FAQ
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A “mini session” is a short, focused photo shoot, usually lasting 15-20 minutes, while a “full session” is a longer, more flexible session that allows longer more flexible session that allows for more variety in location, posing and image capture typically lasting from 45 minutes to an hour. Mini session are generally cheaper and offer fewer images compared to full sessions.
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Yes, I do require a 50% retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that secures my services for a specific date. This is refundable only if Client cancels two weeks prior to the event or photo shoot; it is otherwise, a non-refundable fee.
The balance is due on the day of the service and before the shoot.
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You have the right to cancel your appointment at any time; however, the return of your retainer fee will only be approved if cancelled within one week of your appointment unless your situation is outside of your control. If you are using COD as payment, you will be charged 50% of total cost for my lost time. which is due immediately.
I take the following mode of payments:
Venmo: @alwayscorie
Zelle & Paypal
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I will do my best to deliver your digital photos via online gallery as quickly as possible, but typically my turnaround time for portrait photography is 2-3 days post-shoot, up to 7-days for event photography.
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I will deliver high quality, slightly edited digital photos through an online gallery where you can view and download them at no charge.
You will have the option to buy prints, canvases or album through your online gallery.
I produce only high quality photos so I use only high quality print labs. My online gallery provider uses several print labs, including: WHCC, ProDPI,Miller's Professional Imaging, Mpix, Loxley Colour, Atkins Pro Lab
For the best possible print quality, I recommend using my preferred lab for printing images; however, if you choose to print elsewhere, please ensure you follow the specific file perforation guidelines provided by your chosen lab to maintain accurate colors and image quality. I cannot guarantee the color or quality from any other labs than my preferred print lab
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I’m a professional, but I’m laid back and not formal. I like to keep it fun so you can relax and be you. I will let you pose yourself, but when needed, I will help you pose and look your best.
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The location would be of your choice. For mini sessions, I will travel up 30 miles of Manteca, CA (anything outside of the 30 miles radius will be considered full sessions) for full sessions, I will travel up 80 miles within the Central Valley and the Bay Area. At this time, I do not offer any studio sessions. See below are some ideas…
Location Considerations:
Outdoor: Confirm your photographer knows the location and check for any required permits. Obtaining a permit is not your photographer’s responsibility, it is yours.
Indoor: Choose a comfortable space with natural light, and ensure there’s enough room for the family to move around.
(see guidelines for obtaining a permit if needed)
The Central Valley and Bay Area are home to a diverse range of locations perfect for portrait photography, offering a mix of natural beauty, urban backdrops, and unique cultural settings. Whether you prefer lush landscapes, historical architecture, or vibrant city streets, these regions have something to suit every style of portrait photography.
Bay Area Portrait Photography Locations:
San Francisco
Golden Gate Park
Why: Lush gardens, tree-lined paths, and serene ponds.
Best For: Natural portraits surrounded by greenery, flower gardens, and unique backdrops.
Notable Spots: Japanese Tea Garden, Botanical Garden, and Stow Lake.
Palace of Fine Arts
Why: Classical architecture with grand columns and a reflective pond.
Best For: Elegant and timeless portraits with a touch of romance.
Notable Features: Stunning columns, arches, and gardens.
Mission District (Murals)
Why: Vibrant and colorful street art provides a bold, artistic backdrop.
Best For: Creative, edgy portraits with bright colors and urban energy.
Notable Spots: Balmy Alley, Clarion Alley.
Crissy Field
Why: Views of the Golden Gate Bridge, beaches, and grassy fields.
Best For: Casual, outdoor portraits with stunning natural backgrounds.
Notable Features: Beach, Golden Gate Bridge in the background, dunes.
Twin Peaks
Why: 360-degree views of San Francisco, the Bay, and beyond.
Best For: A dramatic backdrop with panoramic city views for striking portraits.
Notable Features: Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Area skyline, fog.
Alamo Square (Painted Ladies)
Why: Iconic Victorian homes with the San Francisco skyline in the background.
