Photoshoot FAQ’s
What area does your mobile photography service cover?
I cover a 25 mile radius and mobile studio and location photography coverage includes Liverpool, Formby, Crosby, Southport, Ormskirk, St Helens and Warrington to Northwich, Chester, Heswall, West Kirby and all places in between.
I am also willing to travel further afield where necessary at 45p per mile for sessions further than 25 miles. To reduce travelling costs, photographs can be viewed on my password protected online gallery if necessary.
What about poor weather for location photoshoots?
If it is pouring down with rain and blowing a gale then you could either opt for an indoor mobile studio session or reschedule your location session for a different day.
Don’t worry if it’s cloudy, this is great for portrait photography as it means no harsh unflattering shadows.
How long does a photoshoot last?
A portrait session in your own home or on location is normally up to 2 hours.
A newborn session can be slightly longer, as I allow for feeds and nappy changes. Depending on which session you choose, mobile studio or location, I always allow enough time so we don’t have to rush things, this is important especially where children and babies are concerned.
What to Expect?
For a mobile studio session please allow approx 3 to 4 hours from start to finish. I require time to set up my professional studio with background and studio lights and do all the relevant lighting tests before we start. Then time for the photoshoot and to dismantle and pack studio equipment away.
For a location photoshoot I will always do a recce before we meet to get the best seasonal locations and also for the best light on the day. Please allow up to 2 hours for your location shoot. If it’s a family shoot, I will bring props to keep it fun and relaxed and to keep the little one’s entertained. With young ones, it will always be child led and I will go at their speed and stop for snack breaks whenever you feel necessary. I’m a mum myself and I know when the children are happy, then so are we.
What should we wear?
When you book a session I will send you a copy of my ‘What to Wear Guide’ guide to help you in making those all important wardrobe choices.
Clothes really do have a huge impact on your finished portraits. Please feel free to have a change of clothes for yourselves or for children as this will give you more variety for portraits, but just keep it to a few changes, not your entire wardrobe!
Can we use props?
Yes please feel free to use your own props. Accessories for yourself and/or children are great and add variety to your images.
Think hats, scarves, funky shoes, wellies, parasols and pretty tutu’s (maybe save those for the little ones!). Anything that shows off your family’s personality is great as it makes your photos unique and more personal, maybe a favourite teddy or blanket for toddlers.
I also have some items that I bring along, depending on the type of photo session that help keep babies and toddlers attention, and to help make it a fun and relaxed time for all the family.
What if the kids are unwell?
This is not a problem so long as you let me know in advance and as soon as possible. If you let me know before I set off, we can re-schedule for another day.
I would like to book a maternity session, when is the best time?
The ideal time for maternity photos is between 34 to 37 weeks.
How much work goes into producing your photographs?
Blood, sweat, tears and a lot of love and care and attention to detail. Your photographs are the result of my years of experience, investment in professional equipment, hours spent at your photoshoot, plus hours of professional editing and retouching.
On all purchased images and products I also spend many hours giving all photographs a professional digital makeover, you can be guaranteed a professional result as I have over 36 years experience.
There are also other factors involved including storage of photographs, print costs, postage, public liability and professional indemnity Insurances, advertising, marketing and website costs, to name but a few.
How much deposit do I need to pay to confirm my chosen date?
I require the full session fee as a non-refundable deposit to secure your date, this is due 5 days after booking your session.
If you have to cancel for any reason we will reschedule the session, subject to availability. However please try to give as much notice as possible as I often have people waiting for dates.
You can pay either by direct bank transfers (preferred), cheques or cash can also be paid and I will simply send you an invoice by email/post.
For all product orders I require payment in full beforehand, and due to the personalised nature of printed products no refunds can be given. Thank you for your understanding.
How do I order frames and albums?
After I have edited your photographs and they’re available for viewing on your private online gallery, you may then order products.
I offer a hand picked selection of high quality bespoke photographic products to display your favourite photographs.
If you wish to order frames, I can visit you at your home for a viewing session and bring sample products to help you decide, or the prefered and most popular option is for me to create a visual design of how your chosen frames and photographs will look and email several options to you, to help you decide before placing your final order.
If you wish to order either high resolution digital images, professional lab prints or gift accessories a viewing session is not necessary. All I require is the image numbers and product size from your private online gallery and we can take it from there.
When will I receive my frames or albums?
Delivery time depends on the products ordered. I aim to personally deliver your wall products within 3 to 4 weeks and albums 6 weeks after your order is placed.
Please allow a bit more time at peak periods (e.g Easter/Christmas).
It is advisable to book a photoshoot about two months in advance of when you need your products. I will keep you informed with the progress of your order at all times. The final products are worth the wait, they are truly stunning and also make ideal gifts.
Professional Business Insurances and Certificates:
I hold a comprehensive public & products liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance for an Indemnity limit of £5 million.
I also hold an up to date certificate for Child Protection Training and also and a current Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate (DBS, originally called CRB). I’m more than happy to supply any documents required on request.