Image Options

5 min read

black Canon photo printer
black Canon photo printer

Understanding Your Image and Print Options

When your session is over, the experience doesn’t end there. Your images are more than just files on a screen—they’re memories you can hold, cherish, and display for years to come. That’s why I believe in full transparency when it comes to what you’re actually purchasing. From digital files to heirloom-quality prints, I want you to feel confident in your investment and know exactly what your options are.

The Truth About Digital Image Options

Many photographers advertise “high-resolution digital images,” but what does that really mean? The reality is that not all high-resolution images are created equal. Some photographers provide digitals that are only optimized for web use—great for sharing on social media but not suitable for large prints. Others provide high-resolution files but limit their size, preventing you from making your own high-quality enlargements.

I offer two distinct types of digital images:

  • Web-resolution images – Optimized for sharing online and social media, these images are perfect for displaying on screens but not intended for large-scale printing. If all you need is images for social media sharing, product photography for listings, or personal branding for your website, then web-resolution images are a perfect fit for you.

  • Full high-resolution images – These are the highest quality images produced from my professional camera without artificial size restrictions. Of course, I shoot in RAW format to maximize all the information captured, allowing me full flexibility to bring out the best in each image during post-processing. After I perform a basic edit to adjust colors and balance the image, I apply my signature edit to each image. Every collection receives a custom color grade with subtle adjustments to color, contrast, exposure, and cropping to bring out the best in each image. Once the signature edit is complete, I save the full high-resolution images as JPEGs. This final format solidifies all adjustments and ensures the image is ready for print at any size, making it a true legacy image that can be archived and replicated for generations.

The full high-resolution digital image is the most valuable product created in a photography session. The image itself holds the most value because it is the foundation of everything you do with your portraits. If you are making an investment in your portrait experience, it makes sense to print your images on an archival product and not just let them sit on a drive.

Experience Print Quality Firsthand

One of the things that makes my studio unique is that I offer hands-on access to all the print products I create. Before or during your session, you are welcome to visit my studio and feel the difference in quality for yourself. This isn’t just about sales—it’s about education. I want my clients to make informed decisions and understand the difference between various print types.

Not everyone wants wall art that lasts 100 years. Maybe you want something big and beautiful but are working within a budget. That’s why I provide a range of options. In my studio, you can compare the same image printed by different popular canvas creators and album makers. I offer both introductory, more affordable options and high-end heirloom-quality products.

Simplifying the Printing Process

Navigating print options can be overwhelming. Questions like:

  • How much does matting and framing cost?

  • What’s the difference between traditional and modern sizing?

  • What’s the distinction between press prints and fine art prints?

  • Does the difference even matter for your needs?

I’ve done all the legwork so that you don’t have to. At my studio, I am here to answer all these questions and help you decide the best way to preserve your images. If you truly just want digital files, you can have them. But if you’re interested in print products, my studio is the best place to explore all your options, including where you might want to get your holiday cards printed, creating that wedding album from the photos that are still sitting on a flash drive somewhere, printable wallet prints for grandma and grandpa, or wall art and framing.

The Frustration of Hidden Pricing

One of the biggest challenges in the photography industry isn’t just that pricing isn’t disclosed—it’s how difficult it is to get clear, upfront information. Many photographers advertise a session fee—sometimes $500 or more—but make it nearly impossible to find the full cost of images or products until after the session. Instead of straightforward pricing, potential clients often have to go through an extensive back-and-forth process, answering personal questions and receiving vague, sales-driven responses before they can even get a basic breakdown of costs.

While high-end photography is an investment, and every artist brings a unique perspective, many studios offer comparable boutique experiences. At this level, pricing and product details play a crucial role in decision-making. Clients should be able to compare options without feeling like they’re being led through a sales funnel just to get the information they need. The lack of transparency can be frustrating, making it difficult to know exactly what you’re committing to before making a significant financial decision.

This is why I believe in complete pricing transparency—so you can focus on choosing the right photographer based on both experience and value, without the stress of hidden costs or last-minute surprises.

What About RAW Files?

A common question in the photography industry is whether clients should receive RAW images. Most portrait photographers don’t offer them, while commercial photographers often do. The reason? RAW files are unprocessed and require professional editing to bring out their full potential.

That said, I believe in flexibility. If you have specific needs—whether for commercial use or personal creative projects—let’s talk. My priority is ensuring you have the images you need in the format that works best for you.

Focused on the Experience, Defined by the Images

Photography is an investment, and I focus on providing an exceptional experience. Whether it’s adventuring with the love of your life under the midnight sun in the beauty of Iceland, capturing your family during golden hour in the comfort of your own backyard, or documenting life's milestones—whether it's graduating high school, celebrating a new decade, becoming a parent, getting engaged, or marking an anniversary, I am inspired by breathtaking landscapes and transformative moments. I believe in documenting the little things—the everyday magic that is just as beautiful. The fine details, the little glances, the way people change over time—all of it tells a story worth remembering. Beautiful photography makes the little moments look just as important as they feel.

Just as photography preserves personal memories, it also shapes a brand. For the small business owner, I create branding and personal imagery that is a strong embodiment of your business identity, visually captivating potential clients and helping you stand out. Whether it’s headshots, personal branding, or a full image collection, I help you create a professional presence that tells your story.

Your Images, Your Way

Every session with me is built on trust and a commitment to delivering images that truly serve you. Whether you’re looking for digital files, beautifully printed portraits, or both, my goal is to make sure you receive exactly what you expect—no fine print, no hidden restrictions.