, and will direct you the entire time I am photographing. We’ll take breaks along the way to keep you hydrated and to prevent your smile from getting stiff! Music is one of my favorite things, and most of the time I’ll have my portable speaker along for the adventure, too. I am proud to say that each and every one of my clients have described their photo session as easy and fun - the best compliment I could receive!
About a week after your session, I will send you a “proofing gallery” to look through. This is when you’ll pick your favorites (how many depends on the package you chose) or schedule a time to look through them with me if it’s too tough to decide! And you always have the opportunity to purchase as many additional images as you’d like - because picking favorites isn’t easy.
Headshots and personal branding session in Bend, Oregon.
Along the way, questions may arise and plans may need to change but that’s ok! I’ve got you. I absolutely love working with clients from initial consultation to final print delivery - it’s an honor each and every time. I hope you’ll book a session and see for yourself how good a photo session experience can be when you are working with someone who cares as much about you as the photos themselves.
