Frequently Asked Questions
When deciding whether or not to schedule a session with us, you may be wondering...
Let's dive in
Do i receive images
Every collection receives digital images via an online downloadable gallery. You will receive unlimited printing and downloading rights. Prints and products are sold separately or purchased on your own via a consumer lab or directly through the online gallery.
are there any travel fees
Travel is charged at .70 per mile outside of Nags Head, KDH, Kitty Hawk. If you are requesting a session during peak-season and on a weekend, travel to Corolla or Carova has a flat travel fee of $150.00, and an additional $25 fee for 4x4 travel.
What time will the session start
Your session start time will depend on the collection you choose, but the session will end at sunset. During certain times of the year, sunrise sessions may be available and these sessions start at sunrise.
What happens if it rains
At reservation you will be given two session dates, one of which is in the event of inclement weather. We will not shoot during any inclement weather and your session is transferable within an 18 mo period in the event of bad weather both days.
How many photos can we expect to receive
While the total number if images will be dependent upon the flow of the session and cooperation of those in attendance, you can expect 50 images for a mini session and well over 100 images for an hour session or more. (PS, it's definitely usually more)
How do we order prints or products
You are welcome to download and print on your own (Mpix.com is who I recommend) or you can order products and prints directly through the professional lab via your online gallery OR you can contact me directly for specialty products like Barnwood Frames and Albums!
When will we receive images after the session
You can expect a sneak peek of images within 48 hours following your session and these images will be shared on the SEP facebook page. Within two weeks of your session you can expect your images. (PS, it never takes that long)
How long will we have gallery access
It is recommended that you download and save your images immediately upon receipt of the gallery. While I do not remove the galleries within a certain amount of time, I cannot guarantee the hosting platform will not malfunction.
What if we have specific photo requests
You will be sent a session questionnaire at reservation in which you can include specific breakdown requests and special family dynamics.
Can I book a beach mini for any location?
Beach minis are for sessions located in Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head, NC! We have plenty of great location recommendations if you'll be traveling in!
Is the reservation fee in addition to the collection prices?
No, the reservation fee is required in order to reserve your session date/time, but the amount paid for the reservation fee is then subtracted from the total amount due! No hidden fees!
What if i want an hour session with chase?
You can absolutely create a custom collection with Chase (or me, Sharon) - just let us know what you're envisioning!
What if i just want to add on an additional person?
You can add on one additional person to a single family session for $75
What if i want to add on a film to an extended family session?
If you add on a film to an extended family session, Sharon will photograph your family and Chase will film your family. Your session may be extended by 30 minutes if needed at no additional charge.
What if we have 7 or more people but don't need the extended family Session?
You may book a beach mini with Sharon or Chase but you will only receive group photos. No additional breakdowns will be given.
We rely heavily on our ability to pose clients and help them feel ‘confident’ so that we get everyone looking beautiful IN camera. Tattoos, peeling skin from tanning, clothing tags, hair ties... etc will NOT be removed. In the event you have a special circumstance that may require editing, please contact us directly. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of your request.
Editing
Extended family sessions are designed for families who are wanting photos with their own individual family ANDDDD with their siblings (and their families) - grandparents - aunts/uncles and these sessions are also great for families who are vacationing with their friends (and want individual family sessions + group photos).
Chase and I photograph these sessions together to maximize time AND backdrop + pose variety. While I am working with a family, Chase is as well. We have these sessions down to a science - ensuring that any breakdown imaginable can be photographed (in multiple ways) AND that there's also time for play and candids!
After booking you'll receive a questionnaire where you'll list out everyone who's attending, any specific breakdowns that you'd like plus you'll also receive a huge session prep guide that'll help prepare you for your session! It also includes example photo breakdowns! We take your suggestions and your list and add additional breakdowns that you likely haven't even thought of!
Each family is essentially getting 2 mini sessions with both Chase and I AND group photos with those you love most. And yes, there is absolutely play time for the kids and some of our families will even hang out in the cottage until it's their session time. We want all of our families to be well served and enjoy their experience!
What is the main difference between your single family sessions and your extended family sessions?
What is the reservation fee?
The reservation fee holds your session date/time and counts towards the total cost that you are invoiced. There are no hidden fees. If you see a collection priced at "$525" then $250 of that is the reservation fee and the remainder of that total would be due 1 week prior to your session.
what time should WE arrive?
Please arrive promptly at your designated shoot time. In the event you find yourself running behind, please notify us immediately. Upon arrival, we will begin session less the amount of time you arrived late. For instance, if you are scheduled for a 30 minute session but arrive 20 minutes late, you will have a 10 minute session.
do you offer hair and makeup?
Absolutely, hair and makeup definitely be added on. These services usually last a total of one hour and your session immediately follows. Our stylists are professional stylists and have worked with our team for a number of years.
should i tip the hair/makeup artist
Tips are never expected but always appreciated and can be given directly to your stylist.
can i bring my animals?
The answer is almost always yes, but please discuss with us prior to your session so that we may give you some helpful tips. Pets must be leashed and it's recommended you bring someone along to help.
where should we have our session?
If you have a beach front cottage, we can absolutely come to you. Otherwise, some of our favorite locations that don't require a travel fee are - Nags Head Pier, Oregon Inlet, Bodie Lighthouse, Downtown Manteo, Asheville St Beach Access
what if someone is sick?
We reserve two dates for our families in the event of inclement weather and illness. We absolutely request that you reschedule if you or someone in your family is sick. We also require that we be notified in the event someone is running a fever or has had extreme gastrointestinal related issues.
what can i expect after the session?
Within 48 hours you can expect a sneak peek to be posted on the Sharon Elizabeth Photography Facebook Page or Instagram page - within two weeks you will receive your online and downloadable gallery. (Ps - It usually never takes that long)
can i see every single photo you take during my session?
As I select the best of the best – discarding funny faces and photos where you were blinking. No... but we ask that you trust that we would not withhold any beautiful images from you... in fact, we do not limit the number of images you'll receive!
what should i do for my face/hair before my styling?
Come with a clean/fresh face, no makeup. Come with a clean head of hair but with NO heat or products applied. No sprays, gels or hair straightening.
do you send my photos out to a third party for albums?
Yes. I work with an incredible + professional album designer and album company. They care just as much about your experience as I do. I've worked with them for well over 10 years.
how do i receive my digital files?
All digital images are uploaded to an online gallery where your images are online and all collections include unlimited downloading/printing rights.
where should i print my images?
You are welcome to order directly from the online gallery that is synced with one of my professional labs. Or you can order prints from a website called www.mpix.com - it’s a consumer printing site that offers competitive pricing while staying true to quality. Where ever you decide to order from, be sure to select ‘No Color Correct’ upon checkout.
i would like to cancel my session, do you offer refunds?
No refunds, and specifics are covered in the contract, but not only do we reserve two dates at booking, but we also have an 18 month rescheduling window. We are always willing to work with you on a new date. Your session is also transferable to another client (with Sharon's permission). Simply notify me of your decision and we will make the necessary transfer.
In order to officially reserve your session and rain date, a reservation fee of $250.00 and a signed contract is required... Your session will not reserved without receipt of both. Your final balance will be due 1 week prior to your session... unless your collection is equal or lesser value than the required reservation fee - in which case payment in full is required at the time of booking along with a signed contract. Your completed questionnaire is due one week prior to your session.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out directly!
