You’ve contacted me to book your session–are you so excited? I am! I want the whole process to be seamless and comfortable, so here’s a breakdown of your session timeline and what to expect now that you’ve sent your inquiry.
Check Your Email!
Once I receive your request, I’ll send you an email with a link to fill out your questionnaire and contract, and to pay your sitting fee. As soon as that’s done, it’s official! Your session is reserved and on the calendar!
Schedule Your Pre-Session Consultation
Now we can really get things moving. After you’ve reserved your session date and time, we’ll set up a time to meet in person at the studio. Appointments are Monday-Friday 10am – 1pm. Just email me some good days and times and we’ll get you on the calendar. Your consultation is a chance for us to get to know each other so that when we meet for our photography session it will feel like friends getting together. And if you’re a returning client and we’re already friends, you know that I’ll want to hug you and catch up! During this time, I’ll also show you artwork samples and we can talk about all of your ideas. Location, outfits, wall art, and more.
Hair, Makeup, and Nails
You’ll also want to schedule a time for hair and makeup with Analisa Hastings Hair and Makeup. Analisa and I have worked together for years and she is amazing! Don’t worry about figuring out times–just let her know when your photo session is starting and she’ll know exactly when to get you scheduled. If you’re planning to get your nails done too, you’ll want to schedule that also at your salon of choice. (Remember, neutral is best!)
What to Wear
I know, I know. So many choices! I recommend laying everything out together (including shoes, jewelry, and any special heirloom items you want to incorporate), snapping a picture, and texting it to me. I can help you figure out the perfect outfits and combinations. I also have lots of beautiful pieces in my studio wardrobe if you prefer to borrow something.
Session Day!
On the big day, you’ll get ready with Analisa Hastings, and then I’ll meet you at your location of choice. This may be at the studio, at your home, or outdoors. Just know that we will have so much fun together and I’ll guide you along the way. Don’t worry if you’re not sure how to pose or what to do. That’s what I’m here for! These portraits are the story of your family. Truly, all you have to do is be yourself and love on your babies. I’ll take care of the rest.
Your session timeline doesn’t end with your session–there’s still so much to come!
Sneak Peek
Shortly after your session I’ll edit one or two favorites and post a sneak peek on Instagram and Facebook. You are welcome to tag yourself and share!
Editing
I hand-edit each and every image that goes into your gallery. Most sessions take 2-4 weeks to complete. I know it’s hard to wait, but you can take advantage of the time to measure your walls for any large portraits you plan to display in your home. Take a picture of where you want your wall art to go and I’ll help you size everything when you come to your ordering appointment.
Your Ordering Appointment
When your gallery is ready, I’ll call you and we’ll set up another time to meet at the studio. Here, you’ll get to see your beautiful finished images for the first time. Mamas, bring tissues. You’ll want to make sure that all financial decision-makers are present, since this is when you’ll be ordering what you love. If grandparents or other family members are planning to purchase artwork for themselves, they should be there also. You will leave with the link to all of the digital images you purchased so you can share with friends and family. (This is also the perfect time to schedule your next session!)
Production
One more waiting period. Last one, I promise! This is the exciting point in your session timeline when your artwork is in production. Most albums and wall portraits take approximately 4-6 weeks to create and deliver. I provide only the best and highest quality of artwork, so trust me, it’s well worth the wait.
The Best Part!
This is my favorite part–and I’m guessing it will be yours too! I’ll call you when your artwork is ready and you’ll finally be able to take these precious memories home and display them where they belong. We’ll meet at the studio again so I can help you get everything into your car. (I recommend bringing a larger vehicle or SUV for large wall art.) If you need help with installation, just let me know and I can give you contact information for some great professionals. Once your artwork is up, I would love it if you would snap a picture and tag me on social media. I love seeing your forever memories displayed pride of place in your home.
I hope this outline of your session timeline and what to expect has been helpful. But if you still have questions, please feel free to reach out! I am here to guide you through the entire process, and I’d love to chat with you.