The FAQ
Do you Travel?
Absolutely, just send me a message and let's work out a quote.
What is a travel location fee?
Generally only applicable in cities (NYC, D.C., etc), a travel fee will be applied. $60 is fairly typical in these places. I travel to shoots with a heavy bag of gear to create your dream session, and I charge this fee so that we can ensure all of my gear + your images get to and from the destinations safely!
How long do sessions usually take?
My timeframes are widely regarded as generous with time – I usually can wrap early because I shoot rather quickly (but with plenty of time to get all of your dream images!). I typically ask clients to block about 2-3 hours for a session, but don’t be alarmed if you feel we wrapped rather quickly. In busier areas, we may be waiting a bit longer for other people to move about, et cetera. This timeframe also accounts for time between locations. For standard portraits and couples sessions, a good rule of thumb is about 45-60 minutes per outfit (being mindful of how long it takes to change).
Why do I pay a deposit?
Once you’ve completed the booking form (simply expressing your interest and sending me some dates and times), you’ll hear back from me and we’ll talk about the best date/time! After that, I’ll ask you for a deposit. The purpose of having you pay a deposit is to secure your desired date + time. If you cancel last minute, I most likely would have been able to book another person during that slot – for this reason, I don’t put anything on my calendar until the deposit has been paid.
When do i pay the remainder of my balance?
Before any party departs your session, the remainder of your session (+ travel fee, when applicable) is due. No images will be delivered until final payment is made.
Do you retouch photos?
I don’t retouch or alter my client’s appearance. If this is something you would like, the easiest solution is to outsource my final images to an editor of my choice. For small things like flyaways or small nicks/bruises, I would be happy to discuss with you my photoshopping of those things for a small additional fee.
I will perform small edits (removal of words, simple objects) on two images for free before a small charge will be applied.
How + when do I receive my photos?
You should receive your edited images within 2 (two) weeks of your session, at maximum. Typically, my turnaround is between 3-5 business days. All files will come via WeTransfer*, an easy + free email based service. From this point, you can send them to be printed, forward to friends + family, or post online! Download links do expire, so be positive to download your images as soon as possible! Make sure you save + backup your images in multiple locations.
*Please note, there have been times where I have utilized an alternative method of file-sharing, but all methods I use have been screened and used thoroughly by myself and other photographers I trust – they’re also all free!
In the event of bad weather...
…or if there’s a hurricane/act of the universe/I’m sick/etc, we will put your deposit toward a reschedule date. However, if you simply do not show up to the session, the deposit will not be refunded. If you have selected a portrait, couple, or lifestyle session [this does not apply to elopements, weddings, or commercial work] and need to reschedule, your deposit can be put toward a new date as long as I am notified (and have acknowledged your message notifying me) within 14 days of your session. My friends know I’m certainly no stranger to the odd curveballs life throws at us – so I get it! Bottom line is that most things can be worked out; however, if you cancel and do not re-schedule, your deposit will not be refunded.
Can I bring a hype-man?
Um, please do! Bring a friend, parent, spouse – whoever makes you feel most comfortable and secure for your shoot! I only ask that you don’t make it a full-blown affair, as having multiple members involved makes it a bit difficult to get my job done and deliver you the images you hired me for!
How long will you hold my photos?
I clean and sort my client files every 2 months, and will not guarantee that I will back up the images for you; be sure to download the images and create your own backups! I do not store RAW files for more than 1 month.
Am I allowed to select my photos?
Short answer? No. One of the big parts of my job, and the reason you hired me, is making the image selections and choosing your most flattering photographs! The images I don’t deliver are either repeated, blurry, out of focus, or shots of you blinking/mid-sentence speaking. I have no reason to withhold any images from you if there are additional ones I think you would enjoy! I am here for you, remember?
What about raw images, can I have those?
Again, no. Please see "Am I allowed..." for an explanation – I promise, it isn’t to be mean!
What if i'm unhappy with my images?
In my five years professionally taking photographs, I have never had a client tell me they were unhappy. I think that this is due to the clear communication + mutual expectations set beforehand. If you have read through this FAQ + page thoroughly, done all you can to prepare yourself for the shoot (including selection of an outfit you feel confident in + a location you love) then this is the best way to ensure that you will be overjoyed with the final results.
What if i don't want my testimonial or images on your website/socials?
Please, please, please make this clear in your initial contact. The only way that I market my photography services (and the way you found me!!) is through the internet and referrals. I rely on photo sharing and testimonials to bring in new customers, like you! Therefore, there is a nominal fee to have these things waived – do inquire if having images/testimonials shared is an issue for you.
Also important to note...
The client is responsible for their own transportation, gas, and parking alongside any other permits needed for the location. You are also encouraged to bring props, such as flowers or signs, but you are responsible for what you’d like in the images!
Travel
Available for hire in the Southeastern United States and beyond. Previous international travels include, France, Italy, England, Scotland. Please reach out for a quote.
Contact
hello@saraelizabeth.online