FAQ
Below you can find the answers to the most frequently asked questions:
- In what light do you shoot?
I do newborn sessions only with the available light, preferably natural, not to disturb the baby. Baby’s delicate skin looks best in directional light coming from the window. In other sessions I also prefer natural light, but I use an additional source of light, if the conditions require. Therefore, before the session I will ask you to tell me the lighting conditions in your home, on which side of your house the windows are located; I will also try to pre-view the outdoor scenery.
- Why does the newborn session have to be held between 5-10th day of life?
Planning a session at this time is usually difficult for the new parents, who are trying to find their feet in the first few days after the birth. However I strongly recommend to plan the session precisely at this stage of the baby’s growth. It will be beneficial both for the baby, who still spends most of the time sleeping and the session remains for him/her almost unnoticed, and for the photography itself. We will manage to take more interesting shots. You will be more relaxed too. ‘Bigger’ children (usually over 2 weeks) have a very vigilant sleep and often wake up during the change of position. It’s also the time when pimples may start appearing on baby’s face – it is the so called “baby acne”. Of course that’s how it is in most cases, but each child is unique… from the first days…
- How to dress a child for the session?
In case of the children photography as well as the adults one, there is one rule which is always valid – no aggressive designs, logos, prints on clothes (such elements distract attention from what is most important). What works out are all kinds of textures (knitted, ridges, pleats or other spacial forms). Light colors work well, athough pure white is not so good (rather beige, ecru). Of course shocking colors look great too in certain scenarios. With group portraits the key to success is consistent color tones and the character of clothes. When choosing the outfits it’s good to see how the family looks as a whole, instead of dressing up each one individually. We will talk more about the outfits and other arrangements before the session, discussing different options.
- What is the style of your photographs?
My pictures showcase my style best… During the session I look for emotions in the face, gestures, glances … I try to make you feel relaxed, casual. I make you laugh and try to entertain you when there’s need, or simply wait for the right moment… The light is very important – for photography is painting with the light…
- What do you shoot with?
With my mind, my heart… and what helps me capture the image is my favorite full frame SLR camera, Nikon D700. I use clear telephoto or varifocal lenses… If there’s little light I use flash or professional studio lighting… It all depends… on what, where and how I wish to showcase.
- What files do we get?
I shoot only in RAW (raw files containing the maximum amount of information). These files offer the greatest possibilities during processing. You get processed images in jpg file format. Large files printed on matte paper and small sharpened for a presentation on a computer monitor (small files feature my logo). Photographs that you will receive from me (if they are part of the offer) I send for printing to a professional lab, which uses special ICC profiles, giving me the guarantee of getting the desired color. Normally I print on matte paper. If you prefer glossy paper – tell me about it during the session.
- What are you aiming for during pictures processing?
When processing colors I am driven by the principle – if the color brings something interesting to the picture or serves as an accent – I print the photograph in color. If it disturbs, distracts attention or doesn’t bring anything new – I print the photo in B&W. Each capture is treated individually, I think of the message that it has to transmit and by processing it I seek to strengthen it. Sometimes I go back to a printed photograph and process it differently… Due to the theme of my photographs, they are rather serene and the colors are bright – like children… In case of adults I use natural retouching. I work with such software as Lightroom and Photoshop.
- Will my pictures by used on this website?
The photographs which I take, serve as my business card. For sure I will ask you whether some of your photos can be published on my website, or if I can use them to promote my photographic activities. If you don’t agree – tell me about it before the session.
- I live near Warsaw. Do I pay extra for your travel?
My travel within Warsaw is included in the fee. I live out of Warsaw, on its west side (near Izabelin), so I don’t charge for travel within 30 km from my place of residence. Above this distance, I charge a fee of 1.50 zł per km. Because I like to travel – if you live far away – a fee for the travel can be discussed individually.
- How long will I wait for the photos after the session?
I reserve 3 weeks from the session day for closing the project. Usually, I manage to finish the job a few days earlier. I can send you the first few shots after a few days already – if you need them so badly – but generally, it is not beneficial for the photographs. I often go back to the already finished photos and make some amendments. I also look at the set of photographs as a whole, as a story… Sometimes I need time to think… The three weeks are a comfortable period of time for me to do my job and guarantee the quality you expect.
If you have additional questions, feel free to contact me, I will be happy to answer.