FAQ Portraits

What describes you as a photographer?

I look for your soul...the essence of your soul…I capture its reflection.  I am unconditional love...I feel you in my heart ...I’m a Soul Photographer…It's my passion!

How long have you been a photographer?

I began using film at very young age. My dad used to give me his old cameras when he would get a new one. I was a quiet kid and the camera gave me the opportunity to have a voice. I’ve always been a voyeur in that I love to observe human behavior and discover what makes people tick. I see your soul and your spirit and I capture it. My camera is always with me wherever I am in the world. I have shot over 500 portrait sessions including work for The Guardian, Daily Mail UK, The NY Times, The City of West Hollywood Arts and Cultural Affairs, West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, The Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and most recently, Author/Screenwriter Jerry Stahl and Cher. 

Do you shoot in film or digital format?  

Film was the only option when I first held a camera in my hand, but as soon as digital was released, I made the transition. Though we all want to “wait for the shot”, I like having the ability to capture many moments, many more than I did with film, because I’m a soul photographer. I’m looking for that vulnerability inside of you. I’m also an Olympus 4:3 fan. I only carry my 2 mirrorless cameras with me wherever I go.  

About how many photos do you take during a session?  

The number of images I take per session depends entirely on each session. I tend to average 40  images for an hour portrait session and 200 images per hour for events. After I return to my Creation Room, I cull through the images where i edit down to only about 30 to 50% of what i shot. I choose to only keep the very best images from a shoot.  I never release RAW images.

Are your headshot/portrait sessions different than other sessions?  

Yes.  These sessions are done in an hour.  I capture the client's essence in 15-30 minutes.  We find a comfortable spot, usually in a cafe. I load the photos into my computer and let the client cull through them, choosing up to 5 photos depending on the chosen package .  I process them immediately and e-mail them directly to the client via retransfer.com.

Why did you decide to focus on mothers and daughters?

I come from a large family.  My mother and I did not have the closest relationship and it was very difficult from a young age; I always felt a void.  When I gave birth to my own daughter, I felt a love like no other and nurtured that love.  We've since resolved our differences and healed and as a result, I notice that dynamic in so many women around me; the disconnection, the abandonment, the lack of love, the missing link and I wanted to do something about it.  Through photography, I've found it to be healing; the start of rekindling a lost love and it's quite beautiful to experience.

What is your deposit policy?  

For portraits, payment and signing of the contract is due at least 48 hours prior to the shoot.

For Events, 50% down at the signing of the contract and the balance is due the day of the shoot before it begins.

How long does it take to receive my images?  

For portraits, you'll receive your image file(s) during your hour session. 

For events, my wait time, on average, is 6 to 8 weeks. One of my favorite parts of the process is doing my own editing in-house; my signature. Sometimes my edits take less time depending on the season, but I refuse to rush as I want my best work to shine; the quality of the final image is of utmost importance. All Edits are done in order of the event date.  

I do make exceptions for RUSH orders for an additional 50% fee.

What happens if you can’t make it to my event?  

Normally, the only times when a shoot needs to be rescheduled is when the weather is not cooperative.  If we are unable to agree on a new date that works with both of our schedules i can suggest another photographer.  

What if i am a returning client?  

All the better. Being photographed…capturing moments is a very intimate process. I LOVE return clients. Over the years many friendships have been built.  

What type of payments do you accept?

I accept cash, money orders, major credit cards through PayPal (DRU@spiritualxtc.com) or SQUAREUP.