Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions for the services I offer.
If you cannot find the answer to your question here please get in touch with me directly via the contact page and I will be happy to assist!
What is the difference with a professional portrait photographer, and why is it any better than my uncle Larry with his digital camera?
Portrait photography focuses on capturing the essence and personality of an individual or group. There are a lot of factors to consider which I will be doing while you are thinking only about having fun and enjoying the moments. Composition, lighting, white balance, focus, positioning of subject are all things you don’t need to be worrying about during your session – leave that to me! All this helps preserve special moments, capture emotions and creating lasting memories for you to cherish for a lifetime. I have a wealth of experience and have performed hundreds of portrait sessions so I know what makes you look great, and how to relax those ‘camera in your face’ jitters, even for those of you who are particularly anxious.
How do I book a portrait photography session in your studio?
Booking a session is easy! Simply visit the contact page on the website and fill out the form with your details and preferred session date. We’ll get in touch to confirm the availability and discuss the details for your shoot.
What should I wear for my portrait session?
This does entirely depend on the type of photography session you are booking.
For family portrait and mini sessions I recommend wearing clothing that reflects your personality and makes you feel comfortable. Solid colours or subtle patterns often work best, avoiding overly busy patterns that may distract from your face. I will contact you prior to your session to go through the details and can also suggest a colour palette for your clothing choices or you can send me suggestions and I can advise.
During an acting portfolio session in the photography studio I recommend sticking to solid colours either high contrast like black and white, or paler pastel colours which will not take attention from your features and show potential casting directors your true value.
When in the studio for a modelling photography session for your portfolio, you want to consider both your clothing and your hair & makeup choices. I can suggest local hair and makeup artists that I trust, and when it comes to your shoot I will send you a list of recommended choices for clothing that will accentuate your figure and show you off to your best.
Can you provide guidance on selecting a location for an outdoor photo shoot?
Absolutely! I can suggest various indoor and outdoor locations based on the style of portraits you desire. Whether it’s a park, urban setting, or even your home, we’ll find the perfect backdrop for your photos. I am lucky to have lived in Formby for 27 years, exploring the nature reserves, parks and woodland areas which boast the beautiful Formby coastline. I now live with my family in Southport, a coastal town with endless amounts of beauty spots, public parks and wildlife areas to capture you in stunning scenery!
How long does a typical portrait session last?
On average, a portrait session usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours. However, the duration may vary depending on the type of shoot and the number of participants. Two hours is the usual timeframe for capturing shots, but most families take between 30-60 minutes on average to get the best selection before little ones start getting tired, distracted or hangry!
I do offer seasonal ‘mini shoots’ which typically last around 15-20 minutes. They give you a smaller number of iages but allow you to come and go in a short time frame and images are delivered digitally within a few days!
See current Mini Session bookings available using the button at the top of this page.
What can I expect during the portrait photography session?
During the session, we will guide you through various poses and expressions to capture natural and authentic photographs. My goal is to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, while also capturing the best candid photographs of you and your loved ones. Often the best images and the most favourite for my clients are the ones they didn’t know were being taken!
Do you offer different portrait packages or custom options?
Yes, I offer various portrait packages to suit different needs. Additionally, we can create custom packages tailored to your specific preferences and requirements. Some clients prefer just digital images they can share on social media, whereas others prefer having a physical print included which will let you showcase it in your home.
Can I include extra family members or pets in the portrait session?
Of course! We encourage you to include your loved ones and even pets in the session to make it more meaningful and personal. There is a five person limit on the standard family sessions, but I’m open to extra faces joining us (terms may apply).
What is the best time of day for outdoor portrait photography?
The best time for outdoor portraits is during the “golden hour,” which occurs shortly after sunrise or the hour before sunset. The soft, warm light creates a flattering and magical atmosphere for your photos. Don’t worry if this isn’t an ideal time for you or your group, I can always find a great setting for you to capture the very best imagery for your collection.
How far in advance should I schedule my portrait session?
It’s best to schedule your session at least 3-6 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time. However, feel free to reach out for last-minute availability as well as there are sometimes cancellation spots available.
Can you help with hair and makeup arrangements for the shoot?
While I don’t provide hair and makeup services directly, we can recommend talented professionals who specialize in portrait photography makeup and styling.
What is your photography style, and do you offer different styles for portraits?
My photography style is a blend of candid and traditional, capturing both natural moments and classic poses. I am flexible and can adjust my approach or even editing style to match your preferences so don’t be afraid to ask.
How long does it take to receive the edited photos after the session?
The editing process typically takes 1-3 weeks. We take great care to enhance each image to ensure they look their best individually and as a continuous collection.
Do you provide digital copies of the images, and can I print them on my own?
Yes, we provide high-resolution digital copies of the edited images. You are free to print them for personal use or share them on social media. I only ask for a credit where possible, such as social media links to my page, or named under an image. If unsure please contact me direct using the contact page.
Can you create custom prints or albums from the portraits?
Of course! I offer a range of print products, including framed prints, canvases, and albums. The prints are available directly in your personalised online gallery, and photo books I create from scratch to match your preferences. These can be all be customised to match your needs.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel my portrait session?
I understand that plans can change. Please let me know as soon as possible, and I will work with you to find a suitable alternative date. Sessions can be transferred to another party but please contact me first.
How can I prepare my children or family members for the portrait session?
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we recommend discussing the photo shoot with your family members beforehand and encouraging them to be themselves during the session. Kids can be adventurous and push boundaries during a photo session, but this is not to be completely discouraged – allowing your young ones to flourish is what makes a great portfolio image or wall piece you’ll remember for years to come! I have a lot of experience with children’s photography and I can always find a way to control their attention when taking their photographs.
Do you offer gift certificates for portrait sessions?
Yes, I offer gift certificates that make for thoughtful and meaningful presents for your loved ones and friends. Minimum order is £60 and can be used towards any of my photography sessions in Southport, Formby or further out.
Can you retouch or edit the photos to remove blemishes or imperfections?
Yes, I provide basic retouching to remove minor blemishes and enhance the overall appearance of the images. If you would like something specific removed or airbrushed then please state this in the contact form when getting in touch. I have over 15 years of photoshop experience and this is just a formality while editing images.
Are you open to incorporating specific themes or ideas into the portrait session?
Most definitely! I love incorporating your unique ideas and themes into the session to make it even more special and personal to you. Just let me know your vision, and I’ll work together with you to bring it to life. I have created many unusual, unique and stunning portrait sessions, even including fancy dress shoots over the years – they’re always more interesting!