I don't have set hours. I teach Visual Design during the day and am completing a Ph.D., so I schedule sessions based on customer needs and my availability. Typically, I plan after 2 PM and on weekends to accommodate clients who are working or attending school.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

I am based in Chesapeake, Virginia, but I frequently travel across the United States and internationally for destination shoots and educational trips with students. A travel fee applies for locations over 50 miles away.

DO YOU ACCEPT RESERVATIONS?

Yes, due to my busy schedule, it's best to make and keep a reservation. When booked, I focus entirely on creating exceptional portraits for my clients.

WHAT PAYMENT OPTIONS DO YOU ACCEPT?

I accept cash, checks, or credit cards (with a 3% fee). For large packages, payments can be split into three installments: 50% upfront, then two payments of 25%. All balances must be settled before product delivery. Session fees can also be divided into two or three payments, but the session is scheduled only after full payment of the session fee.

HOW LONG IS THE TYPICAL WAIT?

The wait time varies by season. I'm usually busier during Spring (April-May) and Summer (June-August), with a slight slowdown in Fall (September-November). Winter availability exists but may include attendance at photographic conferences (January-March). A minimum of 30 days' notice is recommended for appointments to allow personalized session planning. Typically, images are ready within 7 days post-shoot, with a reveal session scheduled before you leave your portrait session.

DO YOU HAVE A CANCELLATION POLICY?

Yes, if you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact me directly. One reschedule is allowed; after that, half of the session fee is refunded, and the session is canceled. Rescheduling after a cancellation requires payment of the full session fee. This policy is detailed in all contracts.

DO YOU DO PRINTS, DIGITAL, OR BOTH?

I specialize in high-quality printed wall art, albums, and prints, partnering with GraphiStudio for museum-quality products. Clients also receive phone-resolution digital files for each purchased print, ensuring the best of both physical and digital formats.

DO YOU OFFER PRINT RELEASE?

To maintain quality control, I do not provide print releases. I work with a trusted print company familiar with our color profiles to ensure excellent prints.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?

After the portrait session, a reveal is typically scheduled within 7 days, depending on the season. Once the order is placed and payment received, products are ordered, with finished prints usually delivered within 4-6 weeks.

WHAT WILL MY INVESTMENT BE?

Investment varies by client needs, ranging from $600 to $2,800. Budgeting around $1,200 typically covers basic requirements, but clients often choose to purchase more images than initially planned.

Payment is structured for convenience: the photoshoot fee is due upon scheduling, a $200 deposit is made on the shoot day (applied to your order), with half of the remaining balance due at ordering and the rest upon delivery. Payment can be divided into four installments if necessary.

DO YOU PICK THE BACKGROUNDS?

Backgrounds are selected to complement your outfits. During the initial consultation, we discuss your preferences and wardrobe choices to suggest suitable backgrounds, locations, and sets.

WHAT ABOUT WEATHER OR RAIN?

Weather is unpredictable. If rain is expected during an outdoor session, we will contact you to reschedule. Alternatively, we can proceed with a 'Singing in the Rain' themed session if you're feeling adventurous.

DO YOU OFFER MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING?

I have a list of hair and makeup artists I collaborate with, but you're welcome to bring your own. For 'Photo Safari' sessions, makeup and styling are included in the session fee, with up to $100 allocated for your chosen stylist.

CAN I INCLUDE MY ACTIVITIES, CAR, PET, OR BFF?

Absolutely! Including personal elements like activities, vehicles, pets, or friends is encouraged. During the initial consultation, we plan how to incorporate these into your session.

WHAT'S IN YOUR GEAR BAG?

I use Nikon equipment, currently the D850, with Nikkor 80mm or 70-200mm lenses for excellent compression. High-quality gear allows for vibrant images. For lighting, I exclusively use FJ Westcott FJ-400, FJ-200, and L60-B LED lights with various modifiers, both indoors and outdoors.

Senior Portraits FAQ | Swartz Portraits Chesapeake

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