LOCATION/SETTING

I shoot outdoors in natural light and travel most of Southern WV for sessions. We can choose a setting together that best suits your style and personality.  We can go out in nature--the woods, near water or a park setting--or somewhere downtown, in the city, around buildings, urban style.  We can also go somewhere special to you--favorite hangout, friends property or farm--or we can just get in the car and explore somewhere that would be cool. To me, location is secondary--we can take great pics anywhere.

SCHEDULING/LIGHTING

My preferred time of day to shoot is early evening, my appointments typically begin around 5:00

WEATHER

I absolutely hate having to cancel or reschedule portrait sessions due to weather, but unfortunately it is unavoidable at times. I typically wait to confirm appointments a day or so before your scheduled appointment so we have time to see what the weather will do. I will make the final call the night before or day of session if I feel like the weather will prohibit us from getting the best photo quality for you. 

PROPS

I do not travel with props, but encourage you to bring anything you would like to incorporate into your session. A lot of seniors love including their cars, instruments, books or anything sporting related.  The key is making the session about you. The fun part of the session is working off the energy from each other, your outfit choices, and using the environment around us to create awesome images.

CLOTHING/APPEARANCE

Choosing clothes for portrait sessions is usually the most stressful part, but it doesn't have to be. If you need specific advice or tips, feel free to include me in the process--styling a session is one of my favorite parts.  Seniors get several outfit changes: stay true to your style and remember you have opportunity to show a variety of looks; dressy, casual and sporty. If you're in doubt just bring extra things and we can decide together.  Don't forget your accessories--jewelry, hats, jackets, sunglasses--they all enhance your pics!

For group or family pics: You don't all have to wear the same color--pick a color combo and have fun with your choices--the only thing I recommend is stay away from putting several members in your group in prints or patterns. Solid color choices are best, and then throw in a few patterns and prints here and there.

Eyewear: I love seeing glasses back in style--they really enhance your look! I take a little extra time for lighting faces with glasses to make sure we don't get any distracting glares in your photos. If you have transition lenses, you may want to check on bringing another pair with you to your session, as we will be taking photographs outdoors.

FAMILY/FRIENDS

I recommend that all seniors at least have 1 parent, guardian, grandparent or friend to accompany them to their portrait session.

Senior sessions are milestone events and should be experienced with your family and those you love--I love spending time getting to know all of you. I do suggest limiting session guests to just a couple in your immediate family.  At times large groups of people can distract and take away from your session. I want to focus on you and allow you to be comfortable and be yourself in front of the camera.

EDITING

I edit photos to tweak lighting, adjust skin/color tones and correct skin blemishes. If there is anything specific you would like me to take care of or not edit at all, please let me know the day of your session.