#1 Love the style of the photographer’s work. Do their images consistently have a “realness”? Do they contain the “energy” of the person?

#2. It is important that you have a great connection to the photographer. Your comfort level is essential. Do you like the process that the photographer has created? Does it suit your lifestyle, your budget?

#3. Is there quality (and pride) in the finished product? What steps will the photographer take to ensure you are satisfied? How much knowledge do they have of this complex digital world? It is not simply taking the photograph today, it is the work completed after in “the digital darkroom” that sets an image apart.

From this professional photographer’s viewpoint, there are four stages to portrait work. 

First, getting to know the client. Second, the portrait session itself and the client’s comfort there. Third, how much assistance the photographer extends to help you select the best photograph.

This is where most professional photographers fail. Often they will send the client home with 100s of digital images and say, you pick.

The selection process and the critical fourth stage (having the digital darkroom skills required to prepare the finished artwork), are critical to producing quality work.

Each step takes time. Each requires mastery and skill. You are looking for that in your photographer.

Why black and white portraiture in this age of raging colour? I believe that the images are more timeless and classic. There is an “art” feel to the end result, making the portrait more flattering and powerful.

From my perspective, it is easier to see the “spirit” of an individual within this black and white realm. 

For commercial or branding purposes, a well-done portrait becomes the central image of who you are in the world and your best selling tool. 

At the planning stage, we discuss what it is you are selling. Is it “approachability”, “professionalism”, “joy”, “strength”? All are achievable.

Of course, I do work in colour and digital but for your family portraits we work solely in black and white film for three reasons: more stability, more quality, more detail. And I want your family portraits to be there long after I kick the bucket. 

A trick I learned (after years of looking at portrait images) is to view the image upside down. 

Why? Because it turns off the critical brain and sharpens viewing ability. You see “energy” and connectedness more readily. To my mind, the power within comes to the surface.

Seek out the photographer who is knowledgeable, sympathetic to your needs, and generous with time. Together you will create the perfect portrait that represents all of who you are.

Note: It is not what you wear nor your latest hairdo that makes a meaningful portrait. It is the “presentness” in the eyes and their readability to the viewer that identify outstanding portraiture.

I work mostly with clients from Ontario, Quebec and New York State.  Should I not be within your area, use these guidelines to help create your legacy portraits. Or simply call. I am here to help.