FAQ
Family
When do I book?
I work 5 days a week, by appointment only. So if you have a certain date in mind, let me know ASAP. It gets very busy in the weekend, so pre-booking is vital to get the date you want.
What To Wear?
Plain white, black or grey tops look great, simple colours, no patterns or logos. Jeans and plain tops photograph great or you can use anything you want from the dresses I provide. If you need help to decide, we will provide assistance this with you after you have booked the photo session.
How long does the session take?
Our family portraits sessions take between 2 and 2,5 hours.
If the children are little, then they may only last about 20 minutes to half an hour as little ones get fed up and don’t want to concentrate for too long.
At the studio, we have kids ourselves so we know what children of all ages are like and we know how much the mums and dads want a beautiful portrait of their child. Being a parent in this sort of situation can be hard, as you want your child to behave and smile. Kids don’t always do this!
But we strive to keep your little one happy and capture some stunning images. We also have lots of props to entertain them: bubbles, balloons, toys and teddy bears. We also know the importance of making it fun for them, not too full on and rushed. We love getting to know them and having a little play with the kids, which makes them feel at ease with us, so they naturally give us a smile.
Photo session Fee is £ 50.00 (NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee)
REMEMBER this is just for the session fee, you need to buy at least 10 digital images package
Albums required to have at least 20 edited digital images (One collage minimum of 2 images)
A minimum of 10 digital images is required for a photoshoot
Newborn
1. When can I book a newborn photo shoot?
The sooner the better! The newborn photo session is booked during pregnancy, preferably at the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy. It is better to have a place reserved in advance, than to look for photographers available in the few days after your baby was born. The appointment of the photo session is made based on the probable date of birth, and when the baby is born, you will contact me to set the day of the photo session.
2. What is the ideal age for the newborn photo shoot?
10-21 days. In the first days after birth the newborn is very sleepy, has not yet adapted to the ectopic environment and is very malleable, being able to be placed in the specific positions of the newborn photo without waking up easily or being disturbed by various stimuli (noise, light, touches). After this age he begins to adjust to the environment and becomes more alert, and the periods in the waking state become longer. At the same time, after 14 days, the period of colic usually occurs.
3. Where will the photo shoot take place?
It will take place in my studio, which is located in Penrith, Cumbria and is fully equipped for photo shoots with newborn babies.
4. How long does a newborn photography session take?
The photo session generally lasts two to three hours, if the baby is calm, sleeps well and does not wake up at every touch. In these two-three hours he/she will be fed, changed, rocked asleep, photographed. That is why such a photo shoot takes time.
We all know that babies, in the first period after birth, are quite unpredictable, not having formed a sleep program. Although a newborn generally sleeps 16 to 17 hours a day, he may have more restless days, either because of overstimulation, or because of a growth spurt, or perhaps because of abdominal pain. If these things happen even during the photo shoot, it can sometimes last up to four hours. Try not to schedule anything on the day of the photo shoot, so as not to be overwhelmed by time and to have a relaxing experience. You’ll only enjoy your baby’s first photo shoot once, won’t you?
5.How do we prepare the baby? What about us, the parents?
In order to have an easy and relaxing journey with the photo session, here are some tips:
*If your baby is breastfeeding, try to exclude from your diet foods that can cause abdominal cramps. Avoid spicy food, caffeine, sour juices, cruciferous vegetables or other foods that you know can cause your little one abdominal cramps.
*Try to keep your baby awake for at least an hour before the photo shoot.
*Feed the baby before we start of the photo shoot, so he will be tummy full and will sleep well from the beginning.
*Dress him in light clothes that can be easily taken off. Avoid bodysuits or blouses that come off the head. The most suitable are bodysuits or overalls with staples or zippers. Avoid tight clothing that can leave marks on the baby’s skin.
*If the baby is fed formula milk, bring enough with you to feed him in the studio.
*Parents usually think their baby needs to be awake for their session when it’s actually more difficult to pose the baby in certain poses while they are awake. My goal is to keep the baby warm, comfortable, asleep, and happy for the best photo opportunities.
Even if you haven’t given the baby a pacifier at home so far, this will help me a lot in calming him when I make the transition between positions, so I recommend you bring one. It will be used only for the photo shoot and I assure you that the baby will not learn from this unique experience.
When it comes to parents choosing their outfits for family newborn photo shoots, white, light grey, or neutral tops tend to look great. It’s a good idea to stay away from fussy patterns and bright colors, since they can look distracting in photos. Siblings can also wear neutrals and light colors, but it’s also important that they feel happy and comfortable in what they wear. As long as they don’t wear anything too bright and loud, it should look great in the final photos.
