Simone Pure Photography​​​​​​​

Will you do my engagement, wedding, maternity, baby, or family portrait?   

No.

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I don't offer quintessential headshots (there are plenty of photographers who do), and I don't offer overly stylized photos for aspiring or successful 'influencers.' I don't offer graduation, wedding, newborn, engagement, family, corporate, event, product, or architectural photography services. I exclusively specialize in: candid-art photography services for eligible single clients who need images to use in traditional online dating apps - or "dating photography." 

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Will you do the session at my home? 

No. 

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I understand many clients have fabulous backyards and homes, and those can make great backdrops for photos, but I only shoot in public places. No exceptions. Sessions take place in locations like: coffee shops, museums, parks, restaurants, rooftop cocktail bars, scenic sidewalks, and historic sites. 

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Where do you shoot? 

I live and work in Washington, DC though I travel often. Sessions are normally within a 5 mile radius of Dupont Circle, so that includes Georgetown, 14th St., Navy Yard, Union Market, and Capitol Hill.

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Do you travel to clients?  

Yes.

 

If you can't make it to DC, I am happy to explore ways to overcome geographical challenges. If sessions take place outside of my Washington, DC home-base, I only ask that my travel costs be covered by the client.  If you're interested in my services, please reach out and let me know.  Also, if I know you're interested, I can also let you know when I'll be in your city or a location near you.

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Will you create my profile?

No. 

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I don't offer writing services at this time, but do much of the rest. Just let me know if you'd like this level of service. 

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Why are the sessions so long?

If your session includes more than one location, it simply takes time to go to multiple locations.  Additionally, I rarely ask clients to pose and try not to ask clients to smile.  I specialize in candid-art photos, specifically intended for use on traditional dating apps like eHarmony, Tinder, Hinge, or Bumble and traditional social media platforms like Instagram.  Candid-art style means that you know I'm taking the photos but you're not necessarily posing for the camera. 

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Successfully landing the shots requires that clients feel at ease around me and the camera; it requires that we blend in with our surroundings in public places so the session feels inconspicuous; and it requires that I've mastered the art of finding your good side, and capturing the 'decisive moment' when your most flattering facial expressions come out. We spend the first part of your session simply chatting; while we get to know each other, I'm analyzing you to identify your 'good side' and determine your most flattering angles.  How clients react to my presence and the camera during the session depends on my mastery of the craft, the approach, and the execution of the shot. Clients have said they barely noticed I was taking pictures. I pride myself on leveraging my acumen to get the shots that help clients achieve their goals online. 

 

My sessions vary drastically as they're highly personalized. For example, to get pictures of you that illustrate your interest in adventure, fitness, and the great outdoors, your session might include a short hike; it takes time to access trails and get the right shots.  Many clients say their session was surprisingly fun, and that's precisely my goal. Do note, since sessions aren't in a studio, there are unpredictable variables at play so do try to think of your photo session like an outing with a friend (a friend who happens to be incessantly taking pictures of you). 

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which photos should I use in my profile?

People on dating apps absolutely want to know what you look like so your photos are instrumental to your success online.  Style matters too; I recommend a blend of photos in both chic and casual clothes.  Remember that your prospective matches are trying to glean as much information as possible from your photos to determine if you are someone with the potential to be a compatible match. Your prospective matches may also be looking at your pictures to find  information to help inspire conversation starters.  I recommend profiles include at least one of each: a clear picture of your face with you smiling in a way that shows your teeth; a full-length/full-body picture so your body-type is clear; a conversation-starter photo (a travel picture, an activity or passion picture, or anything that helps someone spark a conversation with you); a candid or very casual photo where it appears that you are relaxed and enjoying yourself. 

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How do I manage outfit changes?

Many clients want to make the best use of the session, and will bring several outfit options. A profile is stronger with varied photos and style is very important to landing the best pictures.  We can work together to plan your looks prior to the shoot.  I recommend profiles feature a range of casual and  sharp/chic looking outfits to offer a well-rounded view of you, while keeping things authentic.

 

I'll share style guidance before our shoot and based on your session details. If you have a nice selection of photos of yourself dressed-up, I'll likely suggest our session capture you in more casual clothes. Managing outfit changes is easy and most clients bring a backpack and change in the bathrooms of our session venues.  Clients can achieve several different looks using the same bottoms. Ie. If you wear one pair of jeans, different tops/shirts will offer different looks.

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Do you provide hair and/or make-up services? What do you suggest for hair, make-up, jewelry and wardrobe? 

No.

