Dave Sifry: Photos For Love. Pay what you want portrait photography in San Francisco

Great Portraits Are About Relationships

As an artist, my satisfaction comes from bringing out the best in you - to capture a moment of joy forever.

The relationship between a photographer and a subject is often brief, but the image which we make from those moments can be the way a person is remembered beyond their own lifetime. Each time I look through my camera and gaze into the face of my subject, it’s like another planet to be explored. I have many questions, but the ones that intrigue me most are: What do you want me to see? How can I bring out the best in you?

Pay What You Want

My personal satisfaction happens when I can break down the barriers between photographer and subject, and embark on a new relationship. My goal is to help you to have fun, and for us to capture some great images together.

I don't work like some other photographers you've met.

Everyone deserves a fine portrait, no matter what your financial circumstance. I don't want to create an artificial barrier between us - I want you to enjoy the sitting as much as I do. If you get value and love the photographs, then pay me what you want, and what you can afford. If you can't afford anything, that's OK too. Just bring your joie de vivre and your sense of humor.

What do you get at a sitting?

Generally a portrait session takes about an hour, and we'll work together to get you the kind of portrait you want. You'll get access to digital copies of your edited shots that you can download anytime, and make as many prints for your personal use as you'd like. Most sessions will result in 10-30 quality shots that you can have printed and will look good at sizes up to 20"x30".

What do I get?

I'll get the rights to use your sitting in my shows, to sell the prints, and to use your portraits as part of promotional activities, like on this website. Don't worry, I'll have a short form for you to sign when you come for your sitting.

I also get the satisfaction of doing something I love, and getting to share it with you.

What to wear

I suggest wearing something simple, ideally a single color. What often works really well is to wear a white t-shirt and blue jeans, and bring a black short or blouse as a change. Wear something comfortable that makes you feel good. Don't wear a lot of makeup - best to bring the basics and we'll work together to create your look.

If you're coming with someone else for your portrait, try to wear the same outfits - again, simple is often better, like white or black t-shirts and jeans, like Time and Zoe pictured above. If you're not sure, just ask!

How do I schedule a sitting?

Use the Contact Page (make sure to leave a valid email address and phone number) or give me a call at (415) 937-8660 and we'll set it up!