Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the FAQ section, where I aim to address any questions you might have about my services. Feel free to explore and don't hesitate to reach out if you need further clarification.
Booking
How do I book a photography session? To book a session, simply navigate to the "Book Now" page and fill out the inquiry form. I will get back to you with more information within 1-2 business days.
How do I make a payment? Once we have agreed on a package and the contract has been signed by all parties, you may make a payment via credit card or debit card. You may access your invoice at any time.
Do you charge a deposit to hold a date? Yes. To hold a date, I require a non-refundable deposit. The amount varies on the package booked.
When is the remainder of the payment due? The remaining balance minus the deposit will be due the day before our scheduled photoshoot. You can pay it ahead of time if you prefer.
What is included in a photography package? My packages vary, but they all include: - Edited high-resolution photos - An online gallery for easy sharing/downloading - Printing rights. Refer to each package for detailed inclusions.
What type of photography services do you offer? I specialize in natural light portrait photography. That includes but is not limited to; - Seniors - Families - Maternity - Portraits - Couples - Intimate weddings and elopements - Destination portraits, weddings, and elopements You can see my work in these areas on the "Blog" page. Aside from portraiture, I also have experience in branding, event, and sports photography. Please shoot me an email to see my work in these specific genres!
Planning
What should I wear to my photoshoot? ...
Can I bring props or accessories to the photoshoot? Yes, absolutely. Accessories have the power to add to the storytelling aspect of a gallery. Grab props that represent you, or the story you want to tell. Here are some examples: - Ultrasound scans for a maternity session - Caps/gowns for graduation - Something that represents you… maybe a camera, a football, your car, a book. It doesn’t have to be specific to you or to the session type, however. I think a statement piece can make your photos more exciting and interesting! Don’t be afraid to get creative. Pinterest is a great place for inspiration. Examples: a cowboy hat, a vintage camera, a piece of furniture, a mirror, a bouquet of flowers, a disco ball, a newspaper. On top of making the photos more interesting, if you feel apprehensive to being in front of a camera, this is a greay way to loosen up. Being able to interact with your environment can make you more comfortable!
Can you recommend locations for an outdoor photoshoot? Of course! I have a location guide available to all of my clients. Please reach out for access.
Are there additional fees for travel to a further location? If I’m traveling further than 30 minutes from my base city (Knoxville, TN), there might be an additional fee of $50, to cover gas and extra time. This can be waived if we’re shooting at one of my bucketlist locations. This fee is also commonly waived if the shoot is taking place in or close to Clayton, GA. I am often already in town to visit family!
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my photo session? No worries! Life happens and sometimes things come up. I am happy to reschedule a session. If you have to cancel, you will receive a refund minus the deposit.
What happens in the case of bad weather for an outdoor shoot? Great question! I am happy to reschedule if bad weather such as rain or wind makes an outdoor shoot unbearable. However, if it’s just a small chance of rain I prefer to push through. Often, weather clears up! If not, shooting in the rain/snow/wind can add a visually interesting element to the photos. If the client is ever uncomfortable with weather conditions, I don’t mind to reschedule at all.
Help! I’m awkward in front of a camera. No worries, I’m awkward in nature too. A giant part of my job is to make your photoshoot an enjoyable experience. I make an effort to get to know every client before and throughout a session. I will walk you through every pose, and I’ll never ask you to do anything you aren’t comfortable with.
After
How long does it take to receive the edited photos? Turnaround time depends on the length and type of session. You can expect to receive your edited photos within 2-5 weeks. I prioritize quality to ensure your photos are perfect.
Can I order prints through your website? Yes, printing services are offered through the vendor I use to deliver your images.
Can I have the raw photos? I am not able to share raw (unedited/unprocessed) photos. Raw images are an incomplete piece of artwork. I am only comfortable providing you with the finished product you paid for.
Are digital files included in the package, or do I need to purchase them separately? The digital version of the final images will always be included in every package.
Misc
Do you travel? Yes I do! Eventually, I would really love to amp up my destination elopements/weddings/shoots. I have years of experience traveling and it’s one of my greatest passions. To combine travel and photography would be an absolute dream. Because it’s a large ambition of mine, if your project takes place in one of my bucket list locations, I’d be willing to offer an unbeatable discount! Please inquire for more details.
Where can I follow you on social media? Check out the social media bar at the bottom of the page. Give me a follow in Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn!
What happens if I show up late for my photoshoot? I will wait up to 30 minutes for a client running late. Know that showing up late can eat into your shooting time if starting around sunset. I can’t help it getting dark! If I have a second shoot the same day as yours, I’m afraid I won’t be able to wait if it’s time sensitive I have to show up in a timely manner to my other obligations as well!
Are you only shooting small weddings at this time? After years of capturing many amazing love stories, I’ve made the intentional decision to step back from large scale weddings. While I have cherished every moment of documenting weddings, the choice stems from a desire to create a more fulfilling experience for both me and my clients. Rather than spreading myself thin, I aim to focus on quality over quantity. This shift to small weddings and elopements aligns with my goal to provide couples with photos reflecting the depth and authenticity their stories deserve.
Do you ever offer any special deals, promos, or giveaways? Yes, I do! I do at least one giveaway a year in December. I also offer discounted / free shoots at my bucket list locations from time to time. Please give me a follow over on Instagram to get the latest news on deals, promos and giveaways. My Instagram handle is @katiemae.photography.