BEFORE YOU BOOK
Decide the goal for this review
- Competition submission
- Admissions application
- Grant proposal
- Client pitch
- Personal project portfolio
Pick one primary goal so we can optimize the edit for the right standard.
WHAT TO SEND 48 HOURS BEFORE
-A folder link to your images
-Google Drive, Dropbox, Pixieset, PhotoShelter, or WeTransfer is fine
-JPEGs are ideal
-Include 20 to 80 images if possible
-A short context note
-Two to three sentences on what the project is about
-Where it will be used
-Your deadline, if you have one
Optional but helpful
The competition brief, school prompt, grant guidelines, or client reference
A link to your current website or Instagram
WHAT TO HAVE READY BEFORE OUR CALL
-Your images open on your computer
-A notepad for selects and next steps
-A quiet space so we can move fast and stay focused
WHAT YOU WILL LEAVE WITH
-A clear set of strongest selects
-A recommended sequence and story flow
-Specific notes on what to improve immediately
-A gap list of what is missing and what to shoot next
-A simple plan for the next 30 days
TESTIMONIALS
Maya R., MFA Applicant
“I’ve never had feedback this precise. Sean immediately spotted the weak links, rebuilt the sequence, and explained exactly why each image earned its place. My portfolio finally felt intentional, not just ‘a bunch of good photos.’ I got accepted two weeks later.”
Daniel K., Wildlife Photographer
“This was editorial-level. No fluff, no vague ‘nice shot’ comments. Sean helped me cut 80% of my selects, and somehow the portfolio got twice as strong. The direction was so clear I knew exactly what to shoot next.”
Alicia P., Competition Entrant
“I submitted after this review and placed for the first time. The biggest value wasn’t just picks and sequencing, it was learning how to think like an editor. I left energized and confident.”
Jonathan S., Commercial Client Pitch
“I booked this because my portfolio wasn’t converting. Sean helped me tighten the narrative and position the work for the kind of clients I actually want. The changes were immediate, and the results followed.”
Priya N., Emerging Photographer
“Sean is sharp, direct, and genuinely excited about getting your work to the next level. I expected critique. I didn’t expect a complete blueprint and the motivation to execute it.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I send before the session?
A folder link with your images. Google Drive, Dropbox, Pixieset, PhotoShelter, or a simple WeTransfer link all work. JPEGs are perfect. Include 20–80 images if you can. Also send 2–3 sentences on your goal and where this portfolio will be used.
How many images should I bring?
Most people bring 30–60 images. If you have more, that’s fine, but the session is most effective when we’re editing a tight set rather than drowning in volume.
What types of portfolios do you review?
Wildlife, travel, documentary, portrait, pet, and personal projects. If it’s photography and you want it to read stronger as a body of work, we can work with it.
Is this for beginners or only advanced photographers?
Both. Beginners get a clear foundation and fast skill jumps. Advanced photographers get sharper selection, sequencing, and the “editor brain” that separates strong shooters from strong storytellers.
Will you help with sequencing and storytelling?
Yes. Selection and sequencing are the heart of the session. We’ll build a flow that has intention, rhythm, and clarity so the portfolio feels like one story instead of a highlight reel.
Will you critique technical issues like exposure, focus, composition, and color?
Absolutely. I’ll call out what’s working and what’s weakening the frame, then give you specific fixes. That said, this isn’t a Lightroom tutorial session. If you want deep post-production instruction, book an editing intensive.
Do you help with competition, admissions, grants, and client pitches?
Yes. If you have a specific call-for-entry, school brief, or client target, send it ahead of time and we’ll tailor the review to that standard.
What happens after the session?
You’ll leave with clear selects, an improved sequence, and a concrete next-step plan. If you want written notes, you can add a follow-up summary for an additional fee.
Can you review a project that’s not finished yet?
Yes. In fact, it’s often the best time. I’ll help you identify what’s missing and design a shot list or strategy so you stop guessing and start building toward a coherent final body of work.
Is the session recorded?
Optional. If you want a recording for review later, tell me at the start and I’ll record it and send you the file afterward.
Where does the session happen?
Zoom by default. If you’re local and want an in-person review, you can request it when booking and we’ll see if scheduling allows.
What’s your reschedule and refund policy?
You can reschedule with at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations are not refundable because that slot is reserved exclusively for you.
I’m not sure if this is the right fit. What should I do?
Book it if you’re ready for direct feedback and you want a clearer portfolio fast. If you have a unique situation, send a quick message with your goal and I’ll tell you if this session is the right move.
LIMITED SESSIONS EACH WEEK.
I’ll bring over a decade’s worth of professional field experience worldwide. Editor-minded selection and sequencing from real publishing and institutional workflows, including National Geographic–affiliated projects and as Lead Photographer at the National Aquarium.
No vague opinions. Clear notes, clear fixes, clear next steps.
Optimized for submissions, admissions, grants, and paid work.
PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO REVIEWS
1 Hour Portfolio Review
In 60 minutes, we cut through the noise and build an edit that reads with clarity. I’ll help you identify your strongest frames, shape the sequence, and expose exactly what’s holding the portfolio back so it can compete, get accepted, and get hired.
$395 - 60 Minutes - Zoom
Image selection: what stays, what goes, and why
Sequencing: rhythm, repetition, contrast, and narrative
Cohesion: color, tone, subject consistency, and intent
Next steps: what to shoot to complete the series
Competition / admissions / client positioning (if relevant)
WHO THIS IS FOR
This is for photographers who are serious about their work and ready for a real edit. If you have strong images but your portfolio still feels scattered, repetitive, or not landing the way it should, this session is built for you.
You might be preparing for competitions, admissions, grants, or client pitches. Or you might simply know you’ve outgrown “good feedback” and want the kind of sharp, editorial-level critique that makes your work read with clarity and intent.
If you’re hungry to improve, open to direct notes, and want a clear path forward, I’m all in. We’ll pull the strongest frames to the surface, build a sequence that carries momentum, and leave you with specific next steps you can execute immediately.
REQUEST A PORTFOLIO REVIEW
If you’re serious about your work and want clear, editorial-grade direction, reach out. Tell me what you’re building and what you’re aiming for, and I’ll point you to the right next step, whether that’s a one-hour review, a deep dive, or a longer mentorship track.
I reply within 1-2 business days.