Best For: Classic, timeless portraits with a touch of urban charm.
Notable Features: Victorian architecture, city views.
Sutro Baths & Ocean Beach
Why: Natural coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs and ruins.
Best For: Natural, moody, and romantic portraits against rugged coastal backdrops.
Notable Features: Sea cliffs, ruins, and ocean waves.
The Ferry Building
Why: Historic architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.
Best For: Urban, elegant portraits with a classic San Francisco feel.
Notable Features: The clock tower, waterfront views, and bustling atmosphere.
Marina District
Why: Views of the Golden Gate Bridge and scenic waterfront parks.
Best For: Elegant, urban portraits with natural beauty and iconic views.
Notable Features: The Golden Gate Bridge, greenery, water.
Fort Point
Why: Historic military fortifications beneath the Golden Gate Bridge.
Best For: A unique, bold backdrop for dramatic, history-inspired portraits.
Notable Features: Stone archways, views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
East Bay
Lake Merritt (Oakland)
Why: A beautiful urban lake with trees, bridges, and grassy areas.
Best For: Nature-inspired portraits within an urban setting.
Notable Features: The lake, trees, city skyline in the distance.
Berkeley Hills (Grizzly Peak)
Why: Sweeping views of the Bay Area and rolling hills.
Best For: Scenic portraits with panoramic backdrops of the city and nature.
Notable Features: Sunset views, sweeping vistas.
Oakland Rose Garden
Why: Gorgeous rose gardens with vibrant flowers and city views.
Best For: Romantic, nature-inspired portraits amidst colorful blooms.
Notable Features: Beautiful flowers, city backdrop.
Tilden Regional Park
Why: Green rolling hills and wooded trails.
Best For: Nature-based portraits in serene settings.
Notable Features: Wildflowers, forests, and sweeping vistas.
Point Isabel Regional Shoreline
Why: Picturesque views of the Bay and San Francisco skyline.
Best For: Casual, outdoor portraits with wide-open spaces and water views.
Notable Features: Marshland, wildlife, water views.
South Bay
Stanford University
Why: Grand arches, ivy-covered buildings, and well-manicured gardens.
Best For: Classic, collegiate-inspired portraits with stately architecture.
Notable Features: Hoover Tower, Memorial Church, campus quad.
Shoreline Park (Mountain View)
Why: Wide-open spaces, water views, and green areas.
Best For: Clean, casual portraits with a mix of natural and urban elements.
Notable Features: Water views, open fields, trees.
Japanese Friendship Garden (San Jose)
Why: A peaceful garden with koi ponds, bridges, and traditional Japanese landscaping.
Best For: Calming, zen-inspired portraits with lush greenery and ponds.
Notable Features: Koi ponds, bridges, Japanese architecture.
Los Gatos Creek Trail
Why: Quiet trails with scenic creek views, wooded areas, and natural beauty.
Best For: Casual, nature-based portraits in peaceful settings.
Notable Features: Creek, tree-lined paths, open spaces.
Vasona Lake County Park
Why: A serene lake with plenty of outdoor space and scenic trails.
Best For: Portraits in nature, with scenic lake and wooded backdrops.
Notable Features: Boating lake, trails, picnic areas.
Peninsula
Filoli Gardens (Woodside)
Why: Beautifully manicured gardens and historic estate architecture.
Best For: Elegant, refined portraits surrounded by lush floral gardens.
Notable Features: Formal gardens, ponds, historical buildings.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Why: Marshes, wildlife, and tranquil views of the bay.
Best For: Soft, natural portraits with open skies and wild grasses.
Notable Features: Wetlands, wildlife, and expansive views.
Coyote Point Recreation Area (San Mateo)
Why: Waterfront views, gardens, and rolling hills.
Best For: Casual outdoor portraits with the bay in the background.
Notable Features: The Bay, picnic areas, park trails.
