Frequently Asked Questions

What packages do you offer, and what is included in the session fee? 

• Answer: Pricing structures vary, so ask for a clear breakdown of the session fee (which often just books the date/time) versus the cost of prints, products, or digital files.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy? 

• Answer: Understand the terms for refunds or transfers of the deposit/fee in case of weather or unforeseen events.

Do you have liability insurance and backup equipment? 

• Answer: Professional liability insurance protects both parties, and backup equipment ensures the shoot can proceed if gear fails.

Will I have the print rights to my images? 

• Answer: The photographer retains the copyright, but you should receive print release rights to print your photos at a third-party lab for personal use.

What is your fee structure and what is included in the price?

• Answer: Clarify if the fee is just for the session time (the booking fee) or if it includes a set number of final digital images or prints. Also, ask about the price for purchasing additional images or the entire gallery.

What is the turnaround time for receiving the final edited images?

• Answer: For mini sessions, many photographers deliver a selection gallery within 24-72 hours and the final edited images within 1-2 weeks after you make your selections.

What is your policy for cancellations or rescheduling due to illness or bad weather?

• Answer: Ask if the booking fee is refundable, if there's a rain date or reschedule day, or if the fee can be credited toward a future full session in case of unavoidable cancellation.

How would you describe your photography style (e.g., editing, posing)?

• Answer: This clarifies if they use a bright/airy, dark/moody, or natural editing style, and if their posing is candid/journalistic or more traditionally posed.

Are professional hair and makeup included or recommended?

• Answer: Many photographers include or highly recommend professional hair and makeup, as camera-ready makeup is different from daily application and helps prevent features from washing out.

What is the turnaround time for receiving the final images?

• Answer: The average turnaround time is typically 2 to 4 weeks, but this is important to confirm, especially if you need them for graduation announcements.

• What is the best time of day to schedule an equine session?
  • Answer: Sessions are almost always scheduled during the "Golden Hour" (the hour just after sunrise or just before sunset) for soft, flattering light and the most dramatic results.

• How should I prepare my horse for the session?
  • Answer: Thoroughly groom your horse beforehand (clip stray hairs, deep clean the coat and hooves). Ensure tack or halter is clean and well-fitting. Schedule the session on a day when the horse has been worked but is not overly exhausted.

• What tack or equipment should I use for the photos?
  • Answer: Plan to have multiple options available: a beautiful show bridle, a simple leather halter, and potentially a fancy lead line. Many owners prefer using a well-fitting, simple halter that can be easily edited out of the final images.

• How far in advance should I book my session?
  • Answer: Book 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you need a specific date during the peak seasons of spring or fall, or if you require an edit for a specific event like a horse show program.

• What should I wear?
  • Answer: Choose clothing that flows or contrasts with your horse's color. Elegant long gowns, fitted jeans with a nice top, or even professional riding attire work well. Avoid busy patterns or neon colors.

• My horse can be anxious. How is safety managed during the shoot?
  • Answer: Safety is paramount. A handler or assistant should be present at all times to manage the horse, and sessions are kept calm, patient, and short (30-60 minutes) to avoid stressing the animal.

• What if my horse doesn't cooperate or stand still?
  • Answer: Equine photographers are patient and experienced. We work quickly, use a variety of gentle tricks and treats to capture their attention, and often photograph the quiet, candid moments in between poses.

• Can we include action shots (e.g., trotting or galloping)?
  • Answer: Yes, but only in a safe, enclosed area with excellent footing. These shots are typically captured toward the end of the session when the horse is comfortable.

• What kind of editing is done on the photos?
  • Answer: Editing includes color correction, minor removal of stray hairs or blemishes, and professional removal of halters or lead ropes to create a clean, natural portrait of the horse (Source: [suspicious link removed]).

• Do you have insurance to work around livestock?
  • Answer: A professional photographer should always carry liability insurance to cover all on-location work, including sessions involving large animals.

