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Frequently Asked Questions
There are a lot of questions you may have about working together. How will you feel in front of the camera? Can I recommend locations? What is the best time of day? What happens after our session concludes? In the event you don’t see something below and you’d like to know more, contact me here
 
FAQ
Okay... what's up with the Business Name? Where did it come from?
MOT is a nickname my dad gave me as a kid (it’s just Tom spelled backward). Both of my parents were passionate photographers, and that creative spark was passed down to me. Naming my business MOT is a nod to them—and a reminder that every image I take is rooted in love, legacy, and story.
Are you professionally trained?
Yes. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Multimedia and Website Development with a focus on photography and image editing. Beyond formal education, I've spent years refining my craft through hands-on experience, workshops, and mentorship. I have even professionally taught photography to aspiring professionals. When you work with me, you're hiring someone who brings both technical expertise and a deep emotional awareness to every shoot, ensuring your images are beautiful, intentional, and full of heart.
What's Your Style?
My approach is all about connection and story. I create vibrant, emotion-rich images that reflect the real moments between people—whether that’s the quiet joy between family members or the wild celebration of a wedding day. Stylistically, I lean into bold colors and a shallow depth of field to make your images pop, while guiding you with gentle direction so nothing ever feels stiff or overly posed.
How many photos do we get?
I believe in quality and quantity. For weddings, depending on the length of coverage and whether a second photographer is involved, couples usually receive between 400–800 carefully edited images. Family and portrait sessions typically include 75–150 available images. I don’t hold back—making sure you receive a full story of our time together, full of authentic moments and meaningful details.
What gear do you shoot with? How do you edit?
I shoot on top-tier Canon mirrorless cameras paired with the best professional lenses and lighting. My editing process starts in Lightroom and finishes in Photoshop, where I fine-tune each image for color, tone, and consistency. The final result? Images that feel rich, natural, and true to the moment—like you remember it, only better.
Where do you photograph?
I’m based in Bend and serve the entire Central Oregon area, the Pacific Northwest, and around the world. From high desert trails to alpine lakes, golden fields to snowy meadows—this region offers stunning backdrops year-round. I also love scouting out new locations based on your vision. Whether it’s a scenic overlook, a quiet forest, or your own backyard, we’ll find the perfect setting.
Do you help with posing?
Absolutely. Most people aren't used to being in front of a camera, and that's totally okay. I’ll guide you with simple prompts and cues to help you relax and feel confident. Whether it’s a big family group or just the two of you, I’ll make sure you feel supported every step of the way—and I always show you a few previews along the way so you can see how amazing you look.
Why should I hire a professional photographer?
Photos aren’t just about remembering what something looked like—they’re about remembering how it felt. A professional photographer brings not only high-end gear and technical knowledge, but also a calm, creative presence that allows genuine moments to unfold. You deserve to be fully present with the people you love, while I preserve those memories with care and artistry.
What should I wear?
This depends on the location, season, and overall vibe you want for your photos. After booking, I’ll send over a personalized guide with outfit tips and inspiration, and we’ll talk through ideas together. My goal is to help you feel like the best version of yourself—comfortable, confident, and totally you.
Should I bring props to my portrait session?
Props aren’t required, but if there’s something meaningful to you—like a blanket your kids love, a bouquet from your garden, or a bottle of champagne to pop—bring it along! Simple items can help you relax, interact more naturally, and bring a personal touch to your photos.
Do you do destination photography (like a wedding)?
Yes! While I’m based in Bend, I regularly travel for weddings and portrait sessions across the Northwest and beyond. If you’re planning something a little further from home, I’m happy to build a custom travel-inclusive package so you can relax and know your memories are covered—wherever they unfold.
What happens after we wrap up our photoshoot?
After your session, I carefully cull and edit your images to reflect the emotion and story of the day. Turnaround time for weddings is typically 4-8 weeks, and for portraits and families, it’s 1–2 weeks. Your photos are delivered via a private online gallery where you can view, download, share, and order prints at your convenience. Galleries stay online for no less than 6 months giving you plenty of time to access and download all the wonderful memories.
Will I receive a print release to our photos after the shoot?
Yes. All final, edited images come with full print rights. You can print them wherever you’d like, though I always recommend using my professional lab through your gallery for the best color and quality.
Do you photograph large groups or extended families?
Yes! I love working with extended families—those multi-generational sessions are packed with connection and meaning. Whether it’s a reunion in the mountains or a holiday gathering in Bend, I’ll guide the group gently and efficiently to make sure we capture both the big group shots and the quiet, in-between moments that make your family unique.
What if my kids don't cooperate during our session?
Totally normal—and totally okay. I approach family sessions with patience, flexibility, and a sense of humor. If your kids need a break, we take one. If they’re feeling wild, we roll with it. Some of the best moments come from letting kids just be themselves. I’m there to capture the real connections, not force perfect poses.
Do I have to order prints through you?
Though it isn’t required, I highly recommend it. I’ve strategically partnered with a lab who focuses exclusively on professional printing. Their staff and equipment are world-renowned for quality and efficiency. The pricing reflects a premium product that will withstand the tests of time.
 
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