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Long exposure waterfall with blue water over dark rocks

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions for Megan

Services FAQ

Services

 

What types of photography do you offer?

​We offer a wide range of photography services including portrait photography for individuals, families, teams, and pets, weddings, elopements, events, and landscape photography.

What areas do you cover?

I cover various locations along the 395 Eastern Sierra corridor.

 

Mono County: Mammoth Lakes, CA, June Lake, CA, Crowley Lake, CA, Convict Lake, CA, Lee Vining, CA, Bridgeport, CA, Walker/Coleville, CA

 

Douglas County: Topaz, NV, TRE, Gardnerville, NV, Minden, NV, Genoa, NV (and up to Reno)

 

Inyo County: Bishop, CA, Big Pine, CA, Independence, CA, Lone Pine, CA

Do you sell gift certificates?

Yes! You can purchase a specified amount for a gift certificate, which can be used for a photography session or wedding. They cannot be used for print products.

Do you sell printed products?

Yes. Your printed images, canvas, metal, and more would be a great addition to any wall of your home. Photographs should be printed as a lasting, tangible, everyday memory rather than just being lost amongst a giant sea of digital information.

 

If you want something printed but don't know what images, medium, or size of wall art, I would love to help you with your design.

Do you design albums?

Yes. I would love to help design a printed album for you from your wedding, portrait session, event.

 

Albums are a great way to store memories in a tangible way. Images that are not selected to hang on your walls but that are still special should be easily seen and interacted with. Plus, albums are a great way to share your special moments with family and friends.

What types of events do you photograph?

I photograph a wide range of events including corporate gatherings, nonprofit events, community festivals, tournaments, fundraisers, retreats, performances, and private celebrations.

What is a mini session, and how is it different from a full session?

A mini session is a 15-minute non-refundable photography session booked back-to-back in a block of mini-sessions at 1 location.  Clients will only receive 5 images.  These are created by the photographer and may be themed or location based, and it is not simply a shorter standalone photography session.  There may be a 5-minute transition from one booking to the next.

 

This is great for individuals, couples, and families.  Yes, pets may be included depending on the location, policies of where the mini session is held.   Unless you book multiple mini sessions, you will not be able to upgrade to a longer session.  You are more than welcome to book multiple mini sessions.

 

If a client has a desire to create a block of mini sessions, for instance, sports teams or business headshots and staff photos, you will get a receive a custom quote specific to you and your needs.   

 

If you are late to your session, you will only be given the remaining time within that 15-minute block.  Otherwise, you will have to wait until the end of all other booked sessions, if there are any remaining slots at the end.  I cannot guarantee availability should you miss your scheduled session.

Do you do sports photography?

Yes, I do.  If you want the traditional team photos, individual, and buddy images or a game photographed, I would be happy to help. Custom quotes will be created for you depending on your desire and needs. Typically, these photos are delivered the same as my other galleries, password protected with a link emailed to the client.  Print packages and swag with the athletes photo are available.

The earlier you book the better, as my schedule tends to fill.  It is important get the photos earlier in the season so that they can have adequate time for editing and delivery prior to the end of a season or awards banquet.  We can create prints to hand out at the banquet.  You can book me to photograph your awards banquet.

​​What if my kids don’t cooperate?

That’s completely normal and honestly expected sometimes. I approach family sessions with flexibility and patience, allowing space for kids to explore, play, and interact naturally rather than forcing overly posed moments. I used to be a physical education teacher for TK-12th grade. Kids will be kids. I may enlist them on tasks or games to keep them engaged but also to get the wiggles out. Sometimes I may have the adults demonstrate or go with the kids to help the kids feel more comfortable. It is common for some to get tired, so I do want to orient the session to try to capture everyone at their best.

How long are family sessions?

Most family sessions last between 1-3 hours depending on the location, group size, lighting conditions, and the type of experience being planned.

Weddings & Elopements FAQ

Elopements & Weddings

Do you photograph elopements in Mammoth Lakes?

Yes — I specialize in outdoor elopements and intimate weddings throughout Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra and surrounding areas like Bishop and Yosemite.  

Do you help plan elopement timelines?

