From Then to Now (Part 4): What It’s Like to Book a Session With Me (No Guessing, No Stress)

If you’ve been following this January series, you already know I’m not here for the highlight reel.

I want you to know what it’s actually like to work with me—because one of the biggest reasons people wait to book photos is simple:

They don’t know what to expect.

They’re worried it’ll be awkward. They’re worried their kid won’t cooperate. They’re worried they’ll show up and feel unprepared.

So today I’m breaking it down—step by step—so there’s no guessing and no stress.

Step 1: You message me (and we talk like real humans)

You don’t need a fancy message. You don’t need to have every detail figured out.

Just tell me:

  • What kind of session you’re thinking about (senior, sports, baby, family, etc.)
  • Roughly when you want it
  • Any must-haves (cap and gown, uniform, a certain location, a specific vibe)

From there, I’ll ask a few questions and help you figure out what fits.

Step 2: We pick a date + a plan that makes sense for you

Most sessions run 60–90 minutes, and most people book 2 weeks to a month out (but I’ll always do my best to work with your schedule).

We’ll talk through:

  • Location ideas (outdoor, studio, or a mix)
  • Outfits / what to bring
  • Timing (golden hour vs. studio, game schedules, nap schedules… all of it)

And if you’re thinking, “I have no idea what would look good,” that’s normal. I’ll guide you.

Step 3: Booking is official with a booking fee/retainer

This is the part that holds your spot.

  • For most sessions: $50 non-refundable booking fee
  • For weddings: $250 retainer (due within 60 days)

After that, you’re officially on my calendar.

Step 4: Payment is simple (and you can split it up)

Life is expensive. I get it.

Your balance is due 24 hours before your session, and you can make up to 5 payments if that helps.

I accept:

  • PayPal (invoicing)
  • Venmo
  • Facebook Pay

If you ever have questions about payment, just ask. I’d rather you feel comfortable than stressed.

Step 5: Session day (aka: you don’t have to know what you’re doing)

Here’s what I need you to know:

You do not have to be “photogenic.”

You do not have to know how to pose.

You do not have to show up perfectly confident.

That’s literally part of my job—guiding you, helping you relax, and finding the angles and moments that feel like you.

For seniors

We’ll keep it moving so it doesn’t feel stiff. I’ll help with posing, but I also want the real smiles and the in-between moments.

For sports

We can do action-style, posed, uniform shots, or a mix. If you’re not sure what you want, tell me the sport + the vibe and I’ll build a plan.

For babies

We go at baby speed. If we need breaks, we take breaks. If baby isn’t feeling it right away, we pivot. No one’s getting judged in my sessions.

Step 6: Editing + proof gallery timeline

After your session, I go into edit mode.

Typical timelines:

  • Proof gallery uploaded within 1–2 weeks
  • Weddings: 2–3 weeks
  • Corporate clients: photos within 48 hours

Your final images are delivered as high-res JPEGs through Pass Gallery.

Step 7: Picking your favorites + ordering

Once your gallery is delivered, you’ll choose your favorites and place your order.

Most people love digital downloads (they’re the most popular), but prints are always an option too.

I recommend ordering within 30 days so you don’t have to circle back later and try to remember what you wanted.

Step 8: Real talk—if you’re nervous, tell me

I mean that.

If you’re worried your teen won’t smile, or you feel awkward in photos, or your baby is in a “stranger danger” phase… tell me.

I’ve worked with all of it, and I’m not here to make you feel bad.

I’m here to help you walk away thinking:

“Okay… that was actually fun.”

And then later:

“Wow. That’s us.”

If you’ve been waiting… this is your sign

You don’t have to have it all figured out.

You don’t have to wait until life is calmer.

You don’t have to wait until you feel more confident.

If you’re thinking about senior photos, sports photos, or baby pictures… message me and we’ll plan it. No pressure—just a real conversation to figure out what fits you best.

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