Q.  Are packages flexible?  Can I substitute one item for another?

A.  Yes, we see our packages as a starting point.  Portraits are sold in units/sheets.  Common examples of units are 1-8x10, 2-5x7s, 3-4x6s, 4-3x5s, and 8-wallets.  Customers often mix and match units.  Sometimes customers want to upgrade the wall portrait in their package to a bigger size, we make adjustments for that too.  Forcing customers to buy portraits they don't want just isn't right.  Let us know how we can taylor a package that fits your needs.  We'll do our best to accommodate. 

 Q.  What should my family wear for family portraits?

A.  Solids or subtle patterns work best.  All warm or all cool colors would be harmonious enough, but a lot of families choose 2 or 3 similar colors.  Of course everyone should be casual or dressy, not a mixture of both.  Earth tones work well with outdoor portraits, they are all warm shades such as shades of browns, tans, rich greens, burgundies, warm blues or greys, off whites.  Denim also does fine.  Blacks, cool yellows, whites and most pinks are better in the studio.  Try to avoid white socks and shoes or contrasting socks and shoes.  Long sleeves are usually better.  Of course most of us feel better with a tan, but not with a sunburn, especially in a family portrait.  You would be surprised how many people show up for portraits accidentally looking like a lobster.  Feel free to call and ask questions anytime and don't be overly concerned.  We will have a set to compliment whatever you choose.  We can even work around a sunburn.

 Q.  What should I wear for my individual portraits?

A.  Plain and simple clothing works best.  Patterns, stripes, and bold designs are a distraction and compete with your face as the main focal point.  Even neckties should be as toned down as possible.  Timeless clothing looks better later.  Trendy clothing can look a little silly as time passes.  It's better to keep darker colors on bottom or below the waist.  Wide open necklines tend to thicken the neck in a photograph.  Turtlenecks and v-neck tops tend to thin the neck and frame the face beautifully.  With a collarless top, a scarf tied around the neck is nice, or jewelry is nice.  Hair looks best out of the face, so light can get to your eyes instead of dark shadows.  We all look better when we've had plenty of rest.  Makeup looks best when it is well blended.  Foundation does a lot for skin tones in portraits.  Daytime makeup is prefered over evening shades.  Lines of demarcation, (where one makeup color sits beside another) especially with eye makeup can look harsh.  Avoid white above or below the eyes, it can come out looking more like strange reflections of light.  It's best to avoid all light colored eye makeup around the eyes.  Remember even makeup can be worn trendy or timeless.  Guys should make sure the neck of their dress shirts fits properly.  Haircuts should be scheduled at least a few days before, so hair has a chance to look natural again.  A close shave within a few hours of your shoot looks best.  You know your skin and how best to avoid razor burn.  And hey, try not to worry too much about it.  There's always editing.

Q.  We saw that you did all editing at no extra charge.  Do we just tell you how we want our pictures altered or do you take care of everything?

A.  We spend countless hours perfecting your pictures.  Because, let's face it, our studio name is actually on them.  Besides, nothing escapes our quality control that is less than wonderful.  However, if you have concerns about anything, we hope that you'll share them with us. 

Q.  What should I bring for my maternity portraits?

A.  Usually, we take some maternity pictures with your family.  If you have children we will probably take those pictures first.  Then Dad or another adult can take children in the playroom to watch movies and play.  Your session should be a happy memory for you, and we want you to feel completely comfortable.  What you wear is your choice.  If you are looking for unique and individual portraits, some suggestions of what you could bring would be:  maternity nightgowns, slips, camisoles, bikinis or swimsuits with hats or sunglasses, one of your husbands dress shirts and ties, tank tops, or even bronzing or shimmer lotions.  It really depends on you and your personality.  At the studio, we already have several beautiful fabrics we can strategically drape over and around you.  So, you really don't have to bring anything.  The idea is to show the beauty of your pregnancy.  All portraits are tastefully done and of course, approved by you. 

