I Need Photos... Where Do I Start?

Did you know that there is actually a process to having a great photography experience? It's true! Many people think it is just about pricing but there is so much more that goes into choosing a photographer and what you need to know and do before you pay and sign the contract.

Once you've found a photographer you think you want to work with, go ahead and fill out the contact form but while you're waiting to hear back, there are a couple of things you can (and should do).

1. Explore Their Website. Our goal as photographers is to make sure you have as much information up front as possible to make your decision about whether or not to work with us. Do a little exploring to see pricing and general information before you send that inquiry form. It will make everyone's experience a lot smoother.

2. Look For Locations. Most photographers will have a questionnaire that will ask what kinds of locations you are drawn to and may even have a resource that will have recommendations. However, you can start thinking about possibilities as soon as you contact them (or even before!).

3. Start Thinking About Your Outfits. Again, you will probably receive some sort of Style Guide or other resources to help you nail all the details, but thinking through your general style, especially if you've never really thought about it before, can be very beneficial later on in the process.


What Does It Look Like To Work With Me?
If someone wants to work with me, I recommend that they start on the page with whatever session they are interested in. You can get to session-specific pages from the home page or from one of the drop-down options under "Portfolio". Those pages give an idea of what you can expect from that type of session, as well as details on the packages I have available.

At this point, you will be all set to fill out the contact form! Once I receive your inquiry, I will send you the appropriate questionnaire and Style Guide, as well as a few other session-specific resources. Based on the day preference you selected, I will also send my upcoming availability for that selection.

After the day, time, and location have been decided upon, you will get your contract and invoice! Then it's time for you to set up your appointments for hair, makeup, and nails (guys, you can get a haircut and manicure too!) and make sure you have your outfits finalized.

I send quite a few emails leading up to your session and they can be lengthy, but that is because I want to make sure you are fully equipped with everything you need to know BEFORE you show up for your portraits.

And if the Style Guide, Pinterest boards, and emails are enough, I have DOZENS of blog posts full of information and resources for you! I have a category for Families, Seniors, and Newborns, as well as my Client Education section. You can also find these posts on my Pinterest boards for each session type. Don't forget to check out the Client Education board and the Sarah Jayne Photography board too! I've been blogging since December of 2017. If you want to take a deep dive, there is plenty for you there :)

Now, the thing is, I can send you all this and put it on the blog, but if you don't look at it, then it's not going to help. That is why I HIGHLY recommend filling out your questionnaire and looking at these resources before asking questions. I love answering my clients' questions and I always tell them that I am here for anything they need to know, but most of the time, the answer to their question is already in what I've sent them.

My goal is to answer any question you may have before you need to ask it, but I also know that some situations are unique, so I am serious when I say, if you have any further questions at all, please ask!!!! And who knows, maybe it will show me something I need to add to my guide :)


I hope these things help you as you look for your photographer to capture your special moments and milestones. If you think that might be me, I can't wait to see your inquiry form in my inbox!


(I have a free gift for you! Grab your pack of ten free screensavers - five for computers and five for phones. Enjoy!)