Central Valley Portrait Photography Locations:
Stockton & Modesto Area
Oak Grove Regional Park (Stockton)
Why: A peaceful park with oak trees, a pond, and wide-open grassy areas.
Best For: Relaxed, nature-inspired portraits with a rustic feel.
Notable Features: Oak trees, pond, open fields.
Grizzly Island Wildlife Area (Near Suisun City)
Why: Marshlands, wetlands, and wildlife-rich surroundings.
Best For: Unique, natural portraits surrounded by wildlife and wetlands.
Notable Features: Waterways, birds, grasses.
Modesto Japanese Garden
Why: A serene, well-maintained Japanese garden.
Best For: Peaceful, traditional portraits with a calm, natural backdrop.
Notable Features: Koi pond, stone bridges, gardens.
Fresno Area
Woodward Park (Fresno)
Why: A large park with open spaces, gardens, and a pond.
Best For: Versatile outdoor portraits in a variety of natural settings.
Notable Features: Lakes, bridges, rose gardens.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo & The African Safari Exhibit
Why: Unique, exotic animal exhibits with vibrant backdrops.
Best For: Fun, adventurous portraits with an animal kingdom flair.
Notable Features: Exotic animals, vibrant surroundings.
Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks
Why: Towering trees, mountainous views, and rugged landscapes.
Best For: Majestic, nature-filled portraits in dramatic natural settings.
Notable Features: Giant sequoia trees, canyons, rivers.
Visalia Area
Sequoia National Park (Southern Sierra)
Why: Massive sequoia trees, rugged mountains, and sweeping valleys.
Best For: Epic portraits surrounded by giant trees and breathtaking landscapes.
Notable Features: Giant trees, rivers, mountain vistas.
Kaweah Oaks Preserve
Why: A peaceful preserve with oak trees, meadows, and scenic walking trails.
Best For: Nature-inspired portraits with wide-open, tranquil spaces.
Notable Features: Oak groves, fields,
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Dressing Guide for Portrait Photography: What to Wear for the Best Results
Choosing the right outfit for a portrait session is just as important as posing or finding the perfect lighting. The clothes you wear can enhance your features, convey your personality, and create the desired mood for the photo. Whether you're going for a professional headshot, an editorial-style portrait, or a casual family photo, understanding how to dress for the camera will make a big difference in how you look and feel during your shoot.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to dressing for portrait photography:
1. Keep It Simple: Avoid Overly Busy Patterns
Why: Busy prints, bold patterns, and logos can distract from your face, which is the focal point of most portraits. They can also clash with the background or create a "visual noise" that makes the image less timeless.
What to Wear:
Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns like thin stripes, small checks, or delicate textures (e.g., lace, knit). These will create a clean, cohesive look that doesn’t compete for attention.
Neutral tones (whites, blacks, grays, and beiges) and earth tones (olive, mustard, camel, etc.) are excellent choices for creating a sophisticated, timeless portrait.
If you want some texture, consider textured fabrics like wool, denim, or velvet.
Avoid:
Bright, clashing colors or bold geometric patterns (think large floral prints, neon, or stripes) as they can overwhelm the image.
Logos or brand names, as they can look too casual and take away from the portrait’s focus.
2. Choose Colors That Complement Your Skin Tone
Why: The color of your outfit should enhance your natural features, such as your skin tone, hair, and eyes. Certain colors can make you look vibrant and healthy, while others may wash you out.
What to Wear:
Warm undertones (yellow, peach, or golden skin) look great in earthy tones like mustard, rust, olive, or warm red.
Cool undertones (pink, blue, or purple skin) are complemented by colors like navy, emerald green, lavender, and cool blues.
Neutral undertones (a mix of warm and cool) can pull off a wide variety of colors, including white, black, and both pastel and jewel tones.
Soft pastels or light neutrals are excellent for a gentle, serene look, while bold colors (like red, royal blue, or emerald) can create a striking contrast and add energy.
Avoid:
Colors that closely match your skin tone, as they can cause you to blend into the background.
