Don’t you wish we could just point our phones at our kids and instantly get stunning portraits? Ultimately, a lot more goes into a great photo than that. But that’s why I became a professional portrait photographer. As a mother myself, I understand the need for gorgeous photos that authentically reflect each life milestone. With a professional eye and experienced touch, I make it easy – and fun! – to get those heirloom images you will cherish for a lifetime.
I promise to capture every detail and deliver photos you will fall in love with over and over again. Whether you plan on using your portraits for a gallery wall, heirloom albums, or canvas prints, my process involves specifically curated and simple steps to ensure the very best quality.
Here’s what you can expect from planning to delivery:
A Peek into the Process
Contents
Initial Consultation
First, you will contact me through my website or via email. I’ll find out more about the occasion, the type of portraits you want, and your ideal session date. This first step is where you’ll secure your spot by booking a session. Let me know if you have any time constraints that we need to keep in mind. As a general rule, I suggest booking 2-3 months in advance, however, when you book depends on the session you’re wanting. For instance, maternity sessions work best between 30-34 weeks. Or, maybe you have an upcoming graduate who needs senior photos by a certain date. For first birthday and milestone sessions, be sure to allow time for editing and also printing to display the photos at your event.
Session Planning
In order to officially be on the calendar, a 50% deposit & a signed contract is required, both sent via email and completed online (Installment plans are available for all sessions). Once your deposit is paid, and we have your date set, we’ll go over your vision for the session. We’ll talk about the location, overall theme and design, who will attend, what to wear, and how to prepare. I can also secure our spot at the Oak Atelier studio if you plan on using the glasshouse or any of their studio rooms, and you can book hair and makeup during this time, too.
Photoshoot
This is where the magic happens! We’ll meet at your location (I send exact GPS coordinates the week of the photo session), where I’ll be set up and ready for your session. Whether you feel camera shy or you have a little diva on your hands who can’t wait to be in the spotlight, I’ll make sure you have fun and feel confident (I’ve been told it’s impossible to feel nervous while I’m chatting away with you!). Plus, I’ll walk you through your poses, so you don’t have that awkward, “Where do I put my arm?” moment.
Pssst – I have little ones, too, and I know how unpredictable they can be. That’s ok! I truly have a blast playing around, making silly faces, and taking breaks when needed. I get it, and you’re in good hands! You’d be amazed at the shots I can get in between bouts of fussiness. We’ll get some great ones no matter the mood they’re in that day. I also have great ideas to get around these later summer sessions and kiddos bedtimes – I got you covered! 😉
Photo Edits & Proofing
Sometimes I get asked about editing and retouching. Editing involves things like color correction, image cropping and straightening, and balancing the temperature and contrast – basic image edits. In contrast, retouching involves smoothing blemishes, brightening teeth, removing background distractions, adding natural-looking effects, and enhancing the image (i.e., I have to manipulate the photo). Your photo session with me includes it ALL. I fully edit each and every image you receive and you can expect the same consistency you see in my work across my entire portfolio. If you have any questions about retouching, let me know during our consultation. Check out my portfolio here for examples of my work.
The editing process takes about two to three weeks to complete.
Client Preview & Image Selection
Ready to see how beautiful you are?! I’ll send you a link to your private gallery to preview. While the gallery is available, you’ll be able to go through and select your favorites. When choosing, keep in mind what you plan to use your photos for and how they’ll look with other décor if you want wall art.
Final Consultation & Ordering
I highly recommend ordering professional prints. After investing in professional portraits, your high-resolution images deserve more than drugstore photo paper and poor ink. Instead of letting your pictures sit in digital format on your computer for years (let’s be honest, that happens a lot), go ahead and order your prints so you have them. Plus, unlike online printing companies, I can ensure your photos are scaled and formatted correctly on high-quality materials, depending on the size that you need. I have clients tell me all that time how glad they are that they ordered professional prints through me instead of struggling to do it themselves.
Professional products typically a week or two to arrive, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Book a Session with Kelley!
For more questions, connect with me here. To get your ideal session date, be sure to secure your spot as soon as possible. I look forward to helping you document life beautifully!
Check out the blog for inspiration and resources.
