Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What dates are available ? Do you cover weekends ?

A: The earlier you contact me the better as I can give you more choice of dates to suit you. Yes I can also offer weekend dates, but these do tend to book up very quickly.

Q: What outdoor locations would you suggest ?

A: Your local park, gardens or woodland / forest may be suitable. Other options are Walton Gardens or a particular favourite of mine is Grappenhall Heys Walled Gardens (open 1  - 4 pm daily). Slightly further afield we may use somewhere like Delamere Forest for example. You back garden may even be suitable ! Try not to worry about the British weather, with the right choice of clothing we can work in most conditions and still get great images !

Q: What is the best time to have a photo session at home or on location?

A: That depends on you. It’s best before you make a booking to think about routines your baby/ children may have or simply when you are all at your best. Between 10am and 4pm is best for most people as it fits in with the family and natural light is good to work with during these times should we wish to use it. I am happy to work around feeds and nap times!

Q: What does the shoot fee include?

A: The fee pays for your photographer's creativity, time and talent. This includes the photography session, unlimited number of photo’s taken, the image processing, retouching where necessary and your order processing. You will also have your photos uploaded onto Artizia website with a secure password protected facility. See my website for details of the latest session prices and inclusive products/prints. 

Q: How long will my photo session last?

A: An average photo shoot will take around 1 to 1.5 hours.  I like to take the time to get to know you a little before we start and then go where the mood takes us. Of course with small children and babies schedules can often over-run. Most children love having their photograph taken and so it’s not a problem. If not, we can engage them in an activity and sometimes the best photographs are those taken when they are concentrating on something or being entertained.

Q: How should I prepare for the session?

A: For children and babies - clean faces and hands make for better photographs (I know this is not always easy!) So please have wipes, nappies and tissues on hand for little ones. Do have a think about any particular shots you might want to have, for example if you want all of your children photographed together. An open mind is always fun and of course it’s important that you and your family feel comfortable and relaxed, so have your hair, make-up and clothes how you’d like for when I arrive. If we are shooting indoors then I may use portable studio lights and a fabric backdrop. To set this up in your home I will need some clear space (at least around 6 x 6 feet). If you have any pets or people living in the house that are not taking part in the shoot then it is best if they can stay in other rooms to keep our shooting space as clear as possible.

Q: What should we wear ?

A: Something you and/or your family are comfortable in. Textures and colours can always work well and jeans and casual wear are often popular. Try to avoid large logos, clashing colours and complex patterns as these can be very distracting on the final print, it’s you and your children we want to shine through, To ensure your photographs don’t date and remain timeless a choice of neutral classic clothing and colours can help here.  Babies and smaller children always look beautiful in their most natural state. Little toes are best left bare!  Modesty is maintained at all times.

Q: How much do I pay upfront ? What happens if I have to cancel ie if my child is ill ?

A: You pay the shoot fee before the day to guarantee the date and secure the booking. I also ask you to fill in a booking form. If you have to cancel before the day we will discuss rescheduling the session. Please give as much notice as possible.

Q: What are the options for payment methods ?

A: I use PayPal services to allow you to pay by credit / debit card. It is very simple, you don’t need to have a PayPal account, and I can send you an invoice by email. Internet bank transfers can also be made. Or you can pay by cheque or cash of course. If you decide to order other products I will require payment in full at the time of ordering.

Q: When will I see my photo gallery ?

A: You will receive an email with your personal password to access your client gallery within 2 weeks of the shoot. I also offer the option of a post-shoot visit where I come to your home and show you the photo’s in full resolution and we can discuss possible orders / display options.

Q: How long will it take before I my order is delivered ?

A: That depends on the products ordered and our suppliers, stock etc.. but I aim to deliver within 28 working days of order.

Q: I am pregnant and want to book a maternity shoot, what is the best time to have my photo session and what other things should I think about ?

A: A great time to capture the ‘bump’ is between 36 – 38 weeks when you are in ‘full bloom’ ! Your pregnancy is a unique time in your life and is to be celebrated. Whether you are looking for a full traditional family portrait or some tasteful semi-nude shots in dramatic lighting, we will create images you will love.

All our maternity sessions take place in the comfort of your own home for maximum privacy, comfort and convenience. You will be photographed by Tracy, a female photographer who will guide you through your session with empathy and produce beautiful images that are perfect for you.

Your Partner and any children you may already have can be included in the session if you wish.

I will provide fabrics and cover-ups that we may use in any semi-nude images. You are welcome to select a range of clothing / underwear to change in to. You may wish to have a robe at hand to wear between shots.