lifeXpressions photography

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a studio? Where should we have the session?

I am strictly an on location photographer. When booking your appointment we'll discuss the look you're wanting to achieve with your session and together we'll determine how best to reach your goals. There are two options; on location or in your home.

On location sessions typically take place in a local park or one of several area beaches, however, I am open to any location you have in mind. In order to take advantage of the natural light available most outdoor sessions are scheduled either very early in the morning or about 2 hours before sunset.

Home portrait sessions are an excellent choice when you want to be able to have the session at any time of day or when you're just wanting to achieve a classic portrait look. The home session is also the method of choice when photographing babies. When working in your home I offer both natural light and studio lighting depending on the conditions available when I arrive. Natural light sessions at your home will require large windows, a covered porch, or several shade trees in your back yard. Please be prepared for me to explore your home a bit looking for the perfect lighting.

How long does the session last?

This is dependant on the number of people in the session, the age of the children involved, and how quickly your child warms up to new people. As a rule of thumb we suggest you set aside 2 hours for your portrait session, less for older children, more for newborns and toddlers.

We're scheduled for an outdoor session, what if it rains?
Rescheduling due to weather, ah, welcome to Florida! Rain happens. We do not penalize our clients for Mother Nature's actions. If your session is rained out we will reschedule you for the next available session date/time. This is usually within a week of your original session date but can be as long as two weeks during peak times of the year.

If you are a client from out of state and your session is canceled due to weather you will have the option of rescheduling or being refunded your session fee. This is the only time a session fee will be refunded.

What should we wear?

When deciding what to wear, keep in mind that we want the person to be the focus of the photograph. Avoid distracting patterns and prints, text, and pictures. Fabrics with texture, such as linen, denim, and corduroy, photograph well. I highly recommend bringing a few changes of clothing for children.

Hats and timeless costumes can be quite fun. Bold colors are often exciting and can photograph well, just ensure that you have a second, more classic, outfit for variety. White cotton and bare feet are lovely on the beach. Remember, nothing photographs better than a baby's bare skin. Wardrobe consultations are always available if you're having a difficult time selecting your clothing. Feel free to bring out your child's favorite stuffed toy or blanket. Items that are special to the child can, not only make for a wonderful keepsake photograph, but can also help the child to be more comfortable.

For family sessions I recommend that you aim for unity and color coordination in the photograph. Blue jeans or khakis with solid shirts work well for groups.

My child has been sick all week and I don't think he's going to be "at his best" on the day of the session. What should I do?

Due to the custom nature of on location portraiture and my desire to give each client my best, I book a limited number of sessions per week. If you must cancel your appointment, 48 hours notice is greatly appreciated. Being a mother of three myself, I understand that with small children unexpected situations can arise. I am always willing to reschedule a missed appointment given 24 hours notice.

I'm pregnant, how soon should I schedule my newborn's session?

I do my best to fit these precious newborns into the schedule as soon as possible. The ideal time to schedule your newborn session is before the baby is born! This allows some preplanning around your due date for the child's arrival. Some of the sweetest newborn images happen in the early weeks, we ask that you contact us as soon as possible after the birth to complete your session.

How long until we can see our proofs?

We're glad you're excited to see the images! Trust me when I tell you that I am eager to show them to you as well! Your proofs are all finished portraits. Each image is processed by hand before your gallery is ready for viewing. This takes some time. Generally speaking you can expect your proofs to be ready for viewing within 2 weeks of your session date.

Do you have a minimum order requirement?

There is no minimum purchase required. We only want you to purchase portraits that you love. Typically clients plan to invest at least $500. The average investment ranges from $800 to $1,700 which enables clients to select prints to decorate their walls, purchase gifts for family and friends, as well as their session album and custom slideshow.

How long will it take to get our portraits?

Orders are held for processing until payment has been received. Once payment has been received we will process your order as quickly as possible. Portrait orders are generally delivered within 4-6 weeks. Specialty items such as; custom storyboards, greeting cards, gallery-wrapped canvas and coffee table books may require up to eight weeks for delivery.

For your convenience lifeXpressions accepts personal checks as well as all major credit cards.