FAQ | Anela Lee Photography

SESSION INFORMATION

I am interested in booking you for my wedding/photo-shoot, how soon should I contact you?
I am currently booking 1 year in advance for weddings and 2 months in advance for photo shoots.  I rarely have last minute sessions available, and will not be able to accommodate last minute schedueling.  As soon as you know I’m the photographer for you, please contact me to schedule your session/wedding!

Do I need to sign a contract?
Yes, I do request that all clients sign a contract with Anela Lee Photography.

Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes please. In order to secure your session date I do require a deposit. This is a non-refundable fee.

I’m in a tight spot financially, can I have a discount? 
Photography is a luxury and not a ‘necessity’ and because of this, I cannot extend a discount to you. I recommend waiting until you are more financially comfortable before booking a session with me. I do, however, offer flexible payment plans and am more than happy to work with you.

Is there a perfect time of day for my photos?
There is indeed! We photog’s call it the golden/magic hour. The 1-2 hours before the sun sets is the best time to shoot. You get the most amazing warm, glowing light during this time.

Do you travel?
Yes I do! I love to travel.  However, traveling is based on strict availability. Please contact me for more information.

How long will the session take?
You can expect to be on location with me for 1-2 hours (unless of course you have booked a wedding!).

Do you have a studio?
I sure do.  I recently have decided to only offer cake smash session in my studio.  All other sessions will be at a location of your choice.

Can I bring my friend along?
Sure! I encourage doing anything that helps to make you feel more comfortable and relaxed during our session.

Can we bring our dog?
Of course! All well behaved dogs are allowed.

What if I need to reschedule?
No problem! I am a mother of 2 kids myself. I know that life can get crazy and that sickness might creep up on you. Please try to contact me at least 24 hours in advance in the event that you need to reschedule. We will find a time for you!

PROCESSING/PRINTS
Can you make me look younger?
Don’t we all wish we looked just a tad bit younger? HA! I will do minor retouches to cover blemishes or scars.However, I believe that we are all beautiful and like to keep my images as natural as possible.

How long will it take before I can see my images?
I know that you are anxious to see your images. Galleries will be ready for viewing within 1-2 weeks for portrait sessions and 4-6 weeks for weddings. You will get a little sneak peak (1-2 images) of your session within 2 days, via our Facebook page.

You took so many pictures! Do I get them all?
You will hear my camera clicking a lot! I take a lot of images in order to capture that perfect moment. No, you won’t get every image that I take. I will choose the best of the best and those images will be edited and delivered to you.

How do I see my photos after my session? 
After your session, you will receive an e-mail with a password to your online gallery.  You will be able to view and select your images for professional printing. You will also be able to download your images for personal use.  Your print release will be packaged with your print order.

Didn’t get your question answered? Drop me an email at anelaleephoto@gmail.com

NOW BOOKING | Anela Lee Photography | O’ahu, HI

I am SO EXCITED to be able to announce that my family and I will be home this winter 2015.  Over the years i’ve had a bunch of inquires about booking a session next time I am in Hawai’i.  Well- that time has come! 

Due to the fact that my husband is currently deployed.  I won’t know exact dates until our leave is approved.  I am booking sessions now to reserve your session.  Once dates become available I will begin contacting the first person who booked and so forth.  If you are unable to attend a date provided- I will also be offering a boudoir marathon for one day only, and lifestyle sessions in your home.  

I have had numerous inquiries about sessions on Maui and Hawai’i.  Once we know our exact dates we’ll be home- we’ll be able to schedule a day to schedule sessions.  However, these sessions aren’t available at the moment due to the fact that they can’t be guaranteed yet.  Please e-mail me at anelaleephoto@gmail.com to be contacted if we are able to travel to neighboring islands. 

Details | Portrait/Lifestyle Sessions | $150

• Up to 1.5 hour session at a location of your choice
• All of the best digital images enhanced with rights to print 
• Special gift 
• Cost: $150 + tax Click here to reserve your spot!
• Space is limited!

Details | Boudoir Sessions

• Up to 1 hour session at a luxury hotel 
• Professional Hair & Make Up
• All of the best digital images enhanced with rights to print
• Champagne and light snacks
• 8×8 Printed Photo Album (20 Pages) 
• Cost: $350 + tax Click here to reserve your spot!
• Space is limited!

I absolutely can’t wait to meet all of you! Your session will be absolutely amazing and you will forever have these images to look back on! I can’t wait to see what we create together! 

XOXOX,

Anela 

 

Williams Family | Maternity Session

When Jessica booked her session I was so excited.  I had so many ideas running through my head! She showed me the style she was looking for and they were gorgeous.  When she showed up the day of her session with her dress…..I was in awe! It was absolutely beautiful! This session was a very windy day but we managed! At the end of our session they all were in the water.  Their daughter, Miss C was telling me all about their trip to Disneyland.  She met so many princesses’ and had so much fun.  Now I want to go to Disneyland and see princesses’. I am so happy for this growing family and I can’t wait to meet your little bundle of joy! 