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• What should I wear for my senior pictures?
  • Answer: Wear clothes you love that reflect your personal style, as comfort translates to better photos. Plan for 2-5 outfit changes to add variety, including casual, formal, and items related to your hobbies or sports. You can also layer clothing for quick look changes.
• When is the best time of year to take senior portraits?
  • Answer: The best time depends on your preference, but many book 3-6 months before graduation. Fall is popular for color, but spring allows time for final photos before graduation deadlines.
• How long does a senior session usually last?
  • Answer: Most sessions last 1 to 2 hours, which is enough time for 2 to 3 outfit changes and a location or two.

• How can we make the sports portraits unique? 
  • Answer: Incorporate props like your uniform, jersey, equipment (balls, bats, instruments), and even the location of your sport (field, court, track) to tell a personal story.
• What are the best angles for a sports portrait? 
  • Answer: Low angles often create a sense of power and dominance, while action shots capture the athlete's spirit and connection to their sport.
• What is the best camera setting to freeze the action in a sports shot? 
  • Answer: To freeze fast action, photographers generally use a very fast shutter speed (often 1/1000th of a second or faster) and a higher ISO setting, especially in low light.

• Do you have experience photographing this specific sport? 
  • Answer: Experience in a specific sport means the photographer understands the key moments to capture and can anticipate the action.
• Do your packages include digital copies and/or prints? 
  • Answer: Packages vary; confirm if you are receiving digital files (and what resolution) for social media/printing, or if you must order prints/products through the photographer.
• How do you handle high-volume shoots (e.g., team and individual picture day)? 
  • Answer: Experienced photographers use streamlined organization methods like consistent folder structures, pre-registration systems, and sometimes a Digital Asset Management (DAM) system to manage and deliver photos efficiently.

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When is the best time to book a Christmas photo session?

• Answer: Book as early as September or October. This ensures you have time for the session, the photographer has time to edit, and you have ample time to order and mail Christmas Cards before the holiday season.

How long is a "mini session" and what does it include?

• Answer: Mini sessions are typically 10 to 20 minutes long. They include the photographer's time, the festive set/props, and a limited number of digital images (e.g., 5-10), with the option to purchase more.

What if my child won't cooperate or cries during the photo session?

• Answer: A professional photographer expects this and will use gentle techniques, distractions (like bubbles, songs, or toys), or adjust the shots to capture candid moments, often working quickly before a child gets stressed or overstimulated.

What should my family wear for Christmas photos?

• Answer: Coordinate colors and textures rather than wearing matching outfits. Opt for classic festive palettes like rich reds, deep greens, cream, grey, or tartan patterns. Avoid clothing with large logos or busy, distracting prints.

Should we bring props to the session?

• Answer: While the photographer often provides a festive set, you can bring simple, meaningful items like a favorite teddy bear, a small family ornament, or coordinating hot cocoa mugs to add a personal touch.

What should we do to prepare our kids for the session?

• Answer: Plan around their nap and feeding schedules to ensure they are well-rested and happy. Make the session sound like a fun, special adventure, and arrive 5-10 minutes early so they can relax and settle in.

What is the style of your Christmas set or backdrop?

• Answer: Ask if the style is traditional (e.g., deep colors, fireplace), light and airy (e.g., white, cream, soft gold), or if they offer a specific, unique theme (e.g., a vintage truck or Santa experience).

Are your sessions indoor or outdoor?

• Answer: This confirms whether you need to prepare for cold weather (outdoor) or if the set is controlled and indoors, which can be essential for families with very young children.

Do you have liability insurance and backup equipment?

• Answer: Professional liability insurance is a sign of a legitimate business, and backup cameras/lenses ensure your session can proceed even if a technical issue arises.

