Frequently Asked Questions
Hiring a Northern Virginia photographer is a big decision, and you likely have questions about my services. I've compiled a list of common questions to help you find the answers you're looking for. This FAQ page covers all the essential topics, including pricing, availability, and photo session details.
Whether you're a first-time client or a returning one, I'd love to answer any questions. If you don't find the answer to your question here, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.
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Q: How will photos be delivered?
A: My photography packages include fully-edited digital files. You will receive an email with a link and password for your private gallery. From there, you can download high-resolution images for printing and web-size images for social and web-sharing purposes.
There is also the option to purchase photography prints and products straight from your gallery.
Q: Do you offer RAW photos?
A: No, I do not offer any RAW photos to clients. I hand-edit every single image, retouching where needed and removing things that don't belong.
As a result, I only deliver the highest-quality photos. I'll never deliver an image with random people in the background or distracting imperfections. Instead, I give you exactly what I would want to receive.
Q: Do you offer newborn photography sessions?
A: Thank you for thinking of me to capture the beginning of your child's life. Unfortunately, I do not offer newborn sessions.
Q: Do you offer in-home sessions?
A: Unfortunately, due to lighting concerns, I do not offer in-home sessions.
Q: How far do you travel for portrait sessions?
A: The pricing includes up to a 30-mile radius of Fairfax, VA.
Q: What locations do you serve?
A: I serve Northern VA, DC, and Maryland, all within a 30-mile radius of Fairfax, VA.
Locations include but are not limited to Fairfax, Alexandria, Vienna, Oakton, Mclean, Falls Church, Centreville, Clifton, Annandale, Burke, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, Springfield, and Arlington.
Q: Do you offer gift certificates?
A: Yes! Photo sessions make the perfect gift. I provide digital gift certificates for all of my packages. Fill out the gift card form to get started.
Q: Do you offer photo mini sessions?
A: Yes. Mini sessions are held a few times a year on specific days at a discounted rate with a shorter session time. Check out the mini sessions photography page for more details. You can also subscribe to my newsletter to receive information about mini-sessions when they go live.
Q: Do you photograph weddings and/or events?
A: Thank you for thinking of me! Unfortunately, I do not currently photograph weddings or events.
Q: How would you describe your photography style?
A: My style of photography is timeless, heartfelt, and authentic. I offer an "elevated" photography experience that resembles a mix of luxury and lifestyle photography. I'll capture high-quality, luxury-level portraits while still focusing on authentic human connection.
Q: Are we meant to be?
A: Hey there! I'm Heidi! I love capturing sweet moments of love, connection, and laughter. I want you to feel something real and emotional when you look at your final gallery. I want each photo to pull at your heartstrings the way they do mine.
While I include photos of everyone smiling at the camera, I focus more on the bond shared between the people I photograph. Authentic connection means everything to me in both my personal life and my photography. You can learn more about me here.
Q: What is included in your photography packages?
All sessions include the time, talent and experience of the photographer, as well as individually hand-edited, high-resolution digital images (amount depends on session type), one outfit change (excludes family sessions), access to a private online gallery, digital download & print release, my exclusive style guide, my exclusive location guide, and a discount on print & photo products.
As a special thank-you for trusting me to capture these special moments, you'll receive a free print from your session.
You can find detailed information for my family, maternity, couple, senior portraits and mini sessions on their respective pages.
Q: How much do you charge?
Prices vary depending on the type of photography session. Please visit the service pages for investment details.
[Family] [Maternity] [Couples] [Seniors] [Mini Sessions]
Q: Are dogs welcomed in sessions?
Yes! Absolutely! As a dog mom, I wholeheartedly believe they are an important part of the family too.
Q: Are you good with children?
What clients say…
"Heidi is an amazing photographer! She did a fabulous job capturing our family of SIX at the sunflower farm. It is no easy feat to get three little kids and an infant to cooperate but somehow Heidi managed to make us all look our best."
"She's so sweet and was super patient with getting shots with 2 small children."
"I loved how patient and sweet she was with my kids! My 3-year-old gave her a big hug when we left, she loved her so much!"
"Heidi made things comfortable and fun. I have a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old, and she was so patient with them."
Q: Do you photograph at more than one location in a session?
No, I do not offer location changes. Every package includes one location.
Q: Do you have location recommendations?
Absolutely. Once you have booked a session with me, I will provide my exclusive location guide with my recommendations. Of course, I also want to hear your ideas for backdrops, and I will suggest locations based on what you have in mind.
Q: What time do you start sessions?
Sessions begin approximately an hour and a half before sunset for lighting purposes.
The most important aspect of a successful session is light. I never want the light to be too bright or too dark. If it's a cloudy day, I like to meet earlier to ensure enough light for your session. I do offer sunrise sessions that begin right at sunrise.
Q: How far in advance should I book my session?
I recommend booking as soon as possible for all sessions. To give the best possible experience, I only take a limited number of clients, ensuring that you have my undivided attention, from booking to photo delivery.
If you are requesting busy season sessions, typically fall (September - November), I recommend booking no later than July. For all other dates, I recommend giving yourself at least a month to prepare for your session, but this isn't always possible.
If you're booking a photography mini session, I recommend booking as soon as you see the openings because they sell out quickly. Newsletter subscribers get updates directly to their inboxes! If you are interested in mini-sessions, I highly recommend signing up for the newsletter.
Q: What happens if there is inclement weather, or I need to reschedule due to unforeseen circumstances on session day?
We will connect before your session, and if we need to reschedule based on weather or other unforeseen circumstances, we will pick a new date that works best for both of us.
Q: What should I expect on session day?
Before your session day, I'll send a final logistics email to let you know where I'll be at our set location. I will arrive early and ready to go. You will have my phone number, which I ask that you text when you arrive.
I'll walk you through posing and different photo combinations, and I'll use your questionnaire to bring your vision to life.
Q: Can we bring a change in outfits?
Not including family photography sessions, every package includes one outfit change, as long as I know about it in advance so I can plan accordingly. There will be time to change your outfit halfway through the session.
Q: What should I wear to my portrait session?
I will provide you with a detailed style guide and go into further detail during your consultation call. I ask clients to stick to neutral colors to achieve my signature light and airy style that you see throughout my photographs.
If you want to add patterns, limit it to one person while everyone else wears solid colors. You never want your outfits to be too distracting to the eye, taking away from what is most important, you!
I also highly encourage elevating your session by dressing up! Dresses for women and button-down shirts for men. If there's ever a time to go all out, this would be it!
You could even take self-love a step further by professionally getting your hair and makeup done. After all, you'll enjoy these photos for the rest of your life. So you should look and feel your best! I'm happy to offer hair and makeup recommendations upon request!
love
Notes
Monica
Heidi Fam Photography has been creating family memories for us for several years and she never disappoints. From maternity sessions to family pictures, she has seen our family grow and has given us beautiful photographs for us to cherish.
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Give the Gift of
Photography
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Gift Certificate
Photo sessions make the perfect gift! Digital gift certificates are available.
SEND A GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
