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I am sharing the Process for Booking a Photography Session & what to expect. In this blog post, you will gain insights into how we meticulously handle session details to bring your vision to life.

Whether you’re a new client or a returning friend, my planning process for the Process for Booking a Photography Session is designed to make your experience seamless and tailored to your unique preferences. At the heart of my approach are the intricate session details that I meticulously curate with your vision in mind. For new clients, I understand that embarking on this journey might feel exciting yet unfamiliar. That’s why I am here to walk you through every step in this session prep guide, ensuring that from the moment you express your ideas to the final product, your photography session becomes a memorable and personalized adventure.

A biracial couple walking in the pathway of a filed at Maple Acres Farm.

For new customers embarking on this creative journey, I understand that the planning process might seem like uncharted territory. However, we’re here to ensure that every step is smooth and tailored to your preferences. From discussing location options and wardrobe choices to understanding the mood and style you envision, my goal is to make you feel comfortable and engaged throughout. 

The Process for Booking a Photography Session

Join me in unraveling the layers of our booking process as I shed light on the collaborative nature of our work and the seamless communication that underpins it all. Your photography experience starts here, with anticipation and excitement building with each detail we uncover.

Initial Consultation

Every session begins with an initial phone consultation so we can get to know one another. However, if a phone call doesn’t work, an email consultation does work too! I love to learn more about you and your family and your goals for the portrait session. 

Booking the Date

Once you’ve decided on the right photography package for your family, we’ll go ahead and get the date booked for your time slot! To reserve your day, a non-refundable session fee and a signed contract are required. We’ll work together with your schedule to find a perfect day and time for the photo session!

A family of four posing for a photo for Debra Heschl at Maple Acres Farm.

The session is Paid; now what?

Once your session is paid, your date is booked! You will receive a detailed email within 24-48 hours with Session details & a digital contract to sign. Your Contract must be signed before your session begins.

Session Day

On the day of your session, we’ll meet at the agreed location and time and start snapping away! A portrait session can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. It generally takes a few minutes for us to “warm up” together, meaning getting comfortable and feeling relaxed in front of (or behind!) the lens. 

Wait for Teasers

You got your photos taken & you are so anxious! Yep, me too! I can not wait to share all the beauty of your session with you. So, in about a week, I will post sneak peeks of your session. Generally, I will share about 5-10 photos on social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, Google & Tumblr. If you do not want your session to be shared, please let me know. I will respect your privacy!

Final Delivery

The big day has arrived & you are so excited to see your gallery! Whoohoo! You will receive an email with detailed instructions on how to access your gallery. You will also be able to download your digital images depending on your purchased package. The email will also include Client resources that will include your Print Release, Order Form, and investment Sheet. Below is the time frame when to expect to view your online gallery.

  • Weddings/Events ~ Approx. 6-8 weeks
  • Portraits ~ Approx. 2 weeks
Chris of 911Sound Pros holding headphones squatted down for a photo taken by Debra Heschl.

Order Selection

You will have a certain time limit depending on your photography package for viewing the gallery. If you need extra time to view the gallery, please reach out & let me know. You will get a One time pass before getting charged. ($35 fee for reactivating the gallery). You can select & download your favorite images right from the proofing gallery. 

Ordering Process

To order prints & products, you simply send me an email ([email protected]) to place your order. I will then send you a charge via Venmo or PayPal to complete your order. Once payment has been processed, your order will be placed. 

Not sure what type of session you want; no problem!

The photos have been taken and individually retouched with great love and care, and now it’s time for you to see the end result of all our hard work and planning! One of our clients’ favorite parts of the entire Debra Heschl Photography experience is getting to see their beautiful images projected larger than life in the comfort of their own homes! If you’re unsure about the type of session you want – I am here to help! Here are some types of photography sessions that would be a good fit for you!

On-Location Session

An on-location shoot is where we would meet at a desired location of your choice, whether it’s a picturesque park, a vibrant urban setting, or any place that holds special meaning to you, resulting in stunning images that beautifully incorporate your surroundings. Don’t have a location in mind, no problem! I have a list of beautiful locations to choose from!

Mini Sessions

I only offer mini-sessions in the Fall. If you only need 20 minutes, then this would be perfect for you! I host mini-sessions on certain days & times. Once I have a location, I will send an email to my subscribers & post on social media with the link to the post. You will receive five retouched images to select from your online gallery of 30-40 images. You also have the option to purchase the entire gallery. Be sure to Subscribe to stay in the loop on when dates & times have been posted! 

