General Questions
How do I book a session?
This is probably the most important question so I made it first. :) To book a session, you can contact me by heading over to the contact page. My phone number is listed there if you want to call or text me. You can also send me a direct email at: [email protected] or send me a message by filling out the form and hitting "send message". If you use the form, please double check that you typed your email address in correctly so I can respond to you. We will discuss what type of session you want and when you want it. If I am available, I then require a $25 non-refundable deposit to reserve your date. You can pay the deposit through my website by clicking on the picture next to the session you want.
When (and how) will my photographs be available?
The photographs will be available 2 weeks after the session in a private online gallery. You will receive an email with the code to access the pictures. You can easily order prints, products, and digital downloads from that gallery. Anyone whom you choose to share the gallery ID with will be able to view, as well as purchase the pictures for themselves. This is an easy way to show your loved ones and extended family member the photographs from your session. This gallery is maintained for one year. If you would like your gallery reinstated for you, there is a $50 gallery re-opening fee.
Do you offer digital files, prints, and products?
Yes! There is a wide range of prints sizes available to buy from your session with the option to have your prints matted and framed. You can also customize and order a variety of products. Digital files are also available to download for $3 each through your gallery. Most clients invest in purchasing digital files which allows them to download and save the pictures. Due to the nature of such a purchase, once digital files are purchased, the sale is final and non-refundable. It is your responsibility to properly save and store digital files.
Why order prints and products through you?
The prints and products are from a high-quality professional printing lab. Printing with them will ensure professional quality and correct color.
When do I pay?
For all sessions, a $25 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking a session to reserve your date. This is applied towards the total cost of that session. The remaining balance is then due at that session.
What type of payment do you accept?
I accept checks, cash, credit cards (with an additional fee), and PayPal.
Do you offer discounts?
Yep! Make sure to like and follow my Facebook page for exclusive discounts and specials!
Newborn Sessions
When is the best time to photograph a newborn?
Newborns are photographed when they are between 3 to 14 days old (exceptions for preemies). This is when they are the sleepiest and easiest to pose. Only for the Living New Life Session can a baby be up to a month old.
When do I book a Newborn Session?
Ideally a Newborn Session is booked at least a month before your due date to ensure I have availability left in my schedule. A Newborn Session is booked by using your due date (this is basically reserving an available session with me). Once the baby is born, you contact me as soon as you can, and we finalize a date and time of when the session will actually be. It may be possible for you to book a session after your baby is already born, but I may not have availability left at all or that fits within the best time to photograph your baby (when they are still less than 14 days old), so it is best to book your session as early as possible.
What should I expect at a Newborn Session?
A Newborn Session can take up to 4 hours depending on which session you picked. This time isn't just for taking pictures though! Some of this time will be spent keeping the baby happy which means diaper changes, feedings, and cuddles are necessary!
What do I need to bring?
A typical diaper bag with any diapers, wipes, burp clothes, and pacifiers you may want. We will take breaks for feedings so also bring any formula, bottles, cover-ups, or pumps that you might want to use. I have many items kept at the studio in case you forget something, but it is better to bring your own.
Can I bring my own props?
Depends. I have a very large variety of hats, headbands, blankets, baskets, and other props that are available for you to use, so for shorter sessions, we stick with what I have. However, some sessions do allow you to bring your own props or heirloom items. If there is anything specific that you want to bring, please make a note of that on your questionnaire, and I will do my best to incorporate it into the photographs.
Can siblings and/or parents be included in the pictures?
Again, this depends on the session. The shorter sessions I offer are only for newborns. If you want family included, a longer session should be booked. For sessions that include family, we will start the session with siblings, then add in parents, and finish the session with just baby. This means that siblings do not need to stay at the studio for the full session. As always, the questionnaire should indicate what family will be included in the pictures.
Why are Newborn Sessions cheaper at your studio than at other locations?
Newborn Sessions that are done in my studio require less of my time and resources, and therefore I can provide them at a lower cost to you. When I travel to another location, there is extra time involved with loading and unloading supplies, setting-up and tearing down, and driving to and from the session. For sessions done in my studio, you have access to all of my props, but for sessions done at another location, I am limited by what I can fit in my car.
Sitter Sessions
What is Milestones Session for?
A Milestone Session is done for a baby between 1 to 11 months old and can be for any reason you want! Typically though, a Milestone Session highlights specific ages (such as 3, 6, and 9 months) or specific accomplishments (such as sitting, standing, and walking).
What can I expect from a Milestone Session?
This is up to an hour session to showcase your precious baby just being a baby! You are welcome to have up to 3 outfits used during this session. Babies develop at different rates, so sessions will be prepared based on your child's current abilities which are addressed in the questionnaire. Some set-ups/poses will be unavailable if your child cannot sit, stand, or walk unassisted.
What is Cake Smash Session?
A Cake Smash Session is a celebration of a baby's first birthday! Typically, a Cake Smash Session showcases a baby making a mess of a cake. The cake is included, but you are welcome to provide your own cake if you wish. Cakes are designed by you and ordered for you from The Hopeful Epicurean. However, this session doesn't have to include a cake at all. There are plenty of fun ideas available such as using fruit instead!
What can I expect from a Cake Smash Session?
A Cake Smash Session involving food of any kind is generally very messy for your baby and even you too. I recommend bringing clean clothes to change into.
Mom-to-be Sessions
What if my pregnancy announcement or gender reveal is meant to be a surprise?
You can have peace of mind that your session will be kept private for as long as you wish so no surprises are spoiled. I will not post or share anything even alluding to you or your session until I have your explicit permission.
What should I wear for my Maternity Session?
You will want to be comfortable and feel your best, so the choice is yours! I don't want you to feel pressure to look a certain way, so it is best to stick with something within your own personal style. In other words, this probably isn't the time to experiment. I also don't want you to feel obligated to spend a lot of money on something you might wear once, so you are welcome to use any dress from my maternity collection. You are welcome to change into a second outfit during the session. I highly suggest getting your hair and make-up done by a professional before your session to truly feel pampered and at your best.
Still have questions or ready to book a session? Head over to the contact page! I look forward to hearing from you!