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• Coordinate, Don't Match: The goal is a cohesive look, not everyone wearing the same shirt. Choose 2–4 coordinating colors and let each family member incorporate them through solids, layers, and subtle patterns.
• Start with One Outfit: Find one key outfit (often the mother's) that sets the color and tone, and then build everyone else's wardrobe around it using complementary hues from that key piece, as suggested by The Fashionable Maven.
• Mix Solids and Patterns: Use patterns like plaid, buffalo check, or subtle herringbone for only one or two people (like a child or dad's shirt) and balance them with solid colors for the rest of the family to avoid a busy or distracting photo.
• Play with Texture and Layers: Textures like velvet, chunky knits, wool, corduroy, and faux fur add richness and depth to the photo without relying on bold colors or prints. Layers like scarves, vests, and cardigans are also stylish and practical for winter, as detailed by Minted.
• Prioritize Comfort: Especially for children, choose fabrics that allow for movement (like soft knits) and ensure the clothes are not too tight or itchy. A comfortable family will have genuine smiles, which makes for the best photo.

Here are four of the most popular and timeless color schemes for holiday photos:

Classic Reds & Greens: 

• Palette: Deep Burgundy/Cranberry, Forest/Emerald Green, and balanced with Cream or Navy Blue.
• Tip: Using deeper, richer tones (like wine red instead of fire-engine red) keeps the look festive and elegant without being overly cliché, as noted by Little Mia Bella.

Winter Whites & Cool Blues: 

• Palette: Cream/Ivory, Icy Blue, and touches of Silver or Navy.
• Tip: This palette creates a soft, dreamy, and sophisticated look, perfect for an indoor studio set or a snow-themed backdrop, according to PatPat.

Warm & Earthy Neutrals: 

• Palette: Tan, Beige, Cream, Camel, Rust, and Chocolate Brown.
• Tip: This is a timeless, cozy palette that works beautifully for rustic or in-home sessions and ensures the focus remains on your family, a favorite of Becky Green Photography.

Dark Neutrals with a Pop: 

• Palette: Black, Charcoal Grey, or Navy Blue as the foundation, accented with one bold color like Mustard Yellow or Deep Red in scarves or accessories.
• Tip: Darker neutrals feel formal and elegant, and the pop of color adds the holiday flair you need.

  
  

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Session Details & Preparation

• When is the best time to book a Santa photo session?
  • Answer: Book in October or early November. This ensures you secure a spot, have the photos edited, and receive them in time for Christmas Card mailing deadlines.

• What should my child wear for photos with Santa?
  • Answer: Avoid wearing red (since Santa's suit is red). Opt for coordinating colors like greens, navy blue, cream, or metallics like gold/silver to help the child stand out in the photo.

• What should I do if my child is afraid of Santa?
  • Answer: Don't force interaction; instead, talk positively about Santa (call him a friend) and give the child time to warm up. For very anxious kids, consider a "Sensitive Santa" session or having a parent stand in the photo for comfort.
• Can we bring a prop for the photo?
  • Answer: Yes, bringing a favorite toy, book, or a hand-made Christmas Wishlist can help engage the child and make the photo more personal.

• How long is a typical Santa mini-session?
  • Answer: Most specialized Santa mini-sessions run between 5 to 10 minutes to capture several key poses efficiently without overwhelming the child.

• Does the photographer offer a "Sensitive Santa" option?
  • Answer: Many professional Santa experiences offer Sensitive Santa times with reduced noise, lighting, and crowds for children with sensory or anxiety issues.

• What should the photographer know about my child beforehand?
  • Answer: Inform the photographer and Santa of the child's name, age, any allergies, and any special traditions or recent gifts Santa gave them to help create a personalized, magical interaction.

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• What is the best way to prepare for a boudoir session?
  • Answer: Focus on self-care in the week leading up to the shoot (hydration, sleep). On the day before, skip tight clothing to avoid marks, and arrive with clean, dry hair and a freshly manicured look (Source: [suspicious link removed]).
• How many outfits should I bring?
  • Answer: Most sessions accommodate 3 to 5 outfits. Bring a variety, including lingerie, an oversized shirt, a silky robe, and accessories like heels or jewelry.
• Do I have to be in shape or lose weight for the session?
  • Answer: Absolutely not. A professional boudoir photographer uses flattering poses, lighting, and angles to highlight your current natural beauty and shape. The session is meant to celebrate you exactly as you are.
• Is professional hair and makeup necessary?
  • Answer: It is highly recommended. Professional makeup is applied to withstand studio lights and flatters the camera better than everyday makeup; it ensures a polished, finished look.

