In a nutshell, as a photo stylist, my job is to ensure that whatever we're shooting looks great.

Sometimes that means creating the perfect stack of cashmere sweaters; sometimes, it requires hours decorating and arranging props on the set of a large room scene; sometimes, it involves wrangling an exuberant menagerie of rescue dogs for a charity photoshoot.

I also research locations, book models, buy or rent any needed props, maintain shot lists, and manage the workflow to ensure the project is completed on schedule. I work with the client's Art Director to ensure their concept is reflected correctly; if the client doesn't have an Art Direct, I take on that role as well.

Technically, no. I know my way around a camera and enjoy photography, but I work with a professional photographer when I'm styling.

The photographer is responsible for taking the photographs. They make sure the lighting is correct, that the photos meet the job's specific requirements, and they're the ones who make sure the images are properly uploaded or delivered to the client. Many photographers also do any necessary retouching.Description goes here

Some photographers are willing to do simple styling work, but most prefer to stick with the actual photographic part of the job. Just like I could do the photography if needed, that's not my area of expertise, so I focus solely on styling.

No. I work with food when it's needed as part of a larger shot, but I'm not a full-fledged food stylist. Food styling is a specialty in and of itself.

Yes. People always ask about food and beds! Most of the time, they don't realize that stylists do all kinds of things, not just food and beds.

No. I have a degree in design, which definitely helps, but as far as I know, there isn't an actual school for styling. Everything I know about styling was learned from on-the-job experience.

Over the years, I've worked on everything from golf balls to religious altars and vintage cars. If you need it to look good, I can help.

Longer than I'd like to admit. Let's just say around two decades.

I've done work for companies like JCPenney, Neiman Marcus, Harry & David, Scent Shop, and M&F Western Products. I also work with individuals, small businesses, and art galleries.

Yes, if a client has a product that they want to show “on-figure” (our term for on a model) then we’ll bring models in to help us.

The majority of my work is for print or the internet; however, I have worked on both videos and commercials.

That depends. A single t-shirt or piece of jewelry can take 5-10 minutes. A large room scene or bed can take all day.

This is something I get asked a lot. Styling is no different than any other profession. If you can do the work yourself, by all means, do it yourself. But hiring a professional will save you a lot of time and guarantee that your project is completed on time and that your product will look its best.

I can’t tell you how many times a client has said, “Oh my gosh, I didn’t expect the photos to look this good! I’ve been taking the pics myself, with my iPhone - these look so much better.”

In a world where everyone is selling online, why not set yourself apart by having better photos than your competitors?

Myself. Being self-employed allows me to work with a wide range of clients.

No. Over the years, I've had numerous clients. Some I've had for over a decade, while others I've only done one or two jobs for. I've been lucky to work with many talented photographers and stylists over the years; my clients are usually referrals from other people in my industry.

That's a toss-up between insect repellent and male enhancement products.

I work on a “day rate.” I get paid a set amount per day worked.

The rate varies by client, what I’m styling, and how much prep time is involved.