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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before, during, and after your session. If your question is not covered here, feel free to get in touch.

Before Your Session

How far in advance should I book?

For weddings, I recommend booking 6 to 12 months ahead as weekends fill up quickly. For family, newborn, and branding sessions, 2 to 4 weeks notice is usually enough. If you have a specific date in mind, get in touch early so we can lock it in.

What should we wear for our session?

I send every client a personalised style guide before the shoot. As a general rule, choose solid colours or soft patterns that complement each other without matching exactly. Avoid large logos or very busy prints. Layers and textures photograph beautifully. Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in.

Can you suggest locations in Southampton?

Absolutely. I have a curated list of favourite spots around Southampton and Hampshire, from the lush greenery of the New Forest and Itchen Valley to the coastal charm of Calshot Beach and the architectural backdrop of the city centre. I will recommend locations based on the look you are going for and the time of year.

Do you travel outside Southampton?

Yes. Sessions within 30 minutes of Southampton are included at no extra charge. For locations further afield, a small travel fee applies. I regularly cover events and weddings across Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire, and I am happy to travel anywhere in the UK or abroad for destination shoots.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day?

Overcast skies actually produce some of the most flattering light for portraits. If conditions are genuinely unsafe or the rain is heavy, we will reschedule at no cost. I always keep a backup date option available and will discuss the plan with you a few days beforehand.

During Your Session

I am not photogenic. Will that be a problem?

This is something I hear all the time, and I promise it is never true. My approach is relaxed and conversational. I will guide you through natural poses and prompts rather than stiff, staged positions. Most clients tell me they actually enjoyed the experience, which is the whole point. The best photographs come from genuine moments.

Can we bring props or pets to the shoot?

Of course. Pets are very welcome and often make for the most joyful shots. For props, less is usually more. I am happy to advise on what works well. For newborn sessions, I bring a curated set of wraps and accessories.

How long does a typical session last?

It depends on the package. Mini sessions run around 30 minutes, standard sessions about an hour, and extended or branding sessions up to 2 hours. Newborn sessions are baby-led and can take up to 3 hours to allow for feeding and settling. I never rush. We take exactly the time we need.

Do you shoot in a studio or on location?

Most sessions take place outdoors, at your home, or at your workplace. A simple indoor or studio-style setup can be arranged when it suits the brief. We will agree the location, setup, and any venue costs before you book.

After Your Session

How long until we receive our photos?

Standard turnaround is 2 to 3 weeks for portrait, family, and branding sessions. Wedding galleries are delivered within 4 to 6 weeks. If you need images sooner, express delivery options are available. I always send a handful of sneak peeks within 48 hours so you have something to share right away.

How are the photos delivered?

You receive a private online gallery where you can view, download, and share your images at full resolution. The gallery is mobile-friendly, password-protected, and available for at least 90 days. Please download and back up your images during that period. From the gallery you can also order professional prints, canvases, and albums directly.

Do you edit all the photos?

Yes. Every image in your gallery is individually edited for colour, exposure, and tone to match a consistent, natural aesthetic. I do not apply heavy filters or over-process skin. My editing style is clean, warm, and timeless. For commercial projects, additional retouching on hero images is included in higher-tier packages.

Can we print the photos ourselves?

Absolutely. All digital images come in high-resolution, print-ready format. You are welcome to print anywhere you like. I also partner with a professional lab if you want gallery-quality prints, canvases, or albums, and I can handle the ordering for you.

Do we get the raw unedited files?

I do not provide raw files, as they are unfinished and do not represent the quality of the final work. Think of them like ingredients before a meal. You receive the full set of professionally edited images, which is a much larger collection than what most photographers deliver.

Booking & Payment

How do I book a session?

The easiest way is to send me a message through the contact form or chat with me on WhatsApp. Tell me a bit about what you are looking for, and I will get back to you within a few hours. From there we will arrange a quick consultation, confirm the details, and secure your date with a booking deposit.

Is a deposit required?

Yes. Wedding photography requires a non-refundable booking fee of 30% of the package price. Other sessions require a £50 booking fee. The remaining balance is due no later than 14 days before the session or event, as set out in your booking agreement.

What is your cancellation policy?

You may reschedule once at no extra charge with at least 14 days notice, and the new session must take place within 90 days. For cancellations, the booking fee is retained; 50% of the total is due when cancelling 30 to 60 days before the date, and the full fee is due within 30 days. Your signed booking agreement and Terms of Service contain the complete policy.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, particularly for weddings and larger packages. I can split the balance into manageable monthly instalments between booking and the session date. Just ask and we will work something out that suits your budget.

Still have questions?

I am always happy to chat. Drop me a message and I will get back to you within a few hours.

A natural photography moment by Shacoworkshop

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