Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a professional photographer?
In these days of 10
megapixel digital cameras, you can go to the discount store and buy an amazing
point and shoot camera for very little money. Back in the film days, it was
said that the camera is just a box to hold the film and the quality of the
image depended upon the "Three L's" - the lens, the light, and the "learning" (skills)
of the photographer. The same holds true today. Your (and our) digital camera
is just a box that holds the sensor and the memory card. But the lenses on
most consumer cameras are not up to the quality standards of the interchangeable
lenses of a professional camera. In addition, studio lighting can be controlled
and modified to show you at your best, something the flash on your camera
cannot do. We also have a variety of background materials ensuring that your
photos do not look like they were shot in front of the curtains or closet
door of a hotel room. Finally you have the advantage of Miranda's years (too
many to admit) of experience. Check out the samples and decide for yourself.
Do I need a professional makeup artist?
If you are comfortable doing your own makeup, we will be happy to photograph you. Although Miranda can give you suggestions, she is a photographer, not a makeup artist, and cannot apply your makeup for you. However, we strongly recommend hiring a professional makeup artist. Makeup for the camera is far different than makeup for the "street" and a pro will be able to compensate for the effects of studio lighting. If you wish to shoot in one of our affiliated salons, you must contract for their services.
What about clothing and props?
Miranda has a selection of accessories (vests, boas, jewelry, etc.) that can be used in your photos. If you need more extensive wardrobe or wigs, you should schedule your session in one of our affiliated salons.
What will I receive?
Depending on the package you select, you will receive either prints or a compact disc containing your images. You will also receive an image license allowing you to have the photos printed at the lab of your choice. (Even Kinkos and Wal-Mart now require this release.) For the absolute best print quality, we recommend ordering prints directly from us, as we can provide our lab with exact color profiles for your images, however you ma have them printed anywhere you'd like.
Can I use the images on the Internet?
Like all professional photographers, Portraits by Miranda retains the copyright, and is the "owner" of your photos. However, your usage license permits you to copy and electronically transmit them to web sites for personal use. You may also send them to the photo gallery pages of magazines, such as the "Mirror Mirror" section of LadyLike or the personals section of Transgender Tapestry. You may not sell the images.
A magazine wants to do a profile story on me. Can I use the photos?
Your photos may not be published as a feature in a magazine without permission from Miranda Wright.
Will Miranda display or sell my photos?
Miranda will not display your images on line nor sell them without your permission. She may display a print in her portfolio to show to other clients. However, since you are granted a rather liberal license for your images, we would appreciate your signing a release allowing the images to be used in on line portfolios for the benefit of other clients, although it is not required. If there is any commercial interest in your photos, you will be compensated 20% of the fee, provided we have current contact information for you.
Now what?
Send us an email or
call one of our affiliated studios and let's make you look fantastic.