Frequently Asked Questions

General Photography FAQ

If you’re planning a wedding or family session in Long Beach or Southern California, these are the questions I’m asked most often:

Are my photos safe?

Yes. I photograph to two cards in-camera and keep a backup body on hand if I’m not already shooting on multiple camera’s. On the way home, primary cards stay on me in a hard case while the second set is safely stored in my weather-sealed camera case. Once home, I import everything to an external ssd and a local folder that also auto-syncs to Dropbox so your files live in three places. After that, the drive and SD cards go into a fireproof box until your gallery is delivered. I don’t delete delivered RAWs, and your finished gallery stays online for easy downloading.

How do I book a session or wedding date?

Send your date, location, and what you’re hoping to capture. A signed agreement and retainer secure your spot on my calendar. If you’re not 100% about the details yet, just reach out and I can pencil you in and help you plan.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. For weddings and larger packages, I can offer split auto-pay payments to make things easier on your budget.

Do you carry backup gear and insurance?

Yes to both. I always have a second camera body, extra lenses, extra cards, and full liability business insurance.

Do we need permits for certain locations?

Maybe! Some parks and beaches (especially in Orange County) require permits. I’ll flag this during planning and help us get the permit we need for your session.

Do you deliver RAW files?

No. RAWs are unfinished work. You’ll receive high-resolution, fully edited jpg images that reflect my style and quality.

Can you retouch blemishes or stray hairs?

Yes! Standard, natural retouching is included where it makes sense. Heavier edits (like background cleanup, complex object removal, body reshaping etc.) are available by request and a fee may occur.

Do you offer black-and-white images?

Yes. I love black and white images and include a mix of B&W where it elevates the story.

Can you help with prints and albums? Do you have a store?

Absolutely. Your online gallery includes a built-in shop for premium prints, wall art, and albums. If you’d like custom design, I’d be happy to design something for you.

What should I do with my photos once I receive them?

Back them up in multiple places (safe hard drive + cloud like Dropbox/Google Drive) and bookmark your gallery link. For sharing, download the files before posting because screenshots hurt quality. And print them! There’s nothing like a physical copy of your meaningful moments. Albums, frames, wall art bring your images to life. I’d be happy to help so please feel free to reach out.

Do you offer multiple editing styles? Why?

Yes, because the mood matters.
My Modern-Vibrant style is true-to-life color with warmth, and energy; great for families and senior portraits.
My Soft, Elegant & Film-Inspired look with its’ refined, lower contrast, editorial style is a beautiful fit for weddings and couple sessions. Every story has its own feel, and your gallery should reflect it!

Can we keep our photos private (no social media)?

Of course. Your privacy and comfort comes first. Just let me know prior to our shoot.

Are you LGBTQ+ affirming and inclusive?

Yes. Love is love and all are welcome here.

Do you travel outside Long Beach/Orange County?

Yes! Travel fees may apply depending on distance so tell me where, and I’ll share options.

Family & Portrait Sessions FAQ

What should I wear to a portrait session?

Wear what you feel great in. If you’re uncomfortable—even in “nice” clothes—it shows. In general, skip loud patterns, neon brights, and big logos (unless that’s very you). Aim to coordinate without fully matching, and choose outfits that fit the location and weather. When you feel like yourself, the photos feel like you!

Should I bring anything to the session?

Bring items that make your family you—a favorite toy, book, or snack—and a blanket for sitting. Even if we don’t use them in photos, they help little ones relax.

Can we bring our dog?

Please do! I love dogs! Bring a leash, water, and a favorite treat or toy. I’ll guide where pets fit naturally into the flow.

My child is shy or neurodivergent—can you work with that?

Yes absolutely! I have my bachelors degree in Psychology and have volunteer with a children’s non-profit where I receive annual TBRI training. We’ll keep it flexible, follow their lead, and use sensory-friendly prompts. Share any tips that help them feel safe and seen.

How many outfit changes can we do?

One to two changes keep things smooth and give variety without eating into shooting time.

What time of day is best for photos?

Generally Golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) is magic for its’ soft, flattering, and warm colors. For indoor sessions, we’ll plan around your best window light. I’m very comfortable with off camera lighting setups and using my lighting kit to make anywhere look amazing.

Can you help choose a location?

Absolutely. Tell me the vibe—beach, park, wilderness area, city, cozy home and I’ll send curated options that match your style and light.

How can I look my best on camera?

First off, you already look great! I’ll guide you with a simple posing foundation and easy prompts, then use invitations to spark real moments with movement, laughter, and natural connection. I’ll coach micro-adjustments (hands, posture, angles) so you feel confident and relaxed without getting in the way of the magic of the moments.

When will I get my photos back?

Family and portrait galleries are typically delivered about two weeks from your session date. I pride myself on my quick turnaround time and move fast without cutting corners—quality and consistency come first.

Wedding FAQ

How do we reserve our wedding date?

Reach out with your date, venue, and coverage needs by filling out the wedding contact form. Then we can chat about your day. I’ll send over an online client portal where you can then sign a retainer, make a deposit, and officially lock in your date.

Do you offer engagement sessions?

Yes, and I highly recommend them! They’re a great “test run” so you feel relaxed on the wedding day. It also gives us a chance to dial in your favorite prompts and angles while getting to know each other better. Plus, they’re fun and make a great date for you and your partner!

What’s your approach to posing and candids on a wedding day?

My process is something like this: find the perfect canvas, position everyone, and create interesting compositions. Ensure flattering body language and make sure you look your best. Then step aside and let the moment unfold. That’s when the genuine, real moments happen, and those are what it’s all about.

Do you have a second photographer?

Yes, a second photographer comes with my all day collection. For half day collections, I can add a second photographer when it makes sense for your timeline, guest count, or multiple prep locations. We’ll decide together during planning.

When will we get wedding photos back?

I’ll send over some sneak peaks with the best photos the day after your wedding for you to enjoy! Then, your full gallery will be delivered in about 4 weeks via an online gallery.

Can you help with albums and wall art?

Yes. Your gallery has a built-in shop with prints, wall art, and DIY albums. If you’d like an heirloom album, I’d be happy to work with you on a custom album design!

Do you travel for weddings?

Yes. I’m based in Long Beach/Orange County and happily travel throughout Southern California. I love traveling and would be happy to travel to you! Just share your venue and timeline and I’ll get back to you with my best offer.

Are you insured and do you have backup gear?

Yes. I carry liability insurance and bring backup cameras, lenses, and plenty of cards so we’re covered if anything happens. This is also one of the reasons I suggest and usually have a second photographer. All of my second photographers are trained and talented enough to be the lead photographer if anything were to happen to me on your wedding day.

Do we need a permit for our venue or engagement locations?

Some public spaces require permits (parks, beaches, historic sites) but most venues photography is included. I’ll flag this early and help you secure what you need.

Do you deliver RAW files?

No. RAW files are like ingredients-not the finished product. For your gallery, I deliver fully edited and finished images. But don’t worry, I don’t withhold great images—if it’s good, it’s in there.

Do you do video too?

Yes, I actually started out in video before moving to photography. To learn more about video services, click here!