Frequently Asked Questions
Here you'll find answers to common questions about my photo curation process. If your question isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to schedule a complimentary introductory call.
Questions About Process & Logistics
Q: What is the first step to working with you? A: The best way to begin is by scheduling a complimentary 15-minute introductory call. This is a no-pressure chat for us to meet, for you to ask initial questions, and for me to understand your goals. From there, the next step is the paid 90-minute "Discovery & Action Plan Assessment" where we create a detailed, custom plan for your project.
Q: I don't live in South Carolina. Can you still help me? A: Absolutely. My services are structured to help clients anywhere.
For digital projects (like the Digital Chaos Consolidation and Digital Heirloom Collection), I can work with you completely virtually.
For physical photos (like the Shoebox Sort & Scan), I provide hands-on service to clients in the Greater Charlotte, NC and Columbia SC and surrounding communities. If you live further away, we can discuss potential options for safely getting your collection to me.
Q: How much do your services cost? A: Since every photo collection is unique, pricing is tailored to the specific project. I use a hybrid model that includes hourly rates for sorting and organizing, per-item fees for scanning, and custom project packages. The best way to get an accurate estimate is through the paid "Discovery & Action Plan Assessment," where we will define the scope of your project and I will provide a detailed quote.
Q: How long will my project take? A: The timeline depends entirely on the size and complexity of your collection. A single box of organized photos will be much quicker than decades of scattered digital and physical items. During our "Discovery & Action Plan Assessment," I will provide you with a projected timeline for your specific project.
Questions About Safety & Trust
Q: My photos are my most priceless possessions. How do I know they will be safe with you? A: I understand this completely, and the security of your memories is my absolute highest priority. I treat every photo as if it were my own family's. Your physical photos are handled with gloves in a secure, smoke-free, and climate-controlled home office environment. Your collection is never shipped to a third-party scanning service; all work is done by me personally. For digital files, I use secure, encrypted hard drives and follow industry best practices for data management.
Q: Will my photos be kept private? A: Yes, 100%. Your privacy is paramount. I will never share, post, or use any of your photos without your explicit, written permission. Any examples of work shown on my website or social media are used only after obtaining a signed release from the client. Our relationship is built on a foundation of trust and confidentiality.
Questions About Services & My Background
Q: What exactly is a "Digital Heirloom Collection"? A: Think of it as the "best of the best" from your entire photo collection. After sorting through everything, we work together to identify the most meaningful, story-rich photos. I then curate these into a final, definitive collection—a polished digital archive that tells your family's core story. It becomes the foundational set you can use for creating albums, sharing with family, or simply knowing you have the most important memories perfectly preserved.
Q: Your background is unique. How is your approach different from other photo organizers?
A: My approach is different because it is deeply rooted in my professional understanding of the art and science of communication, drawn from over 33 years as a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. While other organizers may focus solely on the technical tasks of sorting and scanning, I see every project through the lens of human connection and storytelling.
This means I practice active, empathetic listening to understand the unique narrative within your family's collection and your specific goals for the project. For me, photos are not just items to be organized; they are tools that spark memories, ignite conversation, and preserve relationships.
This becomes especially important when working with families managing cognitive changes like dementia. I have a clinical-level understanding of the unique needs of not only the individual but also their dedicated caregivers. My goal is to create photo products specifically designed to facilitate shared moments and make connection easier, rather than just presenting a test of memory.
Ultimately, you receive a service that is technically meticulous, but also exceptionally insightful and focused on strengthening the human connections at the heart of your photo collection.