FAQ
Common questions about booking, pricing, what to expect on shoot day, delivery, and image rights. Still have something unanswered? Email me directly.
Booking
How do I book a session?
Use the booking page to select your service, pick a date, and fill out the project details. Once I review the request I'll send a contract and deposit invoice. Your date is not held until both are signed and paid.
How far in advance should I book?
Two to four weeks in advance is ideal. Peak months (fashion weeks, summer events, holiday season) fill up faster. For urgent projects, ask about availability — rush sessions are sometimes possible for an additional fee.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to hold your date. The remaining balance is due 24 hours before the session. See the Policies page for full details.
Can I add services or extend the shoot on the day?
Sometimes, depending on my schedule. Additional time is billed at $175/hour and must be confirmed and invoiced before we continue shooting — not after the fact.
Pricing
Where can I see your rates?
Base rates and sprint packages are on the Pricing page. Custom projects (music videos, full-day fashion coverage, commercial work) are quoted individually — use the contact form or email for a custom quote.
Do you offer payment plans?
On larger projects ($1,000+) a split-payment plan is available. This must be agreed to in writing at booking. All payments must complete before delivery.
Are travel costs included?
Sessions within 30 miles of Ontario, CA are included. Travel beyond that is quoted at $0.67/mile round-trip. Flights, hotel, and per diem are billed at cost for destination projects.
Do you charge for studio rental?
Studio rental is not included in base rates. I can recommend and book studios — the cost is passed through at actual rate. Bring your own space and it's covered.
On the Day
What should I wear / bring?
For portraits and headshots, bring 2–3 outfit options in solid or simple patterns. Avoid logos, heavy graphics, or neon unless it fits the brand. For fashion shoots, have your looks steamed and ready. Arrive camera-ready if no HMUA is booked — touch-ups mid-shoot slow us down.
Do you provide hair and makeup?
I can refer trusted HMUA artists and coordinate their inclusion. Their fees are separate from photography rates and booked directly through them.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
For outdoor sessions, we monitor the forecast together. If conditions are genuinely unworkable (downpour, dangerous conditions) I'll offer a reschedule at no charge. Light overcast is actually great for portraits — we shoot through it unless it's unsafe.
How many outfit changes can I do?
Most packages include 1–2 outfit changes. Additional changes eat into shoot time — budget roughly 10–15 minutes per change. If you need more, plan for a longer session.
Delivery
How long until I receive my photos?
Standard turnaround is 2–3 weeks from shoot date. A sneak-peek preview of 3–5 images is delivered within 72 hours. Rush (48-hour full delivery) is available for +$250, confirmed before the shoot.
How many photos will I receive?
The number depends on the package. Portraits typically deliver 30–60 edited selects. Fashion editorials and full-day events deliver more. Exact counts are listed in the package descriptions or confirmed in your contract.
Can I get the RAW files?
No. RAW files are not delivered under any circumstances. You receive fully edited, high-resolution JPEGs (and/or web-optimized versions) through your private gallery link.
How do I receive my files?
Through a private online gallery link. The link is valid for 90 days — download everything promptly and back it up. Re-delivery after expiration carries a $50 archive retrieval fee.
Can I request re-edits or additional retouching?
One round of minor revision requests (color tone preference, exposure adjustments) is included per session. Extensive retouching — skin smoothing, body alteration, background removal — is available at $15–$25 per image.
Rights & Usage
Can I post the photos on social media?
Yes, with credit. Personal and portfolio social media use is included in every package. Please tag or credit @sean.shotthat78. Do not crop out watermarks or alter the color grading without permission.
Can I use the photos for my business or advertising?
Personal-use licenses do not cover commercial use (paid ads, product packaging, brand campaigns, stock). A commercial license is available — contact me for pricing based on usage scope.
Will my photos appear on your website or social media?
Yes, unless you request otherwise in writing before the session. A standard model release is included in every booking agreement. If you need full confidentiality, a private session addendum is available — this may affect pricing.
Cancellation
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations more than 48 hours before the session forfeit the deposit. Cancellations within 48 hours owe the full remaining session fee in addition to the forfeited deposit. See the Policies page for complete terms.
Can I reschedule?
One free reschedule is allowed with more than 48 hours' notice, subject to availability. A second reschedule requires a new deposit. Rescheduling within 48 hours of the shoot is treated as a cancellation.
What if you have to cancel?
If I cancel for reasons on my end, you receive a full refund of all payments or a priority reschedule — your choice. I have never no-showed a client.
Still have questions?
Just ask before you book.
I respond to all booking inquiries directly. If something in the FAQ didn't cover your situation, email me and I'll get back to you fast.