FAQ

How do you prefer to be paid?
I prefer cash, will take a check and I also now can accept credit cards!

When will I get my pictures?
Depending on how many sessions I have around yours I try to get your pictures to you in 2 weeks.  During peek times it may take 3 weeks.  (Since I work full time and I NEED to put my family first your session might get pushed back a bit.  Please know that I will get them to you as soon as possible. Thank you for understanding) 
Once I am done editing your session I will post a peek here on my site, my zenfolio order site and also on my facebook page (become a fan!).  I will send you a message letting you know they are there.

How do I get my pictures?
I will mail you a DVD with high-resolution images for you to print on your own.  There will be 3 folders:
   
    unedited : Photos I didn't edit at high resolution
    AG Design Favorites Favorites (Web and High Res):  These are a grouping of my favorites and the ones I edit..

Also on the DVD will be a release form giving you permission to print these photos.

If you see one or two photos that you like that I didn’t edit, and you want them black and white or you want me to edit, let me know and I will be happy to do that for you as well. Sometimes the parents favorites are a little different than mine.

If you want to post the one’s I edited, please use the ones in the ‘for web’ folder so I can get my name out there a bit more. (not required, just suggested)

If you do not want to deal with uploading and printing the pictures USE MY ORDER SITEI will upload them here after your pictures are done and give you an access code to share with your friends and family.

What do I wear?
Where whatever you feel comfortable in is very important. Click Here for some great ideas from I heart faces and Melinda Brookshire Photography.

You can keep in mind the colors in your home so when you print your pictures the colors will coordinate.

If your kids are just going to be in the pictures and you are not, still keep in mind what you are wearing, black shirts and jeans or dark pants work best.  Even though you may not be in the pictures your legs or arms might be if your little one is a little shy.

Also, most my pictures I take are outside so take that in to consideration for your shoes.  Example, it is hard to walk in the grass in heels.  ;)


What can I expect from the session?
If you have little kids I tend to let them do what ever it is they do and I follow them around to let them warm up a bit.  Kids only last about 15min. typically so make sure they outfit you REALLY want is first. =0)  Sessions can last from 15min - 45 minutes depending on the mood of your child.  Do not WORRY if your child isn't behaving, this is normal. ;)  I'm a pretty laid back photographer.


What should we bring or do you have props?
I do have some props that I bring along with me and I am working on getting more.  I suggest bringing a favorite stuffed animal or toy or blanket or something that is meaningful to your kids and you so that your pictures are unique.  You also don't have to bring anything other than yourselves if you want as well.   


Do you have a studio?
I DON'T have a 'studio' per say.  My home does work for newborn pictures - about 1 year old and SMALL families. Otherwise outside photos work best for toddlers and more than 2 kids as they like to run around and play!  The botanical center is a great place if you want to be inside and not worry about the weather.  The do have a fee to get in and keep in mind it is WARM in there. 


What locations to you suggest?
Some of the locations I have shot at are:
  Saylorville
  Butterfly Gardens - Saylorville

  Park by Urbandale Library
  Valley Junction
  Greys Lake
  Waterworks Park
   Raccoon River
   Botanical Center - works great if its cold.  It is WARM in there. (There is a admission fee)
   Your House
   My House

I am always up for new places and ideas so you are not limited to this list.  I do just ask that it is in the Des Moines area! I will travel outside Des Moines area, it will just be extra.


Where do you suggest I print my photos?
Print Labs (Mpix or Adoramapix) will give you better prints than just Wal-Mart, Target, or Walgreens.  Of course I'll suggest that you print your photos though me! :)  Its easy!  CLICK HERE to go to my online order site.      


Do you have any picture packages?
At this time I do not have any packages.