XOXOXO

Anela 

Williams Family | Maternity Session

When Jessica booked her session I was so excited.  I had so many ideas running through my head! She showed me the style she was looking for and they were gorgeous.  When she showed up the day of her session with her dress…..I was in awe! It was absolutely beautiful! This session was a very windy day but we managed! At the end of our session they all were in the water.  Their daughter, Miss C was telling me all about their trip to Disneyland.  She met so many princesses’ and had so much fun.  Now I want to go to Disneyland and see princesses’. I am so happy for this growing family and I can’t wait to meet your little bundle of joy! 

XOXOXO

Anela 

Grippo Family | Family Session

This was such a fun session! This amazing family was visiting Virginia all the way from New York! The house they were staying in was so beautiful.  When I went home I told my husband that that’s the kind of house I want- one day. They were so funny.  We were hoping that it wouldn’t rain- IT DID! But, it turned out for the best.  When it started, everyone cleared the beach.  Then when it cleared up- we began with our beach shots.  Let’s just say there was literally NO ONE on the beach for our session.  The Grippo’s are definitely a family that I will never forget.  I absolutely loved them and love the way their session turned out.  Thank you so much for choosing me as your photographer and to capture such a memorable moment. 

 

XOXOXO,

Anela

What’s in my bag | Personal

This past weekend I second shot with Jami Thompson with Jami Thompson Photography at a beautiful wedding in Yorktown, VA for Brad & Victoria.  Throughout the day/night I was making a list of everything I will remember to pack for future weddings, and things i’d hear Jami say not to forget.  If you’re shooting a wedding- DO NOT forget any of these! You will thank me later.  

1. BAND AIDS–

No- these are not used in case you get a paper cut.  They are used for the blisters you WILL get on your feet! By the end of the night I ended up walking like a penguin because my feet were so sore.  I even resulted in putting toilet paper in my shoes to help with the pain.  

2. DEODORANT–

If you don’t wear deodorant then- you can’t sit with us.  KIDDING. Well throughout the night you’ll sweat! From the room where the bridal party is getting ready, to the ceremony, to portrait time to of course the reception.  You don’t want to be the stinky photographer that no one wants to hire.  So wear deodorant and pack some just to be safe.  

3. BODY SPRAY–

You never know if your deodorant will not be enough.  Bring a bottle of body spray and spray that bad boy all over, whenever you can.  

4. WATER–

You would think that you are at a wedding and you’ll be able to get water- um.. NO. That’s not the case.  Keep some bottles in your bag and in your car.  You want to stay hydrated since you’ll be moving around constantly.  Sometimes you won’t have time to grab water.  Having it ready to go saves you so much time. 

5. SNACKS–

Boy do you get hungry! Snacking on some protein during your session will definitely do you some good.  Our favorite for that night was beef jerky and red bull.  

6. CASH–

In case you may not have money on your EZ pass and don’t want to get the blue light and horn honked at you.  

7. WATCH–

Sometimes you’ll be crunched for time.  Instead of holding your phone in your bra or running to your bag to look at what time it is or asking someone.  Keeping a watch on will be so much more helpful! 

8. BUSINESS CARDS–

Don’t forget these! A perfect way to advertise is simply leaving your business cards at the bar.  

9. EXTRA PAIR OF FLATS–

Bring them.  In case your pair fails on you or who knows what could happen.  Just bring them! 

10. MASSAGE–

Trust me- you’ll thank me later.  Have a massage scheduled as soon as you can the day after the wedding.  Your body will be sore.  Treat yourself to a time for relaxation. 

XOXOX

Anela

Lee Family | Family Session

 

I don’t mean to brag- but this is my beautiful family! My mom, aunty and cousins came down to visit.  I was so excited! It’s not a cheap trip.  I was beyond happy! Of course I wanted to have a family session- DUH.  I made them my models hahaha. I cannot wait to print these images and frame them in my home & studio.  We had so much fun on their visit here! I can’t wait to visit them next and finally go home to Hawai’i! Beach everyday, shaved ice, sand in my toes, waterfalls, cliff jumping & ono food! Thank you guys for visit us! We love you so much! & HAU’OLI LA HANAU AUNTY AMY!

xoxo,

Anela

Baby Beltran | Maternity Session

 

This was not my first rodeo with this couple! I got to work with them for their pregnancy reveal.  I love when I get to grow with my clients- I get to see when they first find out their expecting, when they find out the gender of their bundle of joy, when they’re about to hit that 10 month mark and finally when their little one arrives! It makes my job worth everything and more that I put into it.  I am so excited for their beautiful growing family- I wish you two the best and I can’t wait to meet that little cutie! Congratulations

xoxo,

Anela

The Thriving Photographer | Personal

 

I’ve been slowly growing and growing in my business, and i’m not done yet.  Here are a few lessons i’ve learned and how i’ve delt with them.  I am so excited about my journey as a photographer and I can’t wait to see what is in store for me!

