solo, couples, families, boudoir

intimate weddings + elopements

brand sessions + subscriptions

Q. DO WE MEET IN PERSON OR BOOK VIA EMAIL?

A.  totally up to you! i won’t say no to meeting up with you over coffee to chat. just say the word. alternatively i’m also able to book you and discuss things virtually too. all booking like paperwork and invoices are handled through my “client portal” on my website. all your information can be accessed there easily in one place after booking as well.

Q. WHAT GEAR DO YOU USE?

A. for both photo and video, i shoot primarily using canon 5D mark IV bodies. my go-to lens for all work is a 35mm lens. for weddings, i use my 35mm alot but i tend to switch to a 70-200mm or 85mm during ceremonies so i can be out of the way and get a variety of angles easily.

when it comes to lighting, i definitely favor natural light, but i use a flash when necessary for photos - i.e. darker rooms, dramatic silhouettes, etc.  for video work lighting, i use continuous LED light panels or soft boxes.

for behind the scenes, i use rayban meta smart glasses and dji pocket cam.

Q. DO I/WE GET TO KEEP COPYRIGHT FOR PHOTOS?

A.  no, as the photographer/videographer i retains full copyright on all my work. however, you as the client are granted “usage” rights. this means you can print and post your images and video as you please, as long as it is for your personal use and you credit “amelia charleen” when you post them online!

Q. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR ME TO GET MY PHOTOS?

A.  you’ll usually get a sneak peek within 48 hours (max 72 hours) of your wedding/session. on average, portrait session galleries will be ready within two weeks of the session date. however for weddings, it can take around six to eight weeks for the full gallery.

wedding season gets crazy and i ask that you remain patient as i finish photos/videos in the order they were taken. i promise i will deliver your images and videos as soon as they are ready! i don't rush through editing because i hold myself to a certain standard of quality and we don't want to deliver something less than wonderful!

Q. Can you photoshop this?

A.  all of my packages include light retouching. this means i’ll edit out “the temporary.” on people, this includes things like blemishes, bruises, burns, anything that wouldn’t be there on an everyday basis. in the background of images, this would include minor distracting background flaws like trash, cigarette butts, parking meters, etc.

Q. Do you work with LGBTQIA+ couples?

A.  1000% YES! i’m full-heartedly a safe space for all love stories. queer love deserves to be amplified, baby. if the love is there, i’m there period.

Q. DO YOU HAVE business INSURANCE?

A.  yes, most definitely do. i have two policies. one policy to cover my gear and one policy to cover liability while on-site so you are in safe hands all around!

Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS ON WHAT WE SHOULD WEAR for photos or a cool location? WE NEED HELP!

A. i got you!! i have pinterest boards geared entirely towards outfit inspiration, location ideas, the works. if you want additional guidance, email me and pick my brain! i am genuinely happy to help as much as you’ll let me - i love styling.

Q. DO YOU HAVE A STUDIO SPACE?

A. in 2017, i made the decision to close my preston, iowa storefront studio to relocate to the quad cities. the business side of things is now operated from my in-home office in bettendorf, iowa. however, i still use studio spaces regularly. i have access to multiple rental studios in the QCA including one in eldridge (handicap accessible) and one in davenport (requires stairs). these are available for an extra fee but most include complimentary use of furniture and props throughout session.