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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Session + Planning Questions:

How soon should I schedule my session?

To ensure availability—especially for Fall colors or "Baby’s First Year" milestones—I recommend reaching out 4–6 weeks in advance. If you need to work around school schedules, please consider planning several months ahead. I do keep limited space for time-sensitive sessions like newborns or headshots. For ERAS headshots, we suggest booking at least 2 weeks before your application deadline.

What should we wear for our session?

Coordinating your family’s wardrobe is the best way to ensure a timeless result. I recommend choosing a "core palette" of 3–4 coordinating colors rather than perfect matching. For a deep dive into textures, colors, and seasonal tips, explore our What to Wear page for help planning your wardrobe.

What if my child won't sit still or is "cranky" the day of the session?

Don't worry—most children don't! As a parent and a photographer with two decades of experience, I’ve been called a "baby whisperer" for a reason. We move at your child’s pace, allowing for snack or play breaks. Some of the most beautiful portraits come from the "in-between" moments when they are just being themselves.

What if the weather is bad for our outdoor session?

If the weather doesn't cooperate (lightning, heavy rain, or extreme temperatures), we will simply reschedule. My goal is for your family to look relaxed and comfortable, not frozen or drenched! We typically "play it by ear" for light flurries or scattered showers.

Do you allow pets?

Yes! Pets are family. I welcome well-behaved pets in the studio or on location. Please let me know ahead of time so I can prepare the space for your arrival.

Why are newborn sessions longer than other sessions?

Newborns are unpredictable! These sessions are longer to allow plenty of time for feeding, changing, and soothing. The studio is kept warm and cozy to ensure the baby (and the parents) remain relaxed throughout.

Do you offer on-location sessions or travel?

Yes! While my Dexter studio offers a private, controlled environment with professional lighting, I frequently photograph families and businesses on location. Whether it’s a meaningful outdoor spot in the Ann Arbor area or the comfort of your own home, I am happy to bring my expertise to you.

Are there travel fees?

Travel within the Greater Ann Arbor and Dexter area is included in your standard session commission. For locations outside of a 20-mile radius from the studio, a travel fee may apply to cover time and logistics. I am happy to provide a custom quote for sessions throughout Southeast Michigan or beyond.

What areas do you serve?

I primarily serve clients in Dexter, Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Saline, and Ypsilanti. However, I am available for commissions throughout Michigan and have even traveled for specific commercial and fine art projects. If you have a specific location in mind, just let me know!

How do I reserve my session?

Simply contact the studio or use our [Online Scheduling Tool]. Your date is officially reserved once the creative fee/retainer is placed.

Investment + Turnaround Questions

What are your prices?

Please view our portrait and commercial investment pages for basic information. We are happy to send you a personalized quote or complimentary investment guide via email if you contact the studio.

Do you offer digital files?

Portrait Clients: Yes. For every portrait you purchase as a physical print or album page, a matching Social Media digital file is included at no additional cost. These files are professionally optimized for sharing on Facebook, Instagram, or via email. Please note that these are low-resolution files intended for screen viewing only; they are not licensed for printing. This ensures that every physical copy of your portrait meets my Master Photographer standards for color, clarity, and archival quality.

Commercial Clients: For Branding and Headshot clients, digital files are the primary focus of the session.

Will you submit my senior’s yearbook photo for me?

Yes! Once you select your favorite image, I handle the technical cropping and submission to your high school according to their specific requirements. [View Yearbook Deadlines].

How do I choose my images if there is no gallery?

I use my 20 years of experience to identify the strongest compositions and most genuine expressions prior to our time together. I will prepare a curated selection of images for you; and together we often review the "best of the best" toward the end of your session, ensuring the final prints included in your collection are exactly the ones you love.

Is professional retouching included?

Yes. Every image you order undergoes my signature Master Artistry process at no additional charge. This includes natural skin softening and the removal of temporary blemishes to ensure your final art is museum-quality. More extensive requests (such as digital clothing changes or tattoo removal) are quoted on a case-by-case basis.

What is your turnaround time?

Portrait Clients: your in-person guided reveal typically occurs one week after the session, at which time you will place your order. Once your final art order is placed, custom-finished products generally arrive within 3–4 weeks.

Commercial Clients: your quote typically includes a one week turnaround.

Rush services are available for headshots and time-sensitive projects (fees apply).