The hardest part of booking a photographer is not knowing what happens next. Will I be told to pose? Will it be awkward? How long does it take? When do I get my photos? If you've wondered about any of those, this post is for you.
Here's the full walkthrough of a session with me, from the first message to the finished gallery, so you can show up relaxed and ready.
Step 1: You reach out
Everything starts with a simple message. Fill out the contact form on my site, send an email, or text me. Tell me a little about what you have in mind: a headshot, a milestone, photos with a friend, a creative idea you've been sitting on. If you don't know what you want yet, that's fine. Say that, and we'll start there.
I'll reply with my availability and a few questions. I'm also happy to hop on a free consultation so you can ask anything before you commit. Nobody has to decide anything on the spot.
Getting married soon and forgot to book a photographer? Ask about my last-minute options. I've jumped in on short notice before, and I'll tell you honestly what's possible.
Step 2: We plan it together
This is the part most people don't expect, and it's one of my favorites. Before your session, we talk through the look and feel you want. What mood are you going for? Cozy and warm? Bright and playful? Moody and cinematic? Do you have photos you love, or ones you definitely don't?
If you like, I'll build a Pinterest board for your session so we're both working from the same picture. Carson, who booked a couples session with their partner, noticed that I put one together around the theme they had in mind. Meredith said that for her elopement, "Communication about our day and the look we were going for was clear." That's my goal every time.
We'll also pick a location. I know Little Rock, Benton, and Conway well, and I'll suggest places that fit your style, whether that's a trail, a downtown street, a coffee shop, or your own home. Sessions can be outdoors or on-site wherever you are.
Step 3: You choose your outfits (and I help)
Your session includes up to two looks, so you can change once and get a bit of variety. I'll send you simple guidance on what to wear, and I'm always happy to look at photos of your options if you're torn. (I've also written a full guide on what to wear, if you want to get ahead.)
Step 4: The session itself
On the day, we meet at the location and take a few minutes to say hello before any photos happen. I'll walk you through the plan, and if you're nervous, I'll tell you so I can adjust.
Then we start moving. I won't ask you to hold a pose until your face hurts. I'll give you small prompts, like walking toward me, laughing with your friend, or looking out at the view, and I'll shoot while you do them. When I want to try something different, I'll tell you or show you a quick preview so you always know what's happening.
A few things you can count on:
A relaxed pace. We take our time, and I read the room. If you need a breather, we breathe.
Room for your ideas. If you want to try something a little wacky, I'm in.
Real moments. Some of the best shots happen between the "official" ones, so I keep shooting through the laughing and the resetting.
Good light. I'm always watching where the light is best, and I'll move us accordingly.
Most sessions run about an hour. That's plenty of time to get a good variety without anybody running out of energy.
Step 5: You receive your photos
Within a week, you'll get a link to a private online gallery. It includes the full album of original images, plus up to 10 high-end retouched images chosen from your favorites. That's enough to share, post, and print.
Fast turnaround matters to me. After a recent session, Katy mentioned the "quick turn around time," and a team I photographed on-site called me "on prompt" and "fast." I'd rather you have your photos while you're still excited about them.
After I send the gallery, I'll check in to make sure it arrived and that everything looks good. Cassie noticed that follow-up, saying I "followed up to ensure we've received them and everything was well." If something isn't right, I want to hear about it.
Questions people usually ask
What if I freeze up? It happens, and it's okay. Part of my job is helping you get out of your head. We'll laugh, move, and talk until you loosen up.
What if it rains? We'll reschedule or move indoors. I'll message you ahead of time so you're not left guessing.
Can I bring my dog, my kids, or a friend? Yes to all three. A familiar face usually makes the photos better.
How much does it cost? Sessions start at $100, and the price depends on the type of session you choose. I'll walk you through the options so you know exactly what you're getting before you book.
Ready when you are
Booking a photographer should feel as simple as making plans with a friend. You show up, we hang out, and a few days later you get photos that look like you.
Want to get on the calendar? Book a free consultation and tell me what you're picturing. I'll take it from there.
