Frequently Asked Questions

Booking is easy! Simply fill out my contact form above with a few details about what you're looking for. I'll get back to you with my availability, specific session rates and options, and everything you need to get started.

Yes! A $50 non-refundable retainer is required to officially reserve your session date and time. This amount goes toward your total session cost, with the remaining balance due by the start of your session. I understand that plans can change, so one complimentary reschedule is offered, subject to availability, and your retainer will transfer to your new date. If you cancel your session entirely, your retainer is non-refundable. However, if I need to cancel your session for any reason, your retainer will be refunded in full. I'll also provide recommendations for finding another local photographer and, whenever possible, help connect you with someone who may be available.

I'm based in Waikoloa on Hawai‘i Island and exclusively offer photography sessions in Waikoloa and the surrounding area. I do not travel to Kona or other parts of the island for sessions. Some of my favorite locations include ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) and Hāpuna Beach, both offering beautiful ocean views, tropical scenery, and gorgeous sunset lighting. I'm happy to help you choose a location within my service area that fits your vision and needs!

I accept payments through Venmo or by credit/debit card through my secure online booking platform! If you prefer to pay by card, you'll receive a personalized booking link where you can securely enter your payment information and complete your payment online. Card payments are processed through Square, so you won't need to create an account or download an app. A $50 retainer is required to reserve your session, with the remaining balance due by the start of your photoshoot.

Once you're officially booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with all your session details and a link to your booking portal. I'll also provide location guidance, styling recommendations, and helpful tips to prepare for your photoshoot if needed! Two days before your session, you'll receive a reminder email with important details, and on the day of your session, I'll personally send you a text to check in and confirm everything is good to go. My goal is to make the entire experience easy and stress-free from start to finish!

Hawai‘i weather can be unpredictable, but I'll keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your session! If conditions aren't suitable for photography, we'll discuss adjusting our start time, choosing another location within my service area, or rescheduling based on availability. I recommend scheduling your photos earlier in your vacation whenever possible, just in case we need a little flexibility with the weather.

Each booking includes one complimentary reschedule, subject to availability, and your $50 retainer will transfer to your new session date. If you choose to cancel your session entirely, your retainer is non-refundable. However, if I need to cancel your session for any reason, your retainer will be refunded in full. I'll also provide recommendations for another local photographer and, whenever possible, assist you in finding someone available. For weather-related concerns, I'll work with you to explore alternative times, locations, or rescheduling options whenever possible.

You don't need any experience in front of the camera. I'll guide you through a mix of relaxed poses, natural movements, and fun prompts to help everyone feel comfortable. My sessions include a little bit of everything, from classic portraits to genuine laughter and candid moments. I encourage you to fill out your pre-session questionnaire so I can get to know you, your preferences, and any special requests! You're also welcome to email me inspiration photos or share ideas you love. My goal is to make the experience enjoyable while capturing photographs that feel like you!

All photography collections include high-resolution digital images with personal printing rights, so you can print and display your favorite memories however you'd like! While printed products and albums aren't currently offered directly through FAE Photography, a professional print lab can be recommended for beautiful, high-quality results.

Like most professional photographers, I use Adobe Lightroom to personally edit each of my photographs. I do not use any AI-based culling services. Every image is personally reviewed and selected by me to ensure the best moments from your session are included in your final gallery. While I occasionally use generative AI tools to remove distractions from backgrounds, I do not use generative AI to alter or manipulate anyone's likeness. My editing focuses on enhancing natural colors, lighting, and the overall beauty of each image while keeping the people and moments I capture authentic. If you'd like to learn more about Adobe Lightroom and its editing tools, you can visit Adobe's official website.

Your privacy is important to me! During the booking process, you'll have the opportunity to review my image use and privacy preferences and choose whether you're comfortable having your photos shared publicly. You can also specify different preferences for adults and children. Whether you're happy for me to share your images or prefer to keep your entire gallery private, I'll always respect your decision. Agreeing to public sharing is never required to book a session.

I do not provide RAW or unedited images. Every photograph is carefully selected and personally edited by me to reflect the quality, style, and consistency of FAE Photography. Editing is an important part of my creative process, and I want you to receive images that are fully finished and ready to enjoy! Your final gallery will include professionally edited, high-resolution JPEG files that you can download, share, and print.