Allison Patel Photography
About
I specialize in photography for families in all stages of life, who need photography to be fun and simple. I typically shoot in natural light conditions (outdoors or at clients' homes) in and around RVA.
I have captured important family moments for more than 50 diverse families all over RVA and beyond. But the achievements I take the most pride in are the connections I'm able to make with my youngest clients, and the simple joy I'm able to share with a bottle of bubbles and a sunny day.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
My process for working with new clients can be found on my website here: http://www.allisonpatelphoto.com/start-here/
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with my Bachelor's of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in Photography and Film in 2004, and have been in business since 2011.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
My family and maternity portrait pricing system is explained on my website, here: http://www.allisonpatelphoto.com/family-maternity-pricing/
My event photography pricing system can be found here: http://www.allisonpatelphoto.com/event-pricing/
How did you get started in this business?
I've loved photography ever since I got my first camera when I was eight years old. I've taken photos for more than 25 years, and my passion for photography and for working with families of all shapes and sizes encouraged me to create Allison Patel Photography in 2011.
What types of customers have you worked with?
The majority of my clients are pregnant women, or families with small children. I have worked with families as small as 2 members, and as large as 25, and everything in between.
What advice would you give a customers looking to hire a vendor in your area of expertise?
When hiring a photographer, make sure you check their style, not just their pricing. It does no good to find a photographer that meets your budget if you hate the photographs when they're done. If you prefer photos in a studio, you wouldn't want to hire someone who doesn't shoot in a studio, for example.
What questions should customers think through before talking to vendors about their needs?
Think about what you want as an end result. Do you want an album full of photos from your daughter's first week on Earth, do you want a wall gallery with canvases and prints, are you looking for Christmas cards or something small? It's important to at least have a general idea of what you want before you start looking. You're always welcome to change your mind, of course, but having that idea will help you not get overwhelmed when you see the photos.