Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book a session?

To book a session, email me at katieschneiderphotos@gmail.com, call me at 859-806-0557 or use the Contact form. I usually respond to email and phone calls within one business.

We will talk about what type of photography you are looking for and I will answer any questions you have.

Once you are ready to book, I will pencil you in for the date and send you a digital contract. the signed contract and the session fee officially reserve your session date and time on my calendar. If the contract is not signed and session retainer is not paid within 1 week of receiving the contract, the date is made available for other inquiries.

What if I'm not ready to book?

If you would like to learn more, check out my Portfolios and my Blog to see the other stories I have told and the memories I have captured. You can also email me at katieschneiderphotos@gmail.com with any questions or to start planning your story.

How do I pay the session fee?

To book a session, the session fee (non-refundable) is required to be paid. 

Cash, check, credit card, and PayPal are accepted form of payment.

When are sessions usually scheduled?

Sessions are usually scheduled in the evenings Monday-Friday, and throughout the day Saturday-Sunday. Early morning hours or evening hours provide the best lighting conditions. I work with each client to determine the best time to fit their schedule. 

When do I schedule the maternity session?

I recommend booking the maternity session as soon as you get into the 2nd trimester. This ensures the best availability.

Maternity sessions are scheduled when you are around 28-34 weeks. The belly is at a good size to be visible, but not too big where you start to feel uncomfortable. Since "due dates" are approximate, it is also best not to wait until the last months to do the maternity photos. Don't miss your opportunity!

When should I schedule the newborn session?

I recommend booking the newborn session in your 2nd or 3rd trimester to ensure best availability. A time frame around your due date is scheduled and a date is finalized once you give birth.

Newborn sessions are typically done within the first 14 days after a baby is born. Days 5-12 are optimal because the newborn sleep most of the day and are less aware of noises and movement. This is optimal for those adorable sleepy shots.

When should I schedule a smash cake session?

Smash cake sessions are typically done around the 1st birthday. Some clients even like to use the photos for birthday party invitations.

The session starts with portraits of the child and the family and then we introduce the cake! Cake, balloons, decorations are provided by the parents. Some alternatives to cake include cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, watermelon, etc. 

What do packages include?

Packages include a Portrait Planning Session to discuss your vision for the photo session, types of photographs you like, and how you want to display your photographs in your home. The session fees includes my time and talent to design, plan, photograph and edit the images. A Reveal and Ordering Session is a time where we meet for the first reveal of your photographs (in-person!) and discuss the prints and photo products that you would like to order. Order what you love; no minimum requirements.

You select 1 location of your choice within reasonable Cincinnati limits (25 mile radius of zip code 45236). I will work with you to choose a location that fits your needs and vision. There are many urban and rustic settings in the greater Cincinnati area. You are responsible for any additional fees related to the location of choice (admission fees, parking, etc.). I have some availability to photograph in a natural light studio, pending availability. 

Packages include up to 2 outfits per person and some props that I have on hand. Feel free to bring props and mementos that are meaningful for you. I will do my best to try to incorporate them into the photos.

What if we need more time? Or want multiple locations?

Any session can be customized to be longer, to include more images and more locations. Session fees will be adjusted at an incremental rate. Please request this during the booking or the consultation so we can schedule enough time.

What do I do after the session is booked?

After signing the contract and paying the retainer, we will schedule a consultation. The consultation can be done in person, over the phone, or by email. The purpose of the consultation is to understand what you are looking to get out of the photography session. I want to personalize the photography session to capture your family and all the wonderful things about it. We will talk about options for locations, timing of the day, outfits, etc. I will contact you about 1-2 weeks before the session to see if you have any questions and to confirm the final details. 

What if we need to reschedule?

If the weather is not agreeable or someone becomes sick, I will gladly reschedule to another day, pending availability. You can reschedule up to 3 times, after which your retainer will be forfeited.

I maintain the right to reschedule if needed due to inclement weather, illness, equipment failure, emergency, or any event outside of my control. 

How are you going to get my energetic toddler to pose for family portraits?

Lifestyle photography is a great way to capture the true essence and personality of your family and your children. Sessions do include pose portraits, but mostly focus on lifestyle photos. Toddlers and small children are better photographed in their natural state (playing, running around, interacting with the world) than sitting down for posed photography. We work together to use favorite toys and props to assist with photos. Of course, a silly parent standing behind me is always a good trick!

What should we bring to the smash cake session?

Bring the cake, outfit for the baby, balloons, decorations, etc. I have a cake stand and a backdrop available, if needed.

If doing the smash cake session away from home, like at a park, it is best to bring extra baby wipes, bottle of water, towels, and a change of outfit for the child.

What should we wear for the photo session?

The rule of thumb is comfort and coordination, but not matching. Coordinate colors by staying in the same color family or choosing complimentary colors on top of neutrals like jeans, khakis, black, brown bottoms, tops, or dresses. Solid colors work best. Avoid horizontal stripes, busy patterns, prints, and logos. Comfort means nothing too tight or too loose. Wear something appropriate for your body shape and size so that you feel comfortable. Use accessories like jewelry, scarves, belts, headbands, etc. to personalize each outfit. 

Can I bring extended family to the photo session?

All packages are for immediate family only. Extended family members and additional children (more than 3) require more photography time and can be added at an incremental rate up to the day before the scheduled photography date. Even if extended family is not being photographed, more people can be distracting to those that are being photographed, especially small children. Unless Uncle Joe is the only that can make your child smile and laugh, it's best to leave extended family at home.

When can I see my photos?

You will get the first look at your photos (not counting me since I have to edit your photos) during the Reveal and Ordering Session, which typically takes place 1-2 weeks after the photo session. I do basic photo editing to ensure your images look their best. I want you to hang the photos on your wall and share them with family and friends, so I like to take extra time to ensure they look gorgeous! 

How long do you store my images?

I download and backup the images as soon as I get home and have access to my computer. After the photos are delivered to you, I only store the final photo files. They are backed up for 1 year. 

If you would like to learn more before you schedule a session,
 check out the featured stories on my blog.