How We Work
Every photographer has his/her own style and method for producing images. We are often asked how we work and what the client can expect before, during and after the session. Our FREE, no obligation design chat covers all of these things. However, we thought it might be beneficial for our clients viewing our website to get this information in advance.

Image Capture
The real genious behind the advent of digital photography lies in the ability to capture unlimited numbers of images at no additional cost. There are many advantages to digital photography over film photography, but this one in particular truly benefits our clients. Incidentally, we use only digital image capture, editing and enhancement.

Unlike many film photographers and even some digital photographers, we do not limit the number of images we capture in a session. We continue to shoot images as long as the subjects are agreeable and the conditions are favorable for creating beautiful images (and, of course, as long as we are still operating within the applicable time frame for the session). This gives us that awesome window of opportunity to capture those "magic moments" that seem to occur near the end of a shoot. If we elected to shut the camera off by virtue of our having captured our designated number of images, we would miss these sweet and memorable moments.

So, does this mean that our clients will view ALL of the images we capture? No. And, you wouldn't want to. Imagine trying to narrow your print selections with more than 100 images to choose from. That would be impossible. Instead, we apply our trained, artistic eye to each and every image. We eliminate all the images we know are just not usable (i.e. blinking subjects, weird expressions, unexpected movement or blurring, etc.). We narrow down the images to the very best ones and then edit, retouch, enhance and finish each of the "Portrait Originals" that our clients will then view in their Photo Premier. Out of a typical hour long session, we usually produce anywhere from 15 to 40 original images, depending on the type of session and the client's needs.

Thus, when our clients arrive for their Photo Premier, they will have a manageable number of images to choose from for their final portrait prints.

Atmosphere
Our studio offers a very comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Our clients consistently tell us they love the cozy and inviting feel. We intentionally chose a lovely Victorian house for our studio because we recognize that a comfortable home-like environment will always yield better photographs than a stark, gallery style studio.

You'll never find us dressed in formal attire (well, unless we are shooting a wedding). In fact, our chief photographer is known for wearing brightly colored slippers while shooting sessions. Simply stated, we want our clients to feel at home - almost like they're visiting Grandma's house.

Our waiting room offers overstuffed couches, a crackling fireplace, a big screen TV and our famous gold-raked ceiling. Of course, we always have age-appropriate toys and movies for kids and magazines and music for teens and adults. If you happen to get thirsty or hungry while waiting for your session, no worries. Simply visit our fully stocked kitchen for a refreshing snack or drink - it's complimentary!

Although we shoot formal portraits by request, our style is really more casual. Our goal is to capture the inherent character of our clients which really requires a more casual approach. So, don't be surprised if we crack jokes or strike up a silly conversation to keep things light and fun.

The Session
In keeping with our more casual approach, we try as much as possible to limit the direction of our clients during a session. We give basic instructions and always help guide our clients into flattering poses. However, we never bark out orders or pressure our clients to "perform." Rather, we like to engage our clients in conversation and watch the natural rhythm and mannerisms of our clients unfold. This may feel awkward at first. Though, experience has taught us that a few simple instructions are always better and produce far more natural photographs.

Because we offer so many different backdrops, props, wardrobes and set designs, we schedule a consultation prior to the session to go over all these choices and create a session plan so that we are certain to capture the style and specific poses our clients want. We make sure to coordinate clothing, backgrounds and other elements for a professional and beautiful finished portrait. With a plan in hand, we move quickly between backdrop and set changes to ensure that our clients get the most out of their session. Our studio is well equipped to manage these changes with minimal disruption.

For high school seniors and older children, we do ask that Moms, Dads, friends and siblings wait in the waiting room while we work with our subjects. Otherwise, the subject tends to get distracted or feel too self-conscious, and the images rarely turn out as desired. For babies and young children, Moms and Dads are asked to be with us in the camera room to ensure the safety of the subject child.

Sometimes things don't go as planned. Murphy's Law! This is particularly true when photographing children. That's ok. We are masters at improvisation and redirection, so all is not lost. With young children, we have a very narrow window of opportunity in which to work before a child becomes tired or bored. Thus, we try and move quickly, but without noticeably rushing the child. Thankfully, we have many adorable children's props and set designs to engage the child in playful antics. These often make the best photographs anyway.

We carefully and efficiently use the time we've allotted for each session to its fullest advantage. Once we've captured all the images we planned and then some, we call it a wrap and give our clients a break. Of course, we always give our clients the opportunity to take a break any time during the session, if needed.

After The Session
We generally tell our clients that they can expect their portrait originals to be ready for viewing within 2 to 3 weeks after the session date. This gives us ample time, even when we are fully booked, to process the images. If for any reason the processing time should extend beyond the timeframe we've given, we will call or email to let our clients know.

It's very important to us and to our clients that they only see professionally retouched and edited original images. We do not believe in forcing our clients to choose from unedited, raw image files. Our clients invest in professional portraits, not raw digital files. We showcase our images as they are meant to be seen - PERFECT! Otherwise, how will you know what to expect in a final print?

Once the portrait originals are ready to view, it's time for the Photo Premier. Then, we invite our clients back for a totally unique and enjoyable portrait theater projection session - complete with unlimited popcorn and soft drinks. At that time, we help our clients select their images, frames, albums and other products.

Portrait print orders are usually back from our professional lab within 3 to 4 weeks (though usually sooner). Framing orders are typically back within 4 weeks, give or take a few days.

Albums, folios and other products are subject to our current inventory and/or availablity from the respective manufacturers.

What Now?
So you have your portrait prints and frames and albums and are enjoying looking at them and showing them off. What now?

Tell your family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers and everyone you know about your experience. Refer them to us so we can give them the same wonderful experience.

Got a comment you want to share with us? Please do - good, bad or indifferent. Simply use our contact page or call our photographer directly at 303-678-1335.

We invite you to visit our Testimonials page to see what some of our clients have said about us and our work.

When your life changes or it's been a while since we saw you, give us a call. We'd love to create more photographic magic with you!

Beautiful and memorable photography begins with a good match between client and photographer. We love what we do and truly enjoy working with all types of people. Though, we recognize that our style of photography may not appeal to everyone. If you feel we are a good match for you and your specific needs, we'd love to hear from you. Simply call or email us for more information or to book a FREE no cost - no obligation design chat.