Overly bright, neon colors, which can cast unflattering tones on your skin.
3. Focus on Fit: Choose Clothes That Flatter Your Body Shape
Why: Clothes that fit well not only make you look more polished but also enhance your body’s natural proportions. Too tight or too loose clothes can create unflattering lines and distract from your overall look.
What to Wear:
Tailored clothing: Opt for well-fitted clothes that follow your body shape but don’t feel too tight. This will help you look sleek and confident.
Structured pieces: Blazers, dresses with defined waistlines, and shirts with crisp collars can add structure and elevate your look.
Soft fabrics: Fabrics that drape well, like silk, cotton, or jersey, will help your clothes hang naturally, giving you a more flattering silhouette.
Avoid:
Clothes that are too tight or loose: Ill-fitting clothing can create unflattering bulges or make you appear sloppy.
Excessive layering or bulky clothing: These can add unnecessary bulk to your frame.
4. Keep It Classic: Go for Timeless Looks Over Trends
Why: While trendy outfits might look great today, they can date your portrait and make it feel less timeless. Classic pieces, on the other hand, have staying power and will ensure your portraits look fresh and relevant for years to come.
What to Wear:
Choose simple, timeless wardrobe staples like a button-down shirt, a well-fitting blazer, a classic dress, or a tailored suit.
Monochromatic looks (wearing one color or shades of the same color) can create a sleek and chic effect. This is especially useful for professional headshots.
For a softer, more casual vibe, a well-fitted sweater or casual jacket works wonderfully.
Avoid:
Outfits that are too trendy or statement-heavy (such as fad-specific pieces or highly "seasonal" trends).
Extreme styles or outfits that could potentially look dated when viewed later on.
5. Avoid Shiny or Reflective Fabrics
Why: Shiny or reflective fabrics (like satin or overly glossy materials) can create unwanted reflections or distort the lighting in a photo. These fabrics tend to catch light in odd ways, making it difficult to achieve a smooth, balanced look.
What to Wear:
Stick to matte fabrics like cotton, wool, denim, and linen that provide a clean, non-reflective surface.
If you want to add some texture or depth, choose fabrics like knit, velvet, or brushed cotton.
Avoid:
Fabrics with too much shine, such as silk satin, glossy polyester, or metallic materials, as they can cause glare or add unwanted reflections under studio lighting.
6. Keep Accessories Minimal
Why: Accessories can enhance your portrait, but too many can distract from your face and make the shot look busy. A simple, elegant accessory can complement your outfit without stealing the show.
What to Wear:
Choose simple jewelry like stud earrings, small necklaces, or delicate bracelets.
If you wear glasses, make sure they’re clean and fit well.
Scarves, hats, or other accessories can add a touch of personality, but make sure they don’t overwhelm the outfit.
Avoid:
Over-accessorizing: Large, chunky jewelry or too many accessories can divert attention from your face and create visual clutter.
Avoid accessories with too much color contrast or that are overly bold, as they can draw attention away from your expression.
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Photography Session No-Show Policy
Purpose:
This policy outlines the terms and conditions regarding "no-shows" for photography sessions. The goal is to ensure the effective management of time, resources, and to maintain fairness to all clients.Scope:
This policy applies to all clients booking photography sessions, whether for individual portraits, family shoots, events, corporate work, or any other service provided by CS Photography or Corie Smith, Photographer.No-Show Definition:
A "no-show" is defined as a client who fails to show up for their scheduled photography session without notifying the photographer at least one week in advance. This includes situations where the client does not arrive at the designated location on time or does not communicate their inability to attend.
Policy Guidelines:
Notification Requirement:
Clients are required to notify CS Photography or Corie Smith, Photographer at least one week in advance if they need to cancel or reschedule their appointment. Cancellations or rescheduling requests made less than one week before the scheduled session will be subject to the no-show policy.
