Q: What kind of photoshoots do you offer?
A: I offer most kinds of lifestyle photography! This includes: family portraits, milestone sessions, cake smash shoots, senior portraits, engagement sessions, maternity shoots, small events (birthday parties, reunions, baby showers), and in-home lifestyle newborn sessions. My specialty is photographing families + kiddos, as I have extensive professional experience & a passion for working with little ones. Check out my "inclusive photography" gallery on this site to read more about my background! Have a session in mind that isn't listed above? Reach out to me to chat - I'm all about new ideas/unique photoshoots!
Q: Where are sessions held at?
A: I can typically accommodate locations and homes within a 30 minute radius of Richmond City. I'll provide a diverse list of recommendations for outdoor locations I enjoy shooting at, and can also brainstorm/scout others if your family has a specific need/request. Locations/homes outside of the 30 minute radius can be accommodated with a small additional travel fee. I do not currently have an indoor studio for sessions.
Q: How do I book a session?
A: Shoot me a message through the "contact me" page on this website, by email (Lauren@okes.net), or by facebook message (www.facebook.com/laurenokesphotography). I'll reply within a few days with an updated availability list and answer any questions you may have!
Q: What days are sessions available?
A: I have weekday and weekend availability each month. Keep in mind that weekend openings do fill up quickly!
Q: How far in advance should I schedule my session?
A: Busy seasons like fall & spring will book up about 3 months in advance, while slower seasons book 1-2 months in advance. I recommend reaching out ASAP, in order to have the most options available to you when scheduling! Availability lists do change weekly as inquiries come in and sessions get scheduled.
Q: do you require a deposit or sitting fee to book a session?
A: I do ask for half of the session price as a deposit at booking, and the other half of the session price due on the day of your shoot. If anything were to come up, I am able to refund that deposit fully up to one hour prior to your session time.
Q: What about inclement weather?
A: In the event of inclement weather, I will check the forecasts & news outlets frequently leading up to your session. You'll hear from me the week of your session to inform you of the potential for bad weather, & we'll discuss a plan for checking back in the day before/morning of your shoot. If scheduling allows for it, we may adjust your session time that day. If not, I will provide you with a list of reschedule dates for the upcoming weeks/months. If you decide a cancellation is what works best, I am able to refund any deposits fully at that time.
Q: Do you allow pets at sessions?
A: YES! I am an avid animal lover and would be so happy to include your furry family member in your shoot! Just be sure to inform me of your thoughts to include them at booking - some locations do not allow pets and we will want to plan accordingly.
Q: Do you have props? what can you provide me to use at a session?
A: I own some basic props that can be incorporated into your shoot if desired! I will always bring various white/beige blankets to your outdoor session (along with bubbles & stickers that can be helpful with kids). Some other items you can request I bring are: pop up changing tent for outfit changes, canvas boho tent (best for milestone, cake smash & children sibling photos), dried lavender bundles, faux flower garland, brown basket, wooden stool, brown chair. I can do my best to incorporate any special items/props of your own as well. Please be sure to inform me of your thoughts on props to bring or include at booking so we can plan accordingly.
Q: What's with all the travel photos?
A: I have a SERIOUS case of the wanderlust! Although my day to day consists of photographing amazing families, kids, couples, & babies...my favorite pastime will always be travel + street photography. One big reason I made my career shift was to allow more time for travel & adventure with my husband throughout the year - I am always at my happiest in a foreign country experiencing, learning about & photographing different cultures. In addition to all of my portraits, I hope you enjoy scrolling through my Street Photography, Landscapes/Cityscapes, & Architecture galleries every now and again too!