Below you will find some of the most common questions I've been asked. I hope some of these answers will guide you in the right direction while choosing your photographer. If something isn't answered here please don't hesitate to reach out to me using the contact form on the site.
FAQS
frequently asked questions
My approach is very laid back, flexible, and simple. I arrive at every session without expectations of how it will unfold. While it's hard for you as the client to do this, being open to letting moments happen naturally and honestly make for the best photographs. I meet your family where you are at! If your child wants to run around, I'll run after them. If you're kiddo wants to cry and scream, I'll capture that moment, too. If everyone is up for a posed shot, then let's do it! For me, the best photographs are those which are true to the moment + period in your life. In my sessions, you get what you give! I know it's hard to be in front of a camera, but the best advice I can give: just have fun, be silly, and don't stress if your kiddo becomes unruly. Just go with the flow. Life is imperfectly beautiful, and that is always worth capturing.
There's A LOT of misguided images on social media, which is leading to unhealthy views of what we "should" look like. I want my work to be honest to who you are, not who you are behind filters and unnecessary photoshopping. You are beautiful, and that should never be hidden or altered. It's important to be clear about where I stand on post production + editing styles. I work hard during the session to try and avoid photographing anything in the frame that would later need to be removed, but that's life. Sometimes, especially when I'm running around - that can't be avoided.
To the best of my ability during post production, I will remove distractions such as trash cans, or random dogs, people and objects in the background. I may enhance colors, sharpen images and add contrast to make the photograph pop. However, when it comes to editing people, I will NOT "thin you out", change your hair color, remove moles or scars, smooth out your skin, or wrinkles. I will remove a pimple, runny nose, or food in your teeth. Basically, I will not change anything that makes you, YOU. If this is something that bothers you, that's okay! I may not be the right photographer for you. Be sure to bring up any post production concerns you have prior to booking.
Of course. My number one priority is to make sure you are comfortable. I understand the complexities of social media and being online. During your booking, you will fill out a questionnaire where this specific question is asked. You have the opportunity to opt out of having your images posted on social media, website, or print. Your images can remain completely private. However, I want to mention: I NEVER post names (first or last) of any of my clients. Your identity is alway private unless you comment or share the post. I am so appreciative of clients who allow me to share new work, but you are never obligated to.
I'm going to be honest here. I am not a fashionista. I am not the best at helping coordinate colors and outfits. I can usually be found in sweat pants, birks, and a t-shirt. However, there are plenty of online resources that I am happy to send via e-mail if needed.
This depends on a lot actually. What package you choose (different packages include different mileage), what time of day we are shooting (where is the light), what the tides are doing (depends on the beach -some beaches do not exist during high tide). Don't worry! We live in one of the most beautiful states, and there are so many options available. Once you start your booking, we will be able to shake out details of locations that might fit your preference. Please let me know during booking if there is a SPECIFIC location that is a must - so I can be sure to book you at the right time of day.
Light is everything. It can make or break a session. I find that light is always prettiest early morning or late afternoon/early evening. I do not particularly love to work with mid-day light. I want you to have the best photographs possible - and that includes avoiding harsh light that often results in squinty eyes, shadows, and images that are not quite what you see on my site.
I get it! It's exciting to get the "gallery is ready" email! I want you to have your photographs as quickly as possible, too. However, I am a human juggling a lot of things outside of my business. I typically tell clients photographs will be delivered within 2 weeks. During busy season, I can sometimes be pushing 3 weeks, but believe me - I am working as hard as possible without jeopardizing my work. If you need your session gallery quicker, please be sure to bring that up prior to booking so I can be honest if I am able to turn it around faster.
Don't panic. You can access your gallery for a full month once delivered. (Once you request the download link, please be sure to download the images right away and back them up. After your gallery closes the link is no longer accessible). If you need me to upload your gallery again, I do charge a $10 fee for this. I keep your photographs backed up on two different external hard drives and an online cloud system. FYI: In the contract it states I am not responsible for the loss of your photographs after delivery, but I do my very best to make sure I have backed them up for years to come. I never want to lose your photos, but technology does all of us dirty sometimes - so please be sure you download and back up, back up, back up - on the cloud, on an external hard drive, on a thumb drive. You can not back up enough! These are your memories.
While I did make my start in weddings, I have decided after 2022 I will no longer be taking on any weddings. There are so many wonderful photographers out there specializing in weddings, and I know you will be in good hands.
Want to find out more?
© 2024 BEAR AND PINEAPPLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Cumberland, Maine