I am so glad you've decided to book a custom portrait session with Sassyfrass Studios! I look forward to a memorable and fun time with you. This document will walk you through everything you need to know. We will also talk a few days before your session to go over any last minute details.
The Big Picture
- Sessions will last between 30 min to 2 hours, depending on the session type.
- In 1 to 2 weeks there will be a private gallery posted on the website with your edited images for you and your family to view/purchase.
- You will have 2 weeks to make your selections
- We will then begin the design process for any custom products
- CDs/USBs and printed products take about 2 weeks to get to you (Custom design and specialty items, like albums, can take between 4-8 weeks)
The Location
We can hold a session pretty much anywhere (within 20 miles of Medford is no extra cost - additional travel charge for places further from home). Tell me about the feel you want your images to have and I can give you some ideas. I'm open to trying new places! Your home can also be a great option. It doesn't have to be 'perfect' to be session worthy. You'd be surprised at what we can do!
The Plan
I'll show up a little early to scope out the perfect spots with the best light. If we are in your home, we may have to move furniture, decorations, etc. If we are outside, we will move around from place to place to get a variety of textures, scenery and light. This is not going to be stiff and formal - and the pace might be surprisingly faster than you imagine (and slower when necessary). My goal is efficient use of your time, while getting the best possible images! I'll direct you at times and encourage you to interact naturally. If you have a specific idea in mind, please tell me before the session so I can be sure to come prepared.
The Wardrobe
Coordinating but not "matchy-match" is best. Even in the summer, layers add interest and we can change a look quickly by adding/removing them (ie: hats, scarves, belts, jackets, vests, leggings, jewelry, ties, layering shirts). Try to use as few solids and as many textures as possible. You CAN mix patterns, colors and textures. One idea is to try to pick a color and the weave it throughout the outfits to tie it together (ie: baby in a red dress, dad with red in his tie and mom with red heels). Once you've got the outfits picked out, try to add at least one more accessory like a hat, a fun t-shirt under a jacket, or cool shoes. Use items that reflect your personality. Keep in mind the small things:
Things that help:
- Well trimmed hair/beards
- Shoes that are meant to be photographed
- Nice nails
Things that don't help:
- Nails with 'old polish'
- Hair rubber bands on wrists
- Chewing gum in mouth
- Animal hair on clothing
- Stamps/temporary tattoos from events on hands/arms
The Back-Up
Rescheduling is usually a last resort. I will keep an eye on the weather and reschedule it if it's not cooperating. If someone is sick, let me know as soon as you can so we can reschedule. I do complete retouching on all your proofs, so please don't worry about minor blemishes. It wouldn't be the first time that I've taken out a black eye, zit, cold sore, or a good scratch on an arm. :)
Children
This should be fun - not a chore or stressful. Please let me lead the way and ask you if I need help. There is no need for threats or bribes. I will work at the level of the kids and at their pace. Sometimes I might work one on one, away from the pressure of 'performing' for mom and dad, so relax and give us room to get some great images. Bring snacks and water, but try to avoid things that are going to color or get stuck in their teeth. A favorite doll, a colorful toy or ball, or other activities like bubbles are wonderful. I'll have some tricks up my sleeve as well. Please make sure your children get plenty of sleep the night before. It is your responsibility to make sure kids stay safe and that babies are within your arms reach.
Families
Think of this as an adventure...with memories to be made. If your kids are old enough, it can be a great help to get them in on picking our clothes. Give them options (to maintain a little control) but let them choose from several outfits so they feel comfortable in what they are wearing. At the shoot, I will direct you as to how to stand/sit and other times I will have you just enjoy each other and have fun. We can do as many combinations of people as time allows. If you have any 'gotta have' shots, make sure you tell me ahead of time and we'll be sure to capture those, and much more. It will be my job, in the more "posed" shots, to get your kids to look at the camera. Your job is to just smile. The last thing I need is a parent checking if their kid is smiling and them actually looking at the camera (and not you). Let me do the work. If you have a family pet, let's get them in on the action too!
Couples
Think fun, contemporary, and romantic! I want to capture the passion and magic between the two of you. I like to try unusual locations and use the thing that show of your uniqueness as a couple. From head to toe should be fun and flirty!
High School Seniors
Senior portraits should capture you just as you are during this time of your life. We usually hit 2-3 locations if we are outside. I am open to all kinds of ideas. I really want to show your interests and personality. If you play a portable instrument, bring it. If you like soccer, let's go to the field and kick a ball around. You can' t bring too many clothes and accessories (even guys), so bring it all and we'll piece together outfits as we are inspired. I would plan on bringing about 2-5 outfits - both casual, and "dressy" - and think layers! Note: as far as make-up, don't put on extra to try and 'cover your flaws'. I promise you that if you have blemishes, I can work some magic with editing. Putting on heavy foundation will not help. I will not make you look 'over processed', but I will definitely help any skin issues and make you look, well...more like YOU!
Weddings
We want your wedding photos to be flawless. The photographer(s) will be as unobtrusive as possible and ready to capture your special moments. Here are some suggestions for you to consider:
In order to allow for a private photo session of the bride and groom, we will need at least 30 minutes of your time alone with the photographer. We highly recommend that this time be before the ceremony ("first looks" are fantastic, and very intimate!!!), but if it's important to keep with the tradition of not seeing one another beforehand, then we can work around that.
Avoid glossy lipstick and consider foundation or a non-reflective translucent finishing powder for your face, neck, and chest. This will reduce the chance of having a shiny face/neck/chest in the photos. Please note: we have seen mineral makeup cause unflattering effects with a flash. The minerals have elements that reflect light. We've seen similar effects with "skin diffusing" make-up, or make-up/lotion with high SPF.
Please ensure the presence of all the family members and wedding party required in your wedding photos. It always takes some time to gather people together. Please inform family and wedding party ahead of time when and where they will be needed for pictures. Sometimes it's helpful to designate a friend or family member who knows the people to be in the pictures, to "round them up". Getting people where they need to be for photos is by far the most time consuming part of group shots.
Please make sure the cutting of the cake, and other important events you want photographed, occur within the booking time.