• Will the photographer tell me how to pose?
  • Answer: Yes, the photographer will provide full guidance and coaching for every pose, from your fingers and toes to your facial expression, making it a comfortable and effortless experience.
• Are the images kept private?
  • Answer: Yes, images are always kept private unless you provide explicit written consent (a model release) for the photographer to share them for marketing. This should be confirmed in your contract.
• Can I bring a friend for support
  • Answer: Most photographers allow a chaperone or "personal cheerleader" to come along, which can help ease nerves, but you should confirm this policy when booking.

• What is the typical cost of a boudoir session?
  • Answer: Prices vary widely, but expect a session fee (which books the time and may include hair/makeup) ranging from $200 to $500, with print and digital image packages purchased separately, often starting around $800.
• What is the turnaround time for receiving the photos?
  • Answer: The final, edited product usually takes 3 to 6 weeks after you place your final order, depending on the complexity of retouching and print production.
• Do I get the high-resolution digital files?
  • Answer: This depends on the photographer's model. Some include high-res files with prints, while others sell them à la carte; always clarify if you receive a print release for personal use

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• What should I wear besides typical lingerie for a themed session?
  • Answer: For Mrs. Claus, try an oversized red velvet robe, a santa hat with thigh-high socks, or a bustier paired with a lace teddy. For New Year's, consider sequins, a little black dress, a silky blazer, or just sparkle accessories and heels.
• What kind of props should I bring for a "Sexy Mrs. Claus" shoot?
  • Answer: Popular props include strings of fairy lights, a glass of champagne, wrapped gifts, or velvet ribbons.
• How can I make the New Year's theme look elegant and not tacky?
  • Answer: Focus on high-quality textures like velvet and silk, use clean gold or silver accessories (not cheap party favors), and opt for a sophisticated black/metallic color palette.
• How long should I plan on being at the studio?
  • Answer: A typical boudoir session lasts between 2 to 4 hours, which usually includes professional hair and makeup, an outfit consultation, and the shoot time.

• When should I book a Christmas or New Year's session?
  • Answer: Book 2 to 3 months in advance (September/October) for Christmas to allow time for editing and print ordering before the holiday gift deadline, and similar timing for New Year's.
• Are retouching/Photoshop services included in the session fee?
  • Answer: Most studios include standard retouching (like skin smoothing and blemish removal); discuss your desired level of editing, such as removing stretch marks or cellulite, during your consultation.

• Will I feel awkward or uncomfortable posing in front of a male photographer?
  • Answer: While initial nerves are normal, a professional male photographer prioritizes a safe, judgment-free environment with clear boundaries and communication to help the awkwardness melt away quickly.
• Can I bring a friend or chaperone with me to the session?
  • Answer: Yes, most professional photographers are open to you bringing a "personal cheerleader" or friend for support; if a photographer has an issue with this, it can be a red flag (Source: [suspicious link removed]).
• What steps does a male photographer take to ensure professionalism?
  • Answer: They establish clear boundaries, never touch you without consent, provide a private changing area, and prioritize your comfort and control throughout the shoot.

• Why do some clients prefer working with a male boudoir photographer?
  • Answer: They appreciate the unique artistic perspective on lighting and angles that highlights strength and sensuality, often resulting in images that are viewed as "sexy" from a different point of view.
• Is it true that a male photographer instinctively knows what men find attractive in a photo?
  • Answer: Many argue that a male photographer will instinctively capture subtle, unconventionally sexy nuances that appeal directly to a male partner if the photos are intended as a gift.
• Will a male photographer understand how to pose and flatter my body?
  • Answer: Yes, a good photographer, regardless of gender, is trained in lighting, angles, and body positioning and will coach you through every pose to ensure you look your most flattering and confident.

