BOUDOIR FAQS and answers to commonly asked questions:
Where are you located? My studio is located on Historic 4th St. in Sioux City, IA. I also shoot outdoor shoots on property located in Jackson, NE. Jackson is a 20 minute drive from Sioux City and the location is private. Both spaces are magical.
How long does a boudoir shoot last? Full sessions run an average 3 hours. That includes time for hair and makeup and 90 minutes of shooting with me.
I have never done a shoot like this before. I’m not sure how to pose. NO WORRIES, BABE! I got you. I do the pose myself and show you how the entire time. I’m always checking in to see how you’re feeling. I will never put you in poses that are painful.
Will you photoshop my body to make me look perfect? I’m a body image activist and body positive photographer. That means I celebrate all that makes us human. If you’re booking a session with me, you’re signing up for a beautiful experience of body acceptance and love. Unless specifically asked not to before hand, I apply the 6 week rule when editing your photos. I will edit out acne, bruises or anything that will be gone in 6 weeks. Cellulite, wrinkles, scars, bellies.. will not be edited because all of it is worthy and celebrated in this space.
Do you have outfits for me to wear? What Sizes? I do!! I carry a range from XS to 3X. When you book a full session with me you’ll have access to the boudoir closet! I do ask clients bring at least one outfit of their own that fits well.
Do you offer hair and makeup? Yes! I have two fabulous artists that will do both. You must book a full session to get hair and makeup included.
Are there photos included with the session fee? There are no photos included with the session fee. Your session fee acts as a retainer to hold your spot, pays for hair and makeup, 90 minutes with me, pre-shoot phone consult, access to the boudoir closet, and my time editing. Session fee is due at time of booking.
Do I have to pay for a package in addition to the session fee? Yes. If you want photos from your session, you’ll need to select a package listed on the website. Each photo is a piece of art work and is priced as such. I can promise you won’t regret getting a beautiful album you can touch and hold in your hands. Package payment is due day of session.
Do you offer payment plans? Yes. Once you book a session, you’ll need to decide on a package. I offer a plan to make payments on your package up until your session so you are paid in full the day of the session. (Package payment is due day of your session.)
How long does it take to get my photos? You’ll receive your online gallery via email 2-3 weeks after your session.
I have an event or want to give these as a gift. How far in advance should I book? You’ll want to give yourself 4-5 weeks before the event to be sure you have what you need in time.
How do you pick a date and time for a session? Dates and times are pre-selected and can be found by clicking the “BOOK NOW” button on the boudoir section of the website. Dates are first come first serve. Sessions are held on weekdays unless specified otherwise (i.e. mini sessions.)
What is the difference in packages? The Emerald package is a 10 page 5x5 album + 3 digitals. If you opt for the Emerald package; you’ll receive an online gallery of watermarked images. (These images are not downloadable and illegal to screen shot.) Once you favorite 20 of your images, I will begin designing your album. You’ll also be able to favorite 3 images to download with no watermark. They do not have to be the same photos in your album. Album is then delivered to your door within 1-2 weeks.
The Ruby package is an online gallery of 40 images from your session. No watermark and able to download straight from your phone and computer. You’ll be able to download the photos for 2 weeks after gallery delivery. I always suggest saving the images to at least two external devices such as a usb.
What if I don’t get my photos downloaded in time? There is a gallery unarchival fee of $150 if you need your gallery put back online after the allotted time.
Do you offer mini sessions? I do! But only once a month on pre selected dates. They are themed too! I usually open my books in the VIP group on Facebook before I open them to the public. It pays to be in the group!
Do mini sessions come with hair and makeup? Clothes? You must come to your mini session with hair and makeup done and with your own outfit.
Do I have to share my photos? Nope! You have the power to decide. As much as I would love to share all your photos, YOU have that power to decide who sees them. I will never share to the group or social media unless specifically given permission by you in the contract/model release.
Do I own the copyright to the photos? As the photographer, I retain copyright on the images. Clients get printing rights when choosing the Ruby package. But I will always own the copyright.
FAQS for Maternity, Lifestyle and other sessions:
Where does the session take place? All maternity, lifestyle, senior, etc are shot in Jackson, NE, outdoors, on private property.
When do the sessions take place? One to two hours before sunset. I aim to capture the golden hour light to really make your images magical.
Do you ever shoot in Sioux City or other areas? I do! If you’re wanting a lifestyle, in-home session, I will come to your home too!
When should I book maternity pics? As soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Maternity is shot at the beginning of your third trimester and my books fill up quickly for the year. You’ll want to get on the books sooner rather than later.
Do you have maternity gowns? Sure do! With a collection of over 20 gowns and counting, there’s something for everyone.
Do you offer Birth photos? Yes! I only take on 2-3 births a year as I must schedule around your due date and be on call. Price is not listed and can be discussed via email. I look forward to hearing from you!
Do you offer newborn photos? I do! I offer what are called in-home sessions. These are lifestyle session and not the posed photos you may be used to seeing. No baskets or wraps here. I utilize the natural light in your home and capture true life moments.
When should I book a newborn session? It’s best to contact me once you know your due date. Newborn photos are typically done in the first 2 weeks of birth. I’ll want to set time aside around your due date.
Do you still offer family sessions? Of course! I offer outdoor family sessions but I call them lifestyle sessions. We don’t pose as much as we play and have fun.
Do you offer senior portraits? Yes! I enjoy them very much and getting creative with the seniors is the best!
Do you shoot on weekends? I typically only offer sessions during the week. Unless it’s October. October will always have weekend availability. With sunset being later in the evening most months, it’s pretty easy to schedule sessions later in the day.