Mythos Lens FAQ
What is Mythos Lens?
I am a narrative photographer. Through reflection, rewriting, and portraiture, I hold space for you—whether you’re an individual, a couple, or a family—to step into your story and write it intentionally, rather than letting life write it for you. These stories become your unlocked legend: the truth you choose to live and the legacy you leave behind. This is your mythos.
Why Should I Choose Mythos Lens?
Because your story is too important to let someone else write it for you. Here, you get to tell your story with intention — whether that’s through mythic fantasy, empowerment portraits, branding, or family sessions that feel alive and real.
I am your photographer if…
You want images that feel like you.
You crave portraits, branding, or fantasy photos that reflect your true self.
You want to feel comfortable, heard, and valued in front of the camera.
You want someone who understands nerves, stress, or sensory needs and can hold space for them.
You’re excited to co-create a vision instead of being squeezed into stiff poses.
I’m not your photographer if you only want heavily processed, cookie-cutter photos, or if you’re not open to a little play and curiosity in the process.
What Makes Your Process Different?
We begin with reflection (journaling prompts, or verbal prompts if you prefer), and together we shape a unique concept inspired by your story. I guide you with posing, styling, and professional hair and makeup if desired. But this isn’t just about looking polished — it’s about moving, playing, and reclaiming your narrative in images that feel like you.
The Flow:
Through Narrative Photography, a collaborative process of storytelling, reflection, and portraiture:
I guide you with prompts to uncover and clarify the story you want to live in a one-hour session curated specifically for you and your desires.
Together we design a visual concept, from simple portraits to bold, mythic worlds.
You can choose professional styling, hair/makeup, or full fantasy transformations.
You leave with professional portraits that don’t just capture you. They cement the story you’ve chosen, so you can see it on your wall and remember the legend you are living.
What Should I Wear For My Photoshoot?
Each session includes 3–5 outfits for individuals or 2 outfits for couples/families. I encourage you to bring anything and everything that makes you feel beautiful or powerful. Bring 15–20 pieces if you want, we’ll style together on the day, and sometimes the most unexpected combos become magic.
Some quick tips:
Wear a button-down, robe, or wide-neck top to make hair/makeup transitions easy.
Think texture over print: lace, velvet, tulle, denim, chiffon, fur — textures photograph beautifully. If you love a print, pair it with a solid or textured layer.
For fantasy shoots, you can rent from my studio collection or commission handmade pieces for something one-of-a-kind.
How Do I Prepare for My Photoshoot?
Preparation is part of the ritual. In your consultation we’ll talk through details, but general tips include:
Hair: Cut/color 10–14 days before your session so it has time to settle.
Nails: Hands show! A mani/pedi or simple buff/polish goes a long way. Or go bold and gritty if it fits your vision.
Skin/Waxing: Schedule 3–5 days out so your skin calms.
Tanning: I don’t recommend tanning or spray tans right before your session, since they can create uneven tones. If tanning is part of your daily look, we’ll plan for that in consultation.
How Much Do You Alter the Pictures?
I do light retouching — smoothing shadows, blemishes, or uneven tones — but I don’t erase wrinkles, scars, or change your body. Those are part of your truth. I’m an expert in posing and lighting to make your natural shape shine, and I check in with you throughout the shoot so we exceed your expectations.
What if I Just Want Digital Copies?
Digital files are always included with any product you purchase, in both high-resolution (for printing) and web-resolution (for sharing). Example: If you order a 16x24 canvas and a set of 5x7 prints, you’ll also receive those digital files at the same sizes.
What is an Image Selection Appointment?
Instead of leaving you with an overwhelming online gallery, we sit down together right after your session. You’ll see your images and choose the ones you love. I’ll guide you through options for prints, albums, and wall art so you only invest in what feels like a full-body yes.
Do you Photograph Families, Newborns, or Seniors?
Yes. If you want to unlock your legend and tell your story with intention, you’re welcome here — all ages, bodies, genders, and backgrounds.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
Cancellations are accepted up to 14 days before your scheduled session. Cancellations within 14 days incur a $500 rescheduling fee, since I reserve time with stylists and block my calendar for you. Emergencies happen, and I’ll always consider them with compassion.
Do You Keep the Digital Files?
Unpurchased images are archived for three months after your session, then deleted. What we love, we print — because I believe your legend deserves to be held in your hands, not buried in a hard drive.
How Much is it to be Photographed at Your Studio?
Session retainers range from $650–$1,000 and this is 100% applied to your purchases. Images are purchased separately at your reveal. Some clients spend $2,000, some spend $15,000 — it depends entirely on what you fall in love with. You only purchase what you love.
What is Your Turnaround Time?
Digital images: within 2 weeks of final payment.
Artwork: 10–12 weeks depending on the season (holiday timelines may be shorter to ensure quality).
Where Are You Located?
My studio is in Chicago, but travel is a passion, I regularly shoot on location and love turning sessions into adventures.
What Kinds of Artwork Do You Offer?
Archival prints, heirloom canvases, acrylics, metals, framed leather, folio boxes, and handmade albums from Italy or U.S. artisans. All museum-quality, all made to last.
Can I Bring Props?
Yes, absolutely! We’ll discuss them in consultation to make sure they fit the vision. If something doesn’t work (size, color, texture), we’ll adjust together until it feels right.
Can I Print my Photos Myself?
Yes, up to the size you purchased. For larger prints or duplicates, I recommend ordering through my studio so I can guarantee quality and longevity.
Will you Share My Photos Online?
Only with your permission. Many clients choose to keep their images private, and I honor that fully. If you’re excited to share, I’d love to celebrate your story on my website or socials — but I’ll always check with you first.
How Far in Advance Should I Book?
At least two weeks in advance, longer during busy seasons. Reach out early so we can create something intentional together.
What’s the Full Process?
1. No-Pressure Curiosity Call
A short 15-minute call to connect, answer your questions, walk you through pricing, and see if we’re a great fit before moving forward.
2. Consultation
Together, we dream and refine your session: concept, outfits, potential dates, and anything else on your heart. This is where we set the foundation and make sure every detail feels like a yes.
3. Invoice & Contract
After your consultation, you’ll receive a clear invoice with a price breakdown, your confirmed date, and our agreed-upon details, along with a contract to protect both of us.
4. Secure Your Date
To lock in your session, simply return the signed contract and pay a deposit (50% of the total cost).
5. Shoot Day
You arrive ready to relax and feel amazing. If you’ve chosen hair and makeup, that’s where we’ll start while I curate your best outfits and set the space. We check in with your intentions, words, or feelings from consultation, and then create an environment that feels good for you — music or silence, play or stillness.
We’ll photograph you standing, sitting, moving, or grounded (depending on your mobility and comfort). Every step is held with care so you feel seen, safe, and radiant in your skin. If you’ve chosen a fantasy session, we’ll already have styling and props set to bring your myth to life.
Directly after the shoot, we sit down together for your Image Selection Appointment to choose your favorites.
6. Final Payment
The remaining balance is due on the day of your shoot unless you’ve already paid in full.
7. Delivery
Digital Images: Delivered within 2 weeks of your final payment.
Artwork: Delivered within 10–12 weeks depending on the season (holiday timelines may require shorter deadlines).