 

I don't provide or arrange for those services for clients. But, I'm happy to suggest styles and vendors.  I encourage clients to prepare for the photo session as if preparing for an interview.  If you normally shave your facial hair, do that.  If you normally get your hair blown-out, do that.  If you normally don't wear much make-up, don't cake it on for the photos because the pictures won't look like you. If you're unsure, just ask. 

 

My clients have ranged from age 22-73 and there's not a one-size-fits-all approach.  I'm happy to recommend particular vendors, brands, stores, and clothing-rental services to those clients who need to refresh their wardrobes or update their looks.  Many clients are new to online dating, and haven't 'hit the town' in years or decades; I'm happy to offer guidance to help you look both current and age-appropriate.  For some general style guidance:

 

• I recommend: solids over patterns or stripes, neutrals (navy, grey, white, denim/chambray, and army-green) to loud colors, timeless clothing choices to trendy options, and jewelry, make-up, and hair that reflects your look if going to a wedding or religious event. Well-fitting clothes are great to show off your figure; a snug t-shirt can illustrate that you're fit without the shirtless bathroom selfie. 

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• I recommend avoiding: big logos, screen-printed tops, any large wording (think vacation destination t-shirts), sports jerseys, bold patterns, strong color contrast (for example, pink/green combo or black/red combo), and basically anything that's overly distracting. We want your personality to come through in the photos and that'll be tough if your clothes are too distracting. 

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Can you describe your photography style?

Perfectly imperfect. The dating app photos we capture are intended to look like they were spontaneously taken by your best friend. They're intentionally imperfect so to look just like the candid images your friends might take. Most dating apps allow you to feature at least six pictures. One or two crisp professional headshots or professional 'lifestyle' portraits in your profile can be great!  However, if ALL of your pictures look like they were taken by a professional photographer, the takeaway can be that you're desperate, a loner, or a bit self-absorbed. To avoid having a profile that looks contrived or cheesy, I recommend including several candid or candid-looking shots that illustrate your demeanor and personality, not just your hobbies and appearance. 

 

I help elite clients create that elusive effortless and 'not trying too hard' persona online.  I create civilized and relaxed photo sessions to capture pictures of you that appear as if they were taken while you were out socializing with family and friends. I assume, like most of us, that when you're spending time with friends or family, they're more focused on enjoying your company than taking flattering pictures of you - as it should be. My goal is - not to capture the perfect portrait of you - but rather, to capture pictures of you that will entice your ideal match to swipe right on your profile in a dating app. 

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American fashion designer Marc Jacobs said "Perfection is just... boring. Perfect is what's natural, or real. That is beauty."  I couldn't agree more. My approach isn't for everyone, but I strongly believe it's high time to ditch the contrived poses and heavily-retouched look.  I believe your profile photos should convey that you're: attractive, appealing, authentic, and approachable.  I have an admittedly unconventional style in a budding new genre of photography; my approach isn't for everyone, but I'm passionate that it is the best approach to attract better quality matches online. 

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Where is your portfolio?

Many clients want to keep details about their dating lives private. I share examples of my work with prospective clients on request. I have been lucky to work with truly wonderful clients and I am proud to be able to share client references.  Let me know if you'd like to connect with former clients to learn more about my work and hear about session experiences.

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How will I get my pictures?

Photo files are included in all packages. 

 

Will you edit/retouch my images?

My philosophy rests on presenting your most authentic self; a common complaint I hear from friends and clients alike is that they've gone on a date with someone who didn't look anything like their dating app pictures. The story always goes that their date looked less-attractive in-person than they looked in their pictures online. To avoid misleading and disappointing your dates, who have invested time to meet you, I strongly advise against any significant retouching. If you would like something retouched, I offer light retouching on request.

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I want something between two of your packages, do you customize packages? 

Absolutely. My packages are meant as a starting place to think about my services and not a limitation.  I offer some services à la carte as well, so if you're looking for a comprehensive profile review and consultation, or a little more wardrobe/style help, just let me know. 

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Want a discount? 

Simone Pure wants those who tirelessly serve our communities to have their best shot at finding love and proudly offers a 10% discounts to: 

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Military: active-duty, National Guard, reserves, and veterans.

Educators: certified teachers, certified teacher aides, certified teaching assistants, and school administrators.

Students: part-time undergraduate or graduate students. If you're a full-time student, ask about a full-time student discount.

First Responders: police officers, state troopers, EMTs, paramedics, volunteer & career firefighters, sheriffs, and corrections officers.

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Have a question that's not covered here? 

Let's hear it. 

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