Frequently asked questions

I hate having my photo taken, is it going to be a really stressful experience?
Don't worry, I hate having my photo taken too! But I plan all my photoshoots to be as relaxing as possible and tailored to what you need so that it is like one long chat with directing from me - you don’t need to worry about having to do anything particular, I will guide you on how to stand and where to look. Almost all of my clients finish by saying that it was fun, far less daunting that they'd expected and really quite enjoyable. Have a look at my testimonials (please see About). 
Where is your studio?
My studio is in Ealing, West London, a 10 minute walk from both the Piccadilly and Central Lines. Parking is easy - there is usually off-street parking or I can give you a voucher to park outside.
What clothes should I wear?
It is important to wear something that you feel comfortable in. Generally speaking, it is also good to avoid highly patterned tops or colours that dominate the image and distract from your face: it is your expression that you want to stand out.  For business headshots, you should wear something that captures the essence of your business style.  If you wear what you’d wear when meeting a new client, you won’t go far wrong.  For family portraits, bright colours can look brilliant but it is good to have a reasonably even balance across the family so that one person doesn’t dominate over the rest. I will give you more detailed advice on clothes for your photoshoot on booking.
I'm interested in a pregnancy/newborn shoot. When is the best time to do this?
For a pregnancy photoshoot, 32-36 weeks is often good as you have a lovely defined bump but aren’t as tired as your final month, although I’m happy to photograph you as late as you are comfortable.
Babies are gorgeous anytime but their first few weeks will show off their wrinkly newborn skin; a few months in, their gurgling smiles; about six months upwards, their new sitting skills. As you will see from my galleries, I do very natural newborn baby photography, using natural light or studio, with limited styling and props. 
Do you offer a hair and make up service before photoshoots?
I am no good at hair & make-up myself but can put you in touch with a brilliant make-up artist who is great at doing pre photoshoot work, as well as recommend an excellent hairdresser a few minutes walk away.
How quickly will I see my images?
Within a few days of your photo shoot, I will have your photos in an online password-protected album to view and order directly from my website.  Please say if you need images more urgently than this and I can let you know if it is possible. All images can be viewed in black & white as well as colour.
Can I buy digital images?
Yes, high-resolution digital images are available to buy and can be used as many times as you like for all different uses.
Do you retouch my photos?
Each image or print that you order will be finalised with a very light retouching to remove any temporary blemishes or shininess but keeping your photo very natural.  I do not do provide a full magazine-style retouch service.
Will you use my photos for marketing purposes?
I love adding new images to my galleries to inspire other customers and offer ideas of what they would like, or using images in publicity materials. But I will only ever do this with your full permission.
 Do you sell gift vouchers?
Gift vouchers are available for pregnancy or family photo shoots as well as headshots.  Please ask and I can put a bespoke voucher together for you. There is a minimum spend of £150.