Because family photos can’t be missed from a photo shoot with the newborn baby, I suggest you, the parents, be prepared too. A light hairstyle and a discreet make-up for the mother will give an elegant note to the images. Try to avoid bright colors and large prints or logos. Neutral or pastel colors are indicated, so that the baby is in the center of attention in your arms. A few small preparations and you are ready for the photo session: baby in the arms of your parents, here is a wonderful memory over the years!
6. How many outfits are included in the photo shoot?
In the case of newborns, because the photo shoot is done with the sleeping baby, we can not talk about a number of outfits. Changing the baby two, three times means waking him up and then falling asleep as many times, which would lead to an extension of the photo shoot. Babies are so different! Depending on how the baby “cooperates” I will use a variety of accessories such as wraps, caps, headbands (for girls) and costumes specially created for small models.
7. Can the baby’s siblings also participate in the photo shoot?
Surely! Sisters and brothers are welcome at the photo shoot. Happy baby in the arms of the family!
8.How will we receive the photos?
The photos will be handed in an online gallery that can be accessed through a link. Photos can be downloaded at high resolution.
9.Will we also receive unedited photos?
Unedited photos will NOT be handed over because they are not the final product you pay for, but only the “raw material”.
10.How long will it take to see my final images?
Usually between a week and one month depending how many pictures you chose and what products you ordered.
If you need to rush the order for birth announcements, let them know in advance so we can do our best to get everything ready for you to give them to your family members.
11. Do you offer prints and wall art?
Yes, I do offer a wide variety of prints, wall art and handcrafted albums, please check the products section of the web site.
12. Can I come and visit the place where the photo sessions are taking place before hand?
This will happen most likely during the pre-consultation. This is the best time to come over, see all the products available, like canvases, albums and portraits as well as other details like the contracts, preparing for the session, pricing, and policies. It’s also the best time for you and me, the photographer, to chat about what are your desires, what colors to avoid and ensure that the color palettes we both choose for your portraits will complement the colors at your home.
In my case, I like to go over this during the pre-consultation and I will write notes to make sure the final images complement the home décor or the baby nursery so that way we can order any wall art that you may like to showcase your favorite photos.
13.Can I pay you with a credit card?
I accept credit cards, cash or bank transfer.Payment plan also available.
Photo session Fee is £ 50.00 (NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee)
REMEMBER this is just for the session fee, you need to buy at least 10 digital images package
Albums required to have at least 20 edited digital images (One collage minimum of 2 images)
A minimum of 10 digital images is required for a photoshoot
Maternity
When do I book?
You can book in for your maternity session after your 20 week scan.
Best to book between 28-35 weeks pregnant.
I work 5 days a week, by appointment only. So if you have a certain date in mind, let me know ASAP. It gets very busy in the weekend, so pre-booking is vital to get the date you want.
What to wear?
My studio hosts a huge selection of beautiful and unique gowns for you to wear during your maternity photo shoot.
The gowns vary in colour and sizes so there is something to suit everyone.
If you don’t like the gowns that’s fine, there are some simple alternatives to pick from or you can pose implied nude, in underwear or in your own clothes.
I also have flowing fabrics that look beautiful. If you need help to decide, we will discuss this with you after you have booked.
How long does the session take?
For our maternity portraits we will take between 1 and 2.5 hours. These sessions can also include partners and any other children.
Photo session Fee is £ 50.00 (NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee)
REMEMBER this is just for the session fee, you need to buy at least 10 digital images package
Albums required to have at least 20 edited digital images (One collage minimum of 2 images)
A minimum of 10 digital images is required for a photoshoot
Sitters
WHAT IS THE CAKE SMASH & SPLASH PHOTO SESSON?
A cake smash & splash is normally done for a little one who is celebrating their 1st or 2nd birthday.
Each session includes a mini portrait session, cake smash followed by a splash in
a little bath tub .
Your chosen setup, the use of props and outfit are included in the photo session.
The mini portrait session consists of a few photos of your child before the cake is introduced – you may bring one of their outfits along for this.
The cake smash is where we introduce the cake to the set – the messy part!
We let your little one get tucked right in (sometimes they may need a little encouragement so this is where mummy and daddy can help too)
Once I have a good variety of images we will then move onto the splash part in the bath tub.
We then fill the little bath with water and bubbles and let your little one have a good splash whilst I capture the last part of the session. The splash is also a good way for you to give them a good clean down too.
WHEN DO I BOOK ?
I work 5 days per week, by appointment only. So if you have a certain date in mind, let me know ASAP. I get very busy of a weekend, so pre-booking is vital to get the date you want.
I recommend booking 4-6 weeks before their birthday if you would like the photo order to be done in time for their birthday so you have it to display for their birthday.
Your viewing/ordering session would need to be booked for 1-2 weeks after the session to make sure it is completed in time.
I recommending booking in advance for all my sessions.
I do take limited amount of bookings each week so if you want a specific date or close to one, I recommend booking in advance.
I need more than two weeks notice when booking to make sure there is availability with the cake baker.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE SESSION?
