Hi! I’m Hilary: portrait photographer, wedding photographer, and day‑of coordinator for couples who already have someone behind the camera but still need someone to keep the wedding day from spontaneously combusting. My work is high‑quality. My pricing is human. My sarcastic humor is free. I’m detail‑oriented, I know when to be serious, and I know when to laugh because real life is messy, hilarious, and worth capturing in all its chaos and beauty.
First and foremost, my Fam! I am a devoted wife and a nurturing mama bear of 3 (or 7 if we’re counting the furry chaos crew). Volleyball is life in my household (and yes, I’m fully obsessed). The ocean is my happy place. When it’s chill time, you’ll find me napping, cooking/grilling, inhaling ice cream, blasting music and singing like I’m auditioning for American Idol, or binge watching shows written by Taylor Sheridan ;).
My portfolio dances between color and black n’ white, and my style is natural, timeless, true to life, clean, and classic. I love capturing real, genuine emotion — the kind that actually tells your story. In front of my lens, I create a space where you can be your truest self, unmasked and filter‑free. If you want photos that look like you and not like an Instagram filter had a midlife crisis, AND you want a photographer who’s the real deal (and also kind of funny), Congratulations! You found her.
No. I work on location only - meaning I travel to a location of your choice. Though I do know of a place where we can rent one (additional fees will apply) for an hour or two if preferred.
For portrait sessions (including mini-sessions) it can take up to 4 weeks. However, my personal goal is 2 weeks.
For weddings, like with most photographers, it can take up to 90 days. My goal is to always get your final product to you sooner though (which I normally do)!
I am a Canon gal! I love the quality, the results, and I feel that Canon products are more user friendly than most other brands. I've tried both Nikon and Sony. Sony makes a good product also, but, Canon has my heart.
The answer to this depends on the occasion, the season, the backdrop, etc. Here are some general tips to consider:
* One rule of thumb I recommend to follow is… Everyone should not be in a pattern (flowers, plaid, dots, lines, etc.), especially different patterns. It’s best to coordinate between solids and one pattern. When all else fails and you don’t know what to do, go with solids!
* Colors: Neutral Tones are the best option in most environments.
Avoid neon or overly bright colors. Coordinate with others who may be in the photo. For instance, if one individual wears a top or dress with flowers, the other may want to wear a solid color that coordinates with one of the colors in the flowers. Or if one where's a blue plaid shirt, the other could wear a solid blue in the same color.
* Stay away from Distracting Elements such as logos, graphics, and heavily detailed patterns.
* Fitted (not too loose but not tight) is the way to go, especially during coastal sessions. Clothing that is fitted helps the subject feel more comfortable and allows for better posing. Avoid anything too loose or too tight.
* Accessories: Keep them minimal and simple. Avoid anything that will draw attention away from the face.
* Wear clothes that make you feel good and confident. This will translate into natural and engaging portraits.
* Always consider your backdrop. Think about how your outfit will compliment the background and overall aesthetic of the portrait.
Reach out if you need help coming up with ideas for your upcoming session! ;)
No. It's just me, myself, and I... and my camera of course! Though I may be able to provide a second shooter from time to time, if needed.
Excellent question! There are many things that go in to why a photographer charges what they do. There are numerous costs involved that we photographers have to consider.
Equipment costs and upkeep for starts. You know how the more you drive your car, the more miles you put on it? The same is said for cameras. Using your camera is like putting miles on your car. Camera's have an expiration. The more photos you take, the quicker it expires and a new one will be needed. Professional grade camera's cost thousands. The camera batteries are costly as well, and need replacing here and there over the life of a camera. Then there are the memory cards, tripods, flashes, diffusers/reflectors, bags, and so much more to consider. Photography equipment and accessories are costly. Additionally there are fee's we pay every month for our website, marketing, and software we use. Let's not forget the time during the session or event, the gas to get there and back, the usage of our vehicles, upload time, editing time, prep time, insurance, continued education.. and the list goes on. Hopefully that helps give some clarity behind pricing. :)
I have experience shooting smaller weddings, and larger ones. My very first was a ceremony at VooDoo Donuts, in Portland, OR. Shortly after, my second was a small n' intimate backyard wedding/reception. Then I was offered the opportunity to be a second shooter in an acquaintance's larger wedding, which was a great learning experience for me! Since then, I have shot several larger weddings on my own. I am constantly researching and studying up on wedding photography. I LOVE shooting weddings! I approach each new wedding venture with the attitude that it will be my best yet!