FAQ

How do I know if you're the photographer for me?

A.If you are looking for your photos to be perfectly posed, stiff, fake smile staring into the camera the whole time, I am not the one for you. I like to capture moments, details, and authenticity, and prompt instead of pose. Your gallery will be a document of your current season of life. I may say things like tickle, twirl, cuddle pile, nuzzle noses, and just overall interact with each other! My goal is for my families and couples to have fun and not take it too seriously. If you're worried your kids won't sit still- they don't have to!

But what will I wear?

A.Outfits can cause such a stress when planning photos, but I'm here to help make it easy on you! I have a select few dresses from my client closet for women to wear if they so choose. (Must be booked for a full session) Coordinating outfits can take your portraits to the next level. The most important thing is to wear what you feel comfortable and most confident in. My best tips are to mix textures and fabrics, movement is great, keep it to one/two patterns only and the rest solids. Avoid big logos, bright colors and graphics, coordinate but don't "matchy-match" (unless intentionally matching), and when in doubt stick to neutrals and earth tones. For family photos- I recommend mom picking her outfit first and planning the kid(s) and dad around it. I have curated a couple different outfit guides for my clients to reference when they book a session. Pinterest is also a great inspiration!

What's included in my price and when will I get my photos?

A.All of my sessions include a high resolution digital photo album with unlimited downloads. I try my best to have a sneak peek with some of my favorites from our session within 24 hours. For an average session, your gallery will be delivered usually within 3 weeks or sooner! I go through all the images we take and hand edit the best ones to deliver to you, which is time consuming but worth it! Your images will be edited in my style and include retouching of things like blemishes, skin smoothing, tan lines, bruises/scratches, small stains, etc. Your session price includes the number of photos guaranteed back, there are no hidden fees. I also provide a print release.

I'm awkward in front of a camera, will you help me?

A.Don't worry, I hear this all the time. It is a top priority for my clients to feel comfortable and relaxed during their session. I will guide you along the way with natural, fun prompts. I send out a questionnaire before our session to get to know couples and families better that will help me gauge how comfortable/adventurous you are and the vibe of photos you want. I also keep a posing guide on my phone to reference during our shoot.

What time of day do you schedule sessions?

A.I try to only schedule sessions in the mornings or the evenings. Golden hour is the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. This will ensure our lighting situation is ideal and your photos will look the best. I do my best to avoid shooting mid-day because the sun is high in the sky and will cause harsh shadows and squinty eyes!

How do I book a studio session?

A.Studio sessions can be a great option if it is cold, you have a new baby, or you just want something different! If you are interested in a studio session please reach out to me to go over studio options and the vibe you are looking for. The studio I use is in Middletown, OH and there will be an extra studio booking cost on top of the session price.

I'm ready to capture some memories, how do I book?

A.Head to my "book now" tab or shoot me an email at emilygiffordphoto@gmail.com!