Session Information
What do you want to do with the images?
Everyone knows why they want images, but not everyone has thought about what they are going to do with them. Too often, people want the digital files only and then do little to nothing with them beyond posting to Facebook or Instagram, or perhaps making holiday cards. While digital files are available for purchase, I encourage you to think about investing in beautiful and archival quality products that you can enjoy for years to come without the hassle of having to figure out the best ways to make that happen.
Getting beautiful images on your walls or in an album takes much planning and skillful manipulation, along with choosing just the right way and medium to create the perfect piece of decor of your home. We can talk about the best options that meet your needs.
What should you expect from your portrait session?
For most of the locations in the area, I like to photograph about two hours before sunset, referred to as the 'golden hours'. Dawn can also be a good option, and giving the right location, mid-day can also work well. Most sessions last about an hour and are fun and easygoing. Please arrive on time as we will have a very small window where the light is at its prime. Even a few minutes late can make the difference between an ordinary and extraordinary image.
Be sure to come with appropriate footwear so that we can be fluid in making location changes or getting in just the right spot for the perfect image. If you want to bring props to use (chair, instrument, pet, etc...), have those planned and ready. Let me know ahead of time what those props might be so that I can be prepared to incorporate them well.
Your energy and enthusiasm will show through in the images, so the more you can plan ahead and give yourself enough time to get to your session, the more relaxed and ready you will be to have a fun and stress free experience.
What should you wear to the session?
Most importantly, you want to dress comfortably. If it is a cold-weather session, bring a warm layer to put on between takes if your outfit is not the warmest. If there are multiple people in the image, be sure the colors of your clothing compliment each other.
Avoid matching outfits or busy patterns, as solid colors photograph best.
Muted earth tones work best in a natural environment - grays, blacks, browns, olives, blues, etc... Stay away from bright bold colors unless your clothes to be the focal point of the images.
Darker colors are slimming and lighter colors are broadening.
3/4 or long sleeves photograph best. Sleeveless shirts or tank tops are rarely flattering.
Here is a Pinterest board with a few ideas to consider. I'm sure you can find many more examples and tips as well. For high-school senior photo shoots, here is a Pinterest board with all kinds of ideas, poses, and props. For sports photo sessions, try this Pinterest board of ideas to get the creative juices flowing.
When will we see the images?
Together we will schedule a time after the session for your unveiling. Here I will personally walk you through the images and make recommendations for your custom artwork. It is at this time that you will need to make a decision on selecting and purchasing your images, to it is really important that all decision makers are able to participate. Your final order will be ready 3-5 weeks after your order is approved.
The session fee is due when you book your session. This is the fee charged for creating the images. Once you see the images you can decide on which images you would like to purchase.
Typically I ask for payment in full when you place your order at the unveiling and accept cash, check, or credit card (3% additional fee for credit card use). Flexible payment plans can be requested if needed, however, products are not delivered until payment is made in full.
When is your payment due?
Each of my custom pieces is handcrafted and takes time to create. My wall art typically takes 2-4 weeks and albums can take up to 3 weeks to complete. I promise it will be worth the wait!