What Makes Us Different?
What sets my studio apart among other photographers in Central Illinois is that this is a fine art, full-service studio committed to providing my clients with exceptional service and beautiful, classic artwork. By “full-service,” I mean that I am there for you every step of the way, from the planning of your session to the delivery of your final finished products. I won’t leave you with an impersonal experience.
I am highly trained in my craft and follow safety standards in regards to handling and posing your infant; I consult with you to design the session and accompanying products to suit your home, style, and decor; I use only high quality products from labs that work exclusively with professional photographers; I make sure that your artwork meets my high quality control standards as a professional; and, the result is beautiful, finished, heirloom quality artwork that is ready to be displayed in your home, with no additional work or stress on your part. Even when you do opt to purchase digital files you will be given access to professional quality prints that still pass through my quality control so that your investment won't go down the drain by printing at big box stores.
Here’s a little bit of what you can expect from us in regards to these services:
I want to hear from you! The easiest way would be to contact me is through our Contact Form by clicking this image link. If you prefer a phone call as your primary means of communication, please send me your name and phone number so we can arrange a time when it would be convenient for me to call and speak with you.
The Consultation
After your initial inquiry, I like to set up a consultation either over the phone or in-person, where we meet each other and go over any questions you may have. Together we can go over your goals for the session, what your personalities and style preferences are like, and what you and your family like to do together! We can chat about any props or clothing you would like to incorporate in to the session, what details and poses you like, etc. The best perk to your consultation is getting to see and feel our wide range of fine art products. Once you see we’re the right fit for you, we will go ahead and proceed with the booking process which includes filling out a contract and paying a retainer so we can reserve your spot on the calendar.
The Session {newborn}
When you arrive to the Uptown Normal portrait studio for your session, we usually will take the first 15 minutes or so to make sure that Baby gets nice and full, so please come prepared to feed your baby. (There is no need to show up early to your appointment. I plan for this and other feedings throughout the course of the session as needed so that Baby stays nice and comfortable. Moms are sometimes surprised by how much their baby eats during a session, so please come prepared for at least 2-3 feedings. Sometimes the moving and stimulation prompts babies to want to eat or suck more. Plus, it’s hard work being so cute all the time in front of the camera.) Once we’re ready to start, I’ll usually do the parent and sibling poses first before moving on to the bean bag poses of baby. Then it’s your turn to sit back and relax while we go through those adorable baby poses. I take the utmost care while handling your baby as does my highly trained assistant, and we do our best to style the images based on what you shared with me at your consultation. Most sessions typically last 2-3 hours (although some can be done sooner), so please plan your schedule accordingly.
The Session {maternity, family, & milestones}
For maternity, family or milestone sessions we will plan to meet out at a location we have discussed during our consultation or you will join me at my Uptown Normal portrait studio. These sessions last about 45 minutes to an hour and are spent simply relaxing, chatting, playing and if outdoors- taking little walks to get the kids comfortable and more natural in front of the camera. All kids react differently to being photographed and no matter the situation I can promise adorable images you will cherish for a lifetime.
The Ordering Appointment
Not long after your session we will meet again for the big reveal to see your photos for the first time. This is probably THE most rewarding part of my job! I love seeing clients’ reactions when they see their photos! The reveal takes place back at the portrait studio so be sure to stop by the coffee hound just below our studio and grab a coffee to enjoy during your appointment. Anyone is welcome to come to this session, but because of limited seating we ask that only the parents and no more than one or two other guests who are close to the family attend. Most parents come by themselves and find the selection process easier and more enjoyable when they treat it as a special outing and leave the kids with a family member or babysitter. I will play a special presentation of your photos and chat about your wants and needs. It’s a celebration of the art we were able to create of your loved ones, so please come ready to enjoy and relax, but please also make sure that all decision makers can be present because this is where you will finalize your order and decide which images you would like to turn into artwork for your home.
Payment
I understand that investing in your family’s memories and legacy is SO important. That is why I offer a few options to help make it easy for anyone to be able to purchase the collection they really want. After you finalize your order and choose any add-ons or gifts, I will collect and process your payment. I also offer interest-free payment plans that you can pay in installments so you can get the collection that you REALLY want that will become part of your family’s history and legacy for the next 100 years or more.
The Delivery