No-Show Consequences:
First No-Show: If a client does not show up for their scheduled session without prior notice, they will be charged a 50% fee of the session rate. The session will be considered canceled, and no further attempts will be made to reschedule the session unless the client agrees to pay the no-show fee and a new session is booked.
Second No-Show: If a client fails to show up for a second session without prior notice, a 100% fee of the session rate will be charged, and no future sessions will be scheduled unless the full fee is paid upfront.
Late Arrival:
Clients arriving late for a scheduled session without prior communication may lose the lost time from their session. For instance, if the session is 60 minutes and the client arrives 15 minutes late, the session will be cut short by 15 minutes.
If the client is more than 30 minutes late without prior communication, the session may be considered a no-show, and the no-show fee will apply.
Emergency Situations:
We understand that emergencies and unforeseen circumstances can arise. If a client is unable to attend a session due to an emergency, they must communicate the situation as soon as possible. In such cases, the photographer may consider waiving or reducing the fee at their discretion.
Rescheduling:
Clients may reschedule their session without penalty if they notify CS Photography, or Corie Smith, Photographer at least one week before the scheduled session. Any reschedules made within one week may incur a rescheduling fee or be treated as a no-show, depending on the circumstances.
Booking and Payment Terms:
A non-refundable deposit of 50 % of the total session fee is required at the time of booking to secure the date and time for your session. This deposit is non-refundable in the event of a no-show or last-minute cancellation less than one week notice.
The remaining balance for the session is due on the day of the shoot. In cases of a no-show, the deposit and any applicable fees must be paid before any future sessions can be scheduled.
Notification Methods:
Clients should notify Corie Smith, Photographer via email, phone call, or text message to confirm a cancellation or request rescheduling. The photographer will confirm receipt of the communication.
Exceptional Circumstances:
In the event of exceptional circumstances (e.g., illness, emergencies, or travel disruptions), the photographer will make reasonable accommodations where possible, but this does not guarantee the waiver of the no-show fee. Any exceptions will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Agreement to Policy:
By booking a session with Corie Smith, Photographer or CS Photography, clients acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this No-Show Policy.
This policy is designed to ensure fairness and accountability for both the photographer and the client, as time and resources are reserved specifically for each session.
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If you prefer not to take any additional steps, I’d suggest you choose a public location where a permit is not needed.
Guideline for Clients: How to Obtain a Permit for Photoshoot Location Use
As a client planning a professional photoshoot at a specific location, it is important to understand that obtaining the necessary permits and permissions is your responsibility. The photographer may help guide you through the process, but ultimately, it’s up to you to secure approval to shoot at your chosen location. Below is a step-by-step guideline to help you navigate the permit application process and ensure a smooth, legally compliant photoshoot.
1. Confirm if a Permit is Required
Before you finalize your photoshoot plans, you must first determine whether a permit is required for the location you want to use. This will depend on factors like:
Type of Location: Public spaces (parks, streets, government buildings) or private properties (businesses, event venues, residential areas).
Commercial vs. Personal Use: A permit is generally required for commercial shoots, such as brand photography, advertising, or social media promotions. If it's a personal or casual shoot, a permit may not be necessary, but it’s still worth checking.
Size of Crew/Equipment: Larger crews, special equipment (lighting, props, or drones), or anything that may disrupt regular activity typically requires a permit.
2. Research the Location’s Permit Process
Once you confirm that a permit is necessary, it’s time to research the specific process for obtaining it. The process will vary based on whether the location is public or private.
For Public Locations:
City Parks, Beaches, and Government-Owned Spaces: Many cities require permits for photography in public areas. Visit the local city website or contact the parks and recreation department to inquire about the application process. Some national parks or government properties have their own permit process (often available online).
Public Streets: If you plan to shoot on a public street, you may need permission from the local municipality or traffic authority. This is especially true if you're using props, blocking pathways, or bringing in additional lighting.
For Private Locations:
Private Property (Businesses, Studios, Homes, etc.): For shooting at private locations, you must get permission directly from the property owner or manager. If it's a business, they may have a specific photography policy or pricing for using their space.
