Chicago Photographer | For Photographers

Finding a balance between being a mama of three littles and this amazing profession is a daily struggle for me.   During the last few months, I have been receiving the kindest messages from fellow photographers and I am SO SO thankful for each and every one.  I have also been asked quite a few questions lately regarding technical camera questions, lighting, studio, & business questions and although I try my hardest to answer each and every one, they have been slowly falling into my email shuffle.

When I started out in this industry about 7 years ago I had all of these same questions myself and I can appreciate each one, but finding this balance of being the best mommy possible and a small business owner has become quite difficult.  I haven’t been logged onto social media as much lately and to be perfectly honest… it. feels. amazing.  I have finally cut down on my work hours and have been scheduling time to check emails and Facebook messages every couple of days.   I have been spending this designated time as wisely as I can and answer client questions, inquiries, and welp… try my hardest to run a sufficient business.

But I promise, I haven’t forgotten about your questions, I hear you and your messages and I promise I’m not ignoring you.  So today, I wanted to write a blog post about some of the frequently asked questions I receive so you don’t feel forgotten.

Much love to you all and again I couldn’t be more thankful for your amazing words of encouragement and lovely notes.  xx

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Natural or studio lighting?

I shoot using natural light simply because I move all around my room constantly during a session. And I have an obsession with pretty window light.

How big is your studio space?

About 800 square feet and has lots and lots of windows.

How many days per week do you shoot?

I shoot two days per week at the studio and one weekend per month.  I have office hours on the other days from 10am-2pm.

What equipment do you use?

I am currently shooting with a Canon 5D Mark IV and my backup Canon 5D Mark III and use a 50L, 100L, 35, & occasionally an 85.

Do you use a reflector?

Occasionally, but not often.

Where did you learn?  Did you ever take a workshop?

I read tons and tons of books and I remember reading a lot on the Clickin Moms forum.  I had a mentor a few years back and we did weekly critiques which helped me immensely.   No I have never taken a formal workshop.  I’m self taught and learn something new at every single session.

How did you meet Lane (Lane Proffitt Photgraphy)? 

We met on social media ~Facebook and still talk daily.  Love her!

Do you offer mentoring or workshops?

Yes!  I do!  Please click here to read about our upcoming baby workshop!

What color white is on your studio walls?

Plain old white.  I actually remember telling my painter that I wanted the most affordable white paint for my walls.  His reaction… ‘white?  really?  in a commercial space?’  ha! If he only knew.

Do you shoot custom white balance?

Yep!  Love my expo disc.

Photoshop or lightroom?

Photoshop CC

What kind of curtains do you have in your studio?

White sheers

Where do you get your blankets?

Homegoods and fabric stores like Joannes or Hobby Lobby

Do you use actions?

I do not, however Emily Lucarz has amazing actions that are beautiful.

How long does it take you to edit a session?

About an hour for babies and a little longer for newborns

Suggested books?

Understanding Exposure

What is your best piece of advice for new photographers?

Read, practice, make mistakes, be yourself.  Wash, rinse, repeat.

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Elle Baker Photography specializes in newborn, baby, family and child photography in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding areas including but not limited to Homer Glen and Naperville. Laurie Baker is a Chicago Photographer