The Session

If you prefer a natural setting, we will discuss location options prior to your appointment. If you have a specific location in mind, awesome!

If you prefer the more traditional formal shots with a backdrop, I will bring the studio to you. I will need a space that is 10' x 13' and I will handle setup approximately 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. 

 

What will I get for my session fee?

Upon booking, a non-refundable $50 session deposit is required to hold your date. The $50 will be applied toward your session fee which is payable before the session starts. Session fees for individuals are $300 and groups of up to 50 people are $500. If you have more than 6 people, add $25 per person. The session fee includes:

  • 1 hour for an individual or 1 1/2 hours for a group, on-location photoshoot (travel included within the greater Sacramento area)
  • Unlimited images posted to your personal online proofing gallery
  • Color-corrected images with minor touch-ups
  • Online proofing for 60 days
  • Your selection of 3 high-resolution digital negatives via a digital download from my website

Additional digital negatives are available for a fee.

 

What should I/we wear for the photo session?

It depends on the type of photo you want in the end.

If you are looking for a photo that is light and soft, muted shades work best together. Pastels, grays, or muted blues and browns work well together. For a group shot, look for a common color that can be incorporated into each outfit with an accessory or a print. As an example, a pastel pink dress would go nicely with a gray suit and a similarly colored pink bow tie. These colors would complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. It tends to be easier to find the anchor piece in girl's or women's clothing. Use that piece to pull a color or colors from for the boy's and men's clothing. Try not to mix too many patterns though, otherwise, it tends to distract from the most important part of the photo...the people!

For a more modern eye-catching photo, look for colors that complement each other, but are on opposite sides of the color wheel. Oranges, yellows, and purples are a great contrast. Additionally, corals and pinks go great with aqua or bright blue.

Props that Don't Distract

Props can enhance the photo as well, especially if the prop has special meaning. An heirloom, a favorite stuffed animal, a bouquet of simple flowers, a quilt, or a beloved pet are great additions as long as they follow the vision you had in mind for the photo. Try to incorporate props that don't distract.

Accessories and Shoes

Hats, scarves, headbands, flowers in the hair for girls, jewelry, sweaters, jackets, socks, or stockings are a great way to add some fun as well as some funky shoes or boots. Brightly colored Converse a distressed pair of boots or ballet flats add interest. Be sure to pull that color into other accessories to ensure a cohesive look. Bare feet are another great option. Who can resist a wiggly pair of toes?

Layers and Textures

Layers and textures are another way to create interest in a photo - tweed, embroidery details, crochet, knit items, ribbons, and ruffles all can add dimension. Texture is especially important in black-and-white photos.

 

Be Comfortable and Relaxed

When selecting clothing for the shoot, try not to be too trendy. Keeping a timeless look in the clothing will extend the life of the photo unless you want to time-stamp the photo. It is all about your personal preference.

Make sure children are comfortable in their clothes and can move freely. There is nothing that makes a child more grouchy and miserable than wearing something itchy or too tight or loose. Keeping the change of clothes to a minimum is also helpful, however, adding or removing layers can make a remarkable difference in the look of each photo.

Location, Location, Location!

Make sure your wardrobe fits with the surroundings in the photo. Wearing an old-fashioned outfit with a graffiti wall for a background is going to look odd. The same goes for a background that may clash with what you are wearing.

 

Can't Decide What to Wear?

If you can't decide what to wear or need some general guidance, you can send me photos and I guide you through a selection. Or for a small fee, I can meet with you prior to the shoot to determine the best options.