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• Why choose a white sheet/shirt over lingerie for boudoir?
  • Answer: The simplicity of the white sheet/shirt focuses attention on your natural curves, skin, and emotion, creating images that are intimate and effortlessly sexy without being overtly revealing. It's considered the "ultimate stripped back beauty option" for a timeless elegance.
• What is the goal of "subtle suggestion" in this style?
  • Answer: The goal is to create intrigue and allure by strategically draping or posing the fabric to reveal just enough, allowing the viewer's imagination to fill in the rest. This often results in photos that are luxurious and classic (boudoir by kelliejo).
• What are the most flattering poses for white sheet boudoir?
  • Answer: Poses that use movement and soft curves, such as lying down, creating a peek-a-boo effect, or having the sheet loosely covering your curves while arching your back, are universally flattering and sensual (Skylum Blog).
• What kind of white shirt works best?
  • Answer: An oversized crisp white button-down or a cozy, slightly transparent silky white blouse is ideal, as the loose fit allows for movement and subtle, beautiful reveals when draped off the shoulder or tied up.

• How do I prepare my skin and hair for a white sheet session?
  • Answer: Since skin is the focus, moisturize thoroughly with a hydrating lotion or body oil. For hair, effortlessly tousled, loose waves or a "bedhead" look enhances the relaxed, sultry vibe (boudoir by kelliejo).
• How much nudity is involved in a white sheet session?
  • Answer: This style is highly versatile; you can wear as much or as little as you desire underneath. The sheet or shirt is used as a prop to cover the areas that make you feel exposed, allowing you to choose your own comfort level (Shira W Rose Studios).

• Is it normal to feel nervous with a male boudoir photographer?
  • Answer: Yes, feeling nervous is completely normal, but a professional will actively work to establish trust, safety, and a non-judgmental atmosphere through clear communication and strict boundaries, often including a chaperone option.
• What safety precautions does a male photographer take?
  • Answer: They ensure the studio is private, they never touch the client without consent (and talk through any necessary adjustments beforehand), and they are transparent about their modesty levels and image usage in the contract.

• Why would a client prefer a male photographer for boudoir?
  • Answer: Some clients feel a male photographer provides a unique artistic perspective on sensuality, which can be validating. Others find they relax faster or appreciate having an outsider's point of view, especially if the photos are a gift for a male partner.
• Does a male photographer instinctively know what is attractive to men?
  • Answer: While personal style is key, some clients feel a male photographer may instinctively capture edgier or more unconventional poses and nuances that align with a male gaze, resulting in photos that feel bold, masculine, and powerful.
• How does a male photographer focus purely on the art?
  • Answer: A professional's focus is laser-sharp on the technical aspects—lighting, composition, posing, and expression—treating the human form as art and shape, not personal arousal. This clinical and artistic focus is key to their professionalism

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• Is it safe to do a photoshoot underwater?
  
  • Answer: Yes, it is safe when conducted by a professional photographer trained in water safety and specialized breath-holding techniques. The session is always done in shallow, controlled water and never requires you to dive to uncomfortable depths.
• Do I need to be a strong swimmer or be able to hold my breath for a long time?
  
  • Answer: You do not need to be an Olympic swimmer. You should be comfortable in the water, but the photos are typically taken in short, controlled sequences (5-10 seconds underwater) with plenty of rest between takes.
• What type of water is used for the photoshoot (pool, lake, or ocean)?
  
  • Answer: Most professional underwater portraits are done in a controlled, clean pool for optimal clarity, temperature, and safety. Ocean or natural body sessions are possible but depend heavily on local conditions and are usually reserved for highly experienced clients.
• How is the water clarity guaranteed?
  
  • Answer: Sessions are often scheduled immediately after a pool has been cleaned or treated, and a clear day is chosen to ensure the water is still, clean, and well-lit by the sun.

