My Process and the Importance of Filling out your Questionnaire

I wanted to share with you a little bit of my process, and how important the questionnaire's are in helping me know more about you and your desires for what you want out of a session.

I send questionnaire's to every client who books with me to help me know more about them and what is important to them so I can create images they love. I have different questionnaires for each type of session (portrait, lifestyle, intentional documentary). Logan was interested in a portrait maternity session, and here were some of her questionnaire answers:

How would you characterize your style?: Glamorous

What words would you use to describe the "feel" that you want your session to have?: Fun, glitzy, magical!

Are there any particular shots or sessions that resonate with you? (If yes, please link or describe.): We are completely open to your ideas!!

As a photographer and resident on Oahu, I know about lots of amazing locations and can tailor a session towards peoples desires. As soon I read the words "Glamorous" and "Glitzy" I thought of the Lanai Lookout, with the beautiful glittery rocks. I knew Logan loves glitter and was open to a sunrise session (not everyone is a morning person!), so I approached her with this idea of photographing at the Lanai Lookout in a glittery gown at sunrise. She LOVED the idea, it totally fit her personality. She found a dress, we set a date, and when we showed up to an amazing sunrise I knew the session was going to be a smashing success.

With every client, I work hard to know what they want out of a session. I ask lots of questions. I never go in with a plan already formed in my mind, I wait to talk to my clients and hear what they want out of a session. I send questionnaires, and then ask follow up questions. I consider how they plan on using the photos. For example, if my client wants an album, I focus on storytelling and variety in my photos. If they tell me they have lots of artwork hanging around their house, I aim to take very artistic looking photos. If they tell me they want a huge portrait of their family smiling at the camera to hang on their mantle, you can bet I'll be trying lots of different poses to take the one perfect photo to hang above your mantle. If my client is interested in a more photojournalistic/documentary approach I have a different shooting style and talk to my clients and coach them ahead of time about how this session will be different than they're used to.

I really try to listen—because I want you to absolutely love your final images.

Thanks, Logan, for taking the time to write this sweet review:

“Amber is absolutely amazing and has a true gift in capturing important moments. She makes you feel as though the season she is capturing is just as important to her as it is to your own family. Not only does she photograph beautifully, but she is SO fun to work with! My husband is usually not one for pictures, and not only did he love the pictures, but he had SO much fun taking them. We laughed, joked, and watched the sun come up as if we weren’t there for a photo shoot. Amber can work with anyone and everyone, because as genuine as her love is for her art, she has an even deeper love for people! We wouldn’t use anyone else!!”

— Logan Dupree