aPartonPhoto

Portrait FAQs

Q: I want a portrait done. Do you have a studio?
A: Yes, I do. Most of my work is done in the studio. I’m a female photographer (some people find that more comfortable).

Q: Where are you?
A: My studio is located at 226 Highway 8 in West Flamborough, AKA Dundas, Ontario, L9H 5E1

Q: How long is a session?
A: Sixty to ninety minutes, tops. The subject gets tired and children get bored.

Q: Andie, I'm kinda old and not crazy about having a camera in my face . . . and these wrinkles! But we promised the kids a portrait. Help!
A: I get it. The way I approach battle scars is to just make them less prominent. They're there, as well they should be, but they don't take over.

Q: I feel overweight and unattractive. I would like a portrait for myself but let me tell you what's holding me back: I have (insert body imperfection here). What can you do for me?
A: Never you mind! My job is to see the best of you and to get it into my camera. You will leave feeling more comfortable than you were when you arrived. And yes, I do post-shoot editing.

Q: I hear about people getting a portrait done for their future obituary. Is that something you would do?
A: Certainly. And it’s not much different than any portrait taken for posterity. After glancing at too many unflattering pictures in the obit section of the newspaper one day, a client booked a shoot for herself and a few friends. They decided not to rely on loved ones poring through iffy photo collections to find a suitable one for their obituary. Photo shoots like that can be lots of fun. And they can easily be included in pre-planned funerals.

Q: What info do you need?
A: When we talk on the phone, we will work out what your expectations are. If this is a family shoot, I’ll be asking you about the children's ages and a little about their sports, hobbies, and personalities. This is so I can better prepare for them and make sure I have more baby wipes, stuffed toys, etc., on hand.

Q: What do I/we wear? What do I/we NOT wear?
A: Pretty well whatever you please, with a few exceptions. First, you've got to be comfortable whether you want formal or relaxed portraits (or some of both). Your clothes should reflect your personality: for instance, jeans and dark T-shirts (preferably not white) are fine; go ahead and wear quirky outfits or even costumes. Okay, maybe forget the holey T-shirt, sweats, and flip-flops, unless, of course, that's the theme you're going for—in that case, bring it on. Kids photographed during their layered or ripped phases can look oh-so-cool for posterity. Bring changes of clothes for when they decide to forgo the extreme Goth look at the last minute. HOWEVER, people should complement each other somewhat. It can be jarring to have half the people in light clothing and the others in dark. Solid-coloured clothing is good. Black is good. Avoid bold or busy prints, strong patterns, stripes, plaids, and shiny thingees that reflect light and are distracting. Ideally no logos or ads on the clothes as some designs can become half-cropped and look wrong.

Q: Any stuff I/we should bring?
A: Bring items that are meaningful, such as kids' sports equipment, hockey gear, soccer ball, guitar, baseball glove, dance outfits, a favourite toy—but not one so big it will obscure the child's face. The items can be part of the photo or just be there to comfort a shy child. All this applies to adults too. Bring your stuff.

Q: Can I bring my friend?
A: Certainly! Do be sure he or she won't make you feel uncomfortable.

Q: What if I need special considerations from you?
A: Talk to me. We'll work together.

Q: Do you do black-and-white?
A: Definitely. My final product usually includes some black-and-white images.

Q: What else do you photograph besides people?
A: Glad you asked. Check out the  Galleries  here on the website.

Q: What are your fees and how do I pay you?
A: I get paid in two stages: $100 for the shoot, payable at my studio in cash, by cheque, or e-transfer; and $100 for a flash drive of images, ready 7 to 10 days later, payable when you come for it.

Q: I have more questions.
A: Call me. I’m at 905-746-3508. Or email me at andie@apartonphoto.com