SESSION INFORMATION/FAQ's

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY SESSION?


My sessions are all about YOU! Come as you are, and I will capture you that way. I am laid back and like to have fun during sessions. I love getting to know more about you during our sessions and I encourage you to ask me about myself too! My photography style is definitely capturing more candid-style photos, with lots of love, laughter, and interactions - but don't worry, we will get those posed photos in there as well. My goal is to get a little bit of everything and offer you variety in your galleries.

GALLERY DELIVERY AND TURNAROUND TIME


During slower months (winter and spring) you can expect a gallery in a week most of the time, maybe even days. During peak season when I am busiest (late summer and into fall) I do my best do get photos back within 2 - 2.5 weeks. Galleries will be delivered to you in a beautiful pixieset gallery sent directly to your email. You there will be able to view your photos, download them directly, and also purchase prints, canvases and other items if you desire.

DEPOSITS/PAYMENT


All sessions require a deposit upon booking to secure your spot. Most sessions require a deposit of $150, and newborn packages of any kind require a $200 deposit. The remaining balance is due the day of your session. I am flexible with payment and can take cash, a check or I can send you an invoice.

WHAT TIME OF DAY IS BEST FOR A SESSION?


The lighting for sessions is always best right after sunrise, and 1-2 hours before sunset. Ideally, I try to do as many sessions during these time frames as possible. However, I do know with young children mornings or other times may work better for you. If you want that beautiful golden light, I highly recommend holding out for a sunrise or sunset session!

SESSION LOCATION(S):


I am open to any and all locations within the C-U area and the area surrounding it! Please feel free to make suggestions for locations if you have ideas, or if you aren't familiar with local photo locations, I will provide you choices and talk you through them before we decide! If you are outside a 30 minute radius of C-U, I do have a $25 travel fee.


I also am mostly an outdoor photographer with the exception of newborns and milestone sessions. I believe natural settings with beautiful outdoor light just look best! If you are interested in a winter session I always encourage bundling up and heading outside in lieu of going indoors. If you aren't keen on the cold, just wait until spring!

DO YOU OFFER MINI SESSIONS?


I offer mini sessions only a few days out of the year and they are for special occasions or seasons. I do not offer mini sessions on a regular basis. You can expect mini sessions to be offered in the spring, summer, sometimes fall (busy season sometimes prevents me from doing an exclusive fall mini) and always a Christmas mini offering. These sessions will be held on one day only and sessions are back to back. I am always expanding and exploring different mini ideas. Minis always sell out very fast, so if you want first dibs on minis, please sign up for my email list which announces minis first!

DO YOU HAVE AN INDOOR STUDIO?


Yes, I have a small indoor studio that is located in my home in Champaign, IL. Studio sessions are only used for newborn or milestone (first year packages and birthday) sessions.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?


Everyone has their own unique style and I encourage you to come as you are! However, certain times of day, locations and seasons will all call for something different. As a rule of thumb, I always recommend neutrals and staying away from bright colors, patterns, or characters. If you need help deciding on what to wear or you are worried about what might look best, I highly encourage you to have an open dialogue with me about what to wear and I can help you decide on what will be best for you!

DO YOU HAVE PROPS?


Yes! I do have a selection of props for your use during your session. I am more of a lifestyle photographer and tend to steer away from large props such as couches, etc but for kiddos I do provide crates, chairs, and other cute items that help make the session easier and more fun for them. I also have blankets for family sessions.


For newborn sessions, I have a basic inventory of swaddles, blankets, baskets, and outfits/headbands. Anything specific you'd like for your newborn session please feel free to bring with you!

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A NEWBORN SESSION?


Newborns tend to come when they like, so I often get the question of how to schedule a newborn session when arrival is so unpredictable. It is actually very simple! Please just let me know your due date (I only take a few newborns a month) and that way you will be on my radar and I will be expecting you. Once the baby arrives, let me know ASAP, and I always get babies in within the first 7-10 days after birth for best results. Please try to book a newborn session as early as possible in your pregnancy, because I can not always guarantee an opening if baby is already here and I am not expecting it. Please do reach out though even if baby is already here and I will do my best!