How a Photo Session Works

Step 1: Book Your Session

Everything starts on the pricing page, where you can see exactly what each session type costs and what’s included in my Standard and Deluxe packages. No hidden fees, no surprise upsells. Pick the session that fits, use the scheduling link to grab a date, and you’re officially on the calendar. If you’re not sure which session type you need, just send me a message and I’ll point you in the right direction.

Step 2: Pre-Session Consult

Before we ever pick up a camera, we’ll talk through the plan. Where should we shoot: a park in Allen, downtown McKinney, Arbor Hills in Plano, or somewhere that means something to your family? What’s the goal: Christmas cards, graduation announcements, a LinkedIn refresh? What should everyone wear? I’ll share location ideas based on the season and light, outfit guidance, and answers to every question you have. By shoot day there are no unknowns, which is exactly how the nerves stay away. You can also browse my frequently asked questions any time.

Step 3: Shoot Day

This is the fun part, and I do mean fun. We meet at our agreed time and location, and I guide you through everything: where to stand, what to do with your hands, how to get toddlers to actually look at the camera (I have tricks). Most portrait sessions run about an hour. Sports and team sessions run on the event’s schedule. You don’t need to know how to pose; that’s my job. Your only job is to show up and be yourselves.

Step 4: Editing

After the session, I go through every frame and hand-edit the best shots: color, light, skin tones, and the small distractions you’d notice later. This typically takes about one to two weeks depending on the season. Please note that heavy digital retouching like teeth whitening, blemish removal, and other special effects are not included in the basic session price; check the pricing page for what’s included in each package.

Step 5: Gallery Delivery

When editing is done, you’ll receive a link to your private online gallery. The digital files are yours to download and use as you please: print them, share them, frame them, send them to grandma. Professionally prepared prints and print products can be ordered directly from the gallery too, and I’m always happy to recommend sizes and finishes.

That’s the whole process. Simple, personal, and built so you always know what happens next.

Common Questions

How far in advance should I book?

For fall family sessions and spring senior sessions, a month or two ahead is smart, those calendars fill first. Headshots and off-peak sessions can often be scheduled within a week or two.

What if the weather turns bad on shoot day?

We watch the forecast together and, if it’s genuinely bad, we reschedule to the next date that works. Light clouds are actually great for photos, so don’t panic at a gray sky.

How long until I see my photos?

Your private online gallery typically arrives within one to two weeks of the session, sometimes sooner. If you’re up against a deadline like holiday cards or an application, tell me and we’ll build the timeline around it.

Have a question I didn’t answer here? The full photo session FAQ covers a lot more, or just ask me directly.