THE PROCESS
This isn’t just about taking photos. It’s about creating portraits that feel natural, genuine, and true to you.
My process is designed to keep things easy and enjoyable from our first hello to the moment you receive your final images.
STEP 01
Fill out the Form
Complete the contact form on my website to get started. I’ll reach out to you as soon as possible to discuss your portrait needs, vision, and any specific requests.
If you have been here before. Visit my booking page to view all collections and any additional offers. Once you select a collection, follow the steps to book and submit your deposit to secure your spot. Here you’ll also find my most up-to-date available session dates.
STEP 02
Session Prep
Once you’ve booked your session, we’ll start by reviewing the questionnaire you’ve filled out to get a sense of your vision and preferences. From there, we’ll discuss location options and help you select the perfect spot to match your style and session vibe. We’ll also choose a date that works for you and finalize any outfit ideas that will complement your chosen location.
I’ll be in touch with you to ensure everything is lined up and ready for the big day, making sure you feel confident and prepared when it’s time to shoot.
STEP 03
Session Day
Connection
Connection is at the heart of every session. From start to finish, we’ll chat, share stories, and keep things relaxed. The more comfortable you feel, the more your personality shines and that’s where the magic happens!
Have Fun
Sessions with me are meant to feel lighthearted and fun, not stiff, or stressful. Let the moments unfold naturally, and trust me to guide you along the way. The best photos come when you’re truly you, so don’t worry about being perfect and enjoy the experience.
A Gentle Reminder
If kids are part of the session, let’s make it a positive experience for them. Yelling or scolding won’t create smiles. I promise. Instead, let’s use patience and playfulness to bring out their natural joy. If this approach doesn’t align with your style, I may not be the right photographer for you and that’s okay!
STEP 04
Delivering Images
Proofing Gallery
One week after your session, you’ll receive a lightly or unedited edited proofing gallery to review. This is your chance to select the images you love most or order additional images.
Final Edits
Once you’ve made your selections, Final editing takes about three weeks, and then you’ll receive an email with a link to download your finished images.
Preserve Your Memories
Your gallery also includes access to a professional print shop where you can order high-quality prints, canvases, and albums.
SESSION PREP
Planning for your upcoming photo session doesn’t have to be stressful!
Whether you like to handle things on your own or need a bit of guidance, I’m here to help you feel prepared and confident.
DATES & LOCATION SELECTIONS
Dates are available on my booking page and are claimed quickly. Please contact me ASAP if you have a date you are interested in. I typically release availability 2-3 months in advance.
Once a date and time is set, we can go over the various locations available to us based on your responses to the questionnaire included in your booking.
Need a little more help finding the perfect location, you will have access to my complete location guide.
I understand that every session is unique, and whether you're a high school senior or a family looking for portraits, your style and vision are important. For those who prefer to handle the details themselves, that’s perfectly fine! However, if you’d like a bit more guidance, I’m here to help.
If styling help is needed, I offer an online service that can assist with planning your looks. This is a lifesaver for family sessions and also works wonders for seniors who want an extra hand in making decisions. For my high school seniors, I work closely with you to understand what appeals to your personal style and session needs.
Whether you want to go it alone or collaborate, I’m here to ensure your session is fun, stress-free, and uniquely you.
NEED INSPO?
PIN IT!
High School Seniors
During pre-session planning, my favorite way to collaborate to plan your session is to create a detailed Pinterest board for your senior session.
The more you pin, the better!
Think of your Senior Session Pinboard as a direct line to getting the most out of your senior images.
We’ll explore options together, from outfit ideas to location inspiration, to make sure your session truly reflects who you are.
WHAT TO PIN:
FASHION STYLE | HAIR STYLES
POSES YOU LOVE | FINAL OUTFITS | LOCATIONS YOU LOVE
MAGAZINE IMAGES | OTHER PHOTOGRAPHY YOU LOVE
Reschedule Policy
If it is raining or is forecasted to rain during our session hours, I will e-mail/text you three hours before you are scheduled to arrive on your session day to let you know that we need to reschedule. Then we go over availability for the soonest session options to you for a reschedule date.
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FAQ
Where are you located, and do you travel?
I’m based in Raleigh, NC and photograph clients throughout Triangle. Travel outside that area may include a fee. Just ask for details.
What types of sessions do you offer?
I specialize in portraits for high school seniors, college grads, milestone birthdays, dancers, couples, and small families.
How far in advance should I book, and do you require a retainer?
Fall and spring dates fill quickly, so I recommend booking 4–8 weeks ahead. A non-refundable retainer is required to secure your date, with the balance due by 3 days before your session.
What’s included, and can I purchase more images?
Each session includes my time and talent, pre-session guidance,the photography session itself, and a private online proofing gallery where you select your favorites. Additional images can be added during the selection process, and your gallery features a custom store for ordering beautifully crafted albums, wall art, and other keepsakes.
Do you offer albums, prints, or wall art?
Yes! I offer professionally crafted prints, canvases, and custom wall art through your online gallery’s print shop. For Regal Fusion albums, simply reach out to me directly and we’ll design something beautiful together.
What happens if I need to reschedule, or if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
I try not to reschedule too early. Weather can change quickly, and some of the best sessions have happened on days that started out gloomy. If conditions look truly unfavorable, I’ll reach out at least three hours before your session to discuss options.
I understand life happens! If you need to reschedule, I’m happy to accommodate once with no fee if you give at least 48 hours’ notice. Additional reschedules will require a fee. Please note that if you arrive late, your session will still end at the scheduled time, and no refunds are available for missed sessions.
Can I bring pets or extra people to my session?
Absolutely! I love when parents or friends hop in for a few photos during a senior session. It makes the experience even more special. For family sessions, the session fee includes up to 5 people, with a $25 fee per person beyond that. Any additional guests should be discussed ahead of time so we can plan accordingly. Pets are welcome at pet-friendly locations listed in my guide. Just be sure they’re safely handled and comfortable during the session so everyone—two-legged and four-legged—has a great time.
Do you retouch my photos?
Yes. All delivered images are edited for color, exposure, and overall polish in line with my artistic style. Temporary marks or distractions may be retouched, but permanent features (such as scars or birthmarks) remain. Any additional edits beyond my standard process can be provided upon request for an additional fee.
Can I split my session into payments?
Installment options are available, including Afterpay. Please contact me prior to booking so I can set up the appropriate payment option for you.
Get in Touch
For general questions or follow-ups on bookings, email me at stephanie@stephaniemarieimagery.com