Working with Irene:
I specialize in portraiture, editorial and event photography. What does that mean? It’s real life photography. Portraits aren’t stiff and unnatural. Images are not doctored with heavy airbrushing and hours of Photoshop manipulation. I focus of finding the true beauty in all of us and bringing that to light. Sessions are done on location or in my amazing 4000 sq. ft studio located in Ballard. Props are used appropriately and only when the moment is right. Most of all, the images feel personal are timeless.
More importantly, I’m a non-profit photographer. When you book your session with me I donate all of the proceeds from your wedding, portrait session, and subsequent order to the charity of your choice. Why? There are three reasons.
1. I feel that the family unit is sacred. I believe that portraits are an extension of this. The love we share within our homes is more valuable than anything else in this life and is worth commemorating and celebrating through art. What better way to do this then by building a personalized family history through photography?
2. Charitable giving is a responsibility. My life is so blessed. I have a kind and patient husband, three loving children, and a comfortable lifestyle. I feel I would be remiss if I did not share my prosperity by giving to others. I believe that each of us has a responsibility to reach out with compassion towards our fellow men no matter the circumstances. When we help others that we find ourselves and feel the purest kind of happiness.
3. Community is our greatest tool. When we all work together towards a common goal, great things can be accomplished. My clients partner with me to extend our circle of influence to the hungry, sick, and needy. I am only one person, I can only do so much to change the world; but when we all come together we are powerful! I know that great things can be accomplished by those with willing hearts.
Portrait Sessions:
I am genuinely interested in providing a quality experience for every client. This means that we start with an in home consultation before your session. After your session I help you place your order with honest feedback. You can trust that I have your best interest at heart. I will never sell you something that you don’t want or can’t afford. I want to help preserve the precious moments and provide a rewarding experience along the way.
Pre-Session Consultation
Prior to your session I meet with you for a consultation. We get acquainted so I can create unique portraits that reflect each person’s genuine self. Your input is important! We talk about clothing, colors, where to shoot, etc. Together we plan your session. It’s my goal to create artwork that is fresh and exciting. By understanding who you are, I am able to let the creativity flow. We also discuss where to hang your portraits, products I offer, and pricing in detail. Honest and open communication is my goal. I want you to understand my process completely before you pay your session fee.
The Session
Each session is custom tailored to your needs. Because no two families are alike, no two sessions are either. All sessions have one thing in common, they are a ton of fun! My clients love to talk about their unique experiences during our shoot. Pulling from the ideas we brainstormed during your consultation, I plan an engaging session that you’ll enjoy from start to finish! You have my word that you’ll never look stiff or bored. Instead your images will speak volumes about you and your loved ones.
On average, most portrait sessions last one to two hours. Each session will include a variety of images, outfits, and backgrounds. When we are finished you will feel confident that your portraits will be everything you hoped for. Session fees are $95 for families, maternity, high school seniors,infants, children and adults. Each session fee is paid at the consultation. Prints, albums, and wall portraits are sold separately.
After your Session
Even though your session is completed the work is not done! From here I’ll enhance your images with precision color correction. Minor blemishes are retouched while details and photo-realism is preserved: No one should ever look “Photoshopped”. Instead I create natural images that capture your best self. Again, we meet in your home to review the portraits together and I take your order. I strive to create portraits you’ll love to share, show off, and enjoy for a lifetime. If you would like to know more or book a consultation please call me at 425.232.5263 or use the contact page to to send an email message.
Weddings and Events:
Photographing weddings for over a decade has taught me two things. First, weddings are always intimate events (even when you invite 400 people). You are promising to share your whole soul with someone you love, what can be more personal? On your wedding day your photographer play a pivotal role. You don’t want someone you’ve never seen responsible for your most sacred experiences! Instead I want you to feel like I am an old friend long before you walk down the isle. I want you to be in the moment and let me worry about the details. My intent with every couple is to build a relationship of trust that will last a lifetime. To do this we meet and discuss your wedding prior to booking and then again a few weeks before the event. I listen, take notes, and we plan together all of the “must have shots” so nothing valuable is missed. When the last piece of cake is served, and every champagne flute is emptied, you can rest assured that everything is perfectly frozen for all time with artful skill and precision.
The second great lesson of my career is this; being a great photographer isn’t about what camera you use, or how many pictures you take. It’s about story telling. The best portraits are bits of truth painted with light. And there is only one way to create art, you have to abandon yourself to it. I live, breathe, eat, and sleep, photography. It is a compulsion. I have always felt a deep need for the creative process. Nothing is more satisfying then turning the visions within my head into tangible masterpieces. I believe that when I create portraits for my clients I am giving them a gift that will only increase in value. I am build personal histories with artistic licence. The question you must ask yourself is “what is that worth to me?” If you value every moment shouldn’t you hire a photographer that does too?
Weddings are a celebration of life, love, and the goodness that binds us together. I am honored every time a client chooses me as their photographer, humbled by the responsibility it brings, and determined to make the most of every click of my shutter. But don’t take my word for it, please review the testimonials page to learn first hand what my clients are saying. (References are available upon request.)
Wedding packages start at $2500 for all day coverage. Clients are encouraged to meet with me to review my work and albums prior to booking. During this appointment we will create a personalized package that specifically meets your needs. A variety of options can be added including albums, wall portraits, engagement sessions, 2nd photographers, and even wedding announcements. Call me today (425.232.5263) to check availability for your wedding or event.
Approved Charitable Organizations
Below are links to organizations that have a high quality reputation for outstanding work in their area of expertise. I have chosen these charities for their effectiveness and commitment to their cause. While there are many reputable organizations with important causes, I feel it’s best to donate my salary to those who will use is to save life, preserve hope, and educate future generations. It is my belief that when we work together for the greater good we elevate the definition of humanity. The charities listed below have made a habit of doing just that year after year.
National Military Families Association
Your Local Food Bank
