Do the photos I send you have to be photographed by professionals.

Not necessarily. I have created a number of portraits from photos taken spontaneously on vacations or around home. Photos taken by photo professionals can be used as well. There are important factors that make for a great portrait.

a. The light in the environment when the photo was shot should not create harsh or overly exaggerated shadows. Shadows on the face can be present but should not seem awkward or overly dark. Usually photos taken in shaded areas even out the light.

b. The expression, lighting and pose of the subject should represent the personality and nature of the person.

c. The photo should contain detail and have sharp resolution

I am going to take my own photos. How should I do it.

a. Take lots of photos in various lighting.

b. Try to capture various types of expression. Later you can edit through the photos until you find one you like

c. Try to find a places where you can place the subject next to a light source coming from the side (like a window).

d. Move the subject around in different environments in order capture the various light directions. You can sort through the photos later to find ones you like.

Can you create a portrait from combining photos, such as having a person combined with a different background.

Yes this is possible. Once the photos are provided. I will make an assessment and contact the client to work out the possibilities. Combining  photos in a special compositional arrangement will incur an additional charge. I can provide a price assessment once I have seen the photos.

How can I pay for the portrait.

I have a couple payment methods to choose from:

• Credit cards with PayPal (registration required)– Using your PayPal account you can send money easily. If you are not yet a member, you will also receive $5 for becoming a verified member.

• Mail Payment – Send check or money order payable to: