Desert Light & Family Time in the White Tanks 🌵

There’s something special about heading back to Arizona — the desert air, those endless skies, and of course, the chance to reconnect with people I love. This trip was a mix of both work and rest — some much-needed R&R while visiting friends and family around the Phoenix metro area, with my camera (of course) tagging along for the adventure.

One of my favorite moments from the trip was photographing my sister and her family out at the White Tank Mountains. The desert is such a stunning backdrop — soft sunset tones, towering saguaros, and that golden Arizona light that seems to make everything glow. Between the laughs, the playful energy, and a few goofy outtakes, it was one of those sessions that reminded me why I love what I do.

Beyond the shoot, it was just good for the soul to catch up with everyone — dinners, late-night talks, and a slower pace for a few days. Trips like this always leave me recharged and inspired, both personally and creatively.

Here are a few favorites from the session — a mix of heartfelt moments and desert vibes that I couldn’t wait to share.

📸 Captured on: Canon R5 with the RF 28–70mm f/2L
🌵 Location: White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Arizona
💛 Session Type: Family Lifestyle Photography

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If you’re planning your own Arizona family session or looking for ideas for a desert backdrop, the White Tanks never disappoint. That golden light and desert landscape create magic every time.

Let’s Talk Photos! Answering Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

📸 Frequently Asked Questions

With Erica Cameron Photography

Hi, I’m Erica Cameron! I photograph people and events with heart, authenticity, and creativity—whether it’s a wedding, portrait session, or special celebration. To help make your experience smooth from inquiry to image delivery, I’ve answered some of the most common questions I receive from clients.

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💵 What is your pricing for events and sessions?

• Event Coverage: $350 per hour (includes shooting, editing, and delivery of high-resolution images) with a 2-hour minimum.

• Portrait Sessions: Packages vary based on session length and deliverables. Mini, standard, and extended options are available.

👉 Full details: ericacameronphotography.com/pricing-information

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📆 How far in advance should I book?

• For events: At least 2–4 weeks in advance

• For weddings or peak dates: 3–12 months ahead is ideal

My calendar fills up quickly—especially during spring and fall—but don’t hesitate to check, there might be an opening!

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✍️ Do I need to sign a contract?

Yes. Your session or event is only reserved once:

1. You’ve signed the photography agreement, and

2. Paid the non-refundable deposit.

The agreement protects both of us and outlines all the important details.

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💳 What are your payment terms?

• A non-refundable deposit is required to hold your date

• The remaining balance is due 14 days before your event

• I accept cash, check, or Venmo

• Payment plans are available for weddings and larger bookings

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🚫 What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

• Cancellations: The deposit is non-refundable and retained as liquidated damages

• Reschedules: You can move your session date if I’m available; a new date may require additional fees (especially during busy seasons or if travel is involved)

If I’m unavailable for your new date, your agreement becomes void and any fees paid (minus the deposit) are refundable per contract terms.

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📷 How many photos will I receive, and when?

• Events & Weddings: Sneak peeks in 2 weeks, full gallery in 8–12 weeks

• Portrait Sessions: Full gallery in 4–6 weeks

• Most clients receive 30–75+ edited images per hour of coverage

Images are delivered in a private, high-resolution online gallery for downloading, printing, and sharing.

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🔒 Will I get the RAW files?

No. RAW files are NOT delivered. I hand-select and edit the best images that tell your story. The rest are removed during the culling process to ensure you receive the strongest gallery possible.

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🎨 Do you retouch the photos?

Yes. All final images are edited for color, light, and tone. I also remove temporary blemishes like acne.

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📦 How long will my gallery be available?

Your gallery will remain online for 12 months.
Need more time? You can extend your gallery for another 12 months for a $250 reactivation fee—so please download and back up your images when you receive them!

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🛑 Can guests take photos at my event?

Guests are welcome to take casual photos—but please note:

• During posed moments, I’ll ask guests to pause their cameras to avoid distractions and missed expressions

• I’m not responsible for missed shots caused by guest interference (cell phone flashes, crowding, etc.)

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✈️ Do you travel?

Yes!

• Travel within 75 miles roundtrip from Broomfield, CO is included

• Beyond that, I charge $1 per mile (roundtrip)

• For destinations requiring overnight stays or flights, a custom travel invoice will be provided

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🥗 Do you need meals at long events?

Yes—if I’m photographing your event for more than 4 hours, I kindly ask that a vendor meal be provided for me (and my assistant, if applicable). We’ll eat quickly during your dinner hour so we’re ready to capture everything that follows.

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👗 What should I wear for portraits?

Great question! While I don’t send out a formal style guide, I do have a few go-to recommendations to help you look your best on camera:

• Stick to solid colors or subtle prints—they photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you

• Avoid sleeveless tops, especially for women, as they can be unflattering in certain lighting

• Be cautious with red, which can sometimes make skin tones appear flushed

• Skip anything with glitter or high-shine fabric, as well as glitter-based lotions or sprays—they can reflect light in unpredictable ways and often make skin appear oily or sweaty in photos.

Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in—it truly makes all the difference in your photos!

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📢 Will you share my photos online or on social media?

Only if you’re comfortable with it!

After your session or event, I sometimes post sneak peeks or portfolio images on my website or social media—but only with your permission. When you sign your contract, you'll be able to choose whether I can:

• Post sneak peeks

• Share images on my social media or website

• Use them in promotional materials

You can even ask to approve images before they’re shared. Your privacy is always respected.

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🧍 What happens if you can’t make it to my event?

If I’m unable to attend due to illness, an emergency, or something truly unexpected, I will:

• Try to secure a qualified backup photographer, or

• Issue a full refund if no substitute is available

Your coverage is a top priority, and I’ll make sure you’re never left without options.

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📬 Still have questions?

Reach out any time—I'm always happy to help!

📍 ericacameronphotography.com/contact
📸 Let’s create something beautiful together.

Why Photography Costs What It Does — And What You’re Really Paying For

I love what I do—capturing moments, building emotion, telling stories. But sometimes, pricing can seem confusing or even steep. I want to pull back the curtain on what goes into the cost of hiring a professional photographer, so you can see exactly which pieces add up.

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The Hidden Work Behind the Shoot

When you book me, the shoot itself (say 3-5 hours for an event) is only one part of the process. Here's what else typically happens before, during, and after:

• Planning and communication with you

• Travel time, possibly scouting locations

• Set-up of gear, lighting, etc.

• The photoshoot itself (your 3-5 hours)

• Post-production, which includes:

  • Downloading and backing up all files to multiple storage locations

  • Culling (choosing) the best shots

  • Editing: removing blemishes, softening skin, color correction, special artistic edits

  • Retouching, resizing, formatting for print/web

  • Uploading to online galleries or making USBs/disks

  • Any client revisions or requests

It’s common that for a 5-hour shoot, I’ll spend an additional 30 hours or more doing all of the above. That means the “real” time invested is closer to 35-40 hours, not just the time we spend together.

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What It Costs Me To Do the Job Right

Here are the kinds of expenses that go into running the business—many of which you don’t see, but you benefit from:

• High-end camera bodies and multiple lenses (wide angles, telephoto, fast primes, etc.) so I can adapt to any condition

• Lighting gear: flashes, strobes, modifiers, lighting stands, backups

• Software subscriptions: Lightroom, Photoshop, plug-ins, and sometimes special retouching tools

• Computer hardware & storage: fast processors, color‐accurate monitors, multiple backup drives or cloud storage

• Website, galleries, branding, marketing, and keeping up with trends (both in style & technology)

• Insurance: equipment insurance, liability insurance (for events, liability if gear damages property or people)

• Upgrades & maintenance: equipment ages, tech evolves, gear wears out

• Off-season: when fewer shoots happen, but overhead (software, insurance, storage, etc.) doesn’t stop

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Cost of Living in Colorado — Why That Matters

To understand why my rates start where they do, here are a few relevant numbers for Colorado (so you can see what I’m balancing):

• The average cost of living per person in Colorado is estimated at about $53,374/year.

• The state's cost of living is about 13% higher than the U.S. average, largely driven by housing.

• Average housing costs are often the largest expense: median home values are well over $450,000 in many parts, and monthly home costs or rent are high.

So, when I'm investing in living and doing business in Colorado, many base costs are significantly higher than what someone might face elsewhere.

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My Pricing & What It Really Means

My event coverage rate starts at $350/hour. But here’s how that plays out in real life:

Item	Approx. Time	Rate / Cost
Shoot day	5 hours	$350 × 5 = $1,750 total
Post-production (culling, color correction, retouching, exporting)	~30 hours	Included in total
Misc costs (storage, software, galleries, backups)	ongoing overhead	Included in total

So while the up-front cost is $1,750, that fee actually covers around 35 hours of work (shooting + editing + delivery).

That means my “true” hourly rate isn’t $350. It’s closer to $50/hour once everything is factored in.

And keep in mind—part of that $50/hour still goes right back into covering overhead costs like insurance, website hosting, editing software, storage, and gear maintenance. Once those expenses are paid, my actual take-home rate is much lower than $50/hour.

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What You’re Paying For — The Value

When you hire me, here’s what you get beyond the time:

• Professional quality, consistently

• Photos that tell a story, with emotion, usable in many formats (print, web, social)

• Peace of mind: back-ups, reliability, expertise

• The experience: comfort, creativity, someone there who handles lighting, posing, problem-solving

• Warranty & professionalism: I carry insurance; I meet standards; I deliver on time

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Summary

• My base event coverage rate starts at $350/hour

• Behind every hour you see is many more hours of prep + post-production

• Once you factor in everything, my true hourly rate averages closer to $50/hour

• After covering business overhead, my real take-home is even lower than that

• The overall cost of living here in Colorado is significantly above the national average, especially for housing, so rates must be set accordingly to ensure quality and sustainability

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Photography isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about preserving memories, creating art, and making sure you have something lasting to cherish. When you invest in a photographer, you’re investing in much more than a few hours on shoot day.

Excited to collaborate with you—let’s make some magic. 🚀

Get Ready for Fall Photos That Make a Difference

📷 Memories with Meaning: Looking Back at Fall Photo Fundraisers

Each fall, I’m honored to be one of several volunteer photographers who donate their time and talents to help raise funds for the Rose Andom Center — an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence.

Through our annual Fall Mini Session Fundraiser, we come together to do what we love — capturing moments that matter — while making a tangible impact in our community.

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💜 What It’s All About

Families, couples, professionals, and even pets join us for quick 15-minute photography sessions in scenic outdoor locations around Denver. The setting may change each year — with Washington Park being our most frequently used spot — but the spirit of the event remains the same:

• Update your family portraits

• Refresh your headshots

• Capture a seasonal moment

• Give back while getting beautiful photos

All proceeds will benefit the Sierra Russell Fund through the Young Professionals Council (YPC) of the Rose Andom Center — directly supporting survivors with critical resources like housing, counseling, and legal aid.

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✨ Highlights from Past Sessions

What makes this event so special is the joy and connection it brings. I’ve had the privilege of photographing:

• Families marking each passing year with tradition

• Couples cozying up beneath golden leaves

• Confident professionals stepping in front of the lens

It’s a morning filled with laughter, warm light, and a shared sense of purpose.

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🗓️ Looking Ahead to 2025

We’re excited to confirm that this year’s Young Professionals Council Fall Photo Shoot is set for Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Washington Park, 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209.

📸 Each session is 15 minutes with a professional photographer—perfect for capturing timeless moments as the season changes.

Important Pricing Info

Photo session rates will increase if booked after September 14, 2025.

Rates beginning September 15:

• Individual Session: $60

• Couple’s Session: $90

• Family Session: $120

• Educator/Student Discounted Individual Session: $50

✨ Participants receive at least two edited photos (and often more, depending on the photographer).

🐾 Note: As much as we adore furry friends, pets cannot join the photo shoot.

💡 Sessions always fill quickly! To reserve your spot, please visit:

👉 https://roseandomcenter.org/ypc-fall-photo-shoot-2025

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🌹 Why It Matters

Every photo we take does more than preserve a moment — it fuels lasting change. Your participation helps ensure survivors have access to the resources and care they need to rebuild their lives.

To everyone who’s supported this cause in the past: thank you. Your trust, kindness, and enthusiasm are what make this possible.

Here’s to another year of creating portraits with purpose.

With gratitude,
Erica Cameron

Below are some portraits from the past few years

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Senior Portraits for High School & College Graduates | Capture Your Milestones

As a photographer, one of my favorite sessions to shoot is senior portraits. Whether it’s celebrating the end of high school or marking the transition into life after college, these portraits are more than just pictures—they’re milestones.

Senior year is full of anticipation, hard work, and big decisions. A portrait session is a way to pause and celebrate all the effort it took to get here. For high school seniors, it’s about capturing the energy of youth, the pride of accomplishment, and the excitement of what’s next. For college graduates, portraits become a timeless reminder of persistence, late nights, friendships, and growth.

What I love most is making each session reflect you. No two seniors are alike, so no two sessions should look the same. We’ll talk about what matters most to you—favorite spots around campus, meaningful props, or items that reflect your hobbies and interests. The session should tell your story.

Lighting, locations, and styling are all part of the fun. Some clients love the classic outdoor golden-hour glow, while others prefer bold, modern shots that match their personality. The key is making sure your photos feel authentic and true to who you are at this stage in life.

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Suggested Props & Outfit Styles for Senior Portraits

If you’re not sure what to bring or wear, here are some tried-and-true ideas that help personalize your session:

Props

• School Spirit Items – Letterman jacket, school hoodie, or favorite sports gear.

• Sports Equipment – Baseball glove, football, basketball, dance shoes, or musical instrument.

• Books or Laptop – Especially for college grads, to reflect academic focus.

• Hobby Items – Camera, skateboard, art supplies, gaming headset, or anything that represents you.

• Favorite Accessories – Class rings, meaningful jewelry, scarves, hats, or other personal touches.

• Fun Props – Confetti, balloons, or sparklers for playful shots.

Outfit Styles

• Classic/Formal – Dress, suit, or blazer for polished portraits (great for family keepsakes).

• Casual Everyday – Jeans, sneakers, t-shirts, or casual tops that reflect your daily style.

• School Spirit – Outfits with your school colors, sports jerseys, or college merch.

• Trendy & Fashion-Forward – Current styles, bold colors, or statement accessories.

• Seasonal Looks – Cozy sweaters for fall, flowy dresses for spring, or light summer attire.

(College grads can still incorporate cap and gown or graduation regalia if available.)

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Senior portraits are an investment in memories. Years from now, when you look back on this season, you’ll be grateful to have photos that captured the excitement and confidence of stepping into your next chapter.

If you’re a high school senior getting ready for graduation or a college student about to walk the stage, let’s connect. I’d love to help you create portraits that celebrate your accomplishments and showcase your unique personality and style.

Before You Book: What I Want Every Client to Know About Hiring a Photographer

 

📸 Thinking About Hiring a Photographer? Here’s What I Want You to Know

As a professional photographer, I’ve worked with all kinds of clients — from families and couples to small business owners and event hosts. One thing I’ve learned is that finding the right photographer can make all the difference in how you feel about your photos and the overall experience.

Whether you’re planning a big event, launching your brand, or just want some updated portraits, here’s what I want you to know before you hire someone — including me!

1. Start With Clarity

Before reaching out, it helps to be clear on what you’re looking for:

• Is this a wedding, event, portrait session, or brand shoot?

• Do you want formal, posed photos or more candid, natural ones?

• Will you need digital files, prints, or something else?

Knowing your goals helps me (or any photographer) determine whether we’re a good fit — and it makes the entire process smoother from the start.

2. Look Beyond the Pretty Photos

Yes, a portfolio matters — you should absolutely love what you see in someone’s galleries or social media feed. But look for consistency, too. Do their photos tell a story? Are the tones and style aligned with what you’re drawn to?

When you view my portfolio, I want you to feel something — not just see pretty images, but imagine yourself in those moments.

3. Ask About the Process

Every photographer works a little differently. When you reach out to me, you can expect a clear, step-by-step process:

• We start with a quick phone consultation to talk through your vision

• You’ll receive a detailed quote and contract

• I help guide you through prep, styling, location choices, and more

• After the session, I deliver beautifully edited, high-resolution images through a private gallery

I believe photography should feel effortless, not overwhelming — and good communication is key.

4. Connection Is Everything

You’re going to spend time with your photographer — sometimes in vulnerable or emotional moments. That’s why personality matters. I want my clients to feel comfortable, understood, and fully themselves in front of my camera.

That’s why I always suggest a brief call before booking — not just for logistics, but to make sure we vibe well. Your comfort shows up in your photos.

5. Yes, Budget Matters — But So Does Experience

I understand being mindful of cost — truly. But hiring a professional is more than just paying for a session. You’re investing in:

• Creative direction and experience

• Professional gear and editing

• Backup systems to protect your images

• Someone who can guide and support you through the entire process

My goal is to give you more than just photos — I want to give you peace of mind, confidence, and a collection of images you’ll treasure.

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Let’s Create Something Meaningful

Whether you're planning a big celebration or simply want to capture your everyday magic, I’d be honored to be part of it. If my work speaks to you, let’s connect and talk about your vision.

Your story deserves to be told — and I’d love to help you tell it through beautiful, intentional photography.

—
Erica Cameron
Erica Cameron Photography
Broomfield, CO
www.ericacameronphotography.com

Rage Against the Regime: From Alligator Alcatraz to the Golden Palace

Rage Against the Regime and the Distractions They Are Counting On Us to Miss

They are betting we will be too distracted to notice the walls closing in.

They are wrong.

On August 2, I joined hundreds in Denver for the 50501 “Rage Against the Regime” protest, one of 50 held nationwide. The mood was not just resistance. It was reckoning.

Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” passed weeks ago. What once read like political fiction is now law, stripping away rights in plain sight while his allies flood the news with distractions. One of the latest was “Alligator Alcatraz,” a media stunt that buried questions about Trump’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Even in the last few days, he ordered Texas to redraw voting maps to lock in Republican power.

Meanwhile, ICE has detained U.S. citizens in raids, public broadcasting has been gutted, environmental protections shredded, and detention centers expanded. The White House is being turned into a golden palace for one man.

What We Are Raging Against

This big, beautiful bill and the long list of executive orders are built from Project 2025,  a plan to dismantle democracy from within. It gives Trump sweeping powers to remake government in his image. We are already seeing the results:

❌ DOJ purged and replaced with loyalists

❌ FBI under direct presidential control

❌ Protesters surveilled and prosecuted

❌ National abortion restrictions

❌ LGBTQ+ protections rolled back

❌ Muslim ban expanded to 14 countries

❌ Censorship of educators and journalists

❌ Mass deportations, including U.S. citizens

❌ Environmental rollbacks

❌ Homelessness criminalized

❌ Civil Service gutted

❌ Insurrectionists pardoned and reinstated

❌ Deep funding cuts to NPR, PBS, and cultural programs

❌ Texas ordered to gerrymander voting maps

This is not theoretical. It is happening now. In Denver, we said: we see you and we reject you.

Why I Keep Showing Up with My Camera

Photography is not neutral. I photograph protests to preserve proof that people stood up, spoke out, and refused to normalize tyranny. These images will outlast headlines and speak for those who are silenced.

The Movement Is Not Over

Yes, the bill passed. Yes, damage is unfolding. But the resistance is organized, visible, and growing. We will fight in courts, communities, and streets because silence is what they want, and we will not give it.

They want us to look away. Our eyes are wide open.

The images from the Denver protest are shared below, echoing what we stand against and what we stand for.