Frequently asked questions

When will I receive my online gallery?

Two weeks is usually my turn around time for photos, but if I finish them faster I will of course send them out when they're finished. If something comes up and I am not able to finish the gallery in two weeks then I will contact you.

What is included in a session?

All of my sessions include our time together spent shooting, hours of professional editing time on your chosen photos and an online gallery downloadable to your computer. I believe that every image I take during a shoot tells a story, so I give you a full digital gallery to choose your favorites from. These digitals will be the perfect size for sharing online and making small prints (up t0 5x7). Prints are expected to be purchased through SDP to ensure the best quality.

What location do you usually use for photos?

The mountains or desert are my absolute favorite places to do sessions, but there are just so many locations around. I love the adventure that goes along with taking photos in the woods, but also love wide open fields to get the best golden light in. Take me to the desert and I am happy as well. I am open to any suggestions on places to shoot. Send me an idea and we will make it happen. I also have SO many location ideas, so lets brainstorm and see what location fits best with you!

Do you have a studio?

Not anymore! I am following my passion of travel and outdoor portraits, and I closed down my studio. With that said, I LOVE in home sessions and can walk you through the process of doing a shoot in your own home. I know that sounds like a lot of work, but really, we only need one clean corner of your home with good light.

Do you offer mini sessions?

I only offer mini sessions a couple times a year. Mothers day, Fall and Christmas. The smallest package I have regularly is a 30 minute session. 

How do we book a session?

Head on over to my contact tab and send me an email. We can talk and figure out a date and time that works best for you. A $200 retainer fee is required to hold a date and time for any portrait sessions, and for weddings a 30% retainer fee is due. It is put towards the total session price.

How far in advance do we need to book a session?

For normal sessions: During summer and fall it is a good idea to contact me far in advance, anywhere from 6-10 weeks in advance would be good.

During the winter and spring about 2-4 weeks in advance is usually fine.

For weddings: As soon as you know your wedding date. You can never book this to early!

How will I receive my photos?

You will receive your photos through an online gallery sent to your email address where you will be able to download the photos straight onto your computer. You can also receive images on a USB as an extra add on. If you order prints those will be sent straight to your home.

Can I make my own prints?

All prints are to be ordered through Samantha D'Anna Photography. There are instructions on how to do so on the online gallery that is send to you. This is the only way to ensure that you receive high quality color corrected prints. If you need to use the images for invitations or cards of any kind that is allowed as the quality of the digitals is good for up to 5x7 prints for that reason.

Do you provide props?

Some! Reach out and let me know what you have in mind.. I may have something that will work. I usually recommend if couples want to incorporate something in their photos to make sure it is important to them. If y’all enjoy craft beer, bring some along. Love pizza? Lets grab one and take some picnic photos of y’all with it. This is a really fun way to make your photos unique and YOU. I also have Maternity gowns for my maternity clients to use, and some dresses for other sessions.

What should I wear to my session?

Single person: you should wear something you feel comfortable in. Don't go way out of your comfort zone because you will end up not being happy with the outcome. Keep it simple and along the lines of what you normally wear. Try colors that make your eyes pop and compliment your skin tone. Nothing too flashy and not too crazy of a pattern. Bring a hat so you have something do with your hands, wear something flowy so you can spin and get some movement. The opportunities are endless.

Couple: you should wear complimentary colors. Please stay away from wearing the same thing, for example, both wearing a black shirt and jeans. Try and pick up to three colors that you like together and play around with pops of color in both of your outfits. One of you can wear jeans and a button up flannel while the other wears a flowy midi dress and a wide brim hat. I have so many ideas for couples outfits, so just ask!

Family: please stay away from all wearing the same thing, for example, all wearing a black shirt and jeans. Try and choose 3-4 colors that go well together and play off of that. Lets say you choose Olive, rust, brown and tan. Have one person wear a brown and tan striped shirt, one person wear a rust shirt with a tan scarf. Another in jeans and a olive shirt, someone in a black dress and someone in kakis with a black shirt. See where I am going with this.. Pinterest is a life saver when needing inspiration.

Is there a perfect time of day for my photos?

Yes there is! We Photog’s call it the golden hour. The 1-2 hours before the sun sets is the best time to shoot. You get a warm glow and great lighting.