Northampton Portrait Photographers. Studio & location photography in Northamptonshire / Northants & throughout the Midlands. Fashion/Editorial/Boudoir/Portfolios.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AND TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR PORTRAIT SESSION

I have an idea for a shoot...

Great! Let’s hear it. Photo sessions always work best when there is a shoot concept or idea. It makes it easier to get into character and often suggests what the suitable clothing, props or poses might be. Please contact us to discuss your ideas well in advance of your shoot so we can help plan the session. If you don’t have any particular ideas for the shoot don’t worry, we can work on the look together to achieve images you are proud of.

What about location shoots?

We enjoy carrying out location shoots and these can provide exciting images. However, locations must be chosen carefully and properly researched prior to the shoot. Permission must be obtained to use the location if it is private land or property. Consideration should be given to privacy and reducing the potential for the shoot to be observed by members of the public. This is for your own comfort and also not to cause offence or nuisance to others. Ideally there will be a place to change outfits otherwise all the images will look the same. Weather is obviously important for outdoor shoots and the direction of the natural light may dictate what time of day is most suitable for the shoot. Consideration should be given to nearby facilities, eg refreshments, toilets, shelter, etc. If you have an idea for a shoot at a particular location please contact us to discuss. We also have a number of locations where we have shot before so can suggest alternatives if necessary.

What do I need to bring?

• Lots of outfits / lingerie. (Bring more than you think you might need to allow for some flexibility in selections.)
• Stockings/suspenders as appropriate.
• Various colours of high-heeled shoes, knee-length boots, etc.
• A robe / dressing gown to wear between set changes.
• Jewellery: necklaces, earrings, bracelets, chain belts, etc.
• Props / accessories: hats, sunglasses, scarves, jackets, fabric, hair bands/clips, etc. Anything you think could add to the shot and give you something to interact with.
• Your own make-up and hair styling products/tools to enable changes to your look.

Can I bring a chaperone?

Are welcome but are advised not to interfere in the shoot while in progress as this can make you more self-conscious and can be a distraction. Where possible chaperones should wait in an adjoining room during the shoot. Occasionally, we may invite chaperones to assist in the shoot, eg to hold reflectors, etc.

How will I know how to pose?

We will discuss some pose ideas with you prior to commencing the shoot and can show you example photos to get ideas. We will direct the flow of posing during each set so don’t worry about not knowing what to do but you can also bring examples of any ideas you would like to work on. You could also try copying poses you like from magazines in front of the mirror to build up confidence.

What about make-up and hair?

To save time during your session please make sure that your hair and make-up is done to a good standard prior to arrival. Use a good powder foundation to reduce shine. Bring your own make-up and hair equipment with you to enable changes of look if required. A professional make-up artist can be hired at additional cost, in which case please arrive wearing a minimum of make-up.

What should I wear to the session?

Do not wear tight clothing before the session as it leaves imprints that take a long while to fade. If doing a nude or semi-nude session please do not wear underwear prior to the session for the same reason. A separate changing facility will be provided for studio based shoots.

How many images will I receive?

Due to the varying nature of portrait sessions we cannot guarantee the number of finished shots you will receive. We will take far more shots than get edited to the final selection as there will be a number of very similar shots where we pick the best ones for pose, expression, lighting, etc. Generally there will be between 15 and 25 fully edited images.

What if I am uncomfortable or nervous?

If you are unhappy at any point during the session please let us know that you are uncomfortable straight away and we can move on to something else or stop the session.

If you are nervous about having your photo taken, just imagine you are an actress playing a part and try to get into character. Above all we intend the session to be fun and relaxed so that you can enjoy the experience.

What happens after the session?

We will edit the photos over the next few days to select the best images from the session and process them for optimal finish. Depending on the presentation method you have chosen you will either receive your CD in the post within the fortnight or receive an email with a link to a web gallery where you can order prints or other photo-gifts. Should you require a photo book or album please discuss your requirements with us upon booking your session.

What about Copyright?

All images remain the copyright of Wildcard Photography and are subject to usual copyright law. Images provided electronically come with permission for you to print or reproduce them for friends and family. Should you require a second set of low resolution images can be provided on your disc suitable for uploading to websites. These will carry a discreet Wildcard Photography watermark. All images provided are deemed to be for personal use only and may not be sold or incorporated into any product or used commercially in any other way. For portrait sessions where the images are for commercial use please contact us to agree terms.

Please visit our other photography websites for more examples of our images:
Wildcard Photography Main Site   Wildcard Bikes   Wildcard Weddings   Wildcard Commercial

COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images and content on this website are copyright and the property of Wildcard Photography trading as Wildcard Portraits. Downloading, copying, distribution, printing, publishing or any other use in either paper or electronic form is prohibited without prior permission from Wildcard Photography. Purchase of a print or photo-gift does not grant copyright privileges or ownership of the image. Should you wish to use our images in any way, you should contact us to agree terms, which will be based upon the type of use and level of exclusivity required.