i’m the person behind the camera
I’ll guide you through the entire process
My name is Sarena, and I live in Oceanside, CA with my fiance and our pets.
When you first reach out, I will help you choose a location and session time that works best for your needs. For families, couples, and general portrait photography, I will also assist you with what to wear to make you feel and look like your best self. For events, products, and more, I will schedule a phone call so we get to know each other better and build the best experience for the day.
01. SHOULD YOU Choose me?
I have been a photographer for 9 years, eight of which were spent as a hobbyist and perfecting my abilities, and the past year has been spent developing my skills as a professional. I try to make each experience unique, as every session is, and your photos should reflect the individuality of the day. My photos are edited true to color with tweaks to help things look more cohesive. However, I do accept edit requests within reason.
If you want someone who will chat with you before the photoshoot, through the session, guide you with poses and prompts, and help the day feel free of pressure, I am your girl!
02. PICK A LOCATION
Although located in Oceanside, I do travel. I have preferred locations, but I like my clients to choose the location that best fits them. Some have spots that are close to their heart, others have spots that are just stunning. When you reach out, we will work together to find the backdrop that best represents your sessions needs.
03. SEASON & TIMELINE
All portrait sessions are returned within two weeks of the session date. For events, turnaround time is contingent on the needs of the client, however I do my best to get them returned within 3 weeks.
I accept bookings year-round, and will do my best to ensure you get the day you need! The earlier you reach out, the better, however I do occasionally have space for week-of bookings, dependent on schedule.
FAQ
Are the travel expenses included in your packages or covered additionally?
Travel within 15 miles of Oceanside are covered. For locations up to 60 miles outside of Oceanside, it is $1/mile traveled one way. For locations further than 60 miles, travel is tailored uniquely to the session. Please reach out if you have further questions.
What if we want something beyond just the typical portrait session?
I am always looking for new challenges! One big thing about me as a photographer, is I don't want to pigeon-hole myself into one niche. Some examples of stylized shoots would be: vintage (50s, 60s, 70s, etc.), medieval, cosplay, etc.
We want to include our pet into the session, is that okay?
Absolutely! My very first living subjects were my own pets, and I encourage pets of all kinds to be photographed. Cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, small mammals, invertebrates. When I say all kinds, I mean it. No extra charge is added so long as the total amount in the group that day is 6 or fewer.
I have more than 6 people in my group. Is there an additional fee?
For non-event sessions that have more than 6 people, there is a fee of $10/person photographed. This extra fee is due to more time spent posing day-of and editing after. I can accept groups of up to 15 individuals.
Is there a military discount?
Yes! Any clients who book that are or have a spouse who is active duty, receive a complimentary gallery upgrade.
How long does it take to receive the photos after the session and how will they be delivered?
Photos will take two weeks to be returned, unless it is for an event. In which case turnaround time is unique.
All photos are returned via a gallery in Pixieset where you get private access to high-quality downloads.
Do you return RAW's or undedited photos?
As a business model, I do not. All photos returned are edited to best represent the individuality of the day as well as my own work.
For events/products, RAW's can be returned for an additional fee.
How do we go about paying you? Is there a contract to sign?
I only accept payment via Square invoices/in-person reader or cash in-person. Square allows me to easily keep track of my business income, and therefore keeps things more orderly. Retainers are due within 48 hours of completing a booking request.
Yes there is a contract! This is important to fill out as it covers both sides and ensures all parties are protected. This is also due within 48 hours of requesting a session.
A session is not considered booked and confirmed until both the 25% non-refundable retainer is paid and the contract is signed.
Do I get any special perks by choosing you?
Yes! On select weekends depending on his availability, my fiance will join as a second shooter! This means you get twice the amount of creativity and some fun angles. His being there makes it so extra moments are caught in-between poses. This is a complimentary add-on
