Types of Portraits I Do
- Individual
- Couples
- Family
- Children
- Maternity
- Babies
- Pets
- High School Seniors
To see more of my work, go to the Portfolios link above and choose a gallery.
Tips For Getting Great Portraits
Scheduling
When scheduling a portrait session with me, keep in mind that the position of the sun in the sky matters when it comes to natural lighting. Midday overhead sun can cause blown out highlights, harsh shadows and contrast, whereas in a lower position in the sky, it gives nice warm tones, good textures, and more even highlights. Early morning or late afternoon are best. If it's overcast, however, the time doesn't matter. In fact, overcast conditions are ideal. To see which dates I'm available, see my calendar of events here.
If it's not possible to schedule an early or later session, I do have equipment that can help. I use a scrim that diffuses light, a softbox with a flash for filling in shadows, and reflectors to bounce the light where I need it to make the light more even and flattering.
Clothing
As a general rule, for family portraits, outfits should be similar. They don't have to match, but everyone should at least be wearing the same type of style and color. Preferred colors for portraits are darker shades like gray, blue, or earth tones. Try to avoid distracting patterns such as polka dots, stripes, or prints, and dress in clothing that won't look too outdated a long time from now. Also, bring shoes that go well with your outfits, because a lot of portrait sessions include full body shots. I also encourage you to bring an extra change of clothing for a different look, if desired, or in case someone gets dirty. For more tips on dress and being prepared for portraits, see this website.
Hair and Makeup
For the ladies who wear makeup, be sure to bring yours so that you can touch it up as needed. Another thing you might want to bring is a hairbrush, hairspray, or anything else you'll need to touch up your hair. If there are no restrooms available nearby, a small mirror might come in handy as well. Men will want to bring their combs, too, especially if it's going to be a windy day.
Props
I highly recommend props, even for adults. For kids it can be your toddler's favorite toy or teddy bear, or for High School Seniors, a musical instrument or ball from their favorite sport. One of the things I love the most about photographing people is catching them with a genuine smile, doing what they love to do. Having props can add that smile and personal touch, and gives a glimpse into your personality. Remember, even with family portraits, I do individual shots. So take that opportunity to let your personality shine through!
What To Expect
Before the Shoot
I'll meet with you and ask some questions; get a feel for your personality, likes and dislikes, and what kind of setting you'd like your portraits to be in. It can be rural, urban, nature, or even at your home if you prefer. I can do pretty much any location. I'll talk to you about what kind of portraits you want, what style of photos and editing you like, and what kinds of props you'd like to have, if any. That is also when you sign a contract [sample contract] and pay the deposit (calculated at ~20% of the total) to hold the date of your portrait session if you haven't already. The deposit will go toward your final balance once the session is over. If you can't make it and don't reschedule with at least 72 hours notice, the deposit is non-refundable.
During the Shoot
The length of the session depends on the number of people and/or pets involved, the type of light there is available and equipment I'm using, and how many different poses we do. Most portrait sessions last for about one hour, but if you have a large family or want extra clothing changes and locations, you should choose the Deluxe Family Photo Shoot.
Typically, I show up at the location a little bit early to get my gear set up, scout for good locations to shoot in, and evaluate the lighting situation. Once you arrive, we'll get started. I'll do several shots of the entire group (for family portraits), couples, each parent with the kids, just kids, etc. I like to get every possible combination of people, different poses in different locations, maybe different changes of clothes, with and without props, and candids. Candid shots are something that I think are very important to include, and are often some of the best photos that come out of the whole shoot. Act natural, be yourself, and once you get comfortable, great pictures will come naturally.
After the Shoot
When we're all done I'll give you my card so that you have all of my contact information, take payment from you, and I'll start the editing process. I'll crop, adjust color and contrast where needed, and make them look their very best. As I finish them, usually in batches of about 20, I upload them to a password protected gallery on my website. I'll e-mail you the password and a link to that gallery and from there, you can order prints if you choose to do so. You can also share it with your family and friends so that they can order prints.
For those who choose to buy a disc, I will burn all finished photos onto a DVD in high resolution for printing at any photo lab, and include a copyright release form for you to have prints done.
Rates
I accept payments with Google Wallet, cash, checks, and I also take debit and credit cards on location.
If you'd like to pay with PayPal, let me know and I'll send you an invoice.
Print Packages:
- Basic - (1)-8x10; (1)-5x7; (8)wallets - $40
- Family - (1)-11x14; (2)-8x10; (1)-5x7; (8)wallets - $90
- Deluxe - (1)-16x20; (2)-11x14; (3)-8x10; (1)5x7; (8)wallets - $175
Available for purchase in your client gallery.
Portrait Options |
Price |
Approx. Yield |
Description |
| Just Give Me Some Pictures | $50 (no deposit required) | ~12 photos |
|
|
Standard Photo Shoot or Engagement Session |
$200 ($40 deposit)* | ~25 photos |
|
| Deluxe Family Photo Shoot | $450 ($90 deposit)* | ~75 photos |
|
| High School Seniors | $325 ($65 deposit)* | ~50 photos |
|
If you'd like to pay your deposit or order a disc online, use the checkout below:
If you'd like custom editing done such as blemish removal and tooth whitening, that can be arranged for an extra fee. Just let me know if you're interested. More info here.
For information on custom prints and what's available, check out the page on that: Custom Prints
E-mail contact@naturalaperture.net or call 503.839.0420 for more information.
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