Question 1

How can I prepare my child for a portrait?

Accepted Answer

My goal is to create a fun and happy environment for your family so that we will get genuine expressions and wonderful portraits of your child.

Please tell them they are going to have a fun day with the family and that I will be joining you to take pictures of all the fun. I encourage you to avoid bribes or threats because this may take away from the concept that the session itself is a treat!

For older babies or young toddlers, you might bring toys that they love that might look nice in a picture.(Wood toys, blankets, classic toys, tricycles, wagons, and blocks all look great.) Other fun session items: bubbles, baby blanket, favorite toy or lovey.

Make sure to feed a meal or snack before your shoot, and avoid treats until after the session is completed--you don't want a photo of your child with M&M's in their mouths, believe me!

Question 2

What does a custom session include?

Accepted Answer

You may expect the following from your custom session:

A photography appointment lasting from 45 minutes to two hours.
Sorting, retouching, and editing of photographic products at the photographer's discretion.
A portrait viewing and ordering appointment. You will view at least 30 images one-to three weeks following your session.
A custom session DOES NOT include digital images, prints or other products.
Your $400 deposit will be applied to your order.

Question 3

What if Missy needs to cancel your photo session?

Accepted Answer

Very rarely, Missy will need to cancel a photography session due to fire or other casualty, strike, act of God, another cause beyond the control of the parties, photographer's illness, or family emergency. If this occurs, Missy will make every effort to find a suitable replacement. If no qualified replacement is available, the client has the option of rescheduling the session without penalty or to receive a refund. If the session is part of a package, the client will be refunded a pro-rated amount for the cancelled session.

Question 4

What is a custom session?

Accepted Answer

A custom session is a full length photography session with me, and 90% of my shoots are custom session. Since they are custom, every session is totally different and designed just for you! We will work together to choose a location (studio, home, or outside), clothing, styling, activities, posed and/or more candid portraits, etc. Custom sessions are usually one family (Mom, Dad and kids), but it may include grandparents or pets. This may be a family session that is mostly focused on Mom during her pregnancy, it may focus on a group of siblings, or it may be a newborn baby with Mom, Dad and siblings. There are all different types of families, and I have many ideas and lots of experience with most situations! We will spend around 1-2 hours capturing your portraits, and you will have 30+ gorgeous images to choose from. Custom sessions include complementary hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling.

Question 5

What is your style?

Accepted Answer

My visual style is clean, simple, and timeless, and my shooting style is fun and active! Please see examples here of my style so that you will know what to expect from your images if you choose me as your photographer.

Question 6

What should my family wear for our photo shoot?

Accepted Answer

We will set you up with our wardrobe styling team to help you pickj the perfect palette and accessories for your family.

SOme general info: Wear something that makes you feel great, that fits you well, and colors that flatter your skin tone. Try to coordinate your group just a little bit (for example… everyone in neutrals, everyone in cooler tones, you get the idea…). For an indoor shoot, look at the interior of your house for an idea of what you like. But, beyond that, don’t feel like your family needs to match!

Question 7

Where will we be shooting?

Accepted Answer

The location depends on the type of session, the ages of any children, and what vibe you would like to have in your portraits. For families, I like to shoot outside if possible! Your home is a great place for a lifestyle session and is my preference for newborn sessions. I have a list of favorite outdoor locations I like to shoot in all regions of Pittsburgh, so we will discuss and I will make recommendations before we pick a spot. If you have a location that is special to you, please share with me so I can research. I also have a beautiful, modern studio that is suitable for all types of sessions.