The Field Guide — Plan Your Shoot & Find Your Photographer

Plan your shoot, and find your photographer

A little guide I put together for anyone planning to have a day photographed or filmed — whether we end up working together or not. Getting these things clear will make any photographer's work better, and help you find the person who's right for you.

Get ready — the basics

Gather what you can. Don't stress the gaps; a good photographer will fill them with you.

A date (or a few options) and a rough timeline for the day
The moments you'd be heartbroken to miss — write them down
Key people, and one point-of-contact who isn't you on the day
Locations, arrival times, and any access or permit details
A family/group photo list, if you want formal shots
Wardrobe that feels like you (comfy beats stiff), and snacks/naps for little ones
How you'll use the images — wall art, an album, social, gifts?

Decide your style

There's no wrong answer — just your answer. Circle where you land on each. Share it with any photographer you talk to.

Candid & documentaryPosed & directed

Light & airyRich & moody

True-to-life colorBlack & white / film feel

Leave me alone, I'll be naturalPlease direct me

Pick three words for the feeling you want:

joyfulquietepicintimateplayfultimelessboldsoftcinematichonest

Decide how the day flows

The logistics that shape how your day actually gets captured.

How many hours of coverage, and which parts matter most?
A "first look," or save every reaction for the moment?
Any guests joining from afar? (a live stream can give them a seat)
Do you also want video — a highlight film, full coverage, or none?
Deliverables: digital gallery, fine-art prints, an album, a film?
When do you need it back, and how will you share/print it?
Usage: just for you, or will a business/brand use the images too?

Are we a good fit?

I'd rather be honest than oversell. Here's the truth about working with me.

You'll love working with me if…

You want candid, documentary storytelling over stiff poses
You value a calm, kind presence who treats you like a guest
You care about the feeling of the day, not just a shot list
You'd like one person who can also handle video, design, or prints

I'm probably not your person if…

You want every frame heavily posed, glossy, and retouched
You need a big multi-shooter crew for a huge production
You want the cheapest option above all else

And that's completely okay — the next step helps you find the right person.

How to find your photographer

Even if it isn't me. Use this with anyone you're considering:

Look at full galleries, not just their five best shots — is the whole story consistent?
Does their style match what you circled above? (Style is personal; match matters more than "good.")
Ask: Do you have a written contract?
Ask: What's your backup plan for gear, files, and if you're sick?
Ask: What's the turnaround, and what exactly do I receive?
Ask: What are the usage rights?
Have a real conversation — do you actually click with them?
Trust your gut. The right fit feels like relief, not pressure.