Frequently Asked Questions

Are you the right photographer for me?

I intentionally put this first. I really want to make sure you are getting the absolute best experience with your session. The most important part of that experience is making sure you and your photographer are the right fit. Just as you see many different paintings from artists and different styles, there is just as much variety in photographers styles. If you start looking at different photographers you will notice differences in their art. All of the work is subjective, none 'right' or 'wrong', just different. Different art appeals to different individuals. So what appeals to you? What kind of colors do you like to see? Rich and deep or light and airy? Are you drawn to images where everyone is looking and smiling, or where you can feel their energy, love and emotion from the way the subjects are interacting? Keep this in mind as you look through my work. Make sure you love what I provide. If you do- then perfect! I will lead the session and provide you with images you will absolutely be in love with for years to come!

What is your photography style?

Hmm.. Well, that's hard to put into words, but i'll give it a go. I am a lifestyle photographer. I LOVE showing genuine emotion in my images. I want you to FEEL when you see an image. I want you to know what it was like to be there, in that moment. To feel their joy, to watch their free spirit soar as they ran, to feel the laughter as they shared their inside jokes as a family. My sessions are full of laughter, playing, little ones running and a lot of love. To your children, your session will feel like one big fun adventure with the ones they love the most in this world. To your spouse, they will be pleasantly surprised just how many times I tell them to "please, STOP looking at the camera". You will enjoy this beautiful time as a family, where time stops for just a little bit, and all of the wonderful things you love about your family comes out, now being preserved forever. I won't require your amazing 2 year old to sit still for long (2 minutes) periods of time. Two year olds bodies are made to encourage them to run, explore and move those growing muscles. I want to capture that- those moments as they are right then. I of course will start with the picture of everyone looking and smiling, but i'm guessing you will be like most of my clients and have the one of all of you laughing and cuddling hung above your mantel instead.

Where are you located?

I am located in Oregon, serving Oregon City, Portland, Vancouver, Silverton, Salem and surrounding areas.

What should I wear?

GREAT Question! Make sure you plan early! Please read over this very informative and easy read What to Wear blog post here: http://www.yourqt.com/10-tips-on-what-to-wear-to-your-photography-session-portland-oregon/

What should I do to prepare for the session?

Make sure your children have been fed and have had naps before the session. If it's during a time of year where the session is late in the evening, I recommend having your child do a late nap. I know the hardest part of a photography session is actually getting to the session. Give yourself PLENTY of time to get to your session. Think of the time it takes to get in the car, get out of the car, traffic, etc. Once you are at the session the BEST thing you can do for your session is to be HAPPY! Your children (and spouse) feeds off your energy. Make sure they know this is a FUN event. We will be running around, playing, and having a great time. So once you finally make it- let everything else go and have fun!

What time do you have your sessions at and why?

For family outdoor sessions I ONLY book them one hour prior to sunset (So make sure you aren't late for your session!) You can check times here: http://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/portland-or) If that is too late for you in summer, check fall dates! I only book during these times to ensure I provide you with the absolute best looking images for your session. The lighting not only is beautiful at this time of day, but also gives the best color for skin tones and is the most flattering light. It moves an image from "oh, that's nice!" to "WOW!". The exception to this, is I might move a session up 30-60 minutes if it's in a very covered/shaded park or an Urban session. For lifestyle sessions I book them in the middle of the day on Saturdays. This provides the most ample light that is needed for those indoor sessions.

How do I book you?

Simply send me an email at Cherise@yourqt.com. We'll discuss what you are wanting, dates and make sure we are the right fit for each other.

When will I receive my photos?

I will post a preview within 2-3 days of our session. Then, 2 weeks later, I will send you a link to your finished session. You will then be able to download all of the full resolution images directly to your computer.

Are there any additional charges for me to receive my photos?

I charge a one-time flat rate for your pictures. No added sitting fees, special effect fees or huge prices for portraits. The price quoted does include the photo shoot, your personalized link containing all of your images to download immediately, with permission for you to share and print the photos from anywhere and keep forever.

Who do you recommend for printing? Do you offer prints and products?

My price includes the full resolution images to print wherever you like. Though, I have learned through experience that different printers offer different quality and color calibration. Walgreens for example may provide you with a green tint to all of your images. I recommend Mpix.com for the best color, along with your local Costco photo center **though, make sure to ask them when they calibrated their photo printers last- they should be doing it daily.** If you find your image doesn't match what you saw on your screen- it is the printing company you chose. I do offer prints and products. If you'd rather skip the hassle and have me do it and make sure all of the colors are calibrated correctly and images that will last 100+ years, just contact me and I can help! I also offer custom products you won't be able to get from companies like Costco. Just ask if you are looking for something special.

What are your styled sessions?

Ohhh I am so glad you asked! I LOVE my styled sessions, I do a couple each year and they are always different! These are ones that appeal to your family and your personality. For example, I did Campfire/Adventure styled sessions- these appealed to many outdoorsy families that loved being out in nature and exploring. I have also done Styled River sessions that offered a timeless look. All of my styled sessions are planned out to the tiniest details to provide a perfect, one-of-a-kind experience. A stylist is also available for an additional charge to help you plan your families wardrobe. I highly recommend this as it alleviates SO much stress and time, but it is not necessary.