What does my session fee include?
Your session fee includes the time and talent of the photographer, local travel expenses, and the custom editing of each of your proofs. Proofs will be available in a password protected online gallery 2-3 weeks after your session.

I’m thinking about a session, when should I book?
The sooner the better. Melissa takes only a limited number of sessions each month and her calendar fills up quickly. She is often booked up months in advance.

When should I schedule my newborn session?
The moment you find out you are pregnant!   It is very important to notify me way in advance of your due date.  Melissa often books out several months in advance and a newborn session must be done in the first two weeks of life to capture the newness of your sweet baby. All the images in the newborn gallery were taken before the baby was 14 days old. So, please don’t wait!

What is your style?
Melissa considers herself an artistic, lifestyle photographer. She wants her photos to tell a story and capture emotion. Some of her favorite photos are when the children are really just playing or the family is interacting and completely forgetting that she is there. Those are the photos with meaning and the ones you will treasure for years to come.

Of course, there is always some light posing too. Just have to have that posed family shot for Grandma? Don’t worry. Melissa works hard to provide a great variety in your galleries.

Do you have a studio?
All child and family sessions are held outdoors, on location at one of Melissa’s favorite spots around Skagit County.  Melissa has a great variety of locations that she loves to use for sessions. She will help you come up with the perfect spot.

Newborn sessions are held at Melissa’s home studio space in Burlington.  This allows her to have complete control of the lighting and environment as well as access to all of her lovely accessories and blankets.

Do you retouch the images?
Yes. All of your proofs are edited and retouched to remove small scars, blemishes, eye circles, etc. If you request additional or more extensive retouching, a fee may apply if the touch-ups can be preformed. Please make sure your children’s faces are as clean as possible before the shoot, as this helps with the editing process.

Do you sell 4×6s or proofs?
4×6 prints may be ordered for the same price as a 5×7. Since Melissa does not show printed “proofs”, there are none to be sold. Everything is shown to you in your custom online gallery.

Why is the subject “off center” or very closely cropped?
Melissa will edit and crop each picture based on artistic vision. Cropping closely to the face may allow for the eyes to be the focus of the portrait. Subjects are often placed “off center” to add more visual interest to the photo. This is often referred to as the “rule of thirds” in photography.

Do you sell CDs of the images or “digital negatives”?
Yes, there are several options for purchasing digital negatives. Please inquire for more information.