Those of you who have had your pictures taken before know a lot of what the behind-the-scenes looks like for your prep before your session (here’s some help for your session prep!) and what actually happens at your session, but what about the photographer’s side of it? I mean, all they really have to do is show up and know a little bit on how to pose people, but it’s the big fancy camera that does most of the leg work, right? WRONG! I love my clients, and I put a lot of work into each and every session, before, during, and after, to make sure that every single photo is a representation of your best-self.

Before we even get into the prep of your specific session, I’d like to put it out there that every photographer has given their time, energy, and talents to learn the art of photography, because it is SO much more than clicking a button. The “automatic” mode on cameras really does a nice job, but knowing how aperture affects depth of field, what shutter speed does for the crispness of the shot, and how ISO can detract from the overall image takes a lot of patience and practice to be able to nail every time. Coordinating the temperature of the shots in camera with how the final edit should turn out is a pretty big beast to master as well!

For every session I shoot, I sit down a few days before the scheduled time to put together a custom shot list for the client. Things I take into consideration for the posing include everything from the scenery we will be in to the uniqueness of each couple or family. I make sure that all my batteries are charged, that each memory card has plenty of space for the session, and that all my equipment is functioning properly (including the backup equipment!). I put the session location into my phone weeks beforehand to make sure I leave my house with plenty of time to get there a few minutes early!

During our session, you’ll often see me with not only my camera in-hand, but my notebook as well, with all my notes I’ve made for our session. I refer to it often to make sure we get all the must-have shots and to spark new creativity to customize your session for who you and your loved ones uniquely are!

When I get home, I download all of the photos and back them up on several hard drives and begin to edit. There will be a lot of people that will say that a good photo comes from taking a good shot in camera, and I totally believe that! But I also believe that a great photo comes from a great edit. I’m not saying that I can edit in your missing second cousin once removed into your wedding photos, but I can, and will, (unless you don’t want me to!) edit skin blemishes and some background distractions! I also do minor color corrections and overall enhancements to bring your photos to their full potential.

And because Sierra Hinckley Photography puts so much love and care into every session, you can be assured that you will receive a beautiful and timeless gallery that you can enjoy for the rest of your life.