Yes — I regularly help couples build timelines that work well with lighting, weather, hiking logistics, travel time, and the overall experience they want for their day. The goal is to create a relaxed timeline that allows space to actually enjoy the experience.

Do you photograph multi-day weddings or adventure sessions?

Yes — I love working on multi-day celebrations, destination weddings, backpacking elopements, and adventure-focused experiences that allow for deeper storytelling and unique locations.

What are the best months for Eastern Sierra weddings?

Late spring through fall are especially popular throughout the Sierra Nevada. Summer offers alpine access and wildflowers, while fall brings beautiful aspens and cooler temperatures. Winter can also be incredible for couples looking for snowy mountain scenery and a quieter experience.

What time of year is best for Sierra weddings?

Fall and early summer are especially popular because of the weather, wildflowers, alpine lakes, and fall color opportunities.

Do you travel for sessions and weddings?

Yes — I regularly travel throughout California and Nevada for weddings, elopements, family sessions, events, and commercial projects. I frequently photograph throughout Mammoth Lakes, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Carson Valley, Reno, and the Eastern Sierra, and I’m always open to destination projects and adventure-based sessions.

How many images do couples typically receive?

Every wedding and elopement is different and has a different package. Regardless of the number of images outlined in your contract, you will receive a carefully curated gallery with a wide variety of candid moments, portraits, details, and environmental images that fully tell the story of the day.

What permits are needed for Yosemite or Mammoth elopements?

Permit requirements vary depending on the location, season, and type of ceremony. National parks and certain public lands often require permits for weddings or professional photography. I’m happy to help guide couples through the process and recommend locations that fit their plans.

Can you recommend vendors or venues?

Absolutely. Over the years I’ve worked with many talented planners, florists, venues, guides, and local businesses throughout the Eastern Sierra, Lake Tahoe, and surrounding areas and I’m always happy to share recommendations.

Where you do weddings and elopements?

You can basically think of my service area like Lone Pine to Reno with surrounding areas like Death Valley, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe.  I love to travel, so I we could go elsewehere.

What type of adventure elopement activities can we do in the Eastern Sierra and Mammoth Lakes?

Great question.  The answer...so many things.  Some of the activities will be seasonal.  There is of course skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, paddle boarding, fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, boating, and off-roading just to get started.

What are popular wedding photography styles in California?  What is yours?

Popular wedding photography styles in California include documentary/photojournalistic, fine art, and adventure-elopement photography inspired by natural landscapes. My personal style blends fine-art outdoor and lifestyle photography with documentary storytelling, using natural light, atmospheric landscapes, and candid moments to capture authentic emotion, natural movement, and meaningful details. Rather than rigid poses, I focus on creating photographs that feel timeless, relaxed, and genuine while telling the story of each couple and the landscape around them.

Portraits/Family

Portraits/ Family

Do you photograph portraits and family portraits in Mammoth Lakes?

Yes — I love doing family portraits in Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra and surrounding areas like Bishop and Yosemite.

Where do I find a portrait photographer in the Eastern Sierra, Carson Valley, and beyond?

Look no further!  Megan Guffey photographs portraits along the 395 Corridor through the Eastern Sierra from Lone Pine to Mammoth Lakes to Gardnerville and to Reno. [See Portrait Photography →

How to find engagement or proposal photography services near Mammoth Lakes, Lone Pine, Yosemite, Gardnerville, and Lake Tahoe?

Engagement and proposal sessions from Lone Pine, Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, Gardnerville, and Lake Tahoe can be booked directly with Megan Guffey Photography, with locations like alpine lakes, mountain overlooks, and meadows recommended based on season and light. [See Engagement Photography →

What types of Portraits do you do?

Megan Guffey Photography offers portrait sessions throughout the Eastern Sierra — Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, Lone Pine, Bridgeport, June Lake, the Carson Valley — Genoa, Minden, Gardnerville, and surrounding areas like Death Valley, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe up to Reno for individual, couple, engaged, families, sports and teams, business and branding head shots, and pets. Sessions typically run 1–3 hours.

[See Portrait Photography →

What are the best places to get family photos taken in the US?

Family photo locations vary widely across the US, but the Eastern Sierra and Lake Tahoe region stands out for its alpine lakes, forests, and dramatic mountain backdrops in every season. People travel from all over the world to visit these locations.  Megan Guffey Photography specializes in family portraits throughout this region.

