Frequently Asked Questions

How did you get started in photography?
I took a few classes back in high school, but never saw it as part of my future. In college, I was required to take two photography classes for my design major and started to fall in love. I purchased my first digital SLR camera (Canon 50D) with my graduation money and just started taking photos all the time. While I always loved photography, I never realized that it was my true calling until my best friend started pushing me to start my own business. During my lunch hour one day at my "9 to 5" job, I randomly went downtown, filled out all the paperwork and the rest is history...
Where did you go to college and what was your major?
I went to college at a small school in Western Pennsylvania, Waynesburg University. It had everything I loved and wanted in a college.. a small school atmosphere, a faith based background, my majors and a varsity softball team. I graduated with two majors, Graphic Design and Advertising, and a minor in Marketing.
What kind of camera do you have and what is your favorite lens?
I have a Canon EOS-1D Mark III and use my Canon 50D as a backup. My favorite lens is by far my Canon 70-200mm.
Have you won any photography awards?
In January 2012, it was announced that Kristina Kerns Photography was a semi-finalist for the 2011 National Portrait Photographer of the Year. The contest judged websites and portfolios of hundreds of photographers from all over the United States. Also, some of my photographs have been featured in various galleries around Richmond, Virginia.
How far in advance should I book my portrait session?
Once you start thinking about scheduling a session, go ahead and contact me so we can start looking at a calendar. As a general rule, book at least one month out, but if you're pressed for time, go ahead and email me anyway..I just may have an opening or a way to squeeze you in.
How far in advance should I book my wedding?
The earlier the better obviously. Six months is ideal, but three months is doable. But as I said before, if you're pressed for time, send me an email and I'll see what I can do.
Where can I schedule a session?
Anywhere you please. If you're in the local Richmond area, there are plenty of locations to choose from.. parks, wineries, gardens, lakes, your home, etc. The possibilities are endless! I'm open to traveling so if you're not from the Richmond area or are interested in a destination wedding, contact me to discuss the details and possible travel fees.
What should I wear for my portrait session?
Choose colors from the same tonal range so that no one in particular stands out. If you want a warm, casual, homey-feeling photoshoot, choose colors that are neutral. If you want something more modern and trendy, choose dark, bold colors. Stay away from clothing with logos or writing on it as it will distract from your face. Most importantly, dress comfortably and in something that suits your personality. If you aren't comfortable, you won't be comfortable in your photoshoot and that will show through in the photos. For more information on this topic, read this post on my blog.
When will my DVD of high resolution images be ready?
It depends on the season, but portrait session DVDs should be mailed out in less than two weeks and wedding DVDs between three and four weeks.
Can you remove blemishes?
I can and will remove any noticeable blemishes at no additional charge. Please note that this may or may not be done on every single image but will be considered on each. If you want other editing done (removal of moles, freckles, etc.), please make this known the day of your photoshoot before the editing process begins. Feel free to contact me for more information.
Can you do custom editing to my photos?
The way I edit images is considered my style of photography. If you are looking for a different type of style, you may need to find a different photographer. However, certain editing done to one or two photographs can be arranged.
Can I post the images from my session/wedding on Facebook or other online galleries?
Yes, but please give credit in the album details and have a link to my website. If you use one of the images from my Facebook page, please do not crop out my watermark logo.
Can I edit the images given to me on the high resolution image disc?
No. All images remain the property of Kristina Kerns Photography LLC. Please do not crop, edit or distort the images in anyway. When you are given the images on a disc, you are given printing rights only and not the copyright. If you would like additional editing/cropping to be done, an additional fee may incur and is determined on an individual basis.
Can I enter one of the images in a contest?
Of course! But please notify me ahead of time, give credit where credit is due.
What is the difference between lustre and glossy finishing for prints?
Lustre prints offers the same color saturation of glossy prints, but is more fingerprint resistant. Both lustre and glossy prints look good in the absence of glare, but when the angle changes, glare is more evident on a glossy print. Lustre has a satin-like sheen and is printed on a slightly heavier paper than glossy.
Will my photo be cropped to fit a certain size?
There are some standard frame sizes that require an image to be cropped. For instance, a 5x7, 8x10 or 16x20 photo would need to be cropped from its original size to fit the necessary dimensions. Prints that are square would also need to be cropped. If you order one of these sizes, I will ensure the cropping of the image is suitable before sending the image to the printer. If you have any questions regarding image sizes or cropping, please contact me.
What is the difference between canvases?
Wrapped Canvas prints are a stylish, low-cost alternative to traditional framing. The print is wrapped around a stretcher frame so that 1 3/4" of the photo's edges are visible on the sides of the frame. They're delivered display-ready with hanging hardware attached.

Stretched Canvas is a unique way to display your images like a fine art canvas. The print is stretched to the edge of a 3/4" thick wooden frame and stapled around the edges, leaving the full image on the front.

Thin Wraps are beautiful metallic prints with smooth satin laminate neatly wrapped around sturdy 3/16" board. Each Thin Wrap comes backed with two 3/4" thick lightweight foam blocks with holes drilled for easy hanging. The mounting blocks hold the print away from the wall for a contemporary floating effect.

Metal Prints showcase a revolutionary new medium that is highly durable, waterproof, weatherproof and ultra scratch-resistant. The high-gloss sheen gives your photos a vibrant luminescence with incredible detail and resolution. Each Metal Print comes backed with two 3/4" thick lightweight foam blocks and aluminum plate with drilled holes for easy hanging.

If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach me by email at info@kristinakerns.com or by phone at 804.305.1529.

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