For Children & Families:
How long will my session take? Sessions are allotted one and a half hours. Most sessions will take between 45 minutes and an hour, but occasionally they will go the full hour and a half. Family sessions (particularly when we are shooting the whole family and then the children individually as well) will take longer. Baby sessions are often shorter. For small children (& grown-ups!) breaks are allowed and very much encouraged! Feeding your newborn is ok, offering the kids a snack or treat is great too. Shannon is very patient and is happy to wait to get that one (or many dozen) great shot(s)!
What should we expect during the session? The session should be fun and relaxed, not forced. The time will be a mix of smiling at the camera, playing with siblings or family members, and being relaxed and cuddly. While we often try to capture a child in their own beautiful simplicity, minimal props may be used (especially for kids who need the extra distraction). We have some “natural” looking toys at the studio; parents may also want to bring a special toy or blanket or two that may calm a child or make them especially happy or silly. Parents are welcome to sing or play with their children during the session to evoke that “joyful reaction” (as will Shannon), but need not order their children to “smile” or “sit still.” Capturing your child’s natural personality involves giving them the freedom to have a good time.
When is payment expected? Payment for your session is expected at the time of the shoot. In some cases (during busy seasons or for weekends), a deposit may be required, in which case you will be notified ahead of time. Payment can be made by check, cash, or any major credit card.
What happens after our shoot? At the end or your session, we will schedule an image viewing & ordering appointment. This will take place approximately two weeks after your session. About two to three days before your viewing appointment, you will receive a link for an online gallery of your images to look over (& email on to friends and family if you like!). Take the time to go through it and put favorites into your gallery “favorites folder” or write down the image numbers to bring along. You will want to begin thinking about what you want to order, but our viewing appointment will be a significant help as you make final decisions.
What will happen at our viewing appointment? At this appointment you will have the chance to see your images larger and clearer on a calibrated computer screen. You can compare and contrast images that are similar while you narrow it down to your final favorites to order from. Ordering at the viewing appointment is a convenient option for most people, and ensures you will get your order in a timely manner. Your online gallery and ordering capabilities will remain for two weeks, so you may take additional time if needed, though there are ordering incentives and other products offered at your appointment that are not available through the online gallery.
When will we get our pictures? Print orders are generally ready within 3 weeks. All final images are of the highest professional, archival quality and are artistically color-corrected/enhanced as well as lightly retouched so that every print is flattering. Payment for your prints is expected when you place the order, by any of the same methods are your session payment. Certain specialty products may take longer and information on this is detailed at your viewing appointment.
Do you offer digital images or proofs? Yes! In addition to putting up 2-3 complimentary "digital mini's" on facebook for you, we do have digital-image CD options. While our main focus is on providing you print and product selections that will enhance your life and home, we understand that in this "digital age" you may find it worth the investment to add these images to your order as a keepsake, or simply need one for a special project.
We know you understand that high quality professional portraits are not only modern art but more importantly family heirlooms, with great significance and aesthetic value, well worth investing in for a lifetime of joy and family preservation. It is our sincere desire to leave you with professional, artistic “portrait art,” (rather than a CD that will sit on your counter or result in low-quality 4x6s from a trip to a super-center). In order to ensure this highest quality product and service, heirloom-quality portraits are our primary offering. However, CDs of digital images, whether it be just a couple or your whole session, are readily available at different rates based on your minimum print order. If interested, please request the image rate list at your ordering appointment.
