Yes, the photos are digital, but taking the pictures is only a part of the process. The photo shoot seems like bulk of photography, however, the real hard work happens after the shoot. Photographers call this part “Post Production” or “Post Processing” (see below). Typically, I spend another 10-20 hours on post processing. Photos are typically available in an online gallery 7-10 days after the photo shoot.

Post Production is often complicated and takes much longer than the actual photo shoot. At a 1.5 hour shoot, I will typically take between 100-400 photos. In Post, as it is often called, I will hand pick each of the best photos, based on several measures of quality like background, colors, focus, composition, facial expressions and more. Next is editing the RAW photos using specialized tools such as Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop and more. By editing the photos, I can re-crop the photo to make it look better and eliminate any distractions. I am also able to bring out vibrant, popping colors that are difficult to replicate with ordinary equipment. I can even certain make touch-ups to turn an OK shot into a “keeper”. After the post process, I will upload copies of each image to an online folder for you to view and pick your favorite images. Don't like something about a photo? Let me know, I'll fix it!

Lighting is the key to creating stunning photos. With poor lighting, the camera picks up lame colors and odd shadows. The “best” time is any time that works for you, but, right before sunset and even around sunrise yields the best result! These are called the “Golden Hours” because they offer warm, colorful, and even light. Automotive photography looks fantastic before and after sunrise , but makes for an early morning! Finally, I know it sounds strange, but if we don’t shoot at the Golden Hours, cloudy days often work better than sunny days. If you can't make a golden hour shoot work, we can certainly work something out!

I like to shoot people wearing comfortable, classic clothes. Neutral colors are awesome. Some families like to pick a “theme” which is great but certainly not required. I like to stay away from patterns or logos on clothing, because they tend to take focus from faces and make the photo look too busy and dead.

I have a number of locations that are great! We can also use your home or any Denver area location of your choice. I am open to all new ideas!

My photo shoots usually last about an hour. However, it can be as short as 30 minutes or up to 90 minutes. Longer sessions or locations outside the Denver area are available at an extra charge.

Well, you certainly can, and a lot of my clients try that first! It can be difficult to get a family shot if you’re trying to be in front of the camera and behind it too. Also, it can be easier if another person is giving direction and instruction rather than mom, dad or a spouse. And trying to have many people operate a high-end camera can end in high-end frustration!

Yes you can, but, you’ll never be able to achieve the quality I can provide, especially if you want to print the photos for framing or create an on-wall canvas. Furthermore, most people won’t invest the time to have a well composed photo and they have no real abilities to do Post Processing (see above) which means you might get a photo but you won’t get a really great photo.

Yes, you can print your own and I have lots of experience with the best prices and quality online and in-town for small prints, posters, holiday cards, photo books, and even canvases (which all look awesome!)

I will provide you with a Photography Release and you will have rights to print and display all photos purchased from your photo shoot. James Dahlen retains the Copyright for all images and reserves the right to use any photos for marketing purposes.

I started my professional business because so many people told me that I had an “eye” for outstanding composition. I enjoy photography and my clients tell me that I put people at ease and make the whole thing easy and fun. On top of this all, I have great technical skills and fantastic equipment that helps me get the perfect shots for you.

I like to try to keep prices low. Please feel free to compare the prices of other photographers. A ~one hour~ photo shoot is $99 and includes 5 professionally edited full resolution images. Additional photos come at an additional cost that we can negotiate. I also offer "Skin Softening" and "Teeth Whitening" at $10 per finished image. Keep in mind that most professional photographers will charge an initial “session fee” and another premium for each digital image and print on top of varying amounts for different resolutions.