Session Planning FAQs
How do I start planning my session?
We're looking forward to working with you! Contact us via email (info@nutmegphotography.com), phone or text (860-480-1746 or 860-689-2666) and let us know what kind of session you're interested in booking. We'll pin down a date and location for your session, then send you planning/contract paperwork and collect your session fee to hold the date. We'll check in a day or so prior to confirm plans (and weather forecast if applicable).
What is the pricing structure?
Most of our regular sessions require 2 payments: the first being your Sitting Fee, which covers your session time and our creative & processing time, plus any applicable travel fees. The second and final payment takes place when you make your desired Image Collection purchase (once you see your final images in a private viewing gallery). Large group fees and/or prime holiday fees may apply based on your needs. These fees will be applied to your Sitting fee (first payment).
Signed contracts will be due for all sessions with the first payment.
Where do we hold the session?
You have several options for appointment location depending on the type of session you're having done. For newborns, first birthdays, children and groups of 6 or fewer individuals, we offer sessions at our studio with access to our wide selection of props and controlled lighting. Our adorable courtyard is perfect for outdoor photos when weather is comfortable. For non-studio sessions, we are happy to meet you anywhere you’d like your photo session done (A $50 flat fee applies to home visits and a fee for locations further than 10 miles from zip code 06759). Many people stress over the “perfect” spot to have their pictures taken and often overlook their own home and backyard. It can be a wonderful, familiar place to create memories. Our portrait images are not typically wide, sweeping landscape photos. Rather, we concentrate on capturing connections and personalities – we aim to keep backgrounds pleasant and free from distracting objects or colors. We can make suggestions for several local outdoor places if you’re stumped for ideas.
What’s the best time to schedule my session?
Indoor studio sessions can be held at any time of day under our controlled lighting conditions. Any sessions outdoors will be weather-dependent and ideally during early morning or late afternoon when light is best. We avoid shooting around midday outdoors since direct overhead sun can be harsh and unflattering. That being said, if such times are not possible for you, we will find a location and time that works for everyone.
First Birthdays will be worked around naps when your child is fresh and at his/her best. These sessions move along efficently and are wrapped up within an hour.
What should we wear?
We don’t insist on certain colors or styles. It's most important that you feel like yourselves in whatever you choose. Think about your home's decor. You'll be hanging wall art in your home and will want to coordinate your family's wardrobe in complimenting colors. A good first rule of thumb is to avoid bright, bold or busy patterns and corporate logos (think large “athletic company” Swoosh, graphic-tees, etc) which can be visually distracting. Generally coordinate colors and styles amongst family members, but keep in mind the trend of families matching exactly is outdated. Simple khaki colors, grays, blues, pastels and natural tones will blend nicely with most backgrounds. Please also be sure that collared and button-down shirts are freshly ironed, dark clothing should be free of pet hair and lint.
Online searches such as "Family photo session wardrobe ideas" can be helpful in giving you some wardrobe inspiration. Adding a season to your search criteria can also help you develop your plan.
I’m not sure my small child will sit still for “portraits”…..
No worries! Our specialty is children & families. We understand kids are busy and curious. We won’t force your kiddos to sit through stuffy & boring portrait sittings. We take the time to work with you and your children to get the best possible results – while keeping the session organized & moving along. Plus we’re always prepared with silly faces, puppets & teddy bears! Weather permitting, outdoor sessions are great for kids – they have space to run around, interact with siblings and be themselves.
What if my child is sick?
No worries - these things happen. We prefer to reschedule when your child is ill. Kids are miserable when they're not feeling well and we want to ensure that you and your child enjoy the session. Children must be fever-free for at least 24 hours (without medication) before coming to the studio (we also work with tiny newborns and keeping our studio healthy is important for everyone).
Do you offer the digital files from our session?
YES! The world of photography is changing. We believe our clients should own their photographs and have the flexibility of using and retaining their images for years to come. Our Collection pricing includes limited copyright which allows you rights to print and share your images. Our Collections include a high-resolution digital download for some or all of your gallery's images (no watermarking). We highly suggest ordering your additional prints through us – you have paid for professional photographs and should see them as such in print. Our product quality is 100% guaranteed.
What happens after our session/When will our photos be ready?
Images from most Nutmeg Collections (maternity, newborn, families, high school seniors, first birthdays, engagements, etc) will be ready for viewing in a private online gallery 2 weeks after your session. At this time, you will be able to puchase whichever of our Standard Collections or Newborn Collections look best to you. You will also submit your choices for that Collection's included hard copy print products. Digital image downloads will only be made available once payment and print choices have been submitted. Please be sure to carefully read your emails from us so receipt of your images is not delayed.
Please note Weddings and other large events are ready in 6-8 weeks – the wait may be slightly longer during our busier seasons (May/June, September/October).