Why do you charge session fees?
The session fee is inserted to pay for my time, talent, and equipment. The one hour session is not the actual amount of time spent. In fact taking pictures is about 25% of total time.
How much are you session fees?
For portrait (non-event) sessions, the session fee is $150.
What are the best time of day to have our session?
The very best times to our session is at sunrise and sunset. During this time the sun is not so high in the sky, which doesn’t cause harsh shadows on your face, as would happen if you shot at high noon. In my opinion, I would choose the sunset hours, which can range from 5pm-8pm (depending on the season). Compared to sunrise hours of 5:30am-7:00am. Although these are the best times, not all of us are on the same schedules. So I recommend you scheduling times which is best for your schedule.
What happens if the weather doesn't permit us to take pictures outside? Do you keep the money and run?
No way! We will reschedule to meet the next available times for both of us.
Is there some type of deposit I need to pay?
Yes there is a $25 non-refundable deposit that needs to be paid prior to your session. This secures your session date.
What types of payments do you accept?
I service the Philadelphia Metropolitan Area, but not limited to here. I am willing to travel, if my schedule permits. (Please note, travel fees may apply.)
What about props? do you provide any? should I bring something?
Props are always great to have in your session. We do provide some props, but its very limited. I recommend bringing something closer to you or your child. For seniors bring in something you love doing (ie: musical instruments, cameras). For families, make sure you bring something that your child can identify which will make their time more calm and secure.
Do you own a studio?
No, at the moment I only shoot my sessions on location. This means I will either come to your house or at a location of your choice.
Do you use natural or studio lights?
I use both. As much as I love natural lighting, there are times where you need to use artificial lights in your session. When we take indoor, I will carry with me few artificial strobes to help light up the room. We will discuss this more in our pre-consultation meeting.
What is portrait and lifestyle photography? Why do you do both?
Portrait Photography (or Portraiture) are your traditional posed portraits. Yet, I don’t always shoot straight portraits. I actually like shooting a style which aims to documents real life events and people in their natural settings. This is called lifestyle photography.When do we get to see the images you took from our session?
Generally images should be edited and ready by two to four weeks. The amount of times depend on the type of photography we do together, and the amount of pictures taken at your session. We will schedule a time to meet together and see all the edited images.
What should I wear?
Wear outfits which reflects your personality and style. Families, though its not required, wearing similar tones of clothing is best and my recommendation. Make sure you also include some neutral colors (black, white, brown, or gray). What I strongly recommend is not wearing anything that draws away from your face (i.e.: busy patterns, logos, cartoon characters).
Here is a small list of ideas of what you should wear:
- wear solid coloured clothing
- choose muted tones that are a bit subdued
- choose similar tones for your top and bottom (both dark or both light)
- choose 1-3 colours for your group portrait, ones with similar tones that go nicely together and have everyone work within that colour palette. For example: dark green, navy, and burgundy – all dark jewel tones. OR tan, a lighter olive green, and denims – all lighter, softer tones.
- choose a top with sleeves at least to the elbow
- choose long pants for men/ladies or a skirt below the knee for ladies
- choose dark socks and footwear (unless it’s a barefoot photo on the beach)
- keep jewelry simple and minimal
Still looking for ideas? Click the following link to see more examples of what we mean above.
Can I bring more than one outfit to my session?
Yes this is not a problem, in fact its recommended, for Seniors and Engagement Couples, that you bring at least one other outfit. Please try not to bring too many, which would use up most of your hour session. Just remember to wear something that reflects your personality and style.