I shoot on location, lifestyle portraits as well as unique studio portraits and my style is relaxed and natural. You can think of it as laid back, spontaneous fun! I provide the structure and let the moments happen. Truly amazing photographs are those that are honest and real, that capture the essence of you. I strive to portray people as they are, forgoing forced smiles and poses and focusing on natural expressions. I’m passionate about getting those REAL moments and keeping sessions simple and fun. Using mostly natural light and meeting clients in their homes, at a familiar location or in the studio, the time spent is light and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Session…
What can I expect at a photo session?
You can expect to have fun! I don’t have rules, or expectations of anyone. You are expected to laugh, play, run, sing, and do whatever makes your heart content. A session usually doesn’t go well when you have to “sit still”, or smile on command. I prefer to capture you as you are. Just let yourself be you, and trust that I will anticipate the moment to capture the types of images that drew you to my work. When you call to book a photo session with Amanda K. Photography, talk with me about what you are hoping for, and I can help steer you in the right direction!
All the people on your website are dressed so nicely. What should we dress in?
It is often hard to tell a client what to wear. We are definitely a laid back studio. I am an extremely casual person, and I prefer to photograph my clients that way. If you are a potential client hoping for a more traditional photo session, we can refer you to a few outstanding photographers in the area that specialize in that look. The most important thing is to be comfortable! After you book your session I will send you a “What to Wear” guide that will help you in selecting the clothes for your session.
Weather
I offer the choice of on-location photography. Living in Washington, bad weather may prevent having a successful session on location. If the weather is rainy or extremely overcast, you will be contacted the morning of the shoot to reschedule. If you’re up to it, we also meet in our clients’ homes or at our indoor studio.
What to Expect On-Location
I will take some posed shots right off to get everybody comfortable and used to the camera. Then you’ll laugh, and play, and jump, and sing, and run and YES….sometimes get dirty! I will never ask you “say cheese” in order to capture the smiles that you know and see every day. Feel free to contact us for suggestions, as the location of your session is very important to creating beautiful, one of a kind images. We rarely use flash, and utilize natural light to create organically gorgeous images.
What to Expect in Your Home
I will arrive a little early so I can get to know you and where I’m shooting. I’ll probably ask you where the best light is in your home, and might even move some furniture around. I will get some shots inside, get some outside, and you’ll run, play, laugh, and smile ’til your cheeks hurt. Shooting at your home is all about being in your element, and I love to capture the real life that goes on inside it!
What to Expect in the Studio
Our indoor studio utilizes tons of natural light, which is my preferred choice of lighting. It offers soft, complimentary light that gives your images that beautiful look. We have many unique set ups and the studio is a place where clients can be comfortable and themselves. We will discuss your desired “look” before your indoor studio session and you will be able to preview any set ups you may be interested in.
I really want family images. I didn’t notice any “real” family images on the website. Do you have any examples?
My family portraits are not traditional. When choosing a photographer for your family portraits, it is imperative that you choose a photographer whose style matches your own. If you are hoping for traditional, “sit and smile together” family images then I’m probably not the photographer for your family portraits. I am very particular regarding how I capture the families I photograph. I also don’t compromise my style to capture just “one” traditional image. The main goal is for my clients to be happy with their family portraits. I prefer to capture casual moments. I want to showcase what makes your family special. Please take a look at the category link called “LifeStyle”. The images in this category really give a great representation on how I capture families. If you are hoping for a similar outcome with your family session, please call to book a family photo session, I’d love to meet your family!
You seem to be very busy. How soon should I book my appointment?
I totally wish I could see everyone that contacts me for a session. I’m typically booked 4-6 weeks in advance throughout the year. During the Holiday Season (Sept – Nov.) I’m booked 6-8 weeks in advance. Keep an eye on this blog for announced promotions and specials as that’s when my clients start booking me. The only weekend date I work is Saturday, Sunday’s are only available for a limited number of weddings as this is a day I set aside for my family and religion. Saturday is usually the first date to fill up for any kind of session, there is much more flexibility during the week. If you would like a weekend date, we strongly suggest that you book this date as soon as you know that I’m the photographer for you. I try my very best to accommodate last minute requests if there is availability in my schedule.
The photo session went GREAT! We are so excited. When can we expect to view our pictures?
Normal process is 3-4 weeks. The reason clients love my work is due the care of each image during AND after the photo session. I strive to give my clients plenty of choices. Remember, great images take time!
We have placed our order. When can we expect our pictures? We’re so excited!
We ask that you allow about 3 weeks for delivery of your images from the moment you place your order. Longer if you have ordered albums or custom products. We understand that clients are very excited to see their images, but it is important not to rush this process. We inspect every single image to make sure everything is perfect. If it isn’t, we have it reprinted before you even see the print. You want the prints that grace your walls to be amazing. Rushing prints is simply not the way to accomplish this. If a rush order is needed, this *must* be discussed at the time the order is placed so that certain processes can be put in place. There is an additional fee for rush orders.
