Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book?

Reach out to me using my contact form and I will respond to you within 48 hours!

Is a deposit required?

Yes. When you book a shoot, I set aside that time for you. If the shoot is cancelled, it is hard for me to quickly find another client. Therefore, I require a a non-refundable retainer fee prior to the shoot in case of cancellation. The rate is 30% for weddings and 50% for all other packages. Nothing is booked or set in my calendar until the retainer is paid.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a shoot?

If you need to cancel the shoot, the retainer fee is non-refundable for the date you book with me. If you need to reschedule, we can cancel your current contract and you are more than welcome to rebook on the desired date with a new retainer paid. I do this because I most likely turned down other work + sessions for this date to book yours.

How MANY IMAGES WILL I RECEIVE?

You will receive all of the best images on your wedding day, so the amount varies per wedding. I typically deliver 50-100 photos per hour of shooting.

When will I be able to view my pictures?

Your images will be available 2-3 weeks after your session for portrait and engagement shoots and approximately 4-8 weeks for weddings! I also always send out sneak peeks after your shoot too!

How will I receive the files?

You will receive the edited files via an online photography gallery service that allows you to view and download full resolution images. You then can send them to print, forward to your friends + family, and post online! After downloading, please save and backup your images. I highly recommend backing up your photos in two places, such as a usb or external hard drive. I clean out my client files every few months, and I cannot guarantee that I will back up all the images from your session.

Do I get to select the images?

Part of my job is making the image selects and choosing the most flattering photographs. The images I do not deliver are either repeats, blurry or out of focus, shots of you blinking or mid-sentence speaking. I have no reason to withhold any images if there are additional ones I think you would enjoy!

What if the weather is bad?

If the weather is bad and it looks like we are not going to be able to complete the session, I will allow one reschedule for small shoots! If it's on your wedding day, embrace it! After all, it's still your special day. Plus, I've heard it's good luck! ;)

What If I don’t know how to pose? 

Don’t worry—I got your back! I will direct you how to pose, where to look, what to do with your hands, and when to smile! I will do my best to make you feel welcomed and comfortable so that you can focus on just being yourself and having fun!

Should I get my hair and make-up professionally done?

I recommend having hair and makeup done by a professional to all of my clients!

DO YOU TRAVEL FOR SESSIONS?

Heck yes!! I am located in Madison, WI but am more than willing to travel anywhere! If you are just a state over or are planning a destination wedding or elopement, reach out ASAP to book with me! Travel fees are calculated based on the location and your specific needs. For a custom quote, fill out my contact form!

CAN WE PRINT OUR IMAGES?

YES! Your gallery comes with a print release to do just that! Your images are far too precious to sit untouched for months on your computer's hard-drive. Plus, your online gallery is connected to a professional print company, so it’s super simple to order right from there!

WE WANT TO BOOK YOU! WHAT IS REQUIRED TO “OFFICIALLY” BOOK?

That is so awesome to hear! Fill out my contact form to start with. Then, I require a signed contract and the standard 30% retainer fee for weddings and 50% retainer fee for all other packages to be considered officially booked.

WHAT IF WE DON'T NEED AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION?

Engagement sessions are complimentary with eligible wedding collections. I highly suggest taking advantage of the complementary engagement session as it is a great way for us to get to know each other and work together before the big day. There is no difference in package price if you decide to not use it. 

When should we book our ENGAGEMENT SESSION?

It really depends on when you need your images by! If you want to use them for save the dates, think of a realistic turn around time of when you would like to send them out. I recommend at least 8-10 months before you wedding day. I also always suggest booking your engagement session based on which season you love the most--especially if you are local to the Midwest, as seasons play such a huge role role in the overall feel and environment of your images and session. Also, think about choosing a location that is important or sentimental to you as a couple. Or you can even pick a location that you've both always wanted to go to!

Authentic photography
for the adventure seekers

Mariah Jones

Photography