The FAQ
Where will the photo shoot take place?
This part will be up to you! Think about what style you like---rustic, urban, beachy, woodsy, fields, simple indoor studio, etc. I have some suggestions of local places, which we can discuss. Most sessions take place in the Midland/BayCity/Gladwin/MtPleasant area. There is an additional fee outside of this area.
Studio sessions are available with prior notice.
I picked a date and reserved my session--what happens next?
Once you've paid the $100 retainer, you're on the calendar! If you scheduled through the website, I'll contact you soon to chat about location and details. Then I'll contact you again the day before the session to confirm the date/time/location and also do a quick weather check.
What should I wear (seniors/headshots)?
When planning your outfit, wear colors that are flattering to you, and that also make sense with the location and the season. When in doubt, neutrals (navy, white, charcoal, black)--typically look great on most people!
I recommend choosing a few different outfits such as:
Casual--ie, jeans, blouse, t-shirt (high school seniors), denim or leather jacket, sundress, etc.
Formal--ie, dress, slacks, blouse, button-up shirt, tie, suit coat or blazer, solid-color sweater, etc.
Personality (for high school seniors)--ie, clothing that reflects your interest in an activity/sport/hobby--complete with prop, or simply an outfit that you feel the most "you" in.
Brand (for headshots)--ie, clothing that reflects your occupation--what you might wear to an interview, or to meet clients)
What should WE wear (families, couples/groups)?
As mentioned above, plan out colors that are flattering to you, and that also make sense with the location and the season. When in doubt, neutrals (tans, navy, whites, grays)--with a pop of a single color--usually look great anywhere! Try not to be too matchy-matchy, but rather coordinate with solids and patterns. Similar to how you'd decorate a room...only instead of sofas, pillows, and throws, you're now working with pants, shirts, dresses, and jackets.
How do I prepare for the shoot?
Now that you have your outfits picked out, here are a few tips to keep in mind as the session draws closer:
Plan for hair. Schedule any cuts or colors at least a few days ahead of time. If you have curly hair, and the forecast is calling for unusually high humidity, let me know your concerns and we may be able to reschedule.
Be mindful of nails. Fingernails will show--so take off any old polish and scrub out any dirt. If you plan on painted nails, I recommend neutral colors or pinks as opposed to bold colors that may draw attention away from your face.
Watch for wrinkles in clothing. On-the-way-there wrinkles that happen in the car are fine, but if pants or a top have been in a backpack or at the back of a drawer, please be sure to press or steam it before the session.
Think about comfort. If it's going to be chilly/windy, wear an extra layer (or if children are to be photographed--be sure they are nice and warm!)
Eat before your session. This especially applies to families with children. Everyone's a lot happier when they're not hungry. Trust me on this one.
How soon will I be able to view the images?
our images will be ready 2 weeks after the photoshoot. I will send you a link to an online gallery where you may view, share, purchase, and/or download your images. If you chose an add-on such as 4x5" proofs, or a thumbdrive, it will arrive at your door approximately 3 weeks after the photoshoot.
How long will the digitals be available for me to download?
I recommend you download them to your computer and/or cloud photo storage AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Make sure they are in a safe place--either on hard drives, on your own cloud storage, or both. Galleries are available for a limited time--as this is not a storage website, and I cannot guarantee that your images will still be there after 1 year.
Can I get a USB thumbdrive of my images?
Yes! When you receive your gallery of images, there will be the option to purchase prints and products, one of which is a USB Thumbdrive. This way you always know exactly where your files are. Thumbdrive comes in its own beautiful wooden box.
What if I need to reschedule?
If something comes up, and you need to change the date, let me know as soon as you can so I can accomodate. If we have an outdoor session planned, and it looks like inclement weather, we can reschedule.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made prior to 24 hours of the photoshoot for refund of all but the retainer. In the event of cancellation, client forfeits the $100 retainer, which will serve as the cancellation fee.