These are some of the most frequently asked questions clients have asked me. If you have more, please email me! I want to add more and help others like you!!!
-Dianne
FAQ | Choices + Selections
I am in a season of life where I want pictures, but I don't want to make any decisions. Can you help me?
Absolutely! We all have seasons like that from time to time. If you want to do nothing, I understand. I can pick the location, suggest a length of time depending on who is participating, and I can even pick the best of the best photos for you! I may have some questions for you, but I won't care if your answer is, "I don't know." I am here to support you no matter the craziness of your season. Honestly, if this is you, I am proud of you for taking the chance to add one more thing because you know time is fleeting, and taking the time to do this now will give you memories that will last.
Why is there a Session Fee and no images included?
It is important to know that one of my goals is to make your experience as cost-effective as possible. I am a small business and must cover my expenses and make a living to stay in business. I don't want you paying for things you don't need or want. My goal is to give you a customized experience tailored to your needs. To do this well, I have separated the Session Fee from the images you receive.
What is a Session Fee, and what is included?
The Session Fee includes the cost of communication, setup + maintenance of equipment, travel, general business operating expenses, furthering education, and the use of my knowledge and creativity as a professional photographer, as well as the time it takes to hold the session, cull the images, and deliver the Preview Gallery.
Why are there so many choices?
As I said, I desire to provide you with a wonderful, customized experience. I am here to help you every step of the way so that you will not have analysis paralysis. For example, I don't want you to feel limited to a few packages. I want to create something that works for you! I can accomplish many different looks during a fifteen (15) minute session, so I don't want to force you to do an hour session. I don't want anyone to feel like they can only get five (5) images when you really want twenty-five and another family would want fifteen. I want you to be able to select how many photos you want and not be limited or need to pick more than you want. You don't have to make these decisions alone. You can have three (3) free consultation options with me to plan your session, choose outfits, and help you select images. I am here to support and advise you so we can create a customized experience you will enjoy. You don't have to make any decisions alone!
Should I prepay for images or choose them after my session?
There is no right or wrong answer here! It is just personal preference. If you prepay for products or images when you book your session, like an album, you can divide it into budget-friendly payments at no extra cost. It is also a helpful option if you prefer to limit how much you want to spend during your experience with me. There is no risk to you if you prepay.
If you realize you want more images when you see your preview gallery... I've got you covered! When you upgrade, you will automatically receive the lowest price available for that session and I will apply the prepaid amount to your new invoice. You will only be responsible for the difference. I always check to see if there are ways to save you money with my current pricing structure for each session. I will always have your best interest at heart!
FAQ | The Booking Process
Why are there contracts?
Contracts help set clear expectations and protections for both parties. They give you a layout of the session's time and location, the price to be paid and when, and what you will get from me within a set amount of time. They keep me accountable, and you will have documentation to prove it! Contracts also clearly communicate what I need from you before and during a session. It is just a form of clear communication that I am a big fan of!
I am interested in paying with my bank account, but I have not heard of Stripe. Is it safe?
I completely understand your question! I am very cautious when giving out my debit card and banking information, too! This may help. There are two main payment processors, Stripe and Square. You likely have heard of Square. They are all about making their brand, or business name, known. Stripe doesn't do that. If you have ever made a payment using a debit or credit card without a Square device, then your payment was likely processed by Stripe. It is always good to do your due diligence, but I would not use Stripe if I did not trust it. Companies like Amazon, Google, Lyft, Shopify, and Zoom use Stripe. I always encourage you to do your research if you are unsure.
I had never heard of CloudSpot before, but I saw that name when I went to pay my invoice. Is it safe?
Cloudspot Inc. is the CRM (customer relationship management) software I use to help with scheduling, sending contracts and invoices, taking payments, and sharing photos. I also use it to keep information about your session organized and secure. This software enables me to provide a superior experience. I have done a lot of research comparing different CRMs, and they do a fantastic job!
Why do you have a model release in your contract?
Most photographers share images of their clients to visually show others what memories they can make for prospective clients. My website would not have any samples unless my clients signed a model release, so I could share their memories for you to see. You will have the option to choose a full model release, a limited model release, or no model release. Some photographers will charge if you wish to keep your images private, but I will NEVER do that! If you ask, I will remove that clause from your contract entirely. Your privacy is so important to me that I name all folders with your images with your model release details. You are welcome to specify which locations you are okay with me using the images. If you would feel more comfortable approving which photos I use first, I have no problem doing this and adding it to your contract so that it is documented! My most important consideration is your comfort, preferences, and the experience you have working with me. If you give me permission to use your images, but later change your mind, it's no problem! All you have to do is email me, and I will take down your pictures. Just make sure you receive a reply to show I have seen and implemented your request. I am very grateful for every client who has generously allowed me to share their images anonymously, which is my default, unless you request to be tagged 😉.
Do you have any more questions?
I am happy to help! Just ask below.
Thank you! I will be in touch soon!