Have Questions? I've Got Answers!
FAQ
How many photos will I get?
One thing I always disliked when searching for a photographer for our own family was that there were no options to book a session where I could receive every edit-worthy photo.
When you book a session with me, most of my packages include the option to purchase additional photos beyond what is included or to upgrade to the next package (presuming there are additional photos). If there is a particular image you were hoping to get that you didn't receive in your gallery, you always have the option to add additional photos whether it be a la carte or upgrading to the next gallery package. For more information on the different types of packages available, please visit the investment page under the info drop-down.
How should we dress for our/my session?
My work has evolved over the years and if you've been following me for a while, you probably notice that my more recent sessions are heavily styled. When you style your session, whether with my assistance or not, it plays a big part in the overall final look of your photographs. When you book a session with me, there are many different ways I can help you achieve the look you're going for; the first thing offer is a complementary styling tool that you'll receive access to once booked via style & select. Here, you can curate and any others that will be photographed. When you book a Keepsake, Heirloom or Storyteller session, you also have complementary access to my Client Closet of which includes more than 20 photo-worthy gowns & dresses that fit sizes XS-XL+, maternity, non-maternity and look fabulous on all body types & sizes. I am also happy to put together pieces either from my own client closet or for you to shop if you're up for having me style the whole family! For more information, visit the Client Styling tab under the Information drop-down menu for more information!
What’s the best time to have a session with a newborn?
I usually recommend in the first 1-2 weeks of life. This is usually a good time as they are still sleepy enough to get some good posed photos, while also likely getting a couple of photographs awake as well! As a mom who had complications with her first child however, I do know this is not always possible so we will do what you are comfortable with!
Are you available for private events such as a bridal shower, baby gender reveal or family reunion?
Absolutely! All events are priced by the hour. Please reach out to discuss scope and details and I will provide you with a quote.
Are you a fully registered business?
Yes! Charlotte & Emerson Photography is an established and fully registered LLC and practicing business.
What if I want a shorter session?
Sometimes the whole session time is not needed and that's totally fine! I keep the session times listed as a buffer as more times than not, we end up using the whole time. Much of my session pricing is based on my editing time as a majority of the time spent on your photos is during the editing process - not the session itself!
Will you show me how to pose for our photos?
Absolutely! I'll guide you into poses that best suit your body type and environment. I like to call it 'prompting' as I like to keep you moving and engaging throughout the session to capture your most authentic self. When you book a session with me, we will start with the "Christmas Card photograph" where everyone is looking at the camera, and from there will transition to our storytelling part of the session. I might prompt your child to give you kiss on the nose, play tag, guide you up a hill. The beauty of a lifestyle session is that most of the photographs I capture will be moments between you and your loved ones just being yourselves in your own element. We'll take a a few "posed" photos upfront, but the rest will be candid shots showcasing the love between you and your loved ones.
How long will it take for my photos to be edited?
I want to get your photos to you just as quickly as you want to view them! That being said, my photography and editing are my craft and they do take time. Sometimes this can be in as little as two weeks, sometimes as much as up to seven or eight weeks during busy season. During busy season like Fall or Holiday, please keep in mind that editing times may be extended beyond this due to increased volume and number of sessions, however if you've booked a seasonal session, I do my very best to ensure I try and get these out to you by the Thanksgiving holiday so that you have enough time to order any Christmas cards. I am grateful for your patience during these busy times of the year! If you have a deadline you are trying to meet - please let me know up front at time of booking and I can let you know if it is something that will be achievable. I do offer a rush editing services with a 5 & 10 day turn-around times which may be an option if you need your photographs quicker.
Do you travel for sessions?
I do! If you are local to Charlotte, I can travel anywhere within 30 miles of Belmont, NC without a travel fee. If you are outside of this radius, there is just a small fee to help offset the cost of travel/gas milage (please reference investment page). Alternatively if you interested in one of my mountain packages (Wuthering Heights or Whispering Pines), these are inclusive of any travel fees. Out of State? I can also travel to you! Please reach out for more details and pricing or head to my investment page under the info tab.
How soon should I book?
My busiest times of the year are the Spring, Fall & the holiday season. If you are interested in booking photos during these times of the year, I recommend booking as soon as possible or as soon as you see my seasonal booking links are sent out as availability is extremely limited and dates do fill up quickly. If you are not already on my mailing list, please be sure to subscribe on the home page or or contact page as my mailing list does get notified first and receives first pass at bookings for seasonal sessions. If you have a specific date in mind outside of this for a session and are not flexible on dates, please reach out and I will do my best to work with your schedule!
What happens if I can't make my session?
As a mom myself, I know that life happens! Especially when kiddos are sick. In many cases I am able to apply your retainer to a future session- first time is complementary, however in some cases where there is a rental fee involved such as a studio, tree or flower farm, or even Santa Claus, these retainers would not be transferrable and a new one will be required to change the session date, especially during busy season, or if the location your photographs are scheduled for requires such rental fees. Re-booking of the same location may not always be an option pending availability. Please reference your contract for full details.
Do you have experience working with local businesses?
Yes! I have worked with a variety of small businesses and small business owners. Everything from corporate or organizational headshots to country club events & more. Please reach out to discuss your event and to receive a quote!
I want photos, but I don't know where to have them taken.
Leave that to me! I will always ask if you have a place in mind for photos, or if you are trying to achieve a certain look or backdrop. If you don't, or even if you do but would like a few additional suggestions- I can always recommend a few places based on the overall vibe you are trying to achieve with your photographs. If it is a brisk or hot time of year and/or you prefer to take photographs indoors in a studio, that is an option as well! I'll share some of my favorite spots and make a couple of recommendations that I think would work best based on the time of year and location and you can choose what best suits you! Please note that a studio rental fee will apply.
