Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I wear?
I recommend wearing what is comfortable to you. When you are comfortable, you look more natural in your pictures. Having a color scheme is always a good idea too. For example, in family pictures having parents in solid colors that match the pattern in a child’s outfit is a good look. In engagement pictures, I’ve also seen contrast look really great, such as girl in black with guy in white. If you are most comfortable all in black shirts or all in white shirts so you match, do it. Just make sure you feel good!
Also, we all know that black tends to be slimming. At the same time, shirts with sleeves tend to be more flattering for those of us who are not body builders, and short shorts may not be a good choice if we are going to do any sitting poses. But, if you feel good in an outfit you will look good and you should wear it!!
SENIORS: Follow the above for picking out your clothing as well but keep in mind we want your photos to represent YOU. What I mean is if you NEVER dress in a suit then a suit does not represent you! If you would NEVER, EVER wear a dress, then don't bring a dress to your senior session! I do however suggest bringing at least two outfits, one that is YOUR dressy outfit and a more casual one that you love. You may have more than that and that is OK too. I also don't want any senior to hesitate to bring a sports, cheer leading, band or any other uniform that you have from activities you participate in. Those all represent just who YOU are during your senior year.
Where can my session take place?
I do on location sessions, so each session is done at the location of the client’s choosing. If for any reason you cannot think of a good place to do your session, let me know and I will try to come up with something for you. At this point I do not have a studio location, so if you want “studio” pictures, we can do those as well, on location! I will bring the backdrops with me and we can set it up in your living room. If the studio portraits are what you are looking for, please let me know ahead of time so I can bring along everything needed. I DO NOT travel with these things on a normal basis and will only have them if requested.
How long does it take to get my images back?
I strive to provide you with the best images possible! This takes time for me to go through each image carefully in processing. Because of this, it does usually take at least two to three weeks for me to get the proofs ready for viewing, though I try to get Facebook previews up within a week.
How do I proof my photos once they are ready?
Once your photos have gone through processing, I will send you a message letting you know your photos are available for viewing. You will then be able to go to my website to see your finished images in a password protected gallery. You will also be able to order prints from this gallery. If for any reason you would like printed proofs, please let me know and we can make arrangements.
How long does it take to get my prints back?
Once prints are ordered, the lab usually takes roughly 10-15 business days to get the prints back. If for any reason you have not gotten your prints within 15 business days, please be sure to let me know so I can find out what the delay is.
Where should I get my pictures printed?
I offer prints in many sizes as well as other specialty items like canvas wraps, metal prints, albums, etc. If you decide to make prints from a disk (or other digital media) that was provided by me with the print release, then I recommend getting your prints at a reputable printer, not WalMart or Walgreens. Some of the printers that I would recommend are Mpix or Shutterfly.
Who holds the copyright to the images?
Photos By Dawn holds all copyrights to the images. If you receive a disk, usb, or digital download with your images on them, you will also receive a print release. The print release will grant you the right to print the images at a printer of your choice. This print release only gives rights to print the images. The copyrighted images cannot be altered in any way and can only be used for personal use. The images cannot be used for any other companies advertisement and cannot be sold for any reason. Photos By Dawn holds the right to use the images in advertisements, on the website and in other promotional material.
When should I schedule my maternity session?
The best time to schedule your maternity session is generally around 28-34 weeks, when the tummy is nice and round. This will vary with each woman and some women who carry small, or gain little weight may choose to wait until they are 36-38 weeks. You want to come when you feel good, have a nice belly but before the downward venture begins! Other women who are growing a bit more rapidly, may choose to come around 28-32 weeks. The idea is to come when you are comfortable and have a nice round belly.
When should I schedule my newborn session?
The best time to get those cute sleepy baby poses is between birth and 10 days old. After about 10 days, baby will start to be more aware, move around a little more, and tend to be a little less sleepy. After that 10 day mark, I can’t guarantee you will be able to get any of those cute poses.