Frequently Asked Questions for Wedding, Elopement, Family & Portrait Photography
Thank you so much for considering me to capture your special moments! I proudly serve families, couples, and weddings in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and throughout the surrounding Smoky Mountain region.
Below are answers to the most common questions clients ask before booking.
Booking & General Questions
How do I book a session?
-To book your session, simply fill out my inquiry form or contact me directly. Once we confirm availability, a signed contract and retainer fee are required to secure your date.
How far in advance should I book?
-Weddings and elopements are best booked 6–12 months in advance. Family and portrait sessions are typically booked 2–8 weeks ahead, especially during busy spring and fall seasons.
What is required to reserve my date?
-A signed contract and non-refundable retainer are required. Your date is not officially held until both are received.
What forms of payment do you accept?
-I accept cash, Paypal, or Venmo through my business account. Full details are provided during booking.
Can we meet before booking?
-Absolutely! We can chat by phone, video call, or meet in person when possible so you feel confident moving forward.
Weddings & Elopements
Do you photograph both large weddings and small elopements?
-Yes! I love capturing everything from intimate elopements to full wedding celebrations.
How many hours of coverage do we need?
Most weddings book 6–10 hours depending on timeline and events. Elopements typically need 1–4 hours.
Do you help with timeline planning?
Yes! I can help create or review your photography timeline to ensure smooth flow and the best lighting.
Do you travel for weddings or elopements?
-Yes — I can photograph weddings and elopements throughout the Smoky Mountain area and surrounding East Tennessee locations. Travel beyond the local area (Sevier County) will include a fee.
Do you photograph destination weddings?
-I have not yet, but would love to if I had the opportunity.
Do you offer a second photographer?
-No, I do not offer a second photographer.
What happens if you can’t attend due to illness or emergency?
-In the rare case of an emergency, I will provide a trusted professional replacement.
Family, Couples & Portrait Sessions
Where will our session take place?
-Sessions can take place outdoors, at scenic mountain overlooks, in your home, or at another meaningful location. I’m happy to suggest beautiful spots!
REMINDER: Some places require a rental fee and that is not included in my session prices.
How long does a session last?
-Most sessions last 30 or 60 minutes depending on the package you choose. If you need less or more time, please reach out and we can make a custom package.
Can extended family participate?
Yes! Just let me know ahead of time so we can pick the amount of time that will work best. Additional fees may apply for larger groups.
What if my kids don’t cooperate?
-That’s completely normal! I keep sessions relaxed, playful, and stress-free. Candid moments often create the best photos.
Session Experience
What happens if the weather is bad?
-If weather conditions are unsafe or unfavorable, we will reschedule at no extra cost. If we are able to change the time of the day of your session we can if there is availability. Some locations have events going on so we work around that.
Can we choose our location?
-Yes! You can choose a meaningful place as long as it doesn’t require permits. I can also recommend scenic locations with mountain views, fields, downtown, a creek, or wooded areas. Honeysuckle Hills in Pigeon Forge and Seven Islands State Birding Park in Sevierville are my top favorite locations. If you want a photography studio like the ones in Knoxville, we can also do those, but they require a studio fee.
Can we bring pets?
-Absolutely — pets are welcome! Just let me know in advance.
Will you help with posing?
-Yes, absolutely! I guide you through posing the entire time so you never have to wonder what to do. I also pay close attention to the little details — making sure your hair is laying just right, jewelry is facing the correct way, and your clothing looks its best. If you have a dress with a train or a veil, I’ll help arrange and adjust it so everything looks beautiful in your photos. We also capture a few candid moments, and I’ll give you prompts that feel natural and fit you perfectly as a couple or family.
Editing & Image Delivery
How many photos will we receive?
-The number varies by session type, but you’ll receive a fully edited gallery of the best images from your session. I know some photographers limit the amount of photos you can have, but I am not like that. There is no set number of photos that you receive.
Do you edit all delivered images?
-Yes. Each photo is professionally edited for color, lighting, and overall satisfaction. I get rid of the ones where eyes are closed, looking away, etc.
Can I request additional retouching?
-Yes — advanced retouching is available for an additional fee.
How long does it take to receive photos?
-Portrait sessions are typically delivered within 2–3 weeks. Weddings may take 4–8 weeks depending on the season.
How will we receive our photos?
-You’ll receive a private online gallery where you can download and share.
Do you provide RAW files?
-RAW files are not delivered, as editing is part of my artistic style and final product. Will my photos look exactly like a photo I saw on your social media?
– Not exactly — and that’s a good thing! Every session is unique because it depends on factors like lighting, time of year, weather, location, and what you wear. I also edit each gallery to reflect the mood and story of your session, so your photos will have their own special look and feel.
Prints & Usage
Can we print photos anywhere?
-Yes — you receive printing rights.
Can we share photos online?
-Yes! I love when you share your images. Please tag and credit me when possible to help my business grow.
Do you offer albums and wall art?
-Unfortunately, I do not offer those at the moment. You can order them through the website where your photos will be delivered.
Policies & Rescheduling
What is your cancellation policy?
-Retainers are non-refundable but sessions may be rescheduled with proper notice.
Can we reschedule?
-Yes, depending on availability. Life happens — communication is key! If you are from out of town, we can do our best to plan it on another day that you are here or when you come back to revisit the area.
What if we’re running late?
-Please notify me as soon as possible. Session time may be shortened if scheduling is impacted.
Travel & Location
Do you charge travel fees?
-Travel within the local Smoky Mountain area (Sevier County) is already included. Locations beyond that will include a higher travel fee.
Are permits required for certain locations?
-Some locations may require permits or rental fees depending on venue or property rules. Clients are responsible for securing any required permissions. For example, if there is a studio you want photos at they always require a rental fee.
Preparing for Your Session
How should we prepare?
-Get plenty of rest, arrive on time, and relax. If you have young kids, we can always schedule around nap time!
Can we send inspo photos?
-Yes! I love seeing your ideas and vision.
Still Have Questions?
If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out anytime. I’m always happy to help!