stef elizabeth photo
Kentucky wedding + family photographer
Frequently Asked Questions:
portrait sessions
Q: I'm ready to book my session! What's the first step?
A: Use the contact form at the bottom of my home page (can also be found in tabs) to tell me more about what kind of session you're looking for and what date you are aiming for. Once we've figured out your goal for the session and a date that would work for both of us, I will send you a brief online contract. Once we've both signed and you've made a 25% deposit, you'll be officially set for your session!
Q: I have no idea what to wear to my session! Can you help me?
A: I am happy to advise you on what to wear to your session, although it might be more helpful to tell you what NOT to wear: that would be stripes, neon colors, shirts with big distracting logos on them, sports jerseys, and shirts that are pure black or pure white. For family shoots, try to coordinate colors, but DON'T have everyone wear the same outfit (don't go "matchy-matchy": no all-white tops and jeans for everyone! I always send my clients a clothing guide after you've booked your session!
Q: Do you recommend wearing makeup for sessions?
A: Usually, makeup is a good idea for sessions as long as one doesn't "overdo it". Makeup usually looks good in photos as long as it is not too reflective, and it can help increase your confidence too.
Q: How much time does a family session take?
A: It depends on the type of session you choose. For basic family portraits, set aside an hour and allow up to two for the classic/lifestyle sessions.
Q: Do you have any tips for family sessions?
A: Yes! Make sure you choose your wardrobe carefully. Cream works better than white, and dark pants/white tops are usually not a good combination. Don't let your kids eat colored candy before the shoot, and make sure their bellies are full and that they've had a nap. Sometimes it takes time to get little kids to cooperate, so anything you can do to make them more receptive to posing suggestions is helpful! Cranky kids equals not-so-happy looking photos!
What to avoid: neon, stripes, logos, blue jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, golf shirts, khakis. Feel free to consult me with outfit choices before your session and I would be happy to help you decide!
Q: Where do you shoot your family sessions?
A: I usually choose an outdoor location such as a park or public garden for photo shoots, but I am very flexible as to location.
Q: What time of day should I schedule my session?
A: It depends on the look you're going for. The time of day and amount of sunlight does affect the final look of the photos. A midday shoot must be shot in the shade to avoid unflattering shadows on the face, and will not have the "golden hour" look of photos taken at dusk or dawn. An overcast day means less dynamic lighting and more of a "softbox" effect.
Q: What happens if something comes up and I can't make my session?
A: If you cancel your session less than 24 hours before the shoot and don't want to re-schedule your session, all that happens is that you don't get your deposit back. If you need to cancel your session more than 24 hours before your shoot, you don't get your deposit back, but I will happily transfer your session to a new date.