Frequently asked questions
Why should I have a consultation before the photo session?
The complimentary consultation, either at your home or the studio, allows me to learn about what kinds of images you’re looking for. Do you prefer candid photos in your home or outdoors, or do you want a more classic or formal photograph in the studio? Do you have a particular place you’re thinking about hanging a wall portrait, or do you want a Session Album or a Day in the Life documentary? You can view sample albums and books as well as a variety of print surface options. We can talk about clothing choices and who will be in the photograph. If schedules don’t allow for an in-person consultation, we can talk on the phone or by email.
How are you different from other baby and children photographers?
Each photo session is unique to you – I do not have a routine set of poses or a cookie-cutter approach. I have over 30 years of experience as a documentary and portrait photographer and I specialize in capturing the moments that define our lives. I love babies and children and I take documenting them very seriously. My goal is to provide exceptional customer service while producing images that will be cherished for generations – after all, you’re making an investment in your family’s history.
What should I bring to the photo session?
If you are coming to the studio, please bring several choices of clothing, which we will have discussed at the consultation. I keep a variety of blankets, props and playthings in the studio, but feel free to bring a favorite blankie or stuffed animal. For older children, hats, galoshes or cowboy boots, along with fun clothing or outerwear gives us options. Also bring any diapers, bottles or food you may need. The photo shoot will be relaxed and fun and there will be plenty of opportunity to stop for feedings, diaper changes or just to take a break.
What is the difference between a studio session and a location session?
Studio sessions are more controlled in terms of lighting and background and typically last an hour to an hour and a half. Location sessions are usually done at your home, but could also be at a park or other location and typically last 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Location sessions are great for getting candid shots in the environment of your choice. But whether the shoot happens in the studio or your home, the photos can be formal and classic, or spontaneous and casual.
Do I have to order a minimum numbers of prints?
No, I do not require a minimum print order. You order only the prints you want, although I do offer 5 different print packages that combine the most popular sizes at a huge savings over the price of prints that are ordered separately.
Why does a wallet set and a 4x6 print cost the same as a 5x7?
The same amount of time and skill goes into preparing a digital file, whether the final output is a 4x6 print or a 20x24 Fine Art wall print. Every image is captured in RAW digital format, the highest quality digital file available – however it requires special software and training to process the file. Each print you order is custom processed by hand for optimum quality, which includes toning, color correction, cropping, conversion to B&W or sepia if requested, and retouching. The file is prepared with specific paper and printer profiles for the professional lab that I use.
Can I just purchase the digital negatives and make my own prints?
High-resolution digital files are included with all Day in the Life and Year in the Life sessions, and the individual high-resolution master file is included with the purchase of any print 24x30 or larger. One low-resolution digital file is also included with the Cherub Collection for your use on birth announcements. Up to 2 additional processed digital negatives for use on a birth announcement can be purchased for $50 per file.
If you want to purchase the digital files for use on a social networking site like MySpace or Facebook, or for emailing to friends and family, you can purchase web-resolution-only digital files. These files are fine for use on the web but are not suitable for making prints. The costs of these files is $100 per session.
If you do want to purchase the high-resolution digital negatives please be certain the cost will be worth it to you. If you only want to make a few 5x7 prints or email the photos to your friends, it will be a very expensive way to go. Image post-production and professional archival printing is a major component of the final product, and that means every file is custom produced by hand, which is time and labor intensive and requires special software. Since I use profiles specific to each different paper surface at the professional lab that I use, I cannot assume responsibility for the output of files from any other source.
If you decide you want the high-resolution digital negatives, the cost is $400 per digital file, which is the cost of a 20x24 Fine Art print. Once I sell the digital negative, I have lost all income from the sale of prints, books and albums for those images. All digital negatives are for personal use only and Jean Shifrin Photography retains the copyright for all images.
How do I order prints?
About a week or two after your photo session, you will come to the studio for a private projection viewing of your photos. I will help guide you through the process as you select your favorites. You will place your print order at that time. Small prints will be shipped. Large prints will be delivered or arrangements made for pick-up at the studio.
Do you offer books or albums?
Yes, I offer several different custom-designed books and albums. Samples are available for viewing in my studio. A detailed price list is available on request.