FAQs - Jody Soria Photography

What do I wear for my session?

You should wear clothes that are flattering and make you feel good. However, there are a few recommendations that will make your finished photos more attractive. Solid neutral colors when combined with small patterns look best and don't distract from the photo - No shirts with big lettering and nothing flashy or really bright. This includes shoes as well. The focus of the picture should be the people in it...not what they're wearing. Make sure all clothing is clean and free from stains and wrinkles. In addition, it is best not to wear clothing that fits too tightly or too loosely...both can add the appearance of extra weight in photos. For senior portraits, it's best to have 2-4 outfits to get a variety of looks. For family portraits, it is recommended that families pick one color in common and coordinate their outfits around that color with accents of other colors. Everyone wearing the same color can look too plain so mix it up a bit!

How should I pose?

You never have to worry about figuring out how to pose for your session. I will tell you how to pose and show you if necessary. Posing can be awkward and the most important thing is that you feel comfortable. How you feel during the photo session can directly affect the emotion you feel when you see the finished photos. So I want you to feel good, just be yourself and have fun! Just remember...when you feel good you look good! Communication is extremely important and I will be talking to you throughout the entire session. I always welcome your ideas and suggestions. This is your portrait and I will work with you to get the look you want.

Can I bring props to my photo session?

Of course you can! I encourage you to bring meaningful props that will enhance the theme for your session. Many families have a favorite sport, sports team, activity or tradition they want to include in the session. Couples like to include items from a place where they met or got engaged. Seniors love to include their favorite sport or hobby or a symbol of the college they will be attending. This is your photo session and I always welcome your ideas.

What is included in the Session Fee?

The Session Fee covers the shoot and post processing of the photos. If you decide you would like to purchase prints or digital images, those are priced separately.

Can I combine sessions?

Sessions can not be combined simply because each session is tailored differently to provide a specific experience. For instance, if you purchase a senior portrait session, it does not include a family portrait. If you purchase a family session, it does not include a headshot. However, there are exceptions. For example, if mom wants to be in one of the senior portrait shots, that's okay.

Do you require a minimum purchase?

Absolutely not! I never require a minimum purchase for any photo session. You may buy as many or as few images, prints, etc. as you wish.

How much do prints and images cost?

Professional lab prints start at $30 (4x6) and individual digital images start at $125 each. All prices are subject to change.

Do you offer any discounts?

Any specials or discounts will be listed at the top of the "Pricing" page. Keep an eye out for Head shots and Senior Portrait Specials! I respect our military and law enforcement officers and offer a 10% discount for all military (active and retired veterans) as well as all active and retired law enforcement officers. This discount applies to the session fee as well as any purchased images. Discount cannot be applied to Specials.

How much does it cost for retouching photos?

Basic retouching (exposure adjustment, removal of minor flaws, etc.) is included in the final image. However, if you would like specific adjustments (eye or skin color change, large object removal, etc.) there will be a fee per image based on the request.

Can you make me look thinner?

Adjustments to the shape or size of your face and/or body are not included in basic retouching. However, upon request I can make these adjustments for a fee per image based on the amount of work involved.

Are digital images included in the price of the session?

Digital images are not included in the price of the session unless specified as part of a special offer. Digital images are available for purchase individually or as part of a package.

Can I download my images instead of purchasing a package?

High resolution digital jpg images may be downloaded once they have been purchased.

If I purchase digital images, where should I have them printed?

When you purchase digital images, you will receive a print release allowing you to make as many prints as you wish for personal use only. However, many places such as Costco or Walgreens will produce very dark or low quality prints with muted colors. Therefore, I cannot make any recommendations for printing other than my professional photo lab. I want you to have gorgeous photos that you will be proud to display in your home or office. Like the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for." My lab produces beautiful, vibrant, professional quality prints. And all prints purchased through Jody Soria Photography are guaranteed. If you are not satisfied, your image will be reprinted at no additional cost to you.

What types of payment do you accept?

PayPal, Popmoney and Venmo are all accepted forms of payment and are free of charge. I do accept personal checks, however there is a $10 fee and a 5 day waiting period before images are delivered. Credit cards are not accepted at this time.

When will my photos be ready to view?

Digital photos will be processed and professionally edited. Watermarked photos will be available to preview online approximately two weeks (excluding holidays) after your photo session.

Can I share the photos on social media?

You may share the photos ONLY after the digital images have been purchased. I know you're excited to share your photos and that makes me happy. However, as a photographer running a business I don't provide free photos to share on social media. Images are considered the "property" of the photographer and the same copyright laws that apply to books, songs, movies, etc also apply to photographs and digital images. All images are the property of Jody Soria Photography.

How long do you keep my images on file?

Digital images are retained for 30 days after the initial delivery to the customer. However, I understand that you may not be able to purchase all of the products that you want in one transaction. I will work with you to keep them longer if you would like to purchase additional products at a later date. We can discuss this at the time of your purchase.

How do I book a session?

Call 916-947-6226 or email jsoriaphotography@comcast.net to schedule your portrait session today!