Information

I received my first camera in junior high, over a quarter of a century ago (No, don't do the math--just don't!). And I have been taking pictures ever since, much to the delight of aunts and uncles who forgot to bring their cameras to important family functions and to the chagrin of my friends during those awkward adolescent years.

It wasn't until I became a mother that I realized making good portraits isn't just about taking pretty pictures. It's about capturing an honest moment when the veneer of who you should be drops away to reveal who you really are: your true self.

Through my lens, I don't just look at you, I SEE you. This path chose me; I actually didn't choose it. In my former life, before the photography, before the kids, I was a psychologist. I use that perspective to inform my portraiture. Instead of allowing the camera to be intrusive, I create a warm, safe space. Instead of the artifice of props and formal poses, I try to capture you in the present moment. Instead of simply looking for happy faces and big smiles, I focus on relationships and the love, humor, and joy that underlie them.

An average session lasts between one and two hours and occurs on location and in natural light. It is best to schedule a newborn session so that it falls within two weeks after your due date. When scheduling a session with young children, try to find a time when they will most likely be well-rested and fed before the shooting begins.

While clothing decisions are exclusively yours to make, it is best not to be attired in apparel with prominent logos or characters as they can be distracting. Bright solid colors or simple patterns work well on children as do coordinating, but not necessarily duplicate, outfits. If you are in doubt, feel free to have several options ready at the time of your session. Just remember, I want to see you, not your clothes!

My philosophy has two main tenets. First, beautiful memories of your family shouldn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. And second, your images shouldn't be held hostage.

$220 covers both your session fee as well as high resolution files of your images on disc; 50% of this fee serves as a non-refundable retainer in order to reserve a date for your session. Beyond a 10-mile radius of the unincorporated area of Orange County, there is also a $20.00 courtesy fee for travel.

About 1-2 weeks after your session, there will be at least 30 artistically edited images, each of which is presented in several formats (black & white, color and/or stylized). Having digital images gives you personal usage rights and freely allows you to print them, email them to friends and family, post them on sharing websites, or create other personalized photo products. And all without having to pay another penny.

SEEN by Lam retains the copyright for all images for professional and commercial uses including but not limited to website development, portfolio galleries, and advertisement features.

Please contact SEEN by Lam with further questions.