FAQ
I’m not sure if your style is right for my family….can you tell me more about what your sessions entail?
The only prerequisite for booking a family photography session with me is that you love the images that I make! I get it, my documentary family photography approach is unconventional, but you don’t need to be any ‘type’ of family or live in any particular type of home. I have photographed over four hundred families across the world with an eclectic mix of backgrounds, living conditions, socioeconomic status, interests and degrees of creativity.
As for the session experience, check out this video interview that explains it all and shows footage of me in the field!
Do you travel for Family photo sessions?
I am happy to travel to shoot Day In The Life Sessions and Weddings. I’ve photographed families across the USA, Europe and Ireland and I take full advantage of utilizing different landscapes, lighting, and environments. However, because I have two little kids at home, I limit my travel sessions to ten per year.
Travel expenses vary depending on distance and whether I’m driving or flying. As for accommodations, I kindly ask that you provide either a guest room (the best option!) or a nearby hotel or Air Bnb.
Do you offer newborn sessions in Asheville?
Absolutely! I shoot in-home newborn lifestyle sessions all around Asheville and Western North Carolina. The Classic Family Session is ideal for newborn photography. I am also happy to visit you in the hospital for a “Fresh 48” newborn session, which is a photo shoot during your newborn’s very first days of life.
What do I do if my kids misbehave during a session?
Don’t worry about it, I have two wild and stubborn kids myself. However, you may be surprised at just how interested and engaged in the process your kids become during an unposed photo session. They get to play and hang out and I’m genuinely interested in getting to know them and their world.
I won’t ask them to smile (and nor will you!) or pose or fake anything. But sure, there could be some chaos, a few meltdowns, misbehavior, mischief and mess, yes. I mean, we're all human. It all makes for great images.
I’m INTERESTED IN A DAY IN THE LIFE SESSION, BUT What’s it like having YOU around all day TAKING PICTURES?
It's not so bad! Easier and breezier than you'd think. Even the 'reluctant spouse' if there is one will admit they had a truly enjoyable time. I’m mostly engaging with you and the kids, chatting and getting to know you, but at certain times I may step back and disappear more into the background. Sometimes I even put on headphones for an hour or two as I make pictures. I read the mood and the energy as it shifts throughout the day and just follow where it takes me. Regardless of whether I’m with you for two hours or a full day, I guarantee you’ll end the day tired and content.
What if we have downtime? Watch TV or just lay around?
All full day in the life sessions include chill time. I can still make atmospheric images when everyone is lying about- sometimes that’s when the best pictures are made. There is no pressure or expectation to be productive or in any way performative throughout the day. Go into your separate rooms for a while if you need to. Take a nap. Do the dishes, rest, lock yourself in the bathroom for fifteen minutes, lie on the floor in the sun. Give yourself a time out. I’ll probably take that time to drink some ice water.
When will I receive my photos?
I will send you preview images within a few days. Your complete gallery will be ready to view within 4 weeks.
WILL YOU DIRECT US? SHOULD I POSE? HOW DO I DO THIS, PLEASE HELP?
My approach to family photography is a combination of fine art and photojournalism. While the sessions are primarily unposed, I do step in to direct a scene as needed, offer guidance towards finding the best available light, suggest an activity, and just in general do what it takes to make the best pictures possible. The result is a relaxed yet engaging experience where you can interact with your family in an easy and natural manner.