Unlocking the Experience: Answers to your questions
You may (if at all) have done outdoor photography sessions with your yearly family photos in the fall. Sure, Colorado is beautiful in the fall but what about the rest of the year, when it is too cold to be outside or to smoky or windy in the summer not to mention those crazy afternoon storms?
But you only know the outdoors and are unsure about the studio and how it can work for you.
In the world of visual storytelling and creating timeless legacies, studio photography sessions have gained immense popularity. As a portrait photographer offering storytelling legacy portraits, I value capturing moments that transcend time and trends. Potential clients often have questions about what to expect during a studio photography session, especially if they’ve never been on a set. I’ll answer the top five questions people frequently have about engaging in a studio photography session so that you can turn up to your session like a pro. And no, you don’t need to be a model or have had any experience doing a photo session to enter a studio (not mine at least).
Hope this helps to clarify some questions and perhaps even get you excited to do a session of your own.
1. What Should I Wear for the Photo Session?
The clothing you choose for a studio photography session plays a crucial role in conveying the desired message and aesthetic of the portraits. It's recommended to select attire that reflects your personality, style, and the purpose of the portraits. For more formal or timeless portraits, neutral colors, and classic outfits work well. If you're seeking a more vibrant or contemporary feel, don't shy away from experimenting with colors and patterns. Ultimately, the clothing should enhance the overall narrative you wish to express through your portraits. Our session can be totally fashion-inspired or subtle to put you in the main focus. It all depends on the session. During our consultation, we’ll do a wardrobe walkthrough and see what you have, what I have at the studio, or if we need to hire, buy or borrow from somewhere. I also send clients a style guide with helpful tips on what to bring on the day. So you will get guidance all the way and not just be left to decide for yourself.
2. How Long Will the Photo Session Last?
The duration of a studio photography session can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the setup, the number of outfit changes, and the desired number of shots. On average, a session can last anywhere from one to two hours. It's important to allocate enough time to ensure a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. This allows for adjustments, breaks, and creative exploration, resulting in more authentic and captivating portraits. We also offer complimentary makeup (and hair) service so that will be done at the studio on the day of your session which will add on another 1-1.5 hours depending on the look. Clients love this part because they get to relax, especially after driving in traffic. We are not rushed around here. If you opt to look at your images right after the session, it will take me about 30 minutes to get the gallery together, and looking and choosing your favorites may take another hour.
3. Can I Bring Props or Personal Items?
Absolutely! Incorporating meaningful props or personal items adds depth and uniqueness to your portraits. These items can tell a story, evoke emotions, or symbolize important aspects of your life. Whether it's a cherished heirloom, a musical instrument, or even a favorite book, these props can become integral elements in the narrative of your legacy portraits. We’ll discuss this beforehand in our consultation so it can help me plan how to best incorporate these items into the session. If you look at the old masters painting they often incorporated an item but it usually had a very specific meaning to the subject or story being told.
4. What Can I Expect During the Session?
A studio photography session is a collaborative experience between you and me (the photographer). Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your vision, desired outcomes, and any specific ideas you have in mind. I will guide you through poses and expressions to capture your authentic self. They will also take care of lighting, composition, and other technical aspects to ensure that the final images are visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Expect a friendly and supportive environment that encourages creativity and self-expression.
5. When Will I Receive the Final Art?
After the studio photography session, I will carefully curate and edit the images to ensure they align with the envisioned narrative. After your selection has been made I will edit each image and prepare products for printing. The fine art canvases are usually back between 4-6 weeks. The wait is undoubtedly worth it when you receive a collection of timeless portraits that will be cherished for generations to come.
A studio photography session is a transformative experience that captures the essence of who you are and the legacy you wish to leave behind. By addressing common questions about clothing choices, session duration, props, the session process, and delivery of final photos, I hope this post has shed some light on the journey you can anticipate during your photography session.
As a portrait photographer, I have the privilege of crafting visual narratives that transcend time—a gift that will be treasured by generations to come.