This is where you choose which package you would like to purchase and if you wish to purchase anything additional you may do this also.
Depending on what you would like to get from your session, along with your budget, I will help you decide what options may be best for you.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
Your chosen cake whether it’s from a local cake baker or supermarket the choice is yours.
*A little outfit for your mini portrait session or you could just do it in the outfit they are doing the cake smash in.
*You also need to bring a towel and some bubble bath for the splash part of the session.
Unless we have discussed anything extra you want to bring there is nothing else to remember.
DO I BRING THE CAKE?
Yes you do, for the best results try and purchase a cake which will compliment your chosen setup.
You don’t have to bring a cake. There are other food options which work just as well too.
HOW DO I DECIDE ON A SETUP COLOUR OR THEME?
First choose whether you would like your set based around a colour or whether you would like it themed.
From there, if you let me know whether you would like a simple – minimal decoration or a full setup with lots of props, I will know what to create for you and if you have specific props you want me to use also.
You may send me any ideas you have seen for inspiration too.
WHAT TO WEAR?
For baby and milestone sessions, I love whites, pinks, blues, grey’s and pretty dresses (nothing with writing or logos). I also do “milk” baths with flowers or leaves, which they absolutely love! So when your baby is 6 months or over, a “milk” bath is a lovely part of the session. If you need help to decide, I will discuss this with you after you have booked.
AFTER BOOKING …
We will discuss what you would like for the setup colour scheme or theme.
From this I will source all the things needed to create the perfect setup for your session. You also have full use of my props available along with outfits that coordinate with your set too.
You need to provide the cake or a food alternative for your photo session.
This can be from a local baker or supermarket the choice is yours.
I’d recommending bringing something that will compliment your chosen setup.
If you need a recommendations for local bakers please ask.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHILD IS ILL?
In the rare occasion your child is ill before your photo session, please let me know in advance of the session and we can reschedule your photo session.
Photo session Fee is £ 50.00 (NON-REFUNDABLE booking fee)
REMEMBER this is just for the session fee, you need to buy at least 10 digital images package
Albums required to have at least 20 edited digital images (One collage minimum of 2 images)
A minimum of 10 digital images is required for a photoshoot
Christmas
Photo Session includes:
BOOKING for Christmas 2022
Christmas mini sessions, great for updating your Family photos
Christmas Session – ONLY £120 to book your time and day .
Total cost for the Christmas Photo Session is £120 in November and £150 in December .
The cost of Christmas session is per family .
Any amount vouchers available to buy.
Photo Session includes:
• 2 Real Christmas decor included
• 45 minutes photo session
• 10 high resolution digital images delivered online , private web link
• FACEBOOK timeline cover
• Suitable for 3 months plus (can be younger if held by sibling/parents)
•10% off voucher of any Alma Casting Memories products
Images will be delivered 10- 14 days after the photo shooting session with online download via a secure private web site.
There are no other alternative backdrops available for these sessions so if you’re looking for normal type photos then please book at a normal family/children photo session instead.
To secure your booking, a payment of £120 will be required.
*If you are not feeling well please contact me 24h in advance and I can reschedule your photoshoot.
** The session Fee is non refundable but transferable to another session in the event of restrictions.
***If there is a no-show, the retainer is non-refundable.
Exclusive Digital Photo Packages Christmas 2022:
Additional images can be purchased at £8 per digital image.
1 X Digital Image …………£8
15 x Digital images ……….£100
All Digital images ………….£250
Album with all the Christmas images(minimum of 20 digital images ) ….. £250
Albums required to have at least 20 edited digital images (One collage minimum of 2 images)
Christmas Photo Card in envelope 6×4 ………….£10
Memory USB stick …………….£30
HOW TO BOOK?
To book your Christmas session you will use :
almaphotostudio.bigcartel.com/product/2022-magical-christmas-mini-session-fee
this online website to pay the Christmas session fee of £120 .
You can email me at : almaphotostudio@yahoo.com.
Once you have paid your booking fee , to confirm your session, we will then discuss by email the dates and time I have available.
Vouchers with any amount available too!!Contact me to get in touch about vouchers !!!
CHRISTMAS SETUPS:
Packages not available for any other type of session.
Sessions held at the studio in Penrith, Cumbria .
Any questions use contact button or email me at:
almaphotostudio@yahoo.com or call 07512171545
I cannot wait to see you and your kids super soon !!Xx
Roxana from Alma Photo Studio
WHAT TO WEAR ?
The best colours to wear are RED, BLACK, WHITE, GOLD, BROWN or GREEN .
CHRISTMAS SETUPS:
Packages not available for any other type of session.
Sessions held at the studio in Penrith, Cumbria .
Any questions use contact button or email me at:
almaphotostudio@yahoo.com
Phone : 07512171545
Themes
coming soon…