Valentine Photography Studio

 

 

FAQ

Frequently asked questions, answered by the photographer

Q: How is your studio set up? Where will my pictures be taken?

A: My studio is an in-home studio location, meaning I run my business from my home. My studio is separate from the rest of my home and you enter through the studio entrance - not my main home entrance. I assure you my studio is professional, comfortable, and most importantly, a safe location. The studio has two rooms: the "studio room", where all the photography takes place and the "prep room", where everything else takes place. You can take a tour through pictures of my studio by clicking here.

Q: I'm afraid to come to a home studio, are you really who you say you are?

A: I completely understand your concern! I'm real, my studio is real and it's a fully registered, licensed and insured business. You can rest assured my studio is operated in a professional manner. Due to home business laws in my county, all visits to the studio are by appointment only. I kindly ask that you respect the local laws, my home life, and my privacy by making an appointment if you'd like to check out the studio prior to booking your photoshoot. If you have any doubts about myself or my studio's credibility, I'm more than happy to provide references from past clients and make-up artists I've worked with.

Q: Can you come to my location?

A: No. I only provide photography services at the studio unless you're willing to pay a $250 on-location fee (for locations within 50 miles of my studio). This covers the cost of an assistant, plus set-up and break down of all equipment.

Q: When do you book photoshoots?

A: Photoshoots can be scheduled for any day of the week with morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. Please visit the policies page for full booking information.

Q: Can anyone do this?

A: I provide photography services to women ages 18 and over. No minors (not even with parental permission) are allowed. I take the proper measures to check and document your legal age. No men allowed. I no longer offer couples photography.

Q: Why do I have to be 18 or older?

A: Due to the style of photography offered I only allow adults. A legal age form must be filled out by every client that has a photoshoot with at my studio, and a valid ID is required. A legal age check is a standard procedure at my studio.

Q: What style of photography do you offer, and can you do other styles as well?

A: My studio specializes in glamour, boudoir, and pin-up photography - which includes bridal and maternity boudoir. This is my specialty, what the studio is set up to support, and what I enjoy doing most. This also includes erotic photography (but I do not post samples of my erotic photography to protect the privacy of my clients). My studio is not a portrait studio - it is considered a specialty boutique photography studio. I do not offer any other styles of photography, except product photography. If you're looking for a traditional portrait photographer, wedding photographer, fashion photographer or someone to take your headshots, then I am not the photographer for you. However, if you're looking for a professional female photographer to take your sexy and flirty photos, then I am the perfect photographer for you! If you'd like info on my product photography rates, trade offers and more get in touch with me.

Q: Is there any nudity involved?

A: Only if you want there to be! You control how mild or wild you go. I prefer each client to make their own choice based on their comfort level and what they are trying to accomplish in their photoshoot. I find that clients who have their pre-photoshoot consultation in the studio are more comfortable in front of the camera on their photoshoot day. This is perfect for someone that wants to do nudes, but is nervous about doing so. Meeting me ahead of time will help you become comfortable with me as your photographer and allow you to take your photoshoot to the level you originally hoped for.

Q: How long does a typical photoshoot last?

A: It depends on how many looks your photo package includes, and if you selected a make-up artist. On average, a three look photoshoot with a make-up artist takes about 4 hours.

Q: What is a "look"?

A: One look equals one photo set-up and one wardrobe choice per look. Many photo sets can be created and not all choices are shown on our samples page. We have a list of looks available at the studio that can be found by clicking here.

Q: Do you provide clothes or should I bring my own?

A: Our studio has a nice selection of wardrobe (lingerie and sexy costumes), shoes, jewelry and other accessories available for you to use for your photoshoot. Our sizes vary from small to large, and we add to our collection from time to time. We currently do not carry any plus size or maternity items. You're also welcome to come to the studio for your pre-photoshoot consultation to try on the wardrobe we have so you know exactly what may or may not fit you and what you could bring to mix and match with our pieces.

Q: Should I arrive with my hair and make-up complete, or will you have someone there to do that?

A: Professional make-up artists (who do your hair too) are available for almost all photoshoot packages we offer. Their services are an additional fee to the photoshoot package price. You can also visit a salon prior to your visit, or plan to do your hair and make-up at the studio. Camera-ready make-up is different from everyday and even going-out make-up. If you plan to do your own make-up we'll give you a few tips to follow to help ensure the best results.

Q: Will my photos remain private and confidential?