Venue-Specific Rules: Some venues (hotels, event spaces, etc.) may have a designated process for obtaining photography permits or agreements. Be prepared to negotiate the terms, including access, duration, and any potential fees.
3. Gather Information for the Permit Application
When applying for a photography permit, you will often need to provide specific details about the shoot. Be ready with the following information:
Date and Time: Specify the exact dates and times when you plan to shoot, including setup and teardown time.
Description of the Shoot: Briefly describe the nature of your photoshoot. Is it a commercial shoot (e.g., for an advertising campaign or product shoot), personal portrait session, or fashion shoot?
Size of the Crew: List the number of people involved, such as models, assistants, makeup artists, and photographers.
Equipment: Mention the type of equipment you'll be using, especially if it includes lighting setups, tripods, props, or anything that requires additional space or permissions.
Liability Insurance: Some locations may require proof of insurance. This helps protect both you and the location in case of damage or accidents.
4. Submit the Permit Application
Once you have all the necessary information, it's time to submit your application. Depending on the location, the application process may be straightforward or more involved. Here's what to do:
Public Locations: For public spaces like parks or government buildings, you may be able to apply online through the city or local government website. In other cases, you might need to submit an application by email or in person. Make sure to submit the application well in advance (some locations require several weeks' notice).
Private Locations: If you’re shooting at a private business or venue, contact the location directly to discuss the photography agreement. They may have a form or contract for you to sign, which outlines the terms, fees, and expectations.
5. Understand the Rules and Restrictions
Once your application is approved, you will likely receive a list of rules and guidelines for your shoot. These are in place to ensure the shoot goes smoothly, safely, and without disruption to the property or the public.
Common rules may include:
Restricted Areas: Certain areas of the property or location may be off-limits.
Noise Levels: You may be required to keep noise levels down, particularly if you're shooting in a residential or busy area.
Time Limitations: Some locations may only allow photography during specific hours or require that you wrap up by a certain time.
Safety Requirements: There may be restrictions on lighting, fire hazards, or props that could pose a safety risk.
Clean-Up Requirements: Ensure that you leave the location as you found it, with all equipment and trash removed.
6. Pay Fees (If Applicable)
Many locations charge a permit fee for photography. This could be a flat rate or an hourly/daily fee, depending on the location and the nature of the shoot. Make sure to inquire about the fees in advance and include them in your budget.
7. Confirm Your Permit
Before the shoot, confirm your permit approval with the relevant authorities or location managers. Ensure that all details are correct (dates, times, equipment usage) and that you have received a formal confirmation.
Keep a copy of the permit on hand during your shoot. This can be either a physical or digital copy. If any questions arise or you are approached by location staff or local authorities, you’ll need to show proof of your approved permit.
8. Follow the Location’s Guidelines
Once you’ve obtained the necessary permit, make sure you and your team follow all guidelines. This is important for maintaining a good relationship with the location owners and ensuring the shoot goes smoothly.
Key things to remember:
Respect the Property: Treat the location with care, and avoid causing any damage.
Respect Other People: If you're shooting in a public space, be courteous to others who are using the space.
Leave No Trace: Clean up after your shoot, leaving the location just as you found it.
9. Post-Shoot Considerations
Sharing Photos: If you plan to use the photos commercially (e.g., for marketing or advertising), ensure that the location owner is properly credited or that you have permission to use the images for those purposes.
Additional Permissions: If you decide to share photos online, especially in commercial contexts, check if the location has any restrictions on photography for promotional use.
Final Thoughts
Securing a permit for your photoshoot location may seem like an additional step, but it’s crucial for ensuring that you’re legally covered and respecting the location’s rules and guidelines. By carefully following these steps, you can avoid any issues and ensure that your photoshoot goes off without a hitch. Remember, taking the time to plan ahead will lead to a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
once again, If you prefer not to take any additional steps, choose a public location where a permit is not needed.