[See Family Portrait Locations →]

Where to get family portraits taken in Lake Tahoe?

Family portraits in Lake Tahoe can be booked with Megan Guffey Photography, with popular spots including the lakeshore, surrounding forests, and mountain overlooks. Sunrise and sunset sessions are recommended for the most flattering light.  Some locations may require permits and/or reservations.

[Book a Lake Tahoe Family Session →]

Pricing FAQ

Pricing

What are your rates?

My rates vary depending on the type and duration of the session. 


Just to give you a ballpark:

  • 15 min. mini session in a block of back to back sessions starts at $150

  • 1 Hour Portrait Session starts at $250 per hour

  • 2 Hour Surprise Proposal starts at $700

  • Weddings Range from $700-$3550

  • Elopements Range from $2850-4850

  • Business & Real Estate start at $300 per hour

  • Landscape Prints-These vary depending on size, medium and shipping.

  • Please see the individual services and contact me if you have any questions or need a detailed quote tailored to your specific needs. Any additional time, add on services/products, or licensing fees are not included in the below prices.

Can I want to add to a specific package listed?

Yes. You may add services, time, or products to your chosen package. Pricing for add-ons will vary depending on what service or product added.

If I book before a price change, can I still keep my lower price?

Yes, if you book prior to the deadline stated on the website, you can keep the price of you session or package as listed prior to that deadline.

How do I pay?

Once we decide to move ahead to book a session, the client will be sent a contract and an invoice to be paid via credit card.  Depending on the package, the agreement, and the time of booking to the session, clients may have an option for a payment plan.  Typically weddings and elopements pay the non-refundable 25% plus 1 or payments.  Portraits sessions pay the non-refundable 25% plus 1 payment. Mini sessions must be paid in full.  You may pay with case, a cashier's check, or money order as well.


 

Seasons & Weather FAQ

Seasons & Weather

What is the best time of year for photography in the Eastern Sierra?

The Eastern Sierra offers stunning photography opportunities year-round. I would say the season depends on your vision and goals. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers vibrant alpine scenery, fall showcases colorful aspens, and winter provides dramatic snowy landscapes.

How do I prepare for a photography session in the mountains?

Preparation is key for a successful mountain photography session. Communication and back up plans are important.

 

Dress in layers that are comfortable clothing suitable for potentially changing weather. Bring water and snacks, sunscreen. Recognize that altitude sickness is possible.

 

Consider the lighting and time of day for the best results. Timelines may need to be adjusted to accommodate for when the sun goes behind the mountains.

 

Select seasons, terrain and activities that are suitable to your health, fitness, experience level, and that align with your goals.

 

Leave wildlife alone and practice Leave No Trace Principles.

 

Are sunrise or sunset sessions better in the Eastern Sierra?

Both can be beautiful depending on the location and season. Sunrise often provides calmer conditions and fewer crowds, while sunset can create warm light and dramatic mountain color. I’m always happy to recommend timing based on the specific experience you want.

Real Estate FAQ

Real Estate

What types of properties do you photograph?

I photograph interiors and exteriors of homes, vacation rentals, cabins, lodges, commercial spaces, hospitality properties, and architectural projects throughout Inyo County, Mono County, Alpine County, and Douglas County.

How should a property be prepared before a session?

Spaces photograph best when they are clean, uncluttered, and styled with intentional lighting and simple details. I also provide preparation recommendations before each shoot.

Why are vacation rentals and for sale properties priced differently?

Typically, when someone is selling their home, the photos are used for a short period of time and are not reused.  While vacation rental photos are typically licensed for a period of time and continue to be used over and over again as well as additional use in marketing and publications. 

​​​

Branding & Business FAQ

Branding & Business

 

Can you provide branding and marketing images during events?

Absolutely. In addition to candid coverage, I can capture branded content, sponsor visibility, venue details, and marketing-focused imagery for promotional use. I desire to have a good working partnership with vendors at all events. We are all in this together and need to support each other and work together.

Can you create content for social media and marketing campaigns?

Absolutely. Sessions can be customized to include vertical content, lifestyle imagery, branding details, and marketing-focused visuals designed for websites, social platforms, and promotional campaigns. If the client desires more than just images, additional fees may apply.

