Clare J Sheridan Photography FAQs:
Your questions answered
Got a burning question about how my photo shoots work? You’ll probably find the answer below with my Clare J Sheridan Photography FAQs. If you can’t find what you’re looking for – drop me a message using my contact page.
Why should I book a professional photographer?
The question is why wouldn’t you? I help parents press pause on their busy lives and re-connect with their loved ones on fun photo shoots. I offer an experience – a joyful memory you’ll treasure long after the shoot is over. I’ll capture those moments you’d miss with your smartphone.
Your children and dogs mean the world to you, yes? But children grow up so fast and dogs are only with us for such a short time. Don’t you want something special to remember this moment: to remember the fun, the laughter, the joy? I love capturing these moments just for you.
How long do your photo shoots last?
Usually 1-3 hours, depending on the shoot and the subject. You’ll end up having so much fun, that time will just fly by. Please allow at least 1 hour.
Baby and family shoots may last longer to allow for feeding and breaks. I’m very flexible and I completely understand we work to your little one’s timetable.
A dog session can last anything up to 2 hours. We go for a lovely, relaxed walk: I encourage plenty of belly rubs and lots of play.
Patience is key and I and understand that children and dogs need to take breaks. I never force anyone to do something they don’t want to do. I set up sessions like playtime; they won’t even know I’m there so I get lots of natural shots.
Where do photo shoots take place?
Most of my sessions happen outdoors; this can be at a local park or a favourite family haunt. A location will be agreed during the initial consultation, where I offer site advice depending on what you want from your shoot. It will be somewhere familiar and comfortable to you and your family. This will guarantee lots of relaxed smiles and plenty of fun.
The only exception is newborn or baby photography – these sessions happen in your home, to maximise comfort for new mums and babies.
Comfort and safety is paramount to me, so I always make sure all outdoor sessions are not near main roads or other dangerous distractions (e.g. cows or horses in a nearby field, on dog shoots).
What if it rains on the day of my outdoor shoot?
Rain gets a bad rep: it’s not always such a terrible thing. Family shoots can often be enhanced by a little light drizzle – it can be a great time to have fun with wonderful props like umbrellas, raincoats, or splashing in puddles wearing Wellington boots!
I keep a close eye on the weather. If it looks like torrential rain or worse, I will contact you 24 hours before, to re-arrange a more suitable time.
What should I wear to a photoshoot?
You’ll be encouraged to bring 2-3 outfits so that we can get a nice range of differently styled shots.
I offer detailed advice on the dos and don’ts of what to wear during your initial consultation prior to the shoot. I set up shared Pinterest boards with clothing ideas, depending upon the type of shoot you’d like and the location of the shoot.
Your dog’s wardrobe is also important: If your pooch has a favourite piece of clothing, please bring it along! That’s what makes them unique – and that’s what I love to capture!
What else should I bring to a photoshoot?
Yourself (obviously!), your family and/or your dog.
I encourage children to bring a few of their favourite toys. Bring drinks too and plenty of healthy snacks/treats (I don’t recommend sugary treats as these can make children hyperactive, which does not make for a great shoot).
Dog parents should bring plenty of treats, toys, poop bags and also water – especially on hot days.
What if my children misbehave or my dog can’t come off the lead?
There is no need to worry – I’ve seen it all before.
I take time to get to know children and dogs at the start of every shoot – this minimises any unease. It makes them comfortable and not self-conscious in my presence. I make photo sessions fun: I encourage tickles, toys, belly rubs (for dogs), plenty of play and fun.
If your dog is nervous or not well behaved off the lead, that’s okay. If you come equipped with a long training lead, I can edit this out later in post-production. You’ll look back on the images and never know your dog was still on its lead.
Where are you based?
I’m an English-speaking family and pet photographer based in Bad Homburg. But I’m happy to travel to Frankfurt and around the Hessen region. Shoot locations more than 10 miles from Bad Homburg will incur an extra mileage cost on top of the shoot price.
How soon will I see images from my shoot?
Images will be available 2-3 weeks after your photo shoot, at your viewing session.
How many images will I get?
I aim to have a minimum of 20 per session, but there will probably be more. It’s completely up to you how many you buy and there is no hard sell. I want you to have the best images you’ve ever seen of your family and dog.
