FAQ

Once I receive your order form with the information you filled out when you tapped the "Book Time and Date" button, you and I will communicate via email. Your booking form provides essential details, but I'm here to ensure that all your questions are answered and that you're fully prepared for our all-day photography session.

Since this is an all-day course, we will be photographing from sunrise to sunset, and depending on the season, we may even have the opportunity to capture the Milky Way in the night sky. For sunrise photography, we aim to arrive at our chosen location approximately an hour before sunrise to make the most of the beautiful morning light.

The specific meet-up point will be determined once we decide on the locations we plan to photograph. I have extensive knowledge of numerous picturesque locations, including Dolly Sods, WV; Spruce Knob, WV; Shenandoah National Park, VA; New River Gorge National Park, VA; Great Falls National Park, VA; Blue Ridge Parkway, VA; and the Prince William National Forest, VA. These locations offer diverse opportunities for photography, and we can choose the one that best aligns with your goals and the current weather conditions.

However, it's important to note that weather conditions can play a significant role, and we may need to be flexible with our choice of location. If weather conditions are unfavorable at our initial selection, we may need to switch to a backup location to maximize our time together.

Ultimately, my primary goal is for you to have a fantastic and enriching learning experience and to conclude the day with images you once thought impossible to capture. Your satisfaction and the quality of your photography are my top priorities, and I'm dedicated to helping you achieve your photography goals.

If your friend accompanies you with no intention of actively participating in the one-on-one photography session and doesn't bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera, they are welcome to tag along for free and enjoy the surroundings.

However, if your friend would like to actively participate in the one-on-one photography session, learn photography skills, and have access to guidance and instruction, they can join for an additional fee of $150. This fee covers their participation in the session and any instruction provided.

Please let us know in advance if your friend plans to join the photography session so we can make appropriate arrangements and ensure they have a rewarding experience alongside you.

Camera Backpack and tripod. We will be hiking 1-2 miles with gear.

A DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

Camera lenses (See What lenses will I need question)

Memory Cards: 32 GB or more significant. People forget to bring them.

At minimum, 2 Batteries Fully Charged. I carry 5 with me, but I like to photograph everything!

Lens Cloths to clean your lenses

A circular polarizing filter for each lens is ideal.

A sturdy tripod.

The choice of lenses for your all-day outdoor photography session can significantly impact the variety and quality of your shots. Consider these lens options:

Wide-Angle Lens (e.g., 16-35mm): A wide-angle lens captures expansive landscapes, Waterfalls, Milkyway, sunrise and sunset scenes, and environmental portraits. It can help you include more of the surroundings in your shots.

Standard Zoom Lens (e.g., 24-70mm): A standard zoom lens is versatile and suitable for many subjects. It's a good choice for capturing subjects at different distances and everyday scenes.

Telephoto Lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer): A telephoto lens is essential to photograph wildlife or distant subjects. It allows you to get closer to your subjects without physically approaching them.

I always carry a 14-24mm, 24-70mm, and a 70-200mm. 90% of my photos are taken with the 24-70mm.

During our all-day session, we'll have the opportunity to capture a variety of subjects in different lighting conditions. Here's what you can expect:

Sunrise Photography: We plan to start our day by capturing the breathtaking beauty of the sunrise. The morning light during this time is often soft and warm, creating stunning opportunities for landscape and sky photography.

Morning Subjects: After sunrise, we'll explore the area to photograph various subjects illuminated by the morning light. This may include landscapes, flora, and fauna. Keep an eye out for interesting details, patterns, and textures.

Midday Landscapes: As the day progresses, the lighting will change. We can use this time to photograph landscapes under different lighting conditions, experiment with compositions, and capture the play of shadows and highlights.

Scenic Locations: Throughout the day, we'll have the flexibility to visit scenic locations that offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities. These may include viewpoints, waterfalls, rivers, or other natural and man-made features.

Sunset Photography: As the day draws to a close, we'll aim to capture the magic of the sunset. Sunset lighting can provide dramatic and colorful backdrops for our photos.

Night Photography (Optional): Depending on our goals and location, we may extend the session into the evening for astrophotography or nightscapes. This will require long exposure techniques and a sturdy tripod.

I do not provide meals during our photography session, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Alternatively, we can make stops at food locations during the day to ensure you have the opportunity to eat when needed.

I always carry a cooler stocked with snacks and water for our field sessions, and you are welcome to help yourself at any time. I'm not allergic to anything, so I make sure to have a variety of snacks available. Please be aware of your dietary preferences and restrictions, as I cannot be responsible for individual dietary needs.

As for breaks during the day, I'm flexible and will go with your flow. We can take breaks as needed based on your preferences and energy levels. It's entirely up to you, and I'm here to accommodate your comfort and needs during our photography adventure.

Airfare/transportation to and from locations

Lodging and meals

Personal items, souvenirs, passport/visa fees as applicable

Trip insurance

Many of my clients have purchased travel insurance through Travelex Insurance Services.