Q.  We were planning on outdoor shots, and now there's a forecast for bad weather.  Do I reschedule?

A.  It is up to you.  It depends on the type of pictures you want.  Just because it's raining, blowing or snowing, doesn't mean we can't take pictures outside.  Our shots could be extraordinary because of the bad weather.  Holding umbrellas, playing in the snow, or seeking shelter with the weather as your backdrop are exciting photo ops.  Or we could do all studio shots.  However, we completely understand if that's not what you had in mind.  We will gladly reschedule your appointment.  Just say the word.

Q. I am not sure if I will be able to make my appointment.  Do I need to call and cancel if I find out I can't come?

A.  We do not bill you for missed appointments.  However, we do put a lot of time and effort into preparing for your appointment.  If you cannot make it, the sooner you call and let us know, the better. 

Q.  Should I bring a parent to the consult for my Senior pictures?  Should I bring a parent for my photo shoot?

A.  That is between you and your parents.  Everyone's different.  Some Seniors take care of their Senior Pictures on their own.  If that's you, you should still keep them posted.  Make sure they know we are having a consult and invite them to come.  If they can't, that is completely fine.  Remember, you may want a parent in your Senior Pictures.  That too, is up to you and your parents.   

Q.  Do you go on location for events like family reunions and company parties?  If so, what is your location fee?

A.  Yes, we do go on location for events.  There is no location fee within 20 miles of our studio.  After that the fee is prorated at $95/hr and is negotiable.

Q.  What packages or pricing is most cost effective for events like family reunions and company parties?

A.  That depends on which services you want to offer your guests.  If you are looking to buy several copies of the same, large group shot, you will want to look at our bulk print pricing.  If you want to offer portraits for any combination of groups and/or individuals, you will want to look at our event packages.  We make all order forms available at your event and mail portraits to each guests address.  There is an hourly rate of $95/hr for photojournalism or candid shots of your event.  Depending on your package, you will receive  proof sheets or a proof album of your event.  There is a one time, $95 location fee for event photography.  We are happy to do multiple services and packages at the same event.  Let us know what you need and we will figure out what's most cost effective. 

Q.  Do you offer services and products that don't appear on your price lists?

A.  Yes.  Our price lists consist of only the most commonly ordered products and services.  If you don't see what you are looking for, just ask.

Q.  Will my images be online ?

A.  That depends on your package.  We tell you all you need to know when you purchase your package.

Q.  Do colors/photos look the same on my computer as they do on the computer at Artistry In Photography?

A.  Computers have color scales that can be calibrated to match other computers.  Your default colors may or may not be close to ours.  Most importantly, our colors are calibrated with the processing lab.  Most likely, your colors are pretty close.  However, if you aren't sure, you are welcome to view your previews at the studio. 

Q.  Can my online previews be cropped or edited differently?

A.  The customer can request their online previews be cropped or edited differently.  We do not offer additional cropping or editing to the family and friends that order from your site due to the sheer number of opinions and preferences.

Q.  What do I do after I've viewed my online images?

A.  Choose who you would like to share them with.  You can email the site to your guests and give them your password.  Then they will be able to enjoy your awesome new pictures too, free!  The pictures will be online for a limited time.  If they choose, guests will be able to place orders, check out, and receive free shipping, all from that site.  We accept all major credit cards online, by phone and at the studio.  You will have already paid for your package.  You just need to decide which way you want to choose it.  When you are ready, usually within a few days, you need to call the studio to place your order.     

Q.  Why are reorder prices higher?

A.  Your prices are a direct reflection of our prices.  When we order a 2nd time, it is 30% higher for us, we have to adjust customer prices to match.  That is why we try to get everyone taken care of the first time around. 

