Frequently Asked Questions

Hey, Sarah…

What is your style?
My style is best described as GENUINELY. CAPTIVATING. BEAUTY.TM I love how warm natural light and natural colors create a timeless moment. To maintain the “timeless” feel, relax and keep it simple & classic. Most large patterns, overwhelming accessories, or graphics & logos can be found distracting. While all plain or all-white clothes can look flat on even the best dressed. Some tips for classic looks would include: wearing complementing colors (so you stand out when next to each other); layers for depth and variety; and maybe skipping “trendy” styles that you would regret seeing 10 years from now. Ha! But remember, the focus is on your connection, not your clothes.

When do you schedule your sessions?
I schedule sessions on Monday-Wednesday evenings (about an hour and a half before sunset) while leaving Thursdays for makeup sessions*. I work hard to make this quick and relaxed, but sessions can last up to 1 hour+ depending on location, peak photography times, type of session, and if the littles are feeling a bit restless or not.
*Friday & Saturday sessions are subject to availability and an additional $50.

What if I’m late?
Your time is valuable. I make all attempts to be prompt and use our time wisely during the allotted session. In the case where I cannot be on time, I will contact you on my status and/or reschedule if necessary. I do appreciate the same kindness in return.

How are my photos delivered?
I do my best to balance my personal time and professional time to ensure a timely delivery date. In most cases, I can have your photos for you in 2 weeks. My choice of delivery is an email with a link to your online gallery. In the email, a code would be given to you for your privacy, to access the gallery. I have found most clients prefer to view them online to easily share, download, and print —even from their phones. After 4 weeks the online gallery will expire so download multiple copies of your entire gallery before then to avoid an additional $25 re-upload fee.

Do I have to sign a Release Form?
Yup! Photography is one of my biggest passions and that is why I made it my personal business. Like any business,
word-of-mouth is the best advertisement (so don’t be shy to share your experience), but I also use my services —the photos I take and edit — for my advertising, website, and social media needs. I have attached my Photography Contract for more details on this topic. Please read it carefully, fill it out, and sign it. It can be brought to me on the day of the session. Also, when posting, it helps to credit my business page at Sarah Sheppard Photography. (@sarahsheppardphoto) Thank you!

What if I need to cancel?
Things happen, I get it. If you ever need to cancel, just let me know within 24 hours before our scheduled time and we can discuss rescheduling. Again, the booking fee is non-refundable. [See above] If I have to cancel, I will notify you as soon as possible to reschedule. I’m not responsible for sudden weather changes, acts of God, unexpected emergencies, or any uncooperative members of your party or the public. :-)

Are there any local travel fees?
The first 30 miles from Hudsonville are included, additional miles are subject to a $.55/mile fee. Travel fees are agreed upon BEFORE the session is scheduled and not to be a surprise fee. :-)