Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Portrait Session FAQ

I'll begin this FAQ with the most important, and commonly NOT ASKED, question...


My husband (or kids, or father-in-law, or myself!) HATES having their photo taken.  How painful will this be?

I consistently hear from my clients that their session wasn't anything like they thought it would be, that they actually had FUN!  Imagine that  :)  Honestly, do!  I work hard to create an atmosphere that's fun and relaxed.  I love to get you laughing and interacting because I feel that's the best way to get photos that really show your individuality.  And you are totally allowed to shrug off any awkwardness or uncertainty when that camera is up, and ham it up!  Have fun adding those funky accessories to your outfit and put on a bit more makeup than usual, run through the field with your kids, throw your shoulders back and flash me (or your sweetie) that flirty smile... HAVE FUN!  That's what it's all about.  Because who wants to capture memories of awkward moments and stiff smiles for years to come?  NOT ME!


Do you pose us, or help us look comfortable in the photos?

I aim to have an assortment of posed, not-so-posed, and completely candid shots by end of your session.  I also want to draw out your individual personality as much as possible.  To do this, I'll give general directions ("everyone head over to that shady spot and throw your arms around each other"), and if needed, more specific ones ("let's look at the baby" or "squish your heads really close together").  I want you to be as comfortable as possible, so sometimes that means giving lots of direction, and other times just letting you do what you do.  Most of the candid shots happen between poses, moving to different locations, giving the kids a "play" break, or in moments when I step back and just let you all interact!  Just make sure you come prepared to have a little fun, and possibly go home a little dirty and more wind blown looking than when you showed up!


How long will my session last?

Sessions last approximately an hour.  Newborn photography may take longer, depending on the baby's needs.


What is included in a portrait session?

You will receive a link to at least 30 edited image files in both high resolution (for printing) and web sized (for easy sharing online) file sizes which can be downloaded directly onto your computer.  These will be an assortment of colour and black and white images.  You will have full printing and online sharing rights, and are more than welcome to pass on the link to as many people as you'd like, and print and post to your heart's content!


Are there any limitations to what I can do with my photos?

You will have full printing and online sharing rights to your photos!  This means you can print them at any photo labs you wish (I recommend London Drugs), make your own photo books, post them on your blog or Facebook, and more!  There are only two limitations: you may not edit the images in any way or make money off of them.  If you'd like to enter a photo into a contest, I just ask that you contact me for permission first!


How long will it take for my photos to be ready following my session?

You'll have your gallery link sent to you within 1 to 2 weeks!




What should we wear?

Check out my blog post here for how to prepare for a portrait session!




What if it rains?

Being a natural light photographer means I am at the mercy of the weather.  If it's spitting lightly, we can definitely still shoot.  If it's a downpour, we will most likely reschedule for another day (or wait an hour or two to see if the rain lets up).  If there's no way to reschedule, I'll put on my rain coat, find the best cover for you, and happily shoot away!




What time of day do you usually do your sessions at?

There are two times, one in the morning and one in the evening, when the sun gives off it's most flattering light.  These times change as the days grow longer and shorter.




Where will we do the session?

Being a natural light photographer, the outdoors is my studio (with the exception of newborn sessions). The location is your choice, or mine, whichever you'd prefer.  I have an ever growing pocket full of great locations, but if you have a preference, I'm game!


What is the payment schedule?

A $100 non-reundable deposit is needed at the time of booking.  The remainder of the fee should be brought with you to your portrait session.



What methods of payment do you accept?

Cash, Cheque (payable to Tuesday Photography) or Email Money Transfer - sorry, no credit cards or PayPal.