Q.  How do you come up with your prices?

A.  Many factors go into our prices.  There is obviously overhead: utilities, phone system upkeep, office supplies and technology, shipping supplies, shipping expenses coming and going, taxes, insurance, association dues, childcare, online services, custom lab services, labor, travel, planning time and set construction, advertising, backdrops and props, mounting, packaging boxes and bags for prints, labels, signs, printing company expenses, matting time, supplies and equipment, framing time, supplies and equipment, editing time, computer software and upgrades, archiving supplies and storage, computer techs, maintenance and upgrades, equipment maintenance and upgrades, employees, employee benefits, even landscaping, gas and vehicle maintenance.  After all that, we are supposed to be making a profit.  Just because we took on these expenses, didn't mean customers would pay enough to cover them, nevermind the profit.  We knew we had the right formula, and like all new businesses had to wait for growth.  Raising prices is the only way to keep control of our demand.  You could say prices are based on demand.  For now anyway, every bit of it goes right back into the business.  We just can't quit buying those cool props! : )

Q.  I viewed my online images, now I wish I would have ordered a different package, is it too late to change my package?

A.  No, you can change your package for 2 weeks after your previews are posted online.  You will have already paid for a package, but that can be adjusted.  You have the option of downgrading or upgrading for 2 weeks after your previews have been posted.  After that time, reorder prices go into effect. 

Q.  Can I have my order shipped to my home?

A.  Absolutely!  Actually, that is the method we prefer (except for large orders).  It saves you the time and hassle of scheduling unnecessary trips back to the studio.  Everything is tracked and insured and comes right to your door.  We do not ask you to pay an additional shipping charge and we will check with you to make sure that is also the method you prefer.   

Q.  When will my order be shipped to my house?

A.  Different orders require different services.  For instance, an 8 hour wedding shoot usually takes more time than a 1 roll, 1 child, studio session.  Often, your images are sent out for processing, edited, and then sent out for processing again.  We do not give set time limits or deadlines.  There are too many factors beyond our control.  We order from many companies and our workload varies.  We work hard and do the best we can.  We will not compromise quality to hurry orders along.  Artistry customers understand we are about quality, not fast service.  We do appreciate your patience and guarantee it will be worth the wait.

Q.  What is Dry mounting?

A.  In short, dry mounting is a type of durable backing.  It goes behind the print, not around it, like matting.  It strengthens and protects the smooth appearance of your prints.  It keeps them straight and flat and readies them for immediate framing.  We use only acid-free adhesives and mounting products.  Artistry in Photography automatically mounts all 5x7's and larger in one of the following ways: cardstock mounting, dry mounting, board mounting, canvas board mounting, or canvas board mounting with brushstrokes. 

Q. What is Die-cutting?

A.  Die-cutting is a service we automatically provide on all of our wallet prints.  It means, you won't have to cut your pictures apart.  Instead they will be professional cut for you.  They will have nice rounded corners.  There will be no white, undeveloped border around your images.  They will all be uniform and ready to share as soon as you get them.

Q.  What is Luster coating?

A.  Luster coating is a type of spray-on surface added to the front of our prints.  The process is done professionally at the lab.  Luster coating adds a clear, protective surface.  It gives photographs richness and depth.  It is the surface coating we use most often.  We may refer to other types of surface coatings when we are creating other effects.       

Q.  How long will I be able to order prints from my shoot/session, after it is over?

A.  Extended online viewing can be requested for additional ordering.  All orders received from online previews will be ordered in a timely fashion.  Reorder prices are 30% higher and kick in 1 year after receiving your prints.   Your images are archived at the studio for 2 years.  During that time, accessing your old images takes just a few minutes.   After that, they go into our permanent archive, indefinately.  Accessing those images may take a little more effort on our part, but we'll have them.  Copyrights are available for some or all of your images.  See pricing within your type of package. 

Q.  I ran out and want to make black and white photocopies of some pictures I purchased from Artistry In Photography several years ago.  Is that okay?

A.  Unfortunately, any kind of reproduction is considered copyright infringement.  We do archive your edited images and Slideshows if you had one, on Dvd-roms.  Those copyrights are always available for you to purchase.  If you feel you have special circumstances, contact us and we can give written consent or work something out, so you aren't breaking any federal laws.  See the following question for more information on copyrights.

