Portraits by Illumini Photography
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question on portrait photography we hope to answer them here.
How Do I Book A Portrait Session?
We work to appointments only. Just call 01204 861658 or contact us by email.
Can We Discuss The Style Of Portrait I Would Like?
Of course! If you have an idea for a portrait then we would love to talk it over with you. Before you book it is worth deciding if you would like the portrait to be formal or casual.
Another factor that will determine the look of your portrait is deciding if you would like it at your home, on location or in the studio. Typically home and location portrait sessions have a much more relaxed and natural feel to the images as they are taken in familiar surroundings. The studio and home studio portrait sittings offer a more vibrant, modern and contemporary image.
What Size Room Do You Need For The Home Studio Portrait?
A room at least 10 feet by 10 feet is required in order for us to set up our home studio lighting and background equipment safely in your home.. Anything in the way such as sofas and tables will need to be moved out or to one side prior to the photographer attending you home. If in doubt please give us a call.
What Clothes Shall We Wear?
You should wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. Obviously, if the shoot is to be outdoors and is a little chilly, then suitable warm clothing should be worn.
We find portraits look best and have a longer life-span when football shirts and clothing with a big visible logo are avoided. Wear clothes that are plain without patterns and where possible, colours of accessory items to match.
What If It Rains If On Location?
Typical to the UK weather, rain can be expected, even in summer! However, as long as the rain is just scattered showers and will not last long, we can use this to our advantage. Wellies, umberella's and colourful raincoats can make a great picture! rain can be fun and with the overcast clouds, the light is very flattering for portrait work.
How Long Does A Portrait Session Last?
The time varies depending on where the shoot takes place and the mood of the subject. If in the studio the portrait session can last up to 1 hour 30 mintutes. Home and location shoots can last up to 2 hours.
The above times are guidelines only and will depend on if we feel we have captured a good number of pictures and the right feel and look we were after. If it is bad weather when on location, then we may have to re-schedule the shoot.
How I Do I Act In Front Of The Camera?
Just be yourself! The look to the final images will depend entireley on how you feel on the day. The best composed image will not work if the person we are photographing does not feel comfortable and relaxed during the shoot. A portrait shoot is not like going to the dentist, so there is nothing to be apprehensive about! We will offer some direction to help to get some rythm into the shoot and to produce some wonderful images.
How Do You Manage My Child?
A photo session with children can be difficult if the child has been pulled away from doing something they enjoy. We would suggest on the day of the shoot to tell the children "we are going to see the photographer to play". Avoid telling the child to "smile for the photographer" or to " be good" as this can alienate the child towards the photographer.
It is best to leave the photographer to respond in how the child reacts to the situation then plan on how best to deal with capturing the portrait. Often the photographer will just talk to the children, asking questions or giving directions. As difficult as it may be, it is importortant that you do not offer to 'coach' the child as this can disrupt the rapport the photographer is trying to establish with the child. However, as the session develops you may be asked to assist in directing the childs attention to get a certain look or expression. In this case, the photographer will be as specific as possible so you will know what to do.
What If My Child Acts Up?
Very occasionally we have a child who is definitely not up for having their picture taken on the day. In this instance, persevering regardless will almost certainly create poor pictures, a stressed child, parents and photographer! If this should happen we will simply call a stop, have a break and see if we can try again. Quite often a break takes the pressure off and relaxes the child. But if the situation is clearly distressing, then we will stop and reschedule the shoot for another time. Being relaxed and having fun is what is most important and if this happens, we guarantee you will have images that you will love.
What About Babies?
Photographing babies is qute another challenge amd no two sessions are alike; you just never know what to expect! They could be grumpy one minute then gurgling the next. So, don't worry, we are quite prepared to do whatever 'entertaining' is needed to help your baby get settled.
Please do bear in mind your babies routine, and schedule a shoot sensibly around feeds and naps where possible. A tired and hungry baby won't help make the most relaxed pictures!
Do You Produce Black & White Pictures?
Yes. When we process the images the photographer will determine if a picture works best in colour or black and white. A particular image can be converted to black and white if requested.
What Size Pictures Can You Print?
Images can be printed in varying sizes from 6"x4" up to 18"x12". Canvas wraps and acrylics are usually printed at 18"x12" up to 30"x20". Larger sizes are available on request.
How Long Is The Delivery Of Our Chosen Prints?
Your prints will be delivered to you within 14 days of receiving your order.. Due to the design process, if a coffee table book is ordered this can increase the delivery time to 3 weeks.
Is There A Discount On The Number Of Prints We Order?
There are considerable savings on prints if you booked one of our portrait photography packages. For additional savings, orders sent within 4 weeks from the portrait sitting will receive a further 10% off the order total.
Are we allowed to print from our picture DVD?
Of course! Your DVD disc of full size images will be provided to you for exactly this reason. You can print them as you like as they free from our logo or copyright. However you cannot use them for commercial use without our permission.
How much deposit do we pay?
We ask for a £25 deposit immediately on booking to secure your portrait sitting with us. The remaining balance is due at the time of your portrait shoot.
If our exciting and fun approach to portrait photography is what you're looking for then why not contact us now to see if we are available for your preferred date.
Portrait photographer covering Lancashire, Cheshire and throughout the UK.