FAQ
Why should I hire you?
Surprisingly, I’ve never been asked that question. I do have a full page to answer it though! (check out 'why hire me')
Why do you charge that much?
The following link explains it in further detail. Many people don’t realize the many hours I take pouring over their photos. They only see me for an hour or so but 80% of my work is done….not behind the lens….but in front of my computer. I price my photography based on the amount of time I work perfecting them!
How long will it take me to get my photos?
It takes me about 2-4 weeks to fix them up and then send out the proof disc (Time varies due to the time of year. For example, I am most busy in the fall due to the holiday season. Therefore it takes me a bit longer to crank out everyone’s photos). It takes about a week- 2 weeks to receive your prints or products (including shipping time) from the time that you order. Overnight and rush delivery is available at an extra cost.
What should I wear to my session?
I always tell clients to wear what they feel most comfortable in. Since my sessions are mostly held outside I would have you dress according to the weather. Matching outfits are often cute but are not required. Feel free to ask me for some clothing suggestions. I may even be willing to tag along on the shopping trip haha!
Do you edit your photos in black and white?
Of course I do. As the photographer, when I take a photo I take a mental note that the particular photo will look better in black and white than in color. Therefore I select which photos to give you in black and white and which to give you in color. If you don’t like black and white then please let me know before our session so that I can make sure to photograph you/your family accordingly.
Do you have Gift Certificates?
I most definitely do! They can be made out in any amount that you wish! They make perfect gifts that last a lifetime! They are also a great way to lock in my low prices during a sale time!
Do you have a studio?
At the moment I do not. I am strictly an on location photographer with the exception of newborns-12 month olds. I have a small backdrop and lighting setup with props that I use for newborns, baby, and 1st birthday smash cake photos. I hope to have a studio in the near future…
Why should I buy my prints from you?
Over the years I have done many print comparisons between local stores (walgreens, walmart, etc.), online (shutterfly, snapfish, etc.), Home printers (HP, dell, Kodak, Brother), and professional photo labs. I highly recommend buy your prints through me since I have specially calibrated my screen to match the photo lab’s printers. Therefore what I see on my computer monitor is exactly what you will get. It’s just not possible to do that with a local store, printer, online company etc. For example, the way that I see a photograph on my computer will be much different from how you see it on yours (colors will be off, contrast and brightness will be wrong) Have you ever printed a photograph at home and compared it to your monitor? Notice any differences? Did it print too dark? Too light? The reason why I use a professional lab is so that won’t happen. Another reason is for the sheer durability. If you’re going to purchase a print then why not purchase one that is resistant to fading. The photo lab that I work with uses high quality UV protected paper in either a luster (matte) finish or metallic (glossy) finish. By using this photo lab I also have the ability to offer custom sizes, canvases, albums, and products that you won’t find in your local stores. Here is a print comparison between a walmart print and the original image :
Photo copyright belongs to: Brittany Kallstrom Photography
Will I get a disc of all my photos?
Yes. You will get a disc with every session. This disc will include all of your photos that you will be able to print/use for personal use. The disc will also include watermarked photographs primarily to be used for sharing with friends and family (Email, facebook, etc ). There is no extra cost for that disc.
What if I want a specific picture/pose?
I will always try to give you what you want. Keep in mind that a lot of variables come into play when trying to copy something. I sometimes tell my clients to do a Google search of photographs which they like. That way I know the styles they like. I make it a point never to copy another photographer’s work so I will always put my own spin on it. If you like that photographer’s work a lot then I will highly suggest that you hire him/her. After all, they are your photographs and you have all right to love them. I have loads of respect for other photographers and I have recommended a few for those of you that aren’t in my area.
Do you require a deposit and is it refundable?
I do require a $20 deposit for sessions at the time you book with me. If you book with me over the phone or online, then you can just drop it into the mail. All deposits are 100% refundable up until 48 hours before your session. Deposit is deducted from total cost.
What is your area? How far do you travel?
I will travel the world for that perfect shot!
The area already included into your cost is a 60 mile radius around the center of Frohna, MO 63748. That area includes Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Perryville, and everywhere in-between. Anything further than 60 miles, I charge a travel fee of 80 cents per mile (round-trip). For further distances like out-of state, please contact me for a custom quote.
What is your preferred payment method?
I accept cash or check (made out to Hope Carroll)
What if I really like your work, but I can’t afford it right now?
Times are hard and people are struggling to get by every day. Photographs are so important and should never be “not an option” for people. I have always strived to be affordable and I do offer a payment plan that is very flexible. I do hold mini-session dates throughout the year at discounted prices and often have sales. Feel free to discuss your family’s situation with me and I’m sure we can work something out that won’t break your piggy bank!
I have a senior that will want to make a few outfit changes. Is there anything I should be aware of?
Since I do photograph on location (park, lake, church, woods, river, etc), please keep in mind that there won’t be many places to change. So far, none of my seniors have had a problem changing behind a bush or in the car. But that is completely up to them.
When is the best time to schedule my session?
I ask that you book a session with me at least 2 weeks beforehand to ensure that I am available. The exception would be a newborn session (Check out my newborn info page). Don’t hesitate to ask me if I am available last minute. Feel free to ask me if I’m free to schedule a session on a weekend. I don’t work major holidays and when I do take vacations, I schedule them 6 months in advance. The best time of day to schedule an outdoor session is at sunrise and right before sunset.
Do you photograph pets?
Yes I do! I treat pets like members of the the family (having a dog and 2 cats myself)! I count them as a person in my sessions.
How do I schedule my session?
Feel free to email me at hopecarrollphotograhy@yahoo.com or contact me at 573-352-0463 and I will be happy to answer any further questions and/or set up a session with you!