• What should I wear for an underwater photoshoot?
  
  • Answer: Choose fabrics that flow beautifully in the water, such as silk, chiffon, organza, or simple long dresses. Avoid heavy cottons or outfits that bubble up with air. Long, flowing material enhances the ethereal look.
• How does makeup and hair work underwater?
  
  • Answer: Use waterproof or theatrical-grade makeup applied by a professional to ensure it doesn't run. Hair is best left down and slightly wet beforehand; the weightlessness of the water often creates beautiful, natural movement (Source: [suspicious link removed]).
• How do I avoid getting a "squished" face or opening my eyes naturally?
  
  • Answer: You will be coached to exhale a small amount of air before descending to equalize pressure. To open your eyes comfortably, practice underwater beforehand or use swim goggles immediately before the shot to rinse chlorine away (Source: [suspicious link removed]).
• Should I wear contacts or glasses?
  
  • Answer: Avoid wearing glasses, as they disrupt the flow and focus. If you wear contacts, they are generally safe, but bring solution and a case in case you need to remove them for comfort (Source: [suspicious link removed]).

• How does the photographer manage to get clear, focused shots?
  
  • Answer: Photographers use specialized underwater housing for their cameras, often shoot with fast shutter speeds to eliminate blur, and rely on the strong, natural light of the sun or external strobe lights to illuminate the subject (Source: [suspicious link removed]).
• How long does a typical underwater session last?
  
  • Answer: A session typically lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, including time for initial briefing, wardrobe changes, and ample rest periods between dives to ensure the model stays relaxed and warm.

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• Is it safe to do an underwater photoshoot while pregnant?
  
  • Answer: Yes, it is very safe when done in a controlled environment like a shallow, heated pool, as long as you have clearance from your doctor and you are comfortable in the water. The session is highly controlled with plenty of rest.
• When is the best time during pregnancy to schedule an underwater session?
  
  • Answer: The best time is typically between 28 and 34 weeks. At this point, the baby bump is beautifully visible, and most expectant mothers still feel comfortable moving around.
• Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
  
  • Answer: No, you just need to be comfortable submerging your head and body. The photographer and an assistant will be present to ensure your safety, and you will work in shallow water.
• Is the water heated?
  
  • Answer: Most professional underwater maternity sessions are held in a heated pool to ensure the mother-to-be remains warm, comfortable, and relaxed throughout the shoot.

• What should I wear for an underwater maternity shoot?
  
  • Answer: Long, flowing materials are best, such as chiffon, silk, or lightweight tulle dresses. These fabrics create the beautiful, dramatic movement around your body and the bump that enhances the ethereal look.
• How do I manage my hair and makeup?
  
  • Answer: Waterproof makeup (especially foundation and mascara) is essential. Hair is best styled in a way that allows it to float loosely for a beautiful, organic effect.
• How do I keep my eyes open comfortably underwater?
  
  • Answer: Practice opening your eyes underwater beforehand. During the session, the photographer will coach you on exhaling slightly before submerging, which helps relax your facial muscles and makes opening your eyes easier.
• What should I avoid doing before the session?
  
  • Answer: Avoid consuming carbonated drinks, as they can cause buoyancy issues. Also, avoid wearing tight clothing or elastics before the shoot to prevent marks on your skin that will show up in the photos.

• Can my partner or other children join the session?
  
  • Answer: Yes, including partners and siblings creates beautiful family connection shots. Ensure they are also comfortable submerging their head and are coached on the safety procedures.
• How long does the session typically last?
  
  • Answer: An underwater maternity session usually lasts 2 to 3 hours, which includes time for wardrobe changes, briefing, and plenty of rest and warming periods between shots.
• How does the photographer get the lighting right?
  
  • Answer: Photographers primarily use the natural light of the sun (shooting around midday is common) combined with external waterproof strobe lights to eliminate shadows and enhance the water's clarity and color.

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