We’ve gathered some of our most popular tips and tricks for your next portrait session in one spot! Here we go…

• How far out should I schedule my session from my wedding?
  It depends on how you want to use photos from the session. If you’re sending save-the-dates, you want to book your engagement 9-12 months out. Otherwise, we recommend booking at least 3-4 months in advance. Keep in mind, our seasonal availability swings significantly throughout the year so the sooner you book the better.
• Why are engagement sessions typically only available during the week?
  Our team members are shooting other events and weddings on the weekends. Sometimes we can make a weekend work but please don’t count on it. Monday – Thursday are typical days of the week when we schedule engagement sessions.
• What should we wear to the portrait session?
  We recommend outfits you feel comfortable and confident in—when you feel good, you look good. Stay away from busy patterns and think about timeless qualities. When you look at your outfit choice decades from now, you don’t want to think about trends. It’s normal to wear a bit more makeup than usual for the shoot—that tends to translate well in photos. Bring some extra foundation and lipstick if you’re using it with you. And keep in mind your location and time of year.…if you’re shooting near a windy lake or ocean, be mindful of blowing clothes, skirt lengths, and hair. Finally, we recommend if you’re wearing heels, bring a pair of walking shoes. We usually do some walking around!
• How long will our session take?
  Our sessions are an hour long but time may be added during your shoot. If you bring pets, visit multiple locations, or bring outfit changes, you may need to add time to your session.
• Where will we shoot?
• All our sessions are on-location. We will discuss options with you prior to confirming your session to ensure you select a location that you love.
• Can we go to more than one location?
  Yes, we can go to multiple locations! It may involve more time and cost but it’s always an option. We recommend selecting a location with multiple options built-in vs. locations far apart from each other to maximize your time shooting.
• Can I bring multiple outfits?
  Yes, you are welcome to include a clothing change during your session, or accessories to take on and off, but please keep in mind that most sessions are one hour, including location and outfit changes. We also recommend picking a location with changing room options nearby.
• Do I need to purchase a permit?
  Yes, most locations, even public park district spaces, require photography permits for portrait sessions. You must purchase your permit in advance, share with the studio prior to the shoot, bring the paperwork with you, and when applicable pre-book timed entry and parking. Please make sure you book your permit in advance to ensure your session isn’t impacted.
• What about hair & makeup?
  Everyone can benefit from beauty professionals. If you’d like a recommendation for a hair or makeup professional, just ask. We have plenty of professionals we recommend on a regular basis to help style your session.
• Will we need walking shoes and shooting shoes for location shoots?
  Always a good idea if you’re wearing heels. We tend to do a lot of walking on shoots.
• Can we bring our pet to the session?
  Of course! We love puppies. A few pro tips on the puppy topic…first, some locations are pet-friendly and others are not. Be sure you confirm before the shoot with the location. Also, if you bring a pet, we require that you bring a friend or dog walker to handle them while we shoot pics without your furry friend.
• What if the weather forecast doesn’t look great?
  It depends. Some of our team members travel into the area for client work. If that’s the case, your session will be rain or shine, and a covered backup location planned prior to your session. If your photographer is available to offer an alternate backup date, you’ll select both dates when you book your session. If the weather doesn’t cooperate on the alternate date, the session will be rain or shine.
• What if it rains during our session?
  We always recommend being prepared for inclement weather on your session date. Bring cute raincoats, clear umbrellas, and an adventurous spirit!
• What if we’re late?
  Please text your photographer to let them know. We’ll share their contact info the week of your shoot. Please know, if you are late, it will impact your session time but you can opt to add time if needed.
• When will we expect our portfolio?
  While we aim to turn all portrait edits around in 2-3 weeks, expect your edited portfolio to be available 3-4 weeks from your session. If your team lead is a film shooter, it might be closer to 3-6 weeks in our busy season.