frequently asked questions:
the portrait session
Do you photograph on location or in-studio?
What is a photo session with you like? How long does the photo session last and what can I expect?
I would love to share what a session is like! I can send you a full brochure on what to expect, or you can call me anytime. Contact me through the form at the bottom to request the brochure, or call whenever you like.
Will you direct me during the session?
Yes, I’ll make sure you know what to do! My sessions include a combination of lifestyle and posed pictures, and I will give some level of direction for both. As an example, for a lifestyle shot I might direct a parent to throw their child in the air, or ask children if they’ve ever played Ring-Around-the-Rosey. For a more formally posed shot I would arrange family members in relation to each other for the best composition, and then I use games and other “proprietary” methods to get people talking and interacting with each other instead of thinking about the camera.
What should I wear?
Coordinating around a common color theme tends to create the best images for family groups. Choose 1-3 saturated colors (red, yellow, blue, green, orange, or purple) and mix and match so everyone is “within the theme.” For children, matching outfits can also work, or a matching style in different colors.
Dress in layers (weather permitting) and incorporate accessories. This is an easy way to add more looks to your photos without a full outfit change. Scarves, hats, jackets, jewelry, layered shirts, and even change of shoes all provide more interest and more options.
Avoid white or light pastels, they tend to fight for dominance in a photo.
Wear something you are comfortable wearing! Most people take much better photographs when they are comfortable in their clothes.
Are other people allowed to take pictures while you’re working?
How much does the portrait session cost, what do your packages cost, and what is your average client spend?
My session fee is $250 for a Family or Children Session with up to 5 people, and $300 for a Newborn Session. Print, digital, and product packages start at $1600, and a la carte items are available starting at $380. For more information on pricing, including what is included in the packages, contact me below!
the images
When can I view my pictures?
Will I own the copyright or print rights to my images?
How long until I get a copy of my pictures from my photo session?
Physical copies are ordered at your In-Person Viewing & Ordering Session. Although delivery time can vary depending on what products you order, most orders arrive within 1-2 weeks of placing the order.
What does your standard editing or touch up look like?
I do light editing on all photos which is primarily focused on surroundings, lighting and color balance of the images to maintain a cohesive feel in a set of images. For example, color correcting an image with improper white balance due to sun coming and going behind a cloud.
With regards to subjects, I only make editing adjustments for anything that is not a permanent feature of the subject. For example, if a subject had an errant hair in their face, a stain on themselves or their clothes, or a noticeable non-permanent blemish on their skin, I would remove it where possible. I do not make changes to subject’s permanent features or physical aspects (moles, weight or height, etc.) as part of my regular editing. If a client has a specific request, I do offer some customized editing options for an additional fee.
business practices
Do you offer any kind of satisfaction guarantee?
What is your education in photography?
I have taken classes in professional photography at both Emory University and Kennesaw State University, but I consider myself primarily self taught. I also consider myself so very lucky to have found a dream job that I enjoy so much that I LOVE to pursue my personal education, through constant reading, frequent, scheduled practicing of my craft, and annual hands-on workshops and conferences with other professional photographers.
Do you have back up gear?
Absolutely! I have backup options for all of my primary equipment, including camera bodies, lenses, and lighting.
Do you carry liability insurance?
Another emphatic yes! And whomever you work with for your photography needs, I strongly encourage you to select a photographer who is insured. It speaks to their commitment to providing a high level of professional service, and protects YOU, the client, in the event of any accidents.
Why should I hire you?
I help parents decorate their homes by creating and installing beautiful artwork of their family. If you want images with a mix of posed and lifestyle that focus on the connections between family members, an end-to-end customer service experience, and a photographer that is committed to delivering those to you, you are in the right place and I would love to talk with you.
Contact us now!
Schedule a free design consultation, cover any questions you have, or just hear more about a session with Colleen!