What is Your Style?
My photographic style encompasses the way I shoot, how I envision the picture, and the end result. I strive to bring about an emotional response in the viewer through every single image. I suppose if you want to put it into terms you've heard, you can define it as a combination of traditional and documentary styles, where I help you to tell your story. Maternity and newborns are usually more posed, creating a less spontaneous capture yet focus on an artistic and original outcome. I prefer using mainly available light and tend to keep things as simple as possible to create the unique look and feel for which my work is known.
When Do You Schedule Sessions?
I shoot Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until approximately 4 p.m.
Why Custom Photography?
You can easily go to any chain store and be rushed through your session where cheesy smiles are "in" and the emphasis is on how many sheets they can sell you (or whatever else the store happens to sell). You also have the option to hire a custom photographer who strives to create a quality experience and product. Custom photography does cost more, and while photography is a luxury item, it is also one of the rarest of your possessions that actually increases in value over time! A custom photographer invests many hours in each client, from the consultation, shooting and editing, to the final shipping of the order. The process is not rushed, however, so as to retain the high quality behind the photographer's name.
Where is Your Studio Located?
My loft studio is by appointment only and is located in the city of Chicago in the Pilsen neighborhood (in the Chicago Arts District). It is conveniently located very near the 90/94 expressway, making for a convenient destination for clients coming from the city, suburbs, or northwest Indiana. Convenient, non-metered parking in front of the building is typically always available.
Can We Shoot in My Home?
Yes, I do offer on-location sessions in addition to studio sessions. In fact, these are some of my favorites, especially with children since they usually feel more secure and like themselves in their own environment! Your home, or any other location, can also serve as a wonderful backdrop and add more character and visual interest to a picture.
When Should I Schedule My Session?
Please call or e-mail at least two weeks ahead of your desired date. Newborns are captured within the first week to two weeks of their birth, so please call before they're born. If you just found out about me and already have your new baby, please call or e-mail asap, as I do give newborns priority in scheduling. Maternity sessions are best captured around 4 to 6 weeks before your due date.
I Want to Reserve a Session. How Do I Do That?
Please call or e-mail with your desired type of session and a couple of dates you have in mind. The session fee is required in order to reserve your session and is non-refundable. Should you or your loved one become ill, we will reschedule. Please do not come to the studio sick or bring anyone sick, as I need to stay as healthy as possible for my newborn sessions. Thanks!
What Should I or My Kids Wear?
No worries- this will all be covered prior to your session. I tend to prefer simple, so keep that in mind.
How Far Will You Travel?
If it's warm and tropical, I will travel there! There are travel fees for locations more than 40 miles from zipcode 60608. I have been hired for sessions at the following and beyond: Chicago (and North Shore area and Northwest Indiana), including Evanston, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Niles, Des Plaines, Wheeling, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Schaumburg, Deerfield, Barrington, South Barrington, Tinley Park, Naperville, Crystal Lake, Saint Charles, Valparaiso, Chesterton, Crown Point, Portage, Merrillville, Munster, Highland, and Hammond.
Have Any Further Questions?
Please e-mail info@saundrakarol.com or call 773.301.1404, and I will be happy to answer them for you! I am also available for consultations at the loft studio.