F.A.Q.
What if we are a very Camera - Shy Family
Please do not worry if you, your partner or your children are camera shy or daunted by the idea of a photo shoot. It is totally normal - I feel the same way myself.
I will spend time getting to know you better before I pull out my camera, and it will feel more like a play date with a friend, rather than a formal photoshoot. You won't even have to look at the camera if you don't want to. I want to capture natural and authentic moments, so just focus on having fun with your family and I will capture it all as it happens.
where you based
I'm based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Do you only photograph in black and white
Yes, all my photographs are taken in black and white to create beautiful, timeless images.
Do you travel outside Shropshire
Yes, I'm happy to travel across the UK for photoshoots. This does incite an extra charge, in addition to the collection fee, to cover my travel costs and overnight stays if needed.
where will the photo shoot take place
All my Photo shoots take place on location. I travel to you and we take pictures at your home, out and about at a favourite park, Beach or woodland, or a combination of both indoors and outdoors.
It's a great idea to visit places which are personal for you and your family. This will provide images that capture memories of childhood, not the actual day of the photo shoot : A summer spent playing at a bandstand, The challenge of climbing a special tree or hours spent on a beloved beach.
The sessions are designed to capture your lives as you live them, so the choice of location is entirely yours.
As long as there are no restrictions on photography, I'm happy to take pictures pretty much anywhere.
Some locations do require a permit, which I'm happy to arrange for you. These are charged at cost.
what if our home isn't picture perfect
If your home doesn't look like it belongs in the pages of an interior magazine then please don't let it put you off having an in- home photo shoot. I can craft beautiful stories in any home or lighting condition as I believe there is beauty and light everywhere if you look for it. Your home is your safe place and the foundations of your children's memories, so its the most natural setting for your family photo shoot.
what should we wear
It's so important to be yourself's so don't feel like you have to dress up for the occasion. A good and simple rule is to coordinate but not match. For younger babies I prefer simple items like vests but for toddlers and older children, feel free to play around with patterns, layers and accessories like hats. If it's wet underfoot, please avoid dressing a toddler in white or light coloured tights, as the chances of falling over and getting muddy knees is high.There will be more tips what to wear in my pre session guide and we will have time to talk through wardrobe ideas.
Is there anything I should bring
If we're shooting out and about, then take the normal kit you'd have with you for a day at the park or beach : The children's favourite toys, perhaps a ball or cricket bat, snacks and drinks. Also please bring plenty of wipes. It's amazing how many we get through on a photo shoot.
can we reschedule if my child is ill
Absolutely, it's important that we get your baby or child at their best in order to capture happy and joyful images. I am happy to offer one Re - Schedule free of charge due to illness. Please note that further Re - Schedules are subject to a Re - Booking fee 50% of the original fee.
what if the weather is bad
In the lead up to your shoot I will keep a close eye on the weather forecast. If it looks wet we have a few options.
Change the location to your home and stay warm and dry inside. Make a feature of it :- Think welly boots and jumping in puddles. If you really want shots outside, but the weather is very bad, I am more than happy to Re - Schedule for another date. ( Please note subject to availability, You may have to wait a few weeks )
Please don't worry if the day turns out be grey and cloudy, overcast skies provides beautiful soft light which is very flattering.
Before the photo shoot
Plan for a morning of fun creating memories together. The session will be totally led by your babies and family's needs.
Your booking fee is required in advance to hold a space in my diary.
Before your shoot I'll give you a quick call to help break the ice and go through any questions you might have. I'll also send a shoot guide and questionnaire to make the session personal to you.
- A simple process
- 1 Book a date.
- 2 Getting to know you
- 3 Your photo shoot
- 4 Choose your photographs. After the shoot I will curate your gallery for you to view, this normally takes about 2 to 3 weeks.
the photo shoot
My biggest tip in preparing for a photo shoot is to relax. The less pressure you put on yourself, and your family, to get the perfect shots - the more likely we are to get them. I will send you plenty of information before the shoot with tips how to prepare and we will have a chat over the phone to go through any questions and ideas you have.
after the photo shoot
How do we choose our photographs.
Approximately 2 to 3 weeks after your shoot, I will send you a link to your own private online proofing gallery. I am on hand to help you choose your photographs and provide recommendations for the different display options available. Your gallery will be live for a week for you to decide which photographs you would like to buy, or if you have chosen a Heirloom, Gallery or Story book collection I will curate them for you, once you are happy and have approved them I will then send them off for you to get printed.
how long will the photo shoot last
Most sessions tend to last a morning. We start early, usually at 8am, to make the most of the best light and also to ensure that the children are wide - awake and ready to go. I'll stay until lunchtime which gives us plenty of time to get to know each other. We have the flexibility to take breaks between naps, snacks and coffee or to enjoy a bit of quiet time if needed.
I love taking pictures and it's great to share sessions that are slightly longer than the norm. We have the luxury of time to do a variety of activities. This results in more interesting and diversed images for you.
do you provide raw files
I do not provide RAW Files to clients. The type of RAW Files differ by camera manufacturer and model and a special software is needed to open them. I provide my client with finished JPEG. files that have been edited to my personal style.
who has the copyright to the images
I retain the copyright to all my images. However, your welcome to buy the complete set of print - ready digital files that I will put on a memory stick, which can be taken to any lab for reproduction, to produce the images for your personal use, or to give to family and friends.
You're not permitted to enter the pictures into any competitions or sell them onto third parties such as stock libraries.
How long will it take to receive my order
Prints approximately a week. If you have invested in one of the collections the time scale is, Wall frames two weeks and Fine Art Albums approximately four weeks after the artwork has been approved.
Thank you
I hope this guide covers everything you need to prep your family session! However if there is something I missed or you need a recommendation, please feel free to email me at russ@russhaguephotography.co.uk or call me on 07771 996661
I look forward to meeting you soon
A Gift to your future self
You'll never regret having too many photos. But you might regret the ones you didn't take
Contact Details & Enquiry form
Contact Russ if you are looking to document your family's unique story, I would love to work with you.
Please get in touch using the form below. I look forward to hearing from you.
Because Life changes Fast
A photo today becomes a treasured memory tomorrow. Don't wait until " Someday " To document your family's journey
