Frequently Asked Questions: Seniors

When do I pay my Session Fee?: We do not have a separate session fee like most photographers, we do request a 10% down payment at the time of booking.
How far in advance should I book my session?: Usually 2-4 months in advance, this allows us plenty of time to plan your big day.
How long does it take to get my order?: Typically it takes two weeks. During the holidays it may take a little longer.
Do you sell images on a USB?: Each collection comes with a minimum number of professional edited images. They will be given to you on a USB.
How long do you keep images if I want to order more later?: I keep all orders stored on an external hard drive for 2 years. There is a $100 minimum order.
Not sure what to wear?: No problem, that is why I include a complimentary consultation. This is where we talk locations and outfits etc:
Can I order a album and prints?: Yes, having a custom album and prints is the best way to insure that 20 years from now you will have them to share with your friends and your own family. We will have a viewing session in the studio to see what you would like printed and the cost.

Session Tips

We will never rush your session, a normal 4-6 outfit session in the studio will take approx two hours. We want your senior portraits to be the best they can be, and we want you to have fun while you are with us! Take a few minutes to read the following tips and should you have any questions please give us a call at (330) 396-0522.

Style Guide

Avoid Stripes, plaids and very large patterns! Solids and small prints/ patterns photograph much better. If you have a favorite outfit that is stripes or plaids bring it we will do our best to make it work. Make sure to bring a variety of outfits in different colors, style and dress levels. It is always to bring too many outfits than not enough to choose from. We can help you choose when you get here. Some ideas would be a long sleeve, solid dark top, white long sleeve shirt for white on white, a timeless outfit suitable for your parents and grandparents, a trendy fashionable outfit and your favorite casual outfits that shows your unique style. Don't forget about a great coat with a hood if you have one. Prom dresses, hats and scarves, boots,

Make sure your clothing choices fit, baggy clothes will make you look larger and so will clothing that is too tight. Sleeveless styles, while popular, can make your arms look bigger, long or 3/4 sleeves work the best.

Bring all the items you need for each outfit, shoes belts, jewelry, and for the girls proper under garments including strapless bras if needed. Please make sure your outfits are wrinkle free and on hangers. You would be surprised how many show up with everything stuffed in a bag and wrinkles show and can ruin a photograph.

For your indoor session we do have room for changing outfits, for outdoor sessions usually there is not a place to change other than a vehicle. If you are a female, consider a tank top under our clothing to help with changing situations.

Nails

Your nails will show! For both guys and girls, make sure your nails are clean and manicured. This does not mean you have to go out and spend big bucks on your nails, just make sure they are filed, and neatly polished, if desired in neutral colors. Most girls love those barefoot, casual shots. Make sure your toenails are in top shape and avoid brightly or unusual colored nail polish.

Make Up

Make up should look natural, applied as if you are going on a date. If you don't wear any make-up at all, you need to consider a light coat of mascara and a little blush. Please bring something for your lips such as lipstick, lip gloss, chap stick, etc. Lip gloss with color is a perfect choice! You also need to bring powder for those shiny spots that will pop up during your session. Please have your makeup applied before you get here you can make adjustments once you get here if needed.

Hair

It is always best to not try something new before your session. This means color or a new style cut. Girls, please remember to bring a comb or brush and any hair products you may need. Hair spray can be very helpful for those stray hairs that won't stay down.

Glasses

Almost all glasses glare. Most optometrist will remove your lenses for you if you are not comfortable doing that. Many will also loan you a pair of look a-like frames for your session if you want to wear glasses. However, be sure to bring sun glasses they make for a great image.

Tanning & Sunburns

Tans photograph well, sunburns do not! If you are sunburned or peeling, we will need to reschedule your session. You also need to be very careful with self tanners and spray on tans. We have seen some orange streaky skin arrive at the studio and you cannot Photoshop that. Girls be careful of tan lines if you plan on wearing tanks or strapless styles. Guys avoid those ball cap lines on your forehead or those telltale new haircut lines.

Props

Bring them as many as you like! Sports gear (ball, uniforms, medals, shoes, instruments etc: even your best friend if you want. Outside sessions bring your car, pets.

Music

Most important bring your iPod with your favorite music we would love to play it during your session.

Weather

Mother nature dictates when we can shoot outdoors. Outdoor sessions are best shot during early morning or late afternoon. Than high mid day sun is a no-no! A overcast day is fine, clouds can actually be a photographers' friend. If it is raining though, we will need to reschedule your outdoor session.

OK - Let's Review

#1. Bring plenty of changes of clothes, we not use all of them but better to have to many.

#2. Flawless makeup applied before the session and your make-up bag packed and with you.

#3. Clean nails, shoes and wrinkle free clothing.

#4. No sunburn or spray on tans

#5. Remember all of your props, sunglasses, heels, jewelry etc:

#6. Make sure to bring your iPod loader with your favorite music.

#7. Be sure to arrive on time and most importantly have fun.

If you read this tip page, follow the guidelines, and mention it to me at your session I will give you 8 free wallets. Trust me you will be much happier with your senior portraits if you follow these guidelines.