faq

Where should we take our pictures?
I can take your pictures anywhere outdoors that you are interested in.  Timeless looks might include a nature setting or in a field.  For a modern edge, you might enjoy the alleyways in the old downtown or along the railway tracks.  I am a natural light photographer, which means all of my work is done without any additional lighting- usually outside except in the case of infants.

What time of day should we take our pictures?
Evenings are the best because the lighting is soft and indirect.  Mornings can work as well.  Midday and early afternoon creates harsh shadows on the face and should be avoided unless it is cloudy, or we can work in full shade.  Indoor shots are best done during the middle of the day when the light is brightest.

What should we wear?
You should decide what mood you want to display in your images.  If you like a relaxed look, wear your everyday clothing.  If you're going for a more formal portrait, a dressier outfit may be appropriate.  I encourage you to wear something you can move in and feel comfortable.  This is especially important for children!  If you're worried about them dirtying their clothing, or if they are uncomfortable, the last thing they will want to do is pose for a photo.  Also, please avoid white and light gray unless you have very dark colored skin.  Otherwise it has a tendency to wash out your skin coloring.

Do we have to match?
Only if you want to.

What props should I bring?
If you have a prop or something of interest you would like to include in your photographs, you are more than welcome to bring it.  If your child has a lovey or toy that may calm him or help her relax (that you don't mind having in the pictures) then it is welcome.  I would also suggest bringing a small snack or treat for children to keep them happy and reward big smiles!

What do I do if my child won't behave?
One of the benefits to having a photographer without a time limit is the ability to take time out to comfort a crying child or simply take a moment to walk around.  Don't forget a water and small snacks to keep the grumpies away for small children.My goal is to get wonderful photographs and I feel the best way to do that is to have my subjects relaxed and happy. 

What can I expect my session to be like?
We'll jump right in!  Although I don't limit time, I do go fast to get as many images done as quickly as possible before children get unruly and the adults get sick of smiling.  An individual or family session will usually only take an hour at most.  I do ask for payment at the time of service.

What happens after we're done?
I'll give you a time frame it will take me to edit the photos (usually 2-3 weeks) and will contact you as soon as they're done.  I give you a CD with all the editted images and a copyright release for you to print at the location of your choice.  You may also order professional prints through me.

What do I need to know about my CD?
First, make a copy!  I only keep sessions on my hard drive for a couple months.  After I delete them, they may remain on my backup server for a few months, but there are no guarantees.  Second, I crop the majority of my photos to 8x12.  They will all be that size unless otherwise specified.  When you print them, please check to make sure they are cropped the way you would like.  For more information on cropping, see here:
http://steviecroftphotography.blogspot.com/2010/10/cropping-101.html

Do you put all the images from our photoshoot on my CD?
No.  First and foremost because I shoot in a different format than your computer can preview or print.  It takes my time to transfer them over.  Second because it is a quality control issue.  By editing and doing final finishes on each image, I can guarantee it is a product I am proud to have my name on.  Most professions do not share all of their images.

What does "joint copyright" mean on my CD?
It means you hold rights to use the pictures as you see fit . . . and so do I.  Rest assured I would never use your image in conjunction with anything criminal or unseemly, but I do retain rights to use your images for advertising, exhibition, contests, and any other way I deem useful.  If you have concerns about your images being shown either online or as a hard copy, please let me know.  Otherwise, be flattered that you're so cute I couldn't help but share!

What if I have to cancel?
Life happens.  If you need to cancel, I ask a week's notice so I can fill your spot with my waiting list.  After the week mark, I may still charge you part or the full session fee.  I judge each on a case by case basis.  I also give no guarantees for reschedule space as my calendar is often full.

Do you offer retakes?
I give you free retakes in the event that there is a technical error on my part.  Retakes done because a subject is unhappy with how they look will be subject to another full session fee.