A: Yes, absolutely! I never use a client's photo for any reason without permission from the client themselves. Without permission, your photos are only viewed by myself and whoever you choose to share them with. Most clients are having their photoshoot as a private gift for their significant other, or due to their job wish to remain anonymous. However, if you don't mind us using your images we'll have you sign a release that gives us permission to use your images and they will be added to our samples page. We'll either ask you for permission or you can mention to us that you don't mind if we use your photos for the website. By allowing us to use your images for our website we will give you a 15% discount on your next photoshoot package with us!

Q: How long will it take until I receive my completed photo package?

A: It will depend on which photoshoot package you select. Some take a week (like our Quickie) and others can take up to two months to process (like our Goddess and Celebrity). Our normal processing is three to six weeks on all photoshoot packages. However, we strive to provide you with your completed order as soon as possible.

Q: What is the personal website?

A: Each client will receive a link off of our website that is username/password protected - that is your personal website. It will have all the information to complete your order with us, including your proof gallery.

Q: Do you require a deposit to hold my photoshoot date?

A: Yes. We require a $50 non-refundable deposit to secure your photoshoot appointment. Your deposit applies towards your remaining balance due. If you need to re-schedule your photoshoot your deposit may apply towards a re-scheduled appointment date. Please visit the policies page for more information.

Q: Why do you charge a non-refundable deposit?

A: By reserving your photoshoot, I've lost an available date for other clients to book their photoshoot with my studio. I want you to be as committed to having your photoshoot as I am. By paying the deposit it shows your commitment to my studio and your seriousness to have your photoshoot.

Q: When is my deposit and remaining balance due?

A: Your deposit is due within 48 hours upon scheduling your photoshoot (unless other arrangements have been discussed and agreed upon).  Payment for your remaining balance is due in full on the day of your photoshoot, prior to the start of your photoshoot. You may also choose to pay in full upon booking your photoshoot or prior to your photoshoot date. Occasionally we may run specials and promotions that may require payment in full.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

A: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express and PayPal (both online and at my studio). If paying by cash at my studio, you must have exact change as I do not keep any cash at the studio. Sorry, no checks.

Q: Can I bring someone with me to my photoshoot?

A: Of course! I understand your need to feel comfortable and encourage you to bring a friend with you. Your guest must be female - no male guests allowed!! The type of photography I do is very personal and is not a spectator sport, which is why I normally do not allow your guest on set with you. I ask that your guest remains in the prep room while you're on set unless I agree to have your guest on set with you. You are responsible for the actions of your guest(s).

Q: My friends and I want to book a photoshoot with you, do you have a group discount?

A: There isn't a group discount, but our Girls-Night-Out parties may be the perfect option for you. There is a minimum of 3 guests for any Girls-Night-Out Party. We can also customize a photoshoot package for you and your guests to fit your needs. Just contact me for details!

Q: I'm a stay-at-home mom and want to surprise my husband with a photoshoot. He works during the day and that's a great time to sneak off to do this sexy surprise for him, can I schedule an early photoshoot? Can I bring my child?

A: I do have some weekday morning appointments available! If you have a baby or young toddler you are welcome to bring them as long as you also bring a pack-n-play to keep them in during the photoshoot to keep them safe and out of trouble. I understand your child situation as I'm a mom myself, so just ask me if you have any specific questions about bringing your child.

Q: I really want some sexy photos with my boyfriend/husband - you said no men allowed, can you make an exception?

A: Sorry, but the answer is no. I no longer offer couple's photoshoots. This is a personal choice and a business choice. This studio is for women, by women - no men allowed! I hope you understand.

Q: Do you offer a printing service?

A: Yes. While most photoshoot packages include prints or photo merchandise, I also give you the option to add-on additional products. A price list will be given to you along with your prep packet. Our prices are comparable to other photo labs.

Q: Do you offer outdoor photos to be taken?

A: At this time all photos are taken in studio only. During the spring and summer I may offer a seasonal outdoor photo set. I may also be able to work with individual requests - just ask!

Q: Should I arrive early to my photoshoot?

A: There is no need to arrive early, and I actually discourage it. I'm usually not available until just a few minutes before your appointment time (either because I am with another client or I have other obligations to attend to). If you arrive early I ask that you please wait in your car or drive into town to shop, eat or drink.

Q: What if I can't make it to my photoshoot?

A: We understand that life has a way of interrupting fun and exciting events, like our photoshoots. Contact me as soon as you know that you need to re-schedule. Please visit the policies page for more information to ensure your deposit will apply towards a future appointment.

Q: What if I'm running late?

A: Calling me is the best method of contact in that situation. It's usually not a problem unless you're going to be an hour or more late. I understand that things happen - like traffic. Please visit the policies page for more information.

 

Have another question not answered on this page? Contact me and I'll answer it!