Heirloom Portrait Session FAQs

Important things to know before your session!

Q: What should my child wear?

A: Solid white, ivory, or pastel heirloom style outfits are recommended. We do not recommend wearing patterns or bright colors. There are several local children’s boutiques that offer heirloom style clothing. We’ve also linked online shopping options for every price range here. You can even find affordable options on Amazon! You may also choose to have your heirloom outfit hand made. Heirlooms are photographed from the shoulders up. We recommend either bringing an extra outfit in case of spit-ups or spills or waiting to change into the outfit until just before the session.

Q: What is the best age for Heirloom Portraits?

A: We recommend any age from the time your child can sit up and hold their head up and older. There’s no perfect time to have heirloom portraits made. Everyone’s preference is different!

Q: How should I prepare my child for the session?

A: We recommend telling your child they’re coming to see Emerson to have their picture made to hang in your home for all of their family and friends to see. Whatever works for you - you know your child best! On the day of the session, please prepare your child or children by making sure their face is free of crumbs, stains, etc. Please arrive on time and ready to go!

Q: Should I bring toys or snacks to the session?

A: We recommend having toys or (non-messy) snacks on hand in case they need to be used as an incentive for your child to smile, look at the camera, sit still, etc. Please do not show the snacks or toys to your child before the session. We’ve found that once your child knows they’re there, it can disrupt the session and be the only focus of your child’s attention. Please do not hand toys or snacks to your child during the session as they could show up in the photo(s). We will prompt you to introduce the toys or snacks if needed.

Q: Should we arrive early?

A: We recommend arriving a few minutes early to ensure your session begins right on time. If you are late to the session, time can not be added to the 20 minute duration. If you arrive early and another session is still in progress, please do not disturb.

Q: How and when will I receive my digital images?

A: You will receive your digital images in two steps: a proofing gallery and a final gallery. You will select your final digital images from an unedited proofing gallery. You’ll also have the option to purchase additional (beyond the 5 included) digital images if you choose. Your proofing gallery (a gallery with watermarked, unedited images from which you will choose your finals) will be delivered 1-2 weeks after your session, and your final gallery (fully edited finals that you have chosen) will be delivered up to 2 weeks after I receive your final selections from your proofing gallery. You will receive your final edited digital images in both color and black & white with a vignette. Unedited (RAW) images are not for sale.

Q: Can I buy the unedited images?

A: I do not offer unedited (RAW) images for sale. They are not an accurate representation of my work or the final product of an heirloom portrait session.

Q: Are prints included in the session?

A: Fine art prints are sold separately. You will receive a 40% discount, but are not obligated to purchase prints from your gallery store. View print pricing, HERE. Ordering directly through your gallery store is highly encouraged. I can not guarantee the quality of print products ordered from third parties.

Q: Do you offer framing?

A: I do not offer framing in-house at this time. However, I would be happy to hop on a phone or FaceTime framing consultation call with you!

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to email me!