Do you offer branding photography for businesses?

Yes — branding sessions are designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, small businesses, tourism brands, and companies looking for cohesive imagery for websites, social media, and marketing materials. Sessions fees and additional images usage fees will vary upon the client's needs.

​Do you license images for editorial or commercial use?

Yes — landscape and outdoor imagery may be licensed for editorial, tourism, marketing, and commercial use depending on the project. These would be on an individual client and project basis.

Do you offer headshots and team photos?

Absolutely. Professional headshots and team photography can be incorporated into branding sessions for businesses, organizations, and creative professionals.

What types of businesses do you work with?

I work with a wide range of businesses including tourism brands, outdoor companies, small businesses, restaurants, vacation rentals, hospitality properties, artists, creatives, and service-based businesses.

How often should businesses update branding photos?

While everyone is different, most businesses benefit from updating imagery every 1–2 years or whenever branding, services, staff, or marketing goals significantly change.

​​​

About Megan

 

What sets you apart?

Megan brings a background in wilderness guiding, teaching, music, customer service, and adaptive sports to her work — meaning she's genuinely skilled at helping people feel calm and comfortable, whether that's on a backcountry trail or in front of a camera on your wedding day. She's also based right in the Eastern Sierra and Carson Valley, so the landscapes she shoots aren't just a backdrop — they're a place she's deeply connected to, lives in, and plays in. Rather than stiff, posed shots, her style is natural and story-driven, focused on capturing real moments and genuine connection. And because she works across weddings, elopements, portraits, events, and business/real estate photography, clients can build an ongoing, trusting relationship with one photographer for every chapter of life rather than hunting for someone new each time.

Where are your favorite places to photograph in the Sierra?

Hmmmm...good question. There are so many, and each one is different. I love the Eastern Sierra, Mono Lake, Yosemite, Hope Valley, Mammoth Lakes, alpine lakes throughout the Sierra Nevada, and remote desert landscapes throughout California, Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, and even across the world.

 

I feel drawn to dramatic rugged mountains, alpine lakes, reflections, rushing and cascading rivers and waterfalls, forests, textures in sand dunes, and more. Each place is unique with its own beauty, and a I try to capture it all.

What is Megan's workflow process?

Megan uses a dual card system as well as a backup camera for redundancy should an issue arise with the main equipment. Upon the completion of the photography session, all images are immediately backed up to a hard drive and imported.

 

Images are culled and edited by Megan in Adobe Lightroom, and every once in a while, images may be edited in Adobe Photoshop.

 

Once edits are completed, images are then exported at high resolution images and uploaded to her client delivery platform. Clients have the option to purchase professional prints, albums, and wall art directly from their gallery from a professional print lab.

If we wanted to go on an adventure photography outing, can you ski, hike, bike or do something else with us?

Yes.  Let's do it.  That would be my favorite.  Any kind of adventure photography session, from a portrait session to a surprise proposal to an adventure elopement would be right up my ally. There is nothing better than getting outside in nature.  It would allow me to combine two of my favorite things: beautiful landscapes and the people who recreate in them.

About Megan FAQ

Landscape

 

Where are most of your landscape photographs taken?

Many images are created throughout the Eastern Sierra, Yosemite region, Lake Tahoe, and remote areas of California and Nevada. My journeys have taken me across the United States, Patagonia, Israel, Europe, and Kyrgyzstan.

Where and how can I buy your Sierra Nevada landscape prints?

Fine art prints of Eastern Sierra landscapes are available through Megan Guffey Photography's online client gallery in canvas, metal, and matted formats, or in person at regional art fairs like Mammoth Lakes Artwalk and Candy Dance in Genoa, NV.  You can also purchase them from Megan Guffey's website by going to "Client Galleries" and view my landscape folder. If you see one you like, you can contact me to order the size and medium of print.  If you want to see my work in person, you can see me at various art fairs like the Mammoth Lakes Open Air Arts & Crafts Festival and Mammoth Lakes Artwalk in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Candy Dance in Genoa, NV.

[Shop Landscape Prints →]

Do you sell landscape prints?

