What happens at a photo shoot?
Click here for our portrait price list
Before we get to the session, it's worth thinking about what you would like to get out of it... For example, Family or just the children, do you want to have your family pets as well, or are you looking for a more personal collection, like our Boudoir or Couples sessions.
How would you like to display them? Are you looking for something for the wall, if so think about where you would like to hang it, or maybe an album or shelf portrait? We offer a large range of finished photographs and you can find our price list if you click here.
Before
When you phone to make your appointment we will briefly chat with you about what style of photography you are looking for, such as traditionally posed or contemporary freestyle (lifestyle, as it is sometimes referred too or BOTH - which is what I prefer as it is surprising how many people still choose those more traditional shots even when they don't think they will!) and what background you prefer i.e. black or white etc. We may also discuss what sort of portrait you might require, something for yourself to hang on the wall or for gifts for friends and family. It is worth thinking about this, as it could make a difference in how we should take the photographs
We will then make a booking on a day and time that suits you and your family. Generally I would suggest young children and babies are better in the morning, older children and adults later in the day, however you know your family best and we will be guided by you. It is possible to book weekends, but we try to keep these for families only. Sessions for babies and/or pre-school children only, (i.e. no family groups) are preferred during the week as weekends book very quickly! A session fee may be taken to guarantee your appointment, this is usually 40 for a normal session lasting up to one hour, if you wish you may change your appointment time but please give us at least 24 hours notice or an additional charge may have to be made (however in exceptional circumstances we may waive this - please speak to us). We will usually try to contact you a day or so before your session to confirm it, however if you need to change the appointment please do this as soon as possible
During
When you arrive we will have another brief chat and discuss any further ideas you may have about your photo shoot. A one hour appointment will normally have been booked so there will be time to change clothes if you wish as well as use any toys or other 'props' that you may have brought in such as birthday cards, favourite toys (although it is best to keep them hidden or they may not let go!) etc. We try to make the session as much fun as possible and would suggest not telling young children to much about what will happen, as they may get worried that something nasty will happen!
Best not to mention smiling either, they may try to help and you will have every shot with a false smile, we always try to put everyone at their ease and as we chat and make friends they will react far more naturally if they don't worry about what is expected of them... At the end of the photo shoot we will make a booking for you to return to view the images taken, in exceptional circumstances this can be done immediately - ONLY if arranged in advance - but is generally better a few days to a week later.
After
When you return for the viewing, please make sure everyone is present who may help make the decisions or may wish to buy portraits as a second viewing is not possible. The images will be projected on to a large screen, in a cinema style presentation, so everyone can see them together, there will be a quick slide show of all the images before starting to select your favourites. Once this is done then you can decide which you would like to have, multi image frames can be created on screen and the colour images can also be viewed in black and white. Although we prefer full payment, a minimum of 50% deposit is required on order, this can be paid by card, cheque or cash.