Professional Photographers are they worth it?

I am in the final stages of updating my website. I hope that it will be ready to share on Friday. One of the things I’m doing (disclaimer – when I say “I’ve done” I can only claim its my idea and my words. I have an awesome website designer who then makes it all magically happen!)  is add a FAQ page. I’m told this is a very helpful feature and that google likes it when websites have an FAQ.  I love the idea of being transparent with my business. People often do have the same questions. It’s a good idea to ask lots of questions when you are hiring professional photographer. Also, take time to view examples of their work. Viewing their photography as well as the products they offer will help you understand their value as a professional photographer. 

Its important that you hire someone you feel confident working with. Its your time and your investment so you want to make sure you are on the same page!

Why should I hire a professional photographer?

A professional photographer is fully invested in making sure everyone in the photograph looks their very best. With training in posing, lighting and a significant investment in the latest equipment, my profession is to present you with quality images to be cherished for generations to come. When you are a professional your job is to know about locations, lighting, editing and camera angles. But even more than that we have the skills to work with all different personalities and ages!

Personally, I am in my 10th year as a professional photographer. What that means is I have a lot of experience. After 10 years of doing this full time I have encountered just about every challenge out there. I also have all the systems in place to edit, share and store your images for years to come. I work with a professional lab to offer you the best quality products and I guarantee my work personally. 

My entire focus is on making those portraits look amazing! I want you to LOVE your images while enjoying them and sharing them for a long time!

What is the delivery time after our photo session?

Your fully edited gallery of 35-45 images will be ready for you within 2 weeks of your session. All print orders including albums are delivered in 2-3 weeks. 

Are digital images included?

Family and Graduate sessions are offered as various packages. Each package includes a credit back to you. Digital images, prints and albums are offered for sale and can be purchased using that credit. 

How much are your photography services?

My creative fees are listed on the investment page of this website. Depending on the package you choose, all investments come with a credit which can be applied to albums, prints and digital images.  Creative fees include my professional level of services. Planning and organizing each session, selecting correct equipment, props or backdrops used, use of my  photography studio (if applicable), editing (including teeth whitening and acne removal), and any products you choose to order using your credit.

What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy

If there is a cancellation within 48 hours of a session the deposit will be retained. It is highly unlikely that I would be able to reschedule with another client on that date with such short notice.

Rescheduling – life happens. Weather happens. And occasionally rescheduling needs to happen. I will be communicating with you several days before your session to confirm the time, location and date of your scheduled session. If the weather is a factor we will discuss that. If there is a reason to reschedule (illness, weather) we will discuss and reschedule at that time.

What is the Process to book a session with you?

First, I like to meet with you personally. If we can’t find time to meet together then we will meet via phone. Ideally, I will have the opportunity to introduce myself to you and show you the quality of the products and services I offer. Once you decide to book me as your photographer we choose a location, time and date. Next, I will email you an invoice for 50% of your fee. Once your deposit is paid, you are booked. The balance is due anytime up to and including the date of your session.

How long do sessions last? What can we expect during our session?

The length of each session is listed on the investment page. Sessions are generally an hour long. However, if we are having a blast, the light is amazing, everyone is having a great time it may go longer. Also, if the kids are tired and we have gotten everything we need, we will wrap things up. I like to keep sessions moving along quickly with lots of fun and laughter. My goal is for everyone to have a good time.

Are my images backed up?

Yes! I pay for a system that backs up all of my images. They are stored on external hard drives as well as on an online gallery. If you lose your images I am happy to resend any images previously purchased your way. You are also able to make future purchases from past galleries.

What photography services do I provide?

I specialize in family, seniors, professional head shots and weddings. I love a great opportunity to be creative as well. If you have a special photography project you are looking for help with let’s talk! My professional studio provides a fantastic environment for photography projects.

What other services do I provide?

Often, people are very worried about scheduling a photography session because they don’t have all the answers. It can get overwhelming to decide where the session should be, what everyone should wear and just how to organize everything. I love helping you plan a session that fits your needs perfectly. If you are wondering about locations please check out my locations guide for some inspiration. I also enjoy discussing what to wear and how to design a photo session that meets your needs.

What Should I/we wear?

Consider what season you are being photographed in. Consider the colors you know look best on you. Be sure if you’ve booked a location with lots of walking that you have shoes that you can walk in. Make sure your clothes are comfortable for sitting on the ground, walking around in. Wear what you feel confident in. Try not to match but compliment the other people in your photos. And never choose neon colors!

What do we do if it rains?

This is my most common question – we will discuss it. Some people just go with it and we pull out fun umbrellas, rain boots and have a grand old time. I even have a waterproof blanket to help keep you dry.  There are several fun covered options for those rainy days. If you’ve chosen an urban session there are overhangs, parking garages and doorways that can be used. And yes, sometimes we do need to reschedule.

I would love for you to check out my newly updated website  https://shellyfryphotography.com/.

If you have any feedback I would love to hear about it.

Thanks for stopping by,

Shelly