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Frequently
Asked
Questions

FOR SUCCESSFUL SESSIONS

MILESTONE SESSION FAQ'S

NEWBORN SESSION FAQ'S

FAMILY SESSION FAQ'S

HEIRLOOM SESSION FAQ'S

What is your 
session availability?

It varies month to month, but my typical outdoor session availability is on Tuesday evenings 2 hours before sunset. My typical weekday availability for studio sessions is 
on Wednesday mornings.

To set your session up for success, please consider feeding schedules, nap routines, etc. when scheduling. It definitely helps!

GENERAL FAQ'S

How long will it take for my photos to be edited?

Typically around 2 weeks. If you need to see them sooner, please let me know when you schedule your session and I can send the invoice for the rush editing fee.

How do I book a session?

Contact me by visiting the contact page on this site. I respond to all inquiries within two business days, so if you don’t see a response, check your spam! Once we decide on your session date, I’ll send over the contract and you can pay the deposit online to reserve it.

Do you photograph headshots, weddings
or events?

I don’t photograph headshots or any weddings/events, but I do love to attend them!

Where is the studio located?

I shoot at Rose+Salt Studio in Edmond, Oklahoma on Bryant (right next to a hair salon and coffee shop if you need to treat yourself before our session!).

How far in advance should I book my session?

As soon as possible! I only schedule 2 sessions per week and 2 weekend sessions per month so the schedule fills up quickly. 

Can you help me choose product to order?

Yes, absolutely! During the optional post-session meeting, which can take place in-person if you want to see samples or online, we can select favorite images and create products tailored to your needs. I can design a gallery wall, family album or help choose a frame for a framed print. I will also show you samples of the products I offer and answer any questions you may have.

How long will it take to receive my product order?

Prints, cards and announcements from our professional photo lab typically take 7-10 business days to arrive. Framed wall art takes 2-3 weeks. You will be able to download digital images from your gallery the same day they are purchased. Albums will arrive around three weeks after the proof is approved. Pick up is in NW OKC and you will be notified when your products are ready for pick up! This is the best part!!! 

FAMILY SESSION FAQ'S

Is there an extra charge for adding more people into the photos?

With the exception of mini sessions and high school senior sessions, there is no limit to the number of participants, whether it be three people or fifteen, you are paying for my time at the session and editing your photos. I provide the same number of retouched images regardless of how many people are at your session. However, as more people are added, the more “posed” the photos become and the less photos per family unit you will receive, so if you like more candid family shots with individual portraits of the kids and couple, I would limit the number of people at your session.

What should I wear to my session?

After booking, I will send out my detailed Style Guide that will help with coordinating outfits and provide store recommendations! This is something I do that might sound a little strange, but look around your house at where you would like to hang the photos, like your living room, and match the colors of your outfits to your decorations so that your photos will coordinate with your house.

What can I do to ensure my family session goes well?

The most important thing you can do is relax! I know this is easier said than done on family picture day, but kids will be stressed if you are stressed (even newborns can sense stress).  We will have plenty of time to get great photos!

Avoid the “cheese” word.  Saying “cheese” makes an unnatural smile. Don’t worry, I pull out all the stops to get those genuine smiles from your kiddos!  

Remember that our goal is not to capture perfection, but instead, a perfect representation of the bond your family shares and the personality of your kiddo(s) at this point in time!

Do you offer in-home newborn sessions?

Yes, however in order to give each of my clients the highest-quality photos possible, I like to discuss the lighting within your home before deciding if a session at home or in the studio is best. Natural light works best when you have a sunny day, the light enters your home from the correct side of your house, and you have large windows and room for pictures by those windows, which are a lot of variables to ensure the best quality photos. If your home is short on natural light, I found we have much better results in the studio with complete room temperature and lighting control, plus you won’t have to clean your house or move things around! I love in-home sessions, but always like to make the best decision with my client to get the best result!

NEWBORN SESSION FAQ'S

How do you schedule newborn sessions when we don’t know when the baby will arrive?

Once you’ve submitted your newborn session reservation, I’ll pencil you into my schedule for a week after your due date, and we’ll pick the actual date of your session after your baby arrives to ensure the session takes place within the first two weeks, when your baby will still be very sleepy.  Newborn sessions are done on weekday mornings.

Should I bring their favorite snacks or bribes?

You may bring snacks/treats, but I ask that you wait for our direction before introducing them to your children. Please no cookies, crackers, or anything that crumbles prior to or during your session.

What age should my child be for these portraits?

Your child may be photographed as soon as they are able to sit up independently in an infant booster seat (typically at least 6 months of age) all the way to 18 years of age. That’s right, these are for older children as well! For older children, a simple collared shirt photographs beautifully for boys or a dress or shirt with a pretty collar for girls. More outfit ideas and my store list is sent out upon booking!

What if I have more than one child?

To give the time and attention to each child for this style of portrait session, I need each child to have their own session time. You may book them back to back and bring them all at once and I will start with the youngest child.

HEIRLOOM SESSION FAQ'S

Who can attend the session?

Siblings and family members can attend, but please try to bring as few people as possible to limit distractions for your child. It makes a big difference! :)

Does it matter what kind 
of shoes my client wears for Heirloom Sessions?

Whatever makes them comfortable! For heirloom pictures, they will not be in the shot so feel free to wear any type of shoes or no shoes at all!

When should I schedule my child’s first birthday cake smash?

I like to take these around 11 months of age to allow for editing time so you can utilize these photos for their party, invitations, Birthday posting, etc. These sessions take place on weekday mornings.

What do I need to bring?

Smash Cake, your child’s favorite non-messy snack and your cute baby! :)

MILESTONE SESSION FAQ'S

CONTACT MELISSA

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