Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Can you please tell me your pricing?

You can find my session pricing under Details > Pricing & Details.

How do I reserve a session?

Bookings are handled by telephone during the pre-consultation. Please contact our studio during normal business hours at 626-506-2785 or please fill out the contact form and I will give you a call. To book your session, a full payment of session fee is required.

How long are your sessions?

Maternity – up to an 1.5 hours
Newborn – up to 2.5 hours
Family – up to 1.5 hours
Children anywhere from 30-60 minutes depending on session and age

Please know there is no real “timer” on my sessions, the above is an estimate and sessions may take less or more time

How long does it take to see my photos?

After your session I'll schedule your In-Person ‘Reveal’ ordering appointment (typically 1-2 weeks after your session). This is where you’ll return to the studio to preview a beautiful slideshow of your portraits, see the various products offered, select your favorite portraits and place your order.

How long does it take to receive an order?

Most orders take around 2 weeks, however retouching may add time in delivery. I'll provide an estimated delivery time at your ordering appointment.

Do you offer digitals?

I'm committed to preserving your story and believe the most rewarding part of your session is to be able to have your beautiful portraits displayed in your home. I also understand how important it is for you to have those digital files, so I offer a set of digital files in each of the collections along with a signed print release. I also offer digital collections with a set of proof prints.

Do you give Raw (unedited) images?

No, I do not give Raw images.

Do you offer payment plans? 

Yes, I offer payment options in two or three installments. You can decide on when you want the payment processed. Once your invoice has been paid in full, I will process your order.

Do you charge Sales Tax? 

Yes. CA local sales tax is applied to session fees, prints, products and digital files.

Can I see the Album proof before you submit to the lab? 

Yes. Once I have completed your custom designed album, I will send you an email with a link to your album proof. You will have 1 iteration of changes (text and photo swaps).

Can I bring my dog?

I have a pet free studio and do not allow any pets on the premises. 

Can I place an order again in the future?

Yes. You have until a year after your Reveal ordering appointment to place an order. Clients often come back to order Christmas gifts for their family. 

What Should I Wear?

I offer styling support which includes a mood board with a color palette, examples of outfits and a list of stores where you can shop. My clients find this tool very helpful when coordinating their outfits.

Do you do cake smashes for children?

Yes I do, however you bring the cake. My style is timeless, I will decorate using the colors from your theme. I do not use colorful backgrounds or themed backgrounds. At the time of your booking, please let me know the colors/theme that you would like to use in your child's cake smash. This helps me with your setup (balloons, props, etc.).

Is hair/makeup included?

Hair/Make-up is not included but I can recommend local make-up artists and hair stylist.

What if my kids are not well behaved?

That's okay. My job is in preserving your story and I strive to create moments that are organic and capture the essence of your family. 

Where do you recommend for outdoor sessions? 

Location is key, it's what helps tell your story. During our pre-consultation, I'll ask you some questions that will help me give you a couple of location options (beach, state park, fields, mountains, deserts, etc.). Please let me know if you have a location in mind.

What are your COVID-19 Protocols?

Your safety in the Studio has always been my top priority.

How we keep you safe
- Hand washing before, during and after the session
- Hand sanitizer available for use during the session
- All outfits, props, fabrics are cleaned between every session
- The studio is cleaned, and all surfaces disinfected between every client

How you can keep the studio safe
- Only immediate family members to attend the studio session
- All family members must be without illness for at least 72-hours prior to your studio session

My commitment to you
It is only natural for you to feel worried, especially with a new infant. I would like to reassure you that I'm taking all precautions to safeguard my clients, as I have always done. As always I ask that if my clients are sick, to please reschedule. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to ask.

newborn session Questions

Do you provide clothing for maternity?

I do offer access to my client closet. However, you're welcome to purchase a gown from the following sites.

Bellybabywear.com by Ana Brandt
Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories
Chicaboo
Pink Blush Maternity
Reclamation Design Company

Do you have clothing for newborns and props?

Yes, I do have newborn and sitter outfits including rompers, tieback/headbands, hats and pants. You really do not need to bring anything. For special requests, please let Vanessa know ahead of time.

My baby has acne do you retouch?

Yes basic skin retouching is included. For extra retouching (color Changes, head swaps, tattoo removable) extra charges may apply

I have pre booked my newborn now what? What if my baby comes early or late?

I ask that all clients email or call within 24-48 hours of having your baby. Most babies are booked anywhere from 8-10 or even 12 or 14 days after delivery depending on the baby's weight. Letting me know when you have your baby early, allows room for rescheduling.

I missed the newborn window and my baby is now 2 months old, can I still book a newborn session?

Technically a newborn baby is from birth to 2 months old. To me it's not too late to book your newborn session. Babies grow and change so fast so please understand your baby most likely will not be able to do newborn poses or wraps and they are usually wide-awake during the session.