Yes — select landscape photographs are available as fine art prints for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. You have several options from metal prints, acrylic prints, canvas, matted prints, and more of varying sizes to design and fill whatever space you are looking at.

What inspires your landscape photography?

My work is heavily inspired by the Eastern Sierra where I grew up. The rugged and dramatic landscape with changing weather, seasonal light, wilderness travel created the backdrop to the outdoor adventure lifestyle that is close to my heart. Beyond that, I struggled with loneliness growing up. There is a Bible verse that says "you are God's workmanship created in His image..." One version says masterpiece. I look at the incredible landscape surrounding me. It is amazing and beautiful. I am in awe and speechless. I cannot accurately describe the landscape, let alone its creator, but that creator calls me...you...us a masterpiece. A masterpiece is something intentionally and purposefully created and designed for a purpose. A masterpiece is set on display, a prize possession that is priceless. That is how God sees us...wow! When I am out in nature, I feel small and am reminded of the infinite God that sees me...sees us...and cares.

 

What camera gear do you use?

I use professional full-frame camera systems and a variety of lenses designed for high-resolution landscape, portrait, and commercial photography in challenging outdoor conditions. I typically use Nikon cameras; however, I have been known to work with Canon and Olympus in the past. Every session or event is different, so I select the best combination for the task at hand. I do plan in redundancy in my equipment planning and usage.

Landscape FAQ
Locations FAQ

Locations

​​

Do you travel for events?

Yes — I regularly travel throughout California and Nevada for events and destination coverage. My main service area is the Highway 395 corridor from Lone Pine to Reno which includes Independence, Big Pine, Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, Lee Vining, Bridgeport, Walker, Coleville, Topaz, Gardnerville, Minden, Carson City, and surrounding communities and locations like Yosemite, Smith Valley, Genoa, and Lake Tahoe.

What areas do you serve?

I primarily serve the Highway 395 corridor from Lone Pine to Reno including Independence, Big Pine, Bishop, Rock Creek, Convict Lake, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, Lee Vining, Bridgeport, Walker, Coleville, Topaz, Gardnerville, Minden, Carson City, and surrounding communities like Yosemite, Smith Valley, Genoa, and Lake Tahoe, but I’m available for travel throughout the western United States and beyond.

Do you help with location recommendations?

Absolutely. I regularly help clients choose locations based on scenery, accessibility, lighting, weather, season, crowd levels, and the overall experience they want for their session or event.

When is the best season for family photos in Tahoe or the Eastern Sierra?

Every season offers something unique. Fall is especially popular for aspens and color, summer provides alpine scenery and warm evenings, while winter can create beautiful snowy landscapes.

Do you scout locations beforehand?

Yes — location scouting and planning are an important part of the process, especially for outdoor sessions and elopements where lighting, weather, and accessibility can significantly affect the experience.

 

There may be a few times where scouting beforehand is not possible. Should that be the case, I research the venue online to get a breadth of ideas and inspiration. Plus, I will arrive early so that I can get the lay of the venue or location to confirm plans and ideas and generate new ones. This helps me to discover any curveballs or anything unanticipated so that I can make any needed adjustments.

 

My background in teaching, coaching, instructing wilderness medicine, whitewater rafting, banquet serving, and search and rescue have taught me to prepare for the worst, plan for the best, and always have a plan B if not a plan C.

What are the best locations for engagement photos in Mammoth Lakes?

Mammoth Lakes offers an incredible variety of locations including alpine lakes, mountain overlooks, pine forests, lava formations, and open meadows. The best location depends on the season, lighting, accessibility, and the type of scenery you’re drawn to. You can choose a more adventure inspired session and some just off the road places.

When is peak fall color in Hope Valley?

Peak fall color typically occurs between late September and mid-October depending on weather conditions, elevation, and yearly temperature patterns.

Can we take photos in Yosemite National Park?

Yes — Yosemite is an incredible location for photography sessions and elopements, though certain areas and ceremonies may require permits depending on the activity and group size.

What time of year is best for Lake Tahoe photography?

Lake Tahoe photographs beautifully year-round. Summer offers vibrant alpine scenery, fall brings color and quieter conditions, winter creates dramatic snowy landscapes, and spring often features lush forests and changing weather.

Can you recommend scenic locations for a photo session?