Q.  What does it mean when it says "all images are copyrighted"?

A.  Copyright laws are federal laws, so they are serious business.  In short, the laws state that photographers, artists, musicians, authors, and the like are protected against any type of theft or unconsented reproduction of their work.  Penalties include swift $250,000 fines and 5 years imprisonments for each copy.  The following link is a government site with the exact laws as they are written http://www.copyright.gov/ .  Artistry In Photography is happy to meet any needs you may have.  We even offer the option of purchasing your copyrights.  When you buy the rights, we transfer the copyrights over to you.  You receive a contract and documentation to keep with your film negatives, edited CD-Rom, DVD slideshow or whatever rights you have decided to purchase.  When you own the rights, you can legally have them developed at any photo developer, download them, email them, use them online, in videos, copy video slideshows, distribute them, print them on photo printers, use them to create cards, invitations, postcards, calendars, flyers, advertisements, t-shirts, gifts of any kind, etc. 

Q.  What does it mean to buy the Rights, and Negatives of your images?  

A.  With any package, you have the option of purchasing the copyrights, film negatives and edited CD-Rom.  It is standard for photographers to hold the rights on all their images.  That simply means, your images are owned by the photographer.  For any other person to make copies or use those images, in anyway, is illegal.  Copyright laws are federal laws and serious business.  To learn more about copyright laws visit http://www.copyright.gov/ .  When you buy the rights, negatives and edited version of your images, you get a copy of the negatives as they were taken during the shoot.  The negatives are not the edited version.   The edited CD-Rom is an exact copy of your online, edited previews.  You may also purchase a DVD Slideshow set to music.  You are able to develop professional images where ever and whenever you choose, without the permission or the expense of going through the photographer.  You can then also make copies of CD-Roms and DVDs.  The photographer also continues to hold their rights.  Meaning, if they choose, they can use the images in their demo books, ads, etc.  There are many reasons people like to buy copyrights.  Wedding rights are the most commonly purchased.   

Q.  How is it different to buy the Rights, Negatives and the Edited Images on CD-Rom?

A.  Though not on the price list, you can purchase just the rights and negatives.  Owning the edited images on CD- Rom is an upgrade.   Owning the edited images on a disc is pretty much like owning the goose that lays the golden eggs.  The images are perfected and look exactly as they did online and when the photographer developed them.  So, not only do you hold the rights to your images, you can download, email, copy, print your own, have them processed yourself, create photo cards and use them about a million different ways.  You may also purchase the copyrights for DVD and Music Slideshows.  This is a nice option for people that want a lot of DVD copies to pass out as gifts, souvenirs, remembrances, ect.

Q.  What framing services do you offer?

A.  We want our work to look it's best and make it's way up on the wall.  So, we try to make that as easy and inexpensive for you as we can.  We have 100's of mat board and framing samples available at our studio.  You are welcome to order from them anytime.  You can choose to order a do-it-yourself kind of frame.  Or, we will professionally frame it for you.  If you would rather not look through the catalogs, we can even choose the perfect, economical and beautiful framing for you.  Frame prices range from low to high, and come in every style you can imagine.  Let us know what you are looking for and how we can help.      

Q.  How can I find out about discounts, coupons and specials as they become available?

A.  Just go to our "Email Specials" page and leave your email address. 

Q.  Do you use backdrops for Event Photography?

A.  That depends on the type of group and what the customer would like.  We usually find a nice outdoors area instead of using a cloth backdrop for outside events & sports pictures.  We have multiple, large backdrops and group lighting we bring along for schools, dances, indoor sports and events.  

Q.  Is there a location fee for Event Photography?

A.  For locations within 20 miles, the location fee will be charged only once, and is always $95. 

Q.  My paperwork and someone at the studio told me something different from what I read on this website or heard from a friend.  Why?  And which is more accurate?

A.  Policies, services and prices change as time passes.  Information on our website is 95-100% current and accurate.  Occasionally, we do not get to changes right away on the website.  Customers take priority.  If you see conflicting information, certainly let us know and we'll make sure it's straightened out.  Know that we do our best to be better than fair.  We love our customers and are passionate about what we do.  Feel free to contact us by phone or email anytime if you have questions that have not been addressed on our website.

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The last Friday, & Saturday of the month we have "Magical Sets of the Month".  Bring your children or family to experience, their favorite, magical sets, they get to be the characters!  Wardrobe is available in all sizes. Or, choose a neutral backdrop & skip wardrobe.  Sets of the month are really fun & really affordable!! 

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