Marilyn Riel Answers Your Top Questions About a Photo Shoot at Menagerie Photography Studio

Depending how you heard about me, from a friend, on Facebook or Instagram, by doing a Google search or maybe in person at an event here in Connecticut, it has inevitably influenced your idea of what I do as a portrait photographer. Let me start by saying I specialize in women’s portraiture and I love shooting boudoir! Many of the images I post are boudoir style as it’s a very popular choice. I also shoot editorial style fashion and fitness, pinup, bridal first look and maternity as well as professional head shots for business and social media needs. I have chosen not to shoot weddings or event photography as a general rule as it’s not something I love doing. I love empowering women. I love creating a day for them to revel in who they are, discover their confidence, their beauty and just to have fun!

When I decided to focus my photography around women, I decided that having a private studio space was a must. My 1,000 square foot private studio, Menagerie Photography, is located in Lisbon, Connecticut. It’s important to me that you’re comfortable during your session and that you have privacy especially if you’re booking a boudoir photo session. I tried many different processes on how long the session should be and what to include and found what I feel gives you the best experience possible. This is why I include hair and makeup in every session and make it an all-day event. We plan a day for you that starts at 9:00am in hair and makeup and shooting ends around 3 or 4 in the afternoon.

Yes, that may seem like a long time to “just have my picture taken” but your photo session is so much more than that. This is your day and it’s customized specially for you. The day starts with 1 1/2 to 2 hours in hair and makeup then we choose your first outfit and the shooting begins. It includes the use of multiple sets and unlimited outfit changes and includes breaks with beverages and snacks provided by the studio.

OK, so you’re wondering why we plan 1 1/2 to 2 hours for makeup and hair? We hire professionals who have experience applying makeup specifically for photo shoot lighting. If studio lighting (strobes) is being used, normal everyday makeup disappears when the flash goes off and the photo is taken. These professionals know how to apply the right amount of makeup that still lets you look like yourself in photos but that covers correctly and works well based on the lighting being used by the photographer. Doing this and styling your hair lets you start your day pampered and feeling great!

Because you have the entire day, you can combine styles, like professional head shots and boudoir, during the same session. You have the time to get those needed head shots for your business cards or social media and then do fashion, fitness or boudoir images as well.

Occasionally people ask if not having their makeup and hair done or not spending the entire day will discount their session fee. Can you choose not to have us do your hair and makeup? Yes, you can. Can you choose not to spend the whole day for your session? Yes, you can. Our goal is to provide you with a day of pampering and fun. We want you to have the full experience and our session fee is not discounted if you choose not to take advantage of all the options.

Though normally, this is a day all about you, the question “Can I bring someone with me to my session?”, comes up from time to time. The answer is Yes! If you want a girlfriend, sister or mom to come along for moral support, that’s fine. If you are considering involving them in your photos or doing a generational shoot, this is something we would talk about during your pre-shoot consultation.

Other things we discuss at your pre-shoot consultation are what clothes you may want to bring and what props might be fun to include in your shots. Though we do have a variety of clothing you can borrow for your session, we may not have the color or size you need. We’ll talk about outfits you have in mind and you can look at our studio wardrobe. The purpose of what you wear and what you bring is to create photos that reflect your personal style and interests. Bringing things like his favorite team jersey or his guitar make the photo personal to you. We have a number of props and can discuss those as well to see if we have what you want to include in your session.

Whatever style of session a woman chooses, a common fear is that she won’t be able to pose right and will look silly. Well, let’s put those fears to rest! As a professional, it’s my job to pose you to look your best and I’ll talk you through each pose. There’s no need to worry!

Another concern I’ve heard from a number of women relates to boudoir photography. A common misconception about boudoir sessions is that you have to be nude or topless. You absolutely do not! As a matter of fact, I don’t shoot nude photography. Your boudoir session is designed around what you are comfortable with; whether it’s sexy lingerie, his shirt, or tank tops, your shoot is based on whatever represents your comfort level. I do take photos that are implied nudes but it keeps all the vital bits covered and the photos classy.

Now, the big questions about how and when you buy your photos, what about digital files and do I offer payment plans? I’ll try to answer the most common questions, and be as clear as possible.

When you book your session, you pay only your session fee which locks in your chosen date. I don’t charge a minimum required purchase of photos and you don’t pay for the photos you choose until you order at your Portrait Reveal and Ordering Session. Your portrait reveal is normally about two weeks after your photo session.

Digital files or prints? I offer options for both. When you purchase one of the amazing Collections you receive both prints and your digital files!

Finally, payment plan options. I offer a 6 month, interest free, payment plan. This works great if your planning ahead and don’t have a short deadline when you need your photos. Photos are ordered and/or digital files are made available when final payment is made.

If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact us from our web page.

CONSIDERING A PHOTO SHOOT?

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a photo shoot that is all about you, whether it’s a romantic and sexy lingerie boudoir shoot or an intimate and glamorous portrait session, we have the studio, stylists and photographer to provide an unforgettable and empowering experience. Call me to set up a complimentary consultation where you can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed.

Is it a long trip to visit the studio? Women have traveled from all over the East Coast including Connecticut, New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island for their custom photography session with us. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember Gift Certificates are always available.