FAQ’s

FAQ

QUESTION

ANSWER

What is your approach?

I have a photojournalistic approach to photography. I love real. I strive to make photographs that you can feel. I am drawn to human connection, beautiful golden light, and candid moments.

What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?

I will pose you, so you don't need to worry about having that awkward 'i have no idea what to do' feeling. When conducting a session, it is my goal to direct and prompt you in a way that will spark affection, deep engagement, and lots of giggles. I will capture your authentic reactions to my various prompts and directives in a way that truly captures the moment as a whole.

What if my kids are going crazy or crying the whole time?

First of all, I am the mother of three so there are very few behaviors that can throw me. It’s my job to worry about your kids–you are off the hook for our entire session. All you have to do is show up ready to be 100% yourself so that I can capture the real you and not some posed version of you. Your images will turn out better if you allow your kiddos to give me their natural selves. I count on them being silly, goofy, and playful.

Are we allowed to bring our dog to the session?

Um, yes please!! I’m a huge animal lover so no worries there. We will just have to keep our location in mind as some trails and parks do not allow dogs. I know of plenty of dog friendly locations in the area.

How long have you been a photographer?

I have been a photographer for 10 years and in business shooting clients for 3 years. I started out taking pictures of my three children in a candid way and sharing with family and friends on social media. Soon I was being asked to shoot other families the way I shoot my own. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Where are you based? Do you travel?

I live in Calabasas, California. But, I travel all over Southern California for my shoots. I do also travel nationwide, however that has not been requested very often. Southern California is a vacation destination, which means many of my families book photos as part of their family trip. SoCal has so many incredible places to shoot, including; beaches, streams, national parks, landscapes, mountains, and hiking trails. Have an upcoming vacation to Southern California? Hit me up and let's make some magic.

How many images do you include?

Each package differs in how many images are delivered. For general sessions, I deliver a minimum of 40 high res edited jpeg files, for a birth at least 300 files, for a 6 hour event at least 500 files. I don't put a cap on maximum because these are your memories and you should get the best of everything captured.

Do you edit all of the images?

Yes. All packages include fully edited images with printing rights.

Do you prefer flash photography or natural light?

I definitely consider myself a natural light photographer. I feel like natural light speaks to the soul and creates such a magical mood. With that said, I have fun with flash photography when it gets too dark at night or at receptions.

Will you Photoshop us?

Yes and No. My photography style is to capture my clients as authentic and real as possible. I'm not about making people look unrealistic, fake, and barbie doll-like. If that's what you're wanting I'm probably not the best photographer for you. I want to capture the REAL stuff because THOSE are the moments you're going to want to remember in 20 years. That said, if there's a pimple, a child with a dirty face, a bruised shin, a temporary scar, etc., I will 100% take it out of the photos.

What is your turnaround time?

Two weeks.

What should we wear?

Once you book, I will send you my session guide with all the information about what to wear. A few rules off the top of my head: mom picks what she wears first and everyone coordinates around her, no matchy matchy, earth tones are key and look amazing in every setting, no neon, and no phones in pockets.

How do we book you?

Just head over to the contact page, fill out the form, and I will send you my session guide. If you think we're a great fit and you want to book, I will send you a deposit invoice and a contract to sign. I require a 50% retainer fee, and a signed digital contract. Your remaining balance will then be due when your gallery is ready. That’s it! Super easy. Oh, and I am more than happy to catch up for a coffee and/or a chat over the phone or Skype anytime!

Do you offer payment plans?

I am happy to set up a payment plan on a case by case basis depending on my clients needs. Don’t hesitate to ask.

Can we read reviews?

Of course! Please do. I am huge on reading reviews before booking anything, which is why you can find client testimonials here at the bottom of the 'home' page, 'who I am' page. and the 'experience' page. You can also google Erica Montgomery Photography to read my google and Yelp reviews.

Will you shoot LGBT?

Of course! Love is love and I can’t wait to document your amazingness.

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A Moving Portrait