FAQs

What is the booking process?

Most of my sessions are self book, which means you can reserve the spot yourself.  Some of my bookings are inquiry only, and will need to be discussed before we finalize a date (like weddings and elopements).  If you need a date that does not show as available on my calendar, please reach out to me, and I'd be happy to see if I can accommodate.

You book a date, answer some questions about your session, sign an agreement and pay a retainer all together.  Once the retainer is paid, I am booked for your session!  (please keep in mind, I'll only hold dates for 72 hours

When will we receive our images?

I put time and care into selecting and editing your images from our session.  The turn around time for each session is different.  

Mini Sessions, Sunset sessions, Sessions < 1 hour --approximately 2 weeks

Newborn Sessions (lifestyle or studio) -- approximately 3 weeks

Elopements and Weddings --approximately 4-6 weeks

How many sessions do you book per day?

I usually book only one session per day so I can focus on you during our session.  This is with exception to mini sessions, which are held 4 times a year.  

I book a maximum of 15 elopements and weddings per year, so I can focus my attention to deliver a beautiful gallery.

I only book 1 newborn session per week

How much do you edit your photos?

I work hard to ensure that every image meets my artistic standard and has my signature look. My edit is applied and adjusted for things like brightness & optimal color. I like to make sure each image is as true to its natural color as possible. I'll use tools to remove distractions from the background or edit minor clothing flaws.  I do not edit to alter body shape.  

I do not give any of the RAW (unedited) images upon delivery (so please don't ask for them).

What kind of lighting do you use?

I mostly use natural light for all of my sessions, but do have an off camera flash when I need it for darker situations.  I like using the way the sunlight reflects on the water, bounces on the sand, and is soft for a beautiful portrait.  

Can you make me look skinny?

You are beautiful!  And I'll try to offer you poses that highlight the things that you are most confident about!  I don't use editing software to change body shape, natural features or crazy edits.  I'm all about being true to life, not plastic faces.

What if my kids are not cooperating during the session?

I know time is of essence during sunset sessions!  I have a few tricks up my sleeve to help kids cooperate for photos.  I always have stickers or small toys to bribe them, and offer them things to do to help them ease working with me.  The more stressed out you become, the worst your kids will be, so just relax, and be calm.  I'll get those smiles eventually!

What location will you use for beach photos?

I have a few favorite spots on Maui for photographing sunset sessions.  I'll change up the location depending on tides, currents and how much of the beach remains based on the season.  The location of the beach will be shared once you are booked.  Kihei sessions are held at a beach in south kihei, while Wailea Beach sessions are held in Wailea.

What should we wear to our session?

I offer a style guide once you are booked with me.  But, basically, you want everyone to be comfortable so they can move around freely!  Choose one color theme, and coordinate with each other.  And please, don't all just show up in your Aloha shirts!

What should we bring to our session?

Newborn (in-studio): extra milk, clothes, diapers, pacifiers, bottles for baby.  Entertainment and snacks for parents and siblings.

Maternity Sessions: ultrasound photos, outfit for baby, anything nostalgic you want included

Sunset Sessions: Bribes for younger kids, snacks, water