Q & A

If what’s offered interests you but is slightly different from what you have in mind, please let me know. Our needs are as unique as we are from each other and I love figuring things out with clients. Our conversation will be simple and forthcoming. The goal is to provide you with what you need and if this is not possible - I’ll tell you immediately and help you find alternatives. Email me here.

What’s the difference between a marriage proposal photo session and a couples portrait session? Can the two be combined? A marriage proposal session is when we photograph the actual proposal, usually in secret. A couples portrait session or engagement session is a photo shoot commissioned by the couple and is commonly done with two different outfits in different locations. Yes, we can combine them. However, this is usually done separately because the proposee most likely prefers to have some preparation for something this special.

How much does a marriage proposal photo session or a couples portrait session cost and what’s included? Each session is $450 and photos are sold as collections or a la carte. Collection A: 8 edited images for $250, Collection B: 25 edited images for $650, Collection B: 35 edited images for $850, Collection C: 45 edited images for $1050, and the whole set, a minimum of 70 is for $1500. Each image can also be purchased at $60.  You only buy what you love with no high-pressure sales tactics. We work hard not to make the most images - but to craft ones that matter. The portraits will be presented through a gallery similar to this.  Favorites are chosen by clicking on the heart icon and the images will be delivered under a different folder using the same gallery. The unchosen photos will still be available for purchase later on. Click here to inquire.

How does a session work? Our time together will be activity-based. There will be plenty of walking, talking - simply being yourselves. Past clients describe it as hanging out - with a camera. Let’s plan for an activity or two to keep the session engaging. It doesn’t have to be extraordinary - just something you’re fond of doing together. While most goals are met within 90 minutes - I'm always happy to extend. I arrive a half-hour early to get a good sense of the place because things get moved around and public events happen spontaneously. Please plan for minimal distraction by keeping keys, phones, and other pocket items in a tote that’s fine to lay on the ground. After an enjoyable session, we can then review the images together. I can help you choose in the comfort of your home, we could meet somewhere convenient to you or do it online. Click here to see how past clients describe their experience through our 590+ 5-star reviews.

Who are your clients? My work isn’t for everyone and it’s important to me that you find someone who aligns with your vision. Art is naturally subjective. You will never be told to look no further - that you’ve found who you’ve been looking for. You have to compare my work to others who’ve caught your attention. Because in the end, you will be the ones who will enjoy these images for years, those who find value in what I offer will want to know more - and when you do, I’ll be right here. The portraits I help create are simple, spontaneous and true - inspired by you. Perfectly posed, still-looking pictures work well for many - but my work resonates differently. My clients are creative - we like taking risks. We can be quiet but unafraid to take up space if needed. Substance over form, we find beauty in moments over shiny, perfect things. We’re non-traditional and inclusive. We’re imperfectionists.  We find wonder in the tiny details unique to our families. My clients are kind and they’re awesome. 

How do we book you? After we’ve discussed your vision, we’ll book your session and initiate the planning phase. A 50% non-refundable retainer is necessary to reserve a date. The preferred method of payment is through Zelle by using my phone number, 951-941-1811, we could also use ACH, Venmo: @joshuafernandez, Apple Pay, Google Pay, cash or credit card (+4% transaction fee). Inquire here.

Where are you based and do you travel for sessions? My family currently call the Washington, DC area home - I’m often in San Francisco, CA, and love traveling for work. Travel fees include the plane ticket, hotel, and car rental/cab expenses only. Everything else is on me - no fine print funny stuff.

Do you have location recommendations? A spot where you’ve already created beautiful memories is a good start. This builds your session’s character. We could also try someplace new and go on an adventure like pirates! A busy scene is great for vibrant and spontaneous images while someplace quiet and with fewer people are more intimate. While a popular landmark as a backdrop is tempting, this overwhelms the photo.

What do we wear to the session? 2 outfits are recommended - one more formal than the other. This results in a versatile set of photos. Here are 2 beautiful, intimate galleries with different vibes: Sample A and Sample B. A session primer discussing the whole process will be sent upon booking.

How is a cancellation/reschedule and bad weather handled? If the cancellation is due to force majure and you plan to reschedule, no rebooking fee is necessary. A reschedule is possible until two weeks from your date; otherwise, a new deposit is needed. A rain check with no additional fees is allowed 2 days from the session date. In any case, the necessary 50% retainer to book a date is non-refundable.

Can we get all our unedited photos? Yes, you can. All unedited photos can be purchased for $1000. Please know that these images are unfinished work and only part of the product - similar to flour being an ingredient in bread. The unedited photos will not look like what you’ve seen on the website.

Can you help us plan for the session? Planning is one of my favorite things and the best way to do this is through a video call. I’ll listen and understand your vision and discuss our approach.