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So you booked your session. What happens now?
Via e-mail, we will discuss location selection and wardrobe selection and answer any questions you have. I will also email you on Monday before your session with a remainder.
I'm so excited to be working with you, and I can’t wait for our time together during your session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photo taken - and I do this for a living!
Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of you. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with you always looking at the camera but to capture your true essence of you. I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.
Location
Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. We can shoot in your home as long as your home has adequate natural light. Many clients prefer their home because of the intimate and personal feel it provides. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly, but I am always open to new locations. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I can help you with this decision.
Time
If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning because that is when homes are usually lit up the best. If we are shooting outdoors, we will shoot either in the morning or in the evening. The light is typically too harsh at midday.
Length Of Session
The good news is, I am super fast! My romantic couple portrait sessions usually last about an hour. Do not worry; we are not going to rush anything. I want you to have fun. I will ensure you are all relaxed and happy with me capturing your memories. Bear in mind that typically it takes people at least 15 minutes before they can even really 'warm up in front of the camera.
Note to the Guys
Having your picture taken might not be in your top 10 favourite things to do. At first, you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera. But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought, and you even had a little fun.
What To Wear
The wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are.
Come dressed in your favourite outfit, ready for a good time! If your session is taking place outdoors & the forecast calls for less than ideal weather (especially in terms of temperature), be sure to dress in LAYERS. Trust me, and if you feel cold, you will inevitably 'look cold' in your photographs.
Keep your outfit simple.
Solid colours are best. Try to avoid large, bold patterns.
If your chosen portrait package is on-location and allows for outfit changes, feel free to have your outfit change(s), hair combs, accessories, makeup, props, etc. ready to go inside something easy to carry around, like a small backpack. These items might be useful to you for those mid-shoot 'touch-ups' and will add creativity and variety to your session.
Posing
When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process, beginning with prompts that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it will make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to ensure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
Pets
My dogs are a huge part of my family, which is why I love when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Remember that bringing a pet along often means we’ll need to choose a pet-friendly location.
If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pet's favourite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, grooming them before the shoot might also be a good idea.
Props
I do not use props during my sessions; however, please let me know if you have something in mind.
AFTER THE SESSION
Your online gallery is ready!
I aim to deliver your online gallery within two-three weeks after the photoshoot. You’ll receive a link to a beautiful online gallery where you can view and download and order your product.
HOW TO CHOOSE FROM ALL THE IMAGES?
You don't have to choose! My pricing has been created so that you get the very best savings when you purchase all of your images. Personally, I can never choose a few images from a gallery of my own children, so I don't want you to have to choose either! I also offer a lot of images within your gallery so that when purchasing all images, you get a lot of value from your investment.
Your gallery will be available for viewing and ordering for two-three weeks. You may share your gallery link with family and friends. Please be prepared to back up your files. Your images can take up to 4 GB of space on your computer.
If you do not have enough space on your device, you can buy a USB with your images for an additional £50.
No RAW files are available for sale.
Photos that languish on a hard drive break my heart – I love to see how you can use the images we create together to make your house a home.
Depending on your location, you’ll also be able to order high-quality prints and photo albums directly through your online gallery.
Your photo shoot is just the start, next you get to choose how you want to share and enjoy your beautiful pictures.
Products which you can order after receiving you gallery
Prints
Bring your photos to life on the finest-quality paper designed to be enjoyed for a lifetime. Printed on professional-grade archival paper for increased colour gamut, excellent skin tones, sharpness and brilliant image quality.
Photo Album
A book that tells about the most important moments of your family. This premium quality Photo Album, designed exclusively for professional photographers, is far and away above what is commonly associated with photo books.
10 thick, 800 gsm spreads in this luxury Photo Album. Lay-flat binding allows you to show your photo uninterrupted over a double-page spread.
If you would like to create this beautiful keepsake simply let me know and I would be honoured to create this amazing memory book from your session.
Photo TRIPLEX
A tri-fold centerpiece with the look, feel, and quality of our Photo Albums.
The perfect complement to any home. Perched upon a bookshelf, fireplace mantel, dresser, or desk the Triplex makes the ideal add-on to an album or other large print product purchase as a gift for a friend or relative.
It also makes for the best photography display for wedding, newborn, and pet photography.
Click on the photo and see short video about Photo Triplex
Thank you
I know this guide is long, and I hope it covers the basics of what you need to know to prep for your session! However, if there is something I missed, I am always here to help and provide my advice and recommendations.
Feel free to email dorota@markowskaphoto.com with any questions you might have.
Thank you, and I look forward to capturing your portraits!
I CAN NOT WAIT TO MEET YOU!
Dorota xxx