Absolutely! I can suggest a variety of scenic locations based on your preferences, lighting, accessibility, scenery, permits, and seasonality.whether you’re looking for alpine lakes, mountain vistas, or desert landscapes.

Booking FAQ

Booking

Where do I book a wedding photographer in California?

Megan Guffey Photography books weddings throughout California and Nevada, based in the Eastern Sierra and Carson Valley.  This includes Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Gardnerville/Minden, Bishop, Lone, — with travel available statewide, across the USA, and even internationally. Fill out the inquiry form to check your date.

What is the best place to hire a mountain elopement photographer in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range?

Best place to hire an elopement photographer in Eastern Sierra?

Look no farther! Megan Guffey Photography books mountain elopements throughout the Sierra Nevada, including Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, and more. Prices from $2,850–$4,850 depending on location and coverage. [See Elopement Packages →]

How do I book a session?

You can book a session by contacting me through my website or emailing us directly at mguffeyphoto@gmail.com. I will get back to you within 48 hours.

 

A 25% non-refundable retainer fee is required along with a signed contract to confirm your booking.

What should I look for in a photographer?

Look for local experience with Sierra terrain and light, a documentary vs. posed style that matches your vision, and comfort shooting outdoors in changing mountain conditions. Megan Guffey brings a wilderness-guiding background and a natural, story-driven style suited to the 395 Corridor of the Eastern Sierra, including Lone Pine, Bishop, Mammoth, and Bridgeport) to the Carson Valley (Genoa, Minden, Gardnerville), and the surrounding locations like Death Valley Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe. [Learn more about Megan →]

Can I book Megan Guffey Photography for weddings, elopements, and portraits in the Eastern Sierra?

Yes, absolutely.  The Easter Sierra is my back yard, and I would love to share it with you.  To book, you can click the "Get Started!" button on my website to fill out an inquiry form.  We will chat and discover your vision.  Book me for all your Eastern Sierra photography needs.

Are you willing to travel?

Yes! I love to travel. Depending on the location, travel time, and/or need for lodging, there may be an additional charge.

How far in advance should we book?

Booking timelines vary depending on the season, but most weddings and peak fall sessions are reserved several months in advance. Summer and fall dates in the Eastern Sierra and Lake Tahoe tend to book the fastest, so reaching out early is always recommended. Last-minute sessions may still be available depending on schedule and weather conditions.

Delivery FAQ

Delivery, Copyright, & Usage

How will I receive my photos?

Your photos will be delivered digitally through a password protected online gallery along with a separate download pin.

 

I would be happy to arrange prints, canvas, albums, wall art, and more. When you purchase these items, they will be mailed directly to you.

How long does it take for my photos to be delivered?

Depending on the type of photographer session or service, and the hours of service, you may have a different timeline for receiving your digital gallery of images. Refer to your individual contract for this specific information, but as a general timeline, your digital gallery should be delivered at an average of one to two months after the session.

Can you do a quick (same day) turnaround for events or sports?

You can pay for a "rush job" to increase the turn-around rate for your gallery.  I am not currently set up to provide same day prints and galleries.  However, this plan is in the works, so keep checking back.

Will you do print packages?

Yes. You have two options: you can order your edited images directly from your client gallery via a professional print lab, or you can I can create a custom order of your selected images.

 

I would love to help you acquire prints, canvas, metals, albums, and more so that your cherished memories are on display rather than lost in a sea of digital files.

How quickly are event galleries delivered?

Delivery timelines vary depending on event size and coverage needs, but clients typically receive professionally edited galleries within three weeks to eight weeks.  You must be paid if full before the photographer will edit any photos.  If the client never pays in full, they will not receive their images.

How long does it take to receive photos?

Delivery timelines vary depending on the type of session or event, but most galleries are delivered within 2–6 weeks. Smaller portrait sessions are often delivered sooner, while weddings and large events may require additional editing time.

How are photos delivered?

Final galleries are delivered through a password protected, online gallery where you can download high-resolution images, share with family and friends, and order prints if desired. Prints, albums, wall art, slideshows, cards, and more can be added.

Do you offer prints or albums?

Yes — select sessions and landscape work are available as professional prints, wall art, and albums designed to preserve your images in a lasting, tangible format.

