I hear this from almost everyone, so please take a deep breath - you are completely normal! My job is to take away all the camera guesswork. I’ll make sure to guide you through natural movements, interactions, and relaxed prompts that bring out your genuine joy. By the end of the first five minutes, you’ll forget the camera is even there.

For portrait sessions (like seniors and families), I keep a very close eye on the forecast. If the weather looks messy, we will simply use our designated backup dates to reschedule your session at no extra cost. For weddings, the weather is nothing to stress about! I am an expert at finding beautiful indoor light, working with your venue, or using romantic clear umbrellas to capture gorgeous portraits, rain or shine.

Getting dressed shouldn't be the stressful part of your session! After you book your session, I’ll send over my exclusive Wardrobe Guide. It is packed with expert tips on how to coordinate colors without looking overly "matchy-matchy," what fabrics photograph best, and how to stay comfortable. Plus, you can always text me photos of your options beforehand - I love playing stylist!

It's not required to have someone else attend, but they are more than welcome to join us! I always recommend that you do whatever will make you feel the most comfortable, whether that’s coming alone, with a parent, or with a friend.

I pride myself completely on being over-prepared so you never have to worry about "what-ifs." First and foremost, I have never once missed a wedding in my entire photography career. Still, I believe in having foolproof backup plans in place just in case. When it comes to my gear, I strictly follow the rule of threes: I bring three professional camera bodies, three or more high-end lenses, three flashes, and a literal sea of memory cards to every wedding. My cameras also write to two memory cards simultaneously while I shoot, creating an instant backup on the spot.

The second I get home, your photos are immediately backed up to an external hard drive and secure cloud storage, meaning your memories live in at least three different places at all times. If an absolute emergency were to happen and I physically could not make it, your day is completely protected. If you book a package with a second photographer, they act as a built-in backup who already knows your timeline inside and out. If you book a collection without a second shooter, I am connected to an incredible network of trusted, professional Twin Cities photographers who are ready to step in with the exact same high standard of care. Your memories are completely safe with me.

The short answer? Both! I don't believe you should have to choose between beautiful, polished portraits and real, unscripted emotion. During our time together, I will guide you into relaxed, flattering positions so you never have to guess what to do. But once you're there, I let the real moments unfold naturally - the belly laughs, the quiet glances, and the tight hugs. You’ll get a gallery that perfectly balances timeless, elegant portraits with honest, candid storytelling.