FAQ
Here are some common questions that are usually asked about JSP and my services. If you have a question that wasn’t answered here please contact me and I’ll have an answer for you ASAP!
No I do not. Most good photographers don’t. I eliminate duplicate images, test shots, missed focused shots, shots with bad expressions and other images that may dilute the overall product delivery. For example, because I shoot with low apertures, and different lighting, sometimes I take a few extra shots to make sure we have the perfect focus. I don’t expect you to have the expertise or the time to zoom into each image to select the one with the sharpest focus, best lighting or composition so I spend hours doing that on my end.
In another example, candid laughs and emotional tears are some of the best images from the day. Unfortunately, they can also yield some strange or unflattering facial expressions. I might snap a few extras of any of these moments to make sure we have a great shot with the ideal expression for the moment. With my expertise of processing thousands of images each year, I may eliminate ones that I feel are duplicates and only deliver the best one. I do this so you don’t have to be worried about choosing the right shot and can just appreciate them all!
I use the most up to date full frame and high resolution cameras from Nikon paired with my stash of high quality, low light handling lenses from Nikon and Tameron that are customized for the specific type of photography that you request.
I also use the latest editing programs and plugins from Adobe (Photoshop, Lightrooom, Illustrator, etc.) and Nik Software plugins to make sure your photos and special edits are top quality and look the way that you want them to look.
Be assured I can handle almost any type of photography you can request.
The answer to this question has become a little more complicated in the past few years as some people want only digital versions while others choose the classic physical print format. Which ever version you choose, please make sure to archive your pictures appropriately, whether that be: making an album, getting prints, getting a DVD or saving them to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
I always encourage people to have prints or an album made (something that doesn’t require electricity to view) of their special day, so they will be able to view them their entire lifetime! All of these are services and products that I offer through JSP if you choose.
That said, the following is how I can get your pictures to you:
- High Resolution and web sized digital files (.JPG) on a CD, DVD or USB drive
- High Resolution and web sized digital files (.JPG) direct download from our online gallery
- Physical print/proofs (usually 4x6s) – extra charge (includes all digitals)
- Print packages – price depends on package (includes all digitals)
- Photo album or book – price depends on book size and pages (includes all digitals)
Please note: prices on my website are for photo session ONLY. (Including basic editing of all photos).
Your private (password protected if requested) online Gallery will be ready for viewing within no more than 2 weeks for portrait sessions.
I do post a “sneak peak” (3-4 images) of your session within 2-3 days on the JSP Facebook fan page.
I’ve been interested in media, film and photography since I was in high school (mid 90’s) but I’ve studied photography theory, lighting, composition and digital editing for over 10 years and use that knowledge to make my clients look amazing!
I started out on film cameras (the Pentax K1000 and Nikon F4s specifically) and learned composition, lighting and theory the hard way (experimentation, a lot of reading and definitely practice!) but have obviously since moved on to professional Nikon DSLRs and lenses.
Not a problem. Please try to contact me at least 24 hours in advance in the event that you need to reschedule and we’ll find the next available date for you.
It is best to keep clothing simple, avoiding logos or busy patterns. Also clothes that are all white or heavy sequins, shine (or bling) can trick the camera and flash and alter lighting. I always suggest layers/textures. In group photos, color coordinating is always more pleasing to the eye. Wear clothes that represent you and who you are. Feel free to bring a change of clothing as well if time allows.
The location of the photo session is up to you, I have access to a full studio in Montevallo if you would like to do your pictures in a perfectly lit environment with backdrops. Ideally, I prefer to use natural, available light on location for most portraits and augment it with flash to get the perfect look.
Once your photo shoot date is booked we can discuss what type of feel you are looking for in your photographs, we can then work together to come up with the perfect location. I know of many locations in the Birmingham area that give different feels from industrial, grungy, vintage, soft and natural to exotic! Let me know what your ideas are and I will find that perfect location or look for you!