At first I would base my prices off of other photographers in the area.  I wouldn’t make my prices higher than them- in fear that no one would hire me.  I was more concerned about income rather than the value of my work.  I would accept the minimum session fee just to make my customers happy.  I would even lose money on certain sessions.  Now I realize that, I know exactly what I am worth and what I deserve.

Every photographer starts from the bottom.  I would constantly revise my pricing and packages.  I would add and delete.  If a customer asked me, “I don’t need this can I get something else?” I’d always say, “SURE!” Once again I was changing who I am and what my business is about…for the COST. Because I didn’t want to lose a customer. But now- My prices and packages are simple. They are designed to serve exactly what my ideal customers want to buy and priced based on the value desired I would always base my availability off of who wants a scheduled session and when.  If I had something planned that day- I would cancel because this was income and I didn’t want to let a customer down because I wasn’t available.  I’ve learned that photography is a luxury.  I don’t want to be known as the “last minute photographer” I want my clients to hire me in advanced, I want them to review my work and know that I am the photographer for them, I want them to absolutely love me as a person and as a photographer.  Before, my life was chaotic, and there wasn’t enough time to do what I needed to do.  Now- There is balance and structure to my life.  I work when I want to.  I am happy.

When I would think of prices- I would charge the bare minimum.  I wouldn’t even sit down and see how much everything costs.  I would give away so many free sessions, free goodies included with sessions and more.  I would think that this was hard work.  I didn’t know how I could have a thriving business.  I didn’t know what I was doing wrong. I felt guilty, frustrated and tired.  Now- I realize that it is hard work but I am building a strong, sustainable business that serves my customers, me and my family well.

I would have people ask me why my prices are higher than others- why did I charge “so much” just to take photos and upload.  I wouldn’t expect them to understand what is actually put into a session- but i’ll do my best to explain.  When you inquire about a session with me- I take time to email you, I research locations that you may be interested in- If it’s at a location i’ve never been before, i’ll go days before our session to figure out the best place to shoot, I’ll take tons of images but only choose the BEST, because that’s what you deserve.  I take my time editing every image, from blemishes, pimples, bags under your eyes, lighting and more.  I then process your images for printing.  I only print professional images.  The quality is much better than those at your local store.  I package your images with care and love.  I love to go above and beyond for every customer.  Each and every one of my customers are unique.  If we’re talking and I find out you met at a ice cream parlor- I’ll include a gift card to Cold Stone.  If you have adorable kids- I’ll include a day pass to The Green Bean. Prices may seem higher on my end than some photographers but the quality and time that I put into each customer reflects the difference.  Doing business with high standards is my mission. I am sure you can appreciate the great care taken to showcase your special day in this manner. So this is why my prices are higher-

If you are a photographer and are in the same shoes as I was- know your worth.  There will be other people who put you down.  If you love your images and your clients do as well- you’re doing something right.

xox,

Anela

 

Thank you to http://www.colervaleactions.com // http://www.steeltoeimages.com // http://www.jamithompsonphoto.com for the inspiration!

 

 

Why I do what I do | Personal

I’ve never written a personal blog like how i’m about to right now.  I would always think about why do I love to take pictures? I always thought it began in 7th grade when ‘myspace selfies’ were acceptable hahah! I would love to take pictures of myself- then other people.  I loved the positive feedback i’d get from everyone saying that I did a great job.  It became addicting.  I wanted to learn more- I wanted more people to tell me how amazing I am- I wanted more people to be how happy I was seeing beautiful images of themselves.  However, 366 days after the passing of my uncle I realize why.

I’m sitting in my studio, using all of my napkins that are within arms reach.  My uncle became Heavens angel on May 31, 2013.  My life stopped, my heart broke- I felt as if my world ended.  I cried my heart out for days, I wanted it to be a bad dream.  It wasn’t.  After I was able to get myself together, the first thing I did was look for photos of my uncle and our family.  I was disappointed at how scarce those images were.  I thought for sure i’d have a billion images.  I didn’t. I could only count the images on both hands.  I cried.  As I looked through the images I realized where my time was really spent.  My time was spent with someone I dated in high school, it was spent with friends that I don’t speak to today, it was spent trying to dress provocatively impressing other men, it was spent partying and deciding what kind and how much alcohol we were gonna drink, it was spent with everyone but my family.  I was never so ashamed of where my priorities were.  My parents would always tell me, “If you need help- who do you think is gonna be there for you?….your friends? No way! Your family is!” Of course as a teenager i’d think, “yeah yeah yeah! blah blah blah- my girls got my back” Some did- but for the most part- no.

So why do I do what I do? I capture memories between families, couples, weddings, children everything you chose me to do! I want everyone to have that image that is their favorite.  The one that they cherish, the image that they can look back and remember those amazing memories with.  I want you to feel the love and emotion in every image.  I realized you can really capture a persons personality on camera.  Life is short.  I have several pictures of my uncle that I look at everyday.  Everyday a new memory comes to mind and i’ll laugh, cry, or call someone to share the memory.

xox,

Anela