📸 Portrait Session FAQ: Families & Seniors

📅 Booking Your Session
Q: How do I book a session with you?
A: Simply head over to the Contact page and fill out the inquiry form! Once I receive your request, I’ll get back to you within 24–48 hours to confirm availability, go over session details, and send your booking proposal. Your date is officially reserved once your contract is signed and the retainer is paid.

Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: For family sessions, I recommend booking 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during the summer or fall when dates go quickly. For seniors, spring and early summer sessions tend to book out months ahead, so reach out as early as you can to get your preferred date.

Q: Do you require a deposit?
A: Yes, a non-refundable retainer is due at the time of booking to secure your session date. The remaining balance is due the week of your shoot.

🕒 Session Timing & Locations
Q: How long does a portrait session last?
A: Sessions typically last 45–60 minutes. I’ll guide you through a mix of posed and candid moments to give you a beautiful variety of images.

Q: What time of day do you shoot?
A: I photograph all outdoor sessions during “golden hour”—the hour right before sunset—when the light is soft, golden, and oh-so-flattering.

Q: Can we choose our session location?
A: Absolutely! I have a curated list of gorgeous local spots with dreamy light and beautiful backdrops. I’ll help you choose a location that fits your vision. Have a special place in mind? Let’s talk about it!

Q: Do you travel for sessions?
A: I’m based in Wilmington, NC, but I love a good adventure! Travel within 30 miles is included. If you'd like a session further away, I’m happy to provide a custom travel quote.

👗 What to Wear
Q: What should we wear for our session?
A: Style matters—especially when it comes to timeless, dreamy portraits! Once you book, you’ll receive a complete style guide with tips on coordinating outfits, what to avoid, and where to shop. I’m also happy to help you choose final looks via email or text.

Q: Can we do outfit changes?
A: For senior sessions—yes! I recommend 2–3 outfits: something classic, something fun, and something meaningful (like a uniform or hobby outfit). Family sessions are usually one outfit per person due to time constraints and location logistics.

Q: Do you offer wardrobe assistance or styling?
A: Yes! I offer complimentary wardrobe consultation via email or text. Need more help? I can also connect you with local stylists for professional hair, makeup, or wardrobe rentals.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Family Sessions
Q: What if my kids aren’t cooperative?
A: Don’t stress—really! I’ve worked with all kinds of little personalities, and my approach is playful, patient, and low-pressure. I’ll gently guide the session and keep things light to capture natural smiles and authentic connection.

Q: Can we include extended family or grandparents?
A: My standard family sessions include up to 6 people. If you’d like to include more family members, just let me know ahead of time and I can quote a custom extended family session.

Q: Can we bring our dog?
A: Yes please! I’m a dog-lover, and pets are part of the family too. Just let me know in advance so we can choose a pet-friendly location and plan accordingly.

🎓 For Seniors
Q: When should I schedule my senior session?
A: Most seniors book between spring of junior year and fall of senior year. Yearbook deadlines vary by school, so check yours early to make sure you book in time. If you want wildflowers or fall color, plan ahead!

Q: Can I bring props or items that reflect my personality?
A: 100% yes! Instruments, sports gear, books, art supplies—whatever tells your story, I want to photograph it. Let’s make your session personal and unique.

Q: Can I bring a friend or parent to my session?
A: Absolutely! A friend or parent is welcome to join and support you (and even sneak into a photo or two). Just remember that having too many people watching can sometimes make you feel more self-conscious, so choose someone who makes you feel confident and comfortable.

💡 During the Session
Q: I’m nervous and awkward in front of the camera. Can you help?
A: You’re not alone—most people feel this way at first! I’ll guide you with simple, natural prompts and posing tips that help you feel confident and look your best. My goal is to make your session feel more like fun than a photoshoot.

Q: Will you pose us?
A: Yes—but I also go beyond posing. I’ll give you direction to help you look your best, while also prompting moments that feel natural and candid. You’ll get a beautiful mix of timeless portraits and genuine connection.

🖼 After the Session
Q: When will we get our photos?
A: You’ll receive a sneak peek within 48 hours, and your full gallery will be delivered within 2–3 weeks. I hand-edit every image to make sure each one is magazine-worthy.

Q: How many photos will we receive?
A: You can expect 50–75 edited images per hour of shooting time, depending on the session type and number of people.

Q: Will the photos be edited?
A: Yes! All delivered images are fully edited in my signature light, romantic, and timeless style. I adjust lighting, color, skin tones, and small distractions. If you need extra retouching, just ask and I’ll quote that separately.

Q: How will we receive our images?
A: Your images will be delivered via a beautiful online gallery where you can view, download, share, and order professional prints or albums.

🖨 Products & Prints
Q: Do you offer albums or printed products?
A: Yes! I offer heirloom-quality prints, wall art, and albums that bring your images to life beyond the screen. I’m happy to help you design custom pieces for your home.

Q: Can we print our own photos?
A: Of course! Your gallery includes high-resolution downloads and a personal print release. That said, I highly recommend printing through my professional lab for the best color, quality, and longevity.

🌧 Rescheduling & Weather
Q: What if it rains on the day of our outdoor session?
A: I always keep an eye on the weather and will reach out the day before if things look questionable. We’ll reschedule for the next available date if needed. I also offer studio-style options if needed.

Q: What if someone gets sick or we need to reschedule?
A: Life happens! Just give me as much notice as possible. Your session can be rescheduled once at no additional cost with 48+ hours’ notice. Less than that may require a rescheduling fee.

💬 Still Have Questions?
Q: I have a question that isn’t listed here. What should I do?
A: I’m always here to help! Reach out through my contact form, or email me directly at [your email address]. I’d love to chat and answer anything you’re wondering about.

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