Frequently Asked Questions

Basics

  • I am a documentary photographer, which means I use observation as my primary skill set. Rather than relying on posing or prompts, I trust and believe that what is most beautiful & worth documenting will unfold naturally – I simply have to notice it. I don’t just forgive messiness and imperfection in my work, I embrace it. It is part of what makes us human and I believe that is worth documenting.

  • I have been documenting my own life for as long as I can remember, starting with digital cameras in middle school and then incorporating film in high school. This evolved into a career of portrait, wedding and fine art photography which I have absolutely adored— I celebrated 7 years of professional photography this past January!

  • I did! I took classes in traditional darkroom + analog printing techniques as well as documentary photography for my undergrad degree, which is foundational to the way I view the craft of photography and my own relationship to it. In addition to that, I have taken multiple independent photography courses through the years and regularly re-engage with them to ensure I’m always learning and deepening my craft.

  • Great question! There are a lot of differences, both philosophically and technically. One of the most visible is that film color ranges and tonal depths remain unparalleled in quality, even with the modern digital technology we have today. I shoot with 35mm, 120 (aka medium format) and vintage Polaroid film. Each of these mediums has a different set of strengths and characteristics. Feel free to ask me more about this so we can have a more in-depth conversation about it!

  • The same reason why we still listen to vinyl records even though we have streaming platforms, why my mother will always use a gas stove instead of electric, why I keep every handwritten letter I’ve ever gotten from someone I love. Film breathes life into photographs. I love that working with film requires me to slow down, look closely and be deliberate about every single image I take. It compels me to create my very best, most intentional work.

Services/Process

  • Yes! Payment plans are available and can be customized to suit what works best for you, whether you would like to pay in one lump sum or a handful of smaller installments (no interest or added fees ever, btw).

  • Yes! All session fees include the high res digital image files.

  • Typically, sessions take about 3-4 weeks and weddings take about 6-8 weeks. This depends on how busy I am, though, as I prioritize delivering my best work over achieving a fast turnaround time. Occasionally this process takes a bit longer than usual if the mail and/or lab (and/or myself!) is backed up - and in that case, I’ll be in touch with you and do my best to give you an updated turnaround timeframe.

  • Yes. All of my base packages include a blend of digital & film coverage, it’s all part of my process. From there, packages can be tailored to suit exactly what you want, i.e. a higher balance of film in your final gallery or a session / wedding shot exclusively on film.

  • Absolutely. The most simple answer is that film photography just has more overhead/operating expenses than digital photography. On top of analog camera gear and film equipment, it costs money to develop every roll of film in addition to the cost of the film itself. The cost of film is also always in flux, as film is not mass-produced like it used to be. When demand for film goes up, so does its price.

  • I may offer gentle direction and guidance throughout our time shooting together if needed, but my primary goal is to photograph you as you are. If you’re looking for a photographer with a more polished, formally posed style, I am likely not the best fit for you. I am more of a quiet, observational type— my goal is to blend in to the background and let you be in the moment however you are experiencing it, and then to create art from that.

  • Yes! I take on a select number of travel jobs per year. Travel fees are calculated & quoted on a custom basis and included upfront in photography package totals to keep things as simple and straightforward as possible. I book all my own travel and lodging accommodations and do my best to choose the most cost-effective options I can find.

  • The first step is to fill out an inquiry form! From there I will reach out to you with some more detailed pricing & booking information depending on the type of commission you are interested in booking. Once we determine we are a good fit, a 25% nonrefundable retainer will officially put your day on the books!