So you are an “on-location, natural light photographer.” What does that mean?
“On-location” means that I come to you or we meet at a location of your choice. I do not use a studio. Sessions can be held at your home or your favorite park, downtown, at a farm, by the river, etc. If you can’t think of anywhere, I have a few spots I can suggest.
“Natural light” means that I do not use any artificial lighting (flashes) to light my images. Simply put, I use the sun. This is a personal, artistic preference. I love the warm, natural glow sunlight gives to a photograph. Because we are usually shooting outside, the early morning and late afternoon/early evening hours are the best times to schedule your session (around sunrise & sunset). As a general rule, bright mid-day sun is not optimal, and I try to avoid scheduling sessions in the middle of the day as much as possible.
What types of payment do you accept?
You can pay for your session with a debit or credit card via Paypal, a check made out to Bethany McGrath, or with exact cash.
Do you photograph weddings?
Not at this time, but I can make some exceptions. I have done weddings in the past, but right now my passion is photographing families, engagements, & portraits, so that is what I am focused on. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, I’ll be happy to refer some photographers.
Why hire a professional?
Why should I pay someone a small fortune to photograph my _______, when I have my (insert: family member, friend, coworker, etc. here) who will do it for me for cheap or even free?
There’s nothing wrong with hiring a new photographer – everyone has to start somewhere. Remember though, photography is more than just knowing how to press the shutter release on your everyday point-and-shoot. Whether they do it as a hobby or are a professional, it’s important to make sure that the person you’re trusting with your memories knows what they’re doing. There is so much that goes into preparing, covering, and finishing an event’s photography.
How long have you been a photographer? What kind of experience, background, and education do you have?
I have been taking photography seriously for over 6 years. I have formal training from Evangel University. Although my education has taught me a lot, I have learned most from my two internships and simply trial and error, learning on my own. I strive to be better at every shoot, and I never stop learning.
What should we wear?
1. Layers – this adds dimension and texture (sweaters, cardigans, scarves, ties, vests, necklaces, etc.)
2. Add pattern – if you have a color scheme, the best thing to mix it up is to add patterns here and there (not too much – argyle, plaid, stripes, etc.)
3. Be bold – black is fine, but add some color. If you’re going with black as a base, add an accent color or two, and add some different shades of black (gray, charcoal, etc.)
4. Add details – pay attention to buttons, shoes, jewelry, accessories, etc. (hint: these are great items to add your POP of color with.)
5. I suggest not matching perfectly (white shirt & blue jeans) but coordinating. It may take a little more thought & time, but it’s worth it.
What do you think about props?
Bring them! Especially if they mean something special to your relationship or to you – such as a guitar, a special blanket, a hand-painted sign, etc,
How long will my session last?
Depending on your session type, the session time will range from 45 minutes to 2 hours or more. I will spend whatever amount of time needed to capture what we are looking for. Some situations may only need 45 minutes, while at other times kids may need to take more breaks in between that will result in a longer shoot.
How long will it take to receive my online files or CD?
All images will be finished & uploaded to your personal online gallery within 3 weeks from the date of the session. If you order a CD of your images, it will be mailed off within 3 weeks of the session date.
What is the online gallery?
All sessions will have their own personal online gallery that is password protected. You can share images with others & view them before getting your CD.