The FAQ
How long have you been doing this?
After a childhood spent loving art, design, and every kind of creative pursuit, I got my first SLR (film) camera as a study abroad student in 2002. I began studying photography in earnest in 2014, and in 2017, APL Photography was born.
How many photos do we get?
A classic session will yield a minimum of 50+ digital images with a print release (which means, you get them all). Mini sessions, offered seasonally for pre-selected dates and locations, will yield a gallery of 25+ images, from which you select your choice of 10 favorites for download.
How do we get our photos?
You will receive an online gallery of images with a download PIN and print release. My print vendor recommendations are included in your gallery, but you will print separately. Coming soon, you will have the option to order prints directly through your gallery.
Do you retouch photos?
I hand edit all photographs for every session, and I compose and light your photographs to flatter you. I retouch subjects in photos to optimize skin when needed, and to remove distractions from backgrounds when necessary. I do not do extensive retouching that will transform your shape or age - I want to capture you as you are!
What's your turn around time?
Average turnaround for a classic length gallery is about 2 weeks. During peak season (September - November), and for senior galleries that may require more entensive retouching, that time may be 3 weeks.
How do we book you?
It's easy to get in touch here on my website through the Contact form, and we'll discuss a date and location by email.
Can you help us with planning?
We'll collaborate on a date and a location that offers beautiful light, texture, and a variety of backgrounds to ensure timeless images you'll love. I have several favorites, and together we can find one that's within a comfortable travel radius for your family.
How far out do you book?
Plan to book your session at least 2 months before your desired date (even earlier, if you're hoping for those sought-after October spots!).
I photograph nearly all of my outdoor family sessions between April and November. I do not offer outdoor family sessions from Thanksgiving through February.
During the quiet season (January to April), I can usually accommodate session requests with about a month's notice.
What should we wear?
This is one of my favorite questions! The ideal palettes and layers for family sessions will vary depending on the season, the photo location, and your family's personal style, and we'll work closely together to create a customized look for YOUR family session. But a few general rules do apply.
Flattering, simple and well-fitting clothing that each family member feels comfortable in is the top priority, as well as colors/patterns that coordinate and complement without matching. I recommend starting with Mom’s clothing or one child’s outfit as a starting piece for inspiration, and drawing your color scheme from there. A mix of solids and one or two classic patterns is usually successful, as is a combination of neutrals as a base (gray, navy, chambray, cream, blush) with pops of richer or brighter color for accents.
If your feminine clothing style draws you to flowy maxi dresses or a twirly skirt, follow that instinct! If your more laid-back style draws you to a tunic-length top with skinny jeans and booties, go for that look. Men and boys look most polished in shirts with collars, even for relaxed styles. Footwear is an easily overlooked but very important element (athletic shoes, very worn shoes, prominent logos and neon draw the eye, and we want feet to recede and for faces to be featured).
Don’t hesitate to ask me anything about wardrobe! You can text me photos of your options as your session approaches, and I’ll happily advise you.
In the end, our eyes will be on your family's faces, and the connections between you!
