Frequently asked questions.
Who is Shifting Focus and what do you do?
* Shifting Focus is a digital media service in Calgary, AB, specializing in design and photography. The company is led by Patrick Dunn, a culinary veteran who transitioned his 25 years of experience as a professional chef into the creative fields of design and photography, bringing a unique blend of creativity and precision to every project.
What services do you offer?
Shifting Focus offers a range of services including product photography, publication layouts, graphic illustrations, environmental portrait photography, and landscape/architectural photography.
Where are you located?
Shifting Focus is based in Calgary, AB.
Do you work with clients outside of Calgary?
*Yes, for design and illustration projects, we can work with clients remotely. For photography, travel can be arranged depending on the project.
How do I get a quote for my project?
*The best way to get started is by booking a consultation through the website, or by contacting us directly via email.
Photography Services
What is environmental portrait photography?
*Environmental portrait photography goes beyond a simple headshot. It's a storytelling approach that captures a person in their natural environment—whether that's a chef in their kitchen, an artist in their studio, or a professional in their workspace. The goal is to highlight their personality, passion, and purpose.
What is product photography and why do I need it?
*Product photography is the art of creating professional, high-quality images of products to showcase them to customers. You need it because captivating visuals are essential for elevating your brand, building trust with your audience, and driving sales.
What's the process for a photography shoot?
*The process typically starts with a consultation to discuss your vision and project needs. We then plan the shoot, capture the images, and professionally edit them. The final, high-resolution photos are then delivered to you through a secure online platform.
How long does it take to get my photos back?
*Delivery times can vary depending on the complexity and scale of the project, but we will provide an estimated time frame during the initial consultation.
Will I receive the high-resolution digital files?
* Yes, all clients receive a selection of high-resolution digital files. We'll discuss specific file formats and usage rights as part of our initial project discussion.
Do you offer retouches or edits?
* Yes, professional retouching and editing are a standard part of our service. The level of editing is agreed upon before the shoot to ensure your final images meet your expectations.
Design & Illustration Services
What is publication layout and typography?
*This service involves the professional design and arrangement of text and visuals for printed or digital publications, such as books, magazines, and brochures. It's about creating a visually appealing and easy-to-read final product that communicates your message effectively.
What kind of graphic illustrations do you create?
We specialize in creating custom graphic illustrations that bring ideas to life. This includes high-impact infographics, unique cover illustrations, and editorial graphics that complement written content.
How do we start a design project?
We begin with a consultation to fully understand your vision and goals. From there, we'll develop concepts, create initial designs, and collaborate with you through a review and revision process until we achieve the perfect result.
Can you work with my existing branding?
Absolutely. We ensure that all new designs and illustrations are a seamless extension of your current brand identity, maintaining consistency across all your materials.
What's your typical turnaround time for a design project?
The timeline for design projects varies widely based on complexity and scope. We will provide a detailed project timeline during our initial consultation.
Payment & Logistics
How do you charge for your services?
Project fees are determined on a per-project basis, taking into account the scope, timeline, and deliverables. A detailed quote will be provided after our initial consultation.
What forms of payment do you accept?
*We are set up to accept nearly all forms of payment. Keep in mind that credit card payments do incur a standard processing fee.
What if I need to cancel or
reschedule a booking?
Either party may terminate a signed agreement by giving 7 days written notice to the other party. All deposits are non-refundable.
Do you have testimonials or a portfolio
I can see?
Yes, you can view our portfolio of work on the Digital Services tab and read what our clients are saying on the Testimonials page.