A little girl & boy on a bale of hay at Norristown Farm Park chatting away captured by Debra Heschl.

In-home Session

An in-home session is where I take photos in the comfort of your own home, capturing genuine moments and creating a relaxed atmosphere. This is a great way to showcase your personality and style in a familiar and meaningful setting.

Commonly Asked Questions

When it comes to booking a photo shoot, we understand that you might have questions. Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if there’s anything else you’d like to know about booking a photo shoot. We’re here to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible for you. Here are some commonly asked questions to help clear up any uncertainties:

What types of photography sessions do you offer?

I offer a diverse range of sessions, including portrait, family, engagement, and wedding/event photography. Let me know your preferences, and I will tailor the session to your needs.

What should I wear for the photo shoot?

Dressing appropriately for the photo shoot is important. I will provide guidance on outfit choices that complement the session’s theme and location.

Can I include specific props or themes in my session?

Absolutely! Your session should reflect your personality and style. Feel free to discuss any ideas you have, and we’ll work together to incorporate them.

How long does a typical session last?

Session durations can vary depending on the type and complexity of the shoot. It’s usually about an hour; however, I will provide you with an estimated timeframe during the planning process.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of an outdoor session?

Weather can be unpredictable. In such cases, we’re flexible and can reschedule the session to ensure optimal conditions.

How far in advance should I book a session?

It’s recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time. However, we’ll do our best to accommodate last-minute requests.

A bride & groom walking along side a pond at Belle of Blue Bell

Do you offer any package options?

Yes, I offer various package options tailored to different needs and budgets. We’ll discuss these options with you during the booking process.

What’s included in the session fee?

The session fee typically covers the photographer’s time and talent, pre-session consultations, editing, and a selection of final images. Typically, for a 1-hour Portrait session, it includes 10 digital downloads. Any additional products & prints will be detailed separately.

How do I receive the final photos?

After the session, I will provide you with a detailed email with instructions to access an online gallery where you can view and download your edited images.

Are session fee deposits refundable?

Session fee deposits are non-refundable. Once you’ve paid the deposit to secure your session, it is considered a commitment to the photographer’s time and services, and these funds are used to reserve your session date and cover any initial planning and preparation expenses. In many cases, if you need to cancel or reschedule, your non-refundable deposit can be applied to a rescheduled session within a specified timeframe, depending on the photographer’s policies. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions regarding deposits to understand the refund or rescheduling policies for paid sessions.

Why is there a fee for reactivating the online gallery? 

The fee for reactivating an online gallery is a practical necessity in the world of photography. While we understand that you want to cherish your memories for a lifetime, maintaining an online gallery incurs ongoing costs. The initial access you receive is akin to a one-time pass, granting you access for a limited time. However, as time goes on, the storage, security, and accessibility of your images require continued support and maintenance. Thus, the nominal fee for reactivating the gallery ensures that your cherished memories remain securely stored and easily accessible, allowing you to relive those special moments whenever you desire. It’s a small cost to keep your gallery active and your memories vividly alive.

Capturing Memories with Uncompromising Quality at Debra Heschl Photography

At Debra Heschl Photography, I understand the value of cherishing your treasured memories for a lifetime. That’s why I go the extra mile to ensure every aspect of your photographic experience is top-notch. The moment I capture those special moments, you can trust that my gear is meticulously calibrated to capture the highest quality images.

Furthermore, once your memories are in my hands, I take great care to send them to a high-quality lab, where I ensure that every print and product meets my stringent standards.

But my commitment doesn’t stop there….

Before I hand over your cherished memories to you, I meticulously scrutinize each order, guaranteeing that every aspect achieves flawless perfection, thus allowing the essence of your special moments to radiate through every image.

Your precious memories warrant nothing less than the highest level of care, attention, and an unwavering commitment to quality – and that’s exactly what Debra Heschl Photography delivers.

Do you still, have questions about the Process for Booking a Photography Session? No problem!

If you need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Head on over to the contact page & shoot me an email through the contact form or feel free to call or text me with any questions you may have!

In conclusion

The process for booking a photography session is a personalized journey, and designed to cater to your unique vision and preferences. From discussing session details to planning the perfect shoot, even if you’re new to the experience, rest assured that transparent communication and expert guidance will make it seamless. Your session is not just a transaction; it’s the beginning of an exciting artistic collaboration that ensures your photography experience is truly unforgettable.

Check out these posts that may fancy your interest!

How to Access Your Online Photo Gallery

8 Ways to Back-up Your Precious Images

Preparing for Your Family Photoshoot