M i k e
H e r r e r a P h o t o g r a p h y
Weddings and On-Location Fine Art Portraits
Home Weddings
* On-Location tips * Client Sessions *
Specials * Talent
* Clothing Tips *
Agreement * About Me *
Pricing
Who are the portraits for?
Whether they are for you or a gift for someone else, consider the tastes and
style of the persons. Some folks like the whimsical nature of our fantasy
sessions, many love a classical or artistic look, and others just want plain and
simple.
Where will the portraits be displayed?
Knowing this can help you decide on many things, including the color scheme,
clothing, background, matting and framing. It is also crucial in determining the
style of your portraits. Does the room have traditional décor (think
Ethan Allen)? Is it full of country antiques? Or does it have a streamlined,
modern look? Does the room have a theme? Maybe you have a combination, or
eclectic, décor. Is this a formal or informal room? An office? Bedroom? Are
there any other portraits or artwork displayed in the room? If you have any
photos of the room itself, it may help if you bring them to the consultation.
This seems like a lot to consider, but it will give you the best result once you
have the portrait on your wall (desk, dresser, etc.) The portrait should look
like it truly belongs there.
What style or theme do I want?
Every portrait has an overall style, whether it is traditional, contemporary,
artistic, fun, natural, etc. Carefully choosing clothing, backgrounds, and props
(if necessary), indoors or outdoors posing, and color or black and white prints
can achieve this. Some styles are very general. Others, such as our fantasy
themes (Angels, Fairies/Gnomes, Mermaid, Forest, Beach etc.) are very specific.
If you have a style in mind, great. If not, we will help you narrow it down
during your consultation. Bringing in samples of other photos that you
like can also help.
Who / how many will be in the portrait?
The sitting fee is the same no matter how many people are in the session.
However, the size of the group will determine how much flexibility we have
during the session. Working with an individual subject is always easiest, and we
can be the most creative. Small groups (2-4 subjects) will still have many
options, although we usually must cater to the tolerances of any young children
in the group. With larger groups, we must also consider space limitations for
posing. Typically, the more subjects in your portrait, the simpler you should
keep the overall style and keeping clothing colors in the same tones will help.
Are these children’s portraits?
Many parents feel more free to be creative if these are children’s portraits (as
opposed to family portraits). Young babies are usually pretty flexible, provided
they are fed and well rested. (Keep in mind meal and nap times when scheduling
your appointment for children of any age.) Babies that can sit on their
own are easiest to pose, but we have options for younger infants as well.
Parents of toddlers and preschoolers know that they can be very particular and
even moody at times, so we try to keep other possibilities as a backup plan for
them.
Does your family have any hobbies or interests that you want to convey in
the portrait?
For example, a family that enjoys boating may wish to dress in nautical style
clothing. What interests you? Is dad into sports? Some clients of ours bring in
their own theme clothing. Those that love history may wear period costumes. Even
pets (well, most of them) are welcome in our studio! We can discuss the
possibilities during your consultation.
Following are some frequently asked questions about portrait sessions.
How can I prepare my children / family for the session?
Basically, try to be prepared for every contingency. We will not laugh if you
bring an entire suitcase with you to the studio. At the very least, bring makeup
and hair accessories for quick touchups. If you have children, it cannot hurt to
bring an extra outfit or two, in addition to the planned outfits. We have toys
and treats in the studio, but favorite toys and snacks from home can be
lifesavers.
Check everyone before the session for chipped nail polish, temporary tattoos (or other marker artwork), etc. Make sure your outfits are clean and ironed, and if possible bring them to the studio on hangers instead of wearing them in the car (seat belts will ruin the best ironing jobs). Check all accessories, such as socks, hose, shoes, belts, ties, and jewelry, making sure that everything matches appropriately. You may bring your outfits to the consultation if there are questions.
How long is the session? How many pictures do you take?
We typically take 10-12 poses, and the average session lasts 45 minutes to 1
hour. Add extra time if you have more than one child, a large group, or if we
will be doing background or clothing changes. If you want more choices, you may
purchase an extended session, typically up to 20 poses, depending on what
we are trying to accomplish. You can choose our extended session for an
added $20.00.
When are payments due?
You’ll want to pay your sitting at the time of booking. We honor Visa and Master
Card, this can be paid via paypal.com. We
will hold your session for three days if you’re sending a check. Please allow 48
hours for all cancellations. Your portrait proofs will be ready to view in
approximately 4-10 business days.
Electronic Proofs will be available but if you prefer seeing prints please inform us in advance in order to have a set ready. A proof payment of $150 will be required to take the proofs out of the studio. If your order doesn’t amount to $150 when you return them, your money will be refunded.
We request that your proofs be returned in a timely matter 10 days after the
pick up date. Try to be prepared by having a date in mind to return your proofs
and place your order. Please call
Order payments must be paid in full to process all orders.
Mike Herrera Photography offers digital enhancements, watercolor portraits, restorations. Pricing and order timing will be estimated.