Portrait FAQs
What is the duration for Studio Sessions?
This really can vary - newborn sessions can take two to three hours as they need time to settle and breaks for feeding. Toddlers tire quickly on the other hand and it is wise to complete the session in under an hour.
Family Sessions are based on the youngest attention span, whereas large intergenerational shoots might need longer to organise everyone and set up shots.
You might be looking for a very specific statement shot which requires patience to perfect.
Each session is specific to you. At the consultation stage we will be able to get a good gauge of how long the shoot will be, and we always make sure there is plenty of time for all eventualities- we never rush and we plan for the unexpected.
How do we find the studio?
Our Studio is really easy to find as we are just off the Eastern Road - one of the main routes in to Portsmouth. Simply turn right when you see the Snows BMW and Mini Garage and we are the first turning on the left marked just after a pelican crossing.
Pop us in the Sat Nav - 17 Fairway Business Centre, PO3 5NU.
If you are coming by train, we are a short 15 minute walk from Hilsea Train station, and a short cab journey from Fratton Train Station.
Who has the copyright to images taken in my session?
Under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 the Copyright remains with the photographer.
So you need permission to copy or scan images we provide. If you would like the rights to copy them, our digital packages cover this, as long as they are not being sold on a third party site such as stock imagery.
Can I park nearby?
Yes! We have two spaces located directly in front of the studio, and 2 more close by if needed to accomdate bigger groups or those travelling from numerous locations.
Do You Offer Location Shoots?
Yes we do. There does need to be a little more planning involved in location shoots, whether its inside & needs support lighting, or outside and can be impacted by weather and back up plans may be needed as well as licenses for shooting in some locations.
We will always make you aware & make sure you are comfortable with everything involved in a location shoot prep and the costs involved.
Cost is very variable dependent on all of the above but starts from £350
What Artwork Products do you offer and what are the prices?
We offer both Collections and Wall Art. Have a look at the 'Portrait Art Prices' tab for a better idea of what we offer. All images purchased whether as a print, part of a collection or for wall art include the digital file too so you can print and share to your hearts content.
What Should I wear, plan and bring to the shoot
We will go through this with you during your consultation.
We want you to love the images, and the way you look in them so we advise to pick items to wear that make you feel great - or splurge and go shopping especially for the shoot.
Individual portraits are all about you, and that's great but why not make a family session about each individual too. We will talk to you for ideas on props and outfits and also about how to make all of the outfits and personalities work together for the paired and group shots. Paying attention to the small details make all the difference.
We recommend more than one change of clothes too, variety after all is the spice of life!
Is there space to change outfits and get ready?
Yes absoloutely - We have a private area to change in, and a lovely staging area where you can perfect the pout. We have a large full length, space to hang your clothes, and a dressing table to re-apply anything as needed.
If you would like to book a make up artist or hair stylist for the shoot too just let us know at the consultation.
Do you retouch the images?
To a certain extent we like to get as much perfect as possible in camera, and we keep edits really simple to cropping and lighting levels.
We prefer not to make assumptions when editing the images ready for your 'Reveal' and keep retouching to a minimum. But we are always happy to add professional retouching to images ready for your Wall Art so everything is exactly as you would like it in your statement pieces - just let us know in your reveal if you would like tweaks.
What is the 'Consultation' and 'Reveal'
The 'Consultation' is a Zoom or phone call booked in to discuss your session. We talk ideas, outfits props and make sure we are the right fit for your portrait. We get to know each other, answer questions and plan the shoot.
During the consultation we book in your shoot, and your follow up reveal session. We also take your session fee at this point to confirm your booking.
The 'Reveal' is usually booked around 2 weeks after the shoot & is a relaxed showcase of your images back at the studio. We do ask wherever possible to come along without children to ensure no distractions from the experience. Here you will view your images and choose your Prints, Collections and Wall Art.
COVID FAQs
What are the Covid Guidelines and safety measures in place
- We ask all clients to be aware of their own health and be responsible in sharing space.
- We regularly take lateral flow tests to ensure minimum risk wherever possible.
- If you or anyone attending your shoot is vulnerable we will take a lateral flow specifically prior to your session.
- We keep spaces clean and provide hand sanitiser
- Both of the permanent team at Musselwhite Photography have been double vacinated.
