What to Expect

Welcome!

I’m so excited you chose me for your session. To make things go smoothly and help you get the best results, here are some key things to know. Have questions? Head to the FAQ & FYI section to see if it's answered...

Session Expectations & Communication Policy

Clear communication and full participation ensure a smooth, fun, and stress-free experience. Please review the following:

Communication

  • Share your goals, ideas & special requests when booking (or at least one week before your session).
  • If you have a specific deadline (holiday card, yearbook, etc.), it must be shared prior to your session date.
  • All communication should go directly through me — not relayed through others attending — to avoid confusion or missed details.

Participation & Cooperation

  • Everyone included in the session must participate willingly and respectfully.
  • Bonus: the more everyone cooperates and follows direction, the quicker we’ll wrap — kind of like family dinner photos, but with better lighting and fewer eye rolls.
  • If one or more participants refuses to engage, is disruptive, or uncooperative, I may end the session early. The session fee will not be refunded in those cases.

Session Timing

  • Please arrive 10–15 minutes early so we can start promptly and maximize your time.
  • If the session time isn’t fully used by choice, the fee remains the same.

Transportation & Liability

  • You’re responsible for your own transportation to and from the location.
  • For safety and liability reasons, I do not provide pick-up or drop-off services.

Clothing & Preparation

  • Arrive ready and dressed for your session.
  • Multiple outfit changes are welcome (depending on session type) — please let me know ahead of time so I can plan appropriately.

Weather & Location

  • I monitor weather closely and will contact you if we need to reschedule.
  • If you’d like a particular location or have props in mind, please communicate this when booking so I can confirm access and logistics.

Editing & Delivery

  • Standard turnaround for edited galleries: 2-4 weeks.
  • Unedited/RAW images are never released — you’ll receive a polished gallery that reflects my style and quality.
  • Rush delivery is available only if arranged before the session, and may include an additional fee.

Payments & Refunds

  • A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your session date and time.
  • The deposit is non-refundable once the date is secured.
  • The remaining balance is due before the session begins.
  • Session fees cover all planning, travel, shooting, and editing — not just the minutes in front of the camera.
  • If the session is ended early due to lack of participation, late arrival, or incomplete use of time by choice, no refund will be issued. If a session ends early (due to husbands or young children losing interest), the session fee still applies.
  • Rescheduling due to weather or illness is permitted with suitable notice — I don’t charge an extra reschedule fee because life happens.

Specifics

Senior Sessions

Before Your Session

  • Let me know your vision, interests (e.g., instrument, sport, hobby), outfit changes, props and location ideas as early as possible. If it’s less than 48 hours before the shoot, I may not be able to accommodate last-minute requests.
  • If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend the session. Their presence helps ensure goals & comfort — they don’t need to pose unless you want them to.
  • I don’t pick up or drop off clients — transportation is your responsibility.
  • If the student chooses to end the session very early (e.g., after 15 minutes), the fee still applies. My time, travel, planning and editing remain invested.


Tips for a Smooth Senior Session

  • Plan ahead: Share goals, interests, outfit ideas at booking—not just the week of.
  • Bring 2-3 outfits: Think casual, dressy, and something that shows personality (hobby, sport, etc.).
  • Arrive early: Plan to be ready 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
  • Relax — I’ll guide you! You don’t need to know how to pose; I’ll walk you through it.
  • Weather happens: In ND especially, it’s unpredictable. We’ll communicate about rescheduling if needed for best light and conditions.
  • Keep communication open: If you have requests (pet, car, special location), share them at least one week prior.
  • Bring small touch-up items: Lip balm, hair brush, small mirror help for outdoor sessions.
  • Trust the process: I take a variety of poses/angles so you get plenty of options, and my editing ensures a cohesive, flattering final look.


Couples & Family Sessions

Before Your Session

  • Communication is key: Please share goals, preferred poses and must-have shots (grandparents, pets, kids together) when booking. Last-minute requests may not be fulfilled.
  • Wardrobe coordination matters: I’m happy to offer outfit guidance. Neutral tones & subtle patterns photograph best — avoid large logos or neon.
  • Arrival: Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early so we can start on time and maximize lighting.
  • Who comes? Only those being photographed should attend (unless it’s a parent helping younger kids). Too many bystanders can make people feel awkward and slow things down.

During Your Session

  • I’ll guide poses & interactions so you can focus on each other. Genuine emotion + natural movement = best photos.
  • Young children may need breaks — that’s okay. The session time includes some flexibility.
  • If anyone feels uncomfortable or needs a break, just let me know — these sessions are meant to be easygoing and fun.

Tips for a Smooth Session

  • Bring small snacks or toys for little ones (helps keep energy up!).
  • Empty your pockets — phones, keys, sunglasses love to photobomb.
  • Relax, have fun, and don’t worry about perfection — often the best photos come from in-between moments.

After the Session

  • I carefully review and hand-edit the best images to reflect my professional standard.
  • Unedited/RAW files are never released. You’ll receive a polished gallery that reflects my brand & style.
  • Turnaround: Standard is 2-4 weeks, depending on the season. If you have a specific deadline (holiday cards, etc.), please tell me at booking.
  • Delivery: You’ll receive a private online gallery link for viewing, downloading, and ordering prints.