Can I post my images on Instagram?

All photographs remain the intellectual property of the Photographer and are protected by copyright law. The Client receives a limited license to use the images for personal use only (e.g., printing, social media sharing). Images may not be altered, sold, or submitted to contests, blogs, or publications without prior written permission from the Photographer.  Please tag and give credit to the photographer for her work.

Can I print my images elsewhere?

​Yes; however, I do offer print packages from a long-standing professional print lab with options from cards to collages, to prints, to canvas, metal, and more.  You can shop directly from your online gallery.  If you print them elsewhere, the quality may be different depending on the method and quality of the printer.  It is my experience that people have great intentions of printing their images on their own, but sadly often fail to do so.

 

Preparation FAQ

Preparation

How should I prepare for my photography session?

I recommend wearing comfortable clothing that reflects your personal style. If you have specific ideas or props, feel free to bring them along. We will discuss all the details during the booking process to ensure you are fully prepared.

What should I expect?

I believe people look best when they feel natural and comfortable. It is important to provide a variety of poses and shots that incorporate both your and my preferences.

What happens if weather conditions change?

Mountain weather can change quickly, especially throughout the Sierra Nevada. I always monitor conditions closely and work with clients to adapt when needed. In many cases, changing weather can actually create some of the most dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions for photography.

What should we wear for our session?

I recommend wearing comfortable clothing that feels authentic to you while coordinating tones and textures rather than perfectly matching outfits. Neutral and earthy colors often photograph beautifully in mountain and desert environments. I also provide outfit guidance before sessions. Bright neon colors tend to bounce that color onto your or other people's skin causing interesting colors casts that aren't natural.

What if we’ve never been professionally photographed before?

Most couples I work with say this before their session. My approach is relaxed and natural, focusing on movement, interaction, and genuine moments rather than stiff posing. The goal is to help you feel comfortable and present throughout the experience.

What time of day is best for family photos?

Sunrise and sunset typically provide the softest, most flattering light, especially in mountain environments. Timing can vary depending on the season, location, weather, and the age of younger children. I understand that not everyone can plan a photography session in the early morning and late evening, so I am prepared to work with the lighting, the location, and the group to capture the best images and have the best experience possible. I definitely want to steer you away from midday though, because it does tend to produce harsh light with harsh shadows.

Can pets join our session?

Absolutely. Pets are always welcome as long as the location allows them and everyone stays safe and comfortable during the session. Some of my favorite sessions are people with their horses or their dog. I will draw the line at snakes...I have a completely irrational fear of them. Our session would end up being abruptly cancelled. It is important that pets are under the control of their owner at all times and not disturbing others or being destructive. We want to leave the place the same or better than we found it, so you should expect to pack it in and pack it out...have an option to clean up after your pet. Please also be aware that you should have a means of taking care of your pet's needs for food and water as well.

What should families wear for mountain sessions?

 Choose layered, texture, and comfortable, coordinated outfits with neutral or earthy tones that complement the natural surroundings. I usually recommend avoiding bright neon colors as they can create unnatural color casts or large logos that steal viewer's attention and instead focusing on outfits that feel cohesive and timeless without being too matchy-matchy.  You want to coordinate, but some variety helps keep the whole group from looking like a giant blob of sameness.

Cancellations

Cancellations

What is your cancellation policy?

Your initial 25% non-refundable retainer will not be refunded should the client cancel at any point.  You will want to refer to your specific contract as to dates and timelines as to when partial or no refund amounts are available.

What if there is inclement weather?

In general, we will still plan to go ahead with the session!  I photograph outside in the elements quite a bit, and it can make for some very intimate, dramatic, and unique atmosphere and lighting.  It adds to the story.  Clients and the photographer should be prepared for changes of weather with layers, food, water, snacks, and more.  With that being said, on rare occasions, the session may be rescheduled within a specific timeframe.  

What if our session is rescheduled?

Rescheduling is discouraged in efforts to keep the originally scheduled date.  Please recognize, changing dates may require changing locations if roads are closed.  Seasons change affecting the length of days, so times may need to be different to accommodate.  We will work together for a solid "Plan B."  Now if the photographer has traveled for the session and it gets rescheduled, there may be additional travel fees required.

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