Why should I use Danielle Neil Photography?
Danielle’s clients are looking for high quality, unique pieces of art to remember their loved ones with. Danielle has been a professional photographer since 2008. Prior to photography, she was a corporate graphic designer for over 11 years. She holds both a Certificate in Photography and a Bachelor of Fine Art in Art and Technology. She continues her photography education with seminars, conferences and workshops to keep up on current trends in the industry. She is also a member of the Professional Photographers of America and the National Association of Photoshop Professionals. Danielle uses professional Nikon equipment.
Why is photography so expensive?
Quality, custom photography by a trained portrait photographer is not an option for everyone. Danielle’s services are priced to offer premium service and products to her clients. She spends over 15 hours on each session including prep time, photographing, image editing, orders and delivery. For more information on the cost of custom photography, please read the blog post: Why Does Custom Photography Cost So Much? If you are interested in only a few small prints, it is recommended you book an Essentials Session which offers limited time sessions at affordable prices.
How much do most people spend?
Most of Danielle’s clients spend anywhere from $500 to $1,500. Everyone’s needs are different. Clients are encouraged to think about why you are purchasing professional photography and how you would like to display those images. Some clients choose a large piece of art for their walls while others opt for a beautiful album of their session images. There are many options to help customize pieces that will compliment your home and your needs.
Can I get a session disc?
Danielle offers both a la carte digital files, as well as digital file collections for print. Digital files include a Limited Use License Agreement for personal printing needs.
Is studio photography available?
Danielle does not have a studio and all sessions are held on location at either local parks, urban areas or in your home. Danielle loves capturing relationships and her subject’s personalities in natural settings.
When will I see my photos?
Online galleries are posted within 14 business days of your session. Danielle will email you with the login information for your online gallery.
How does a session at my home work?
Don’t worry about your home being too small or cleaning every inch of your house before your session. If you choose a session in your home, Danielle needs a few areas with window light. She can create some great images in small spaces. Weather permitting, she will also photograph outside your home as well.
What if it rains the day of my session?
Because most sessions are held outdoors, sometimes the weather does not cooperate on the day of your session. In the event of inclement weather, reschedules are top priority. You will be notified no later than two hours prior to your session if Danielle feels it will need to be reschedule.
How long do you keep my images? What if I want more images in 3 months?
Because the galleries requires online storage, orders must be placed within 5-days for a Designer Session or 3-days for an Essential Session. Your order is due when the gallery expires. Danielle understands people are busy, so she will check with you to activate your gallery at a time when you are able to comfortably view and make your selections.
Non-ordered images will be held for an additional 30 days after your gallery expiration. After 30 days, non-ordered images will be purged and all ordered images will be archived for one year.
What if I have to cancel my session?
Please notify Danielle at least 48-hours prior to your session to reschedule. With 48-hour notification, you will be able to reschedule at no additional cost. If you are a no-show to your session or notify her less than 48-hours prior, you will be charged an additional session fee to re-schedule
My dog is really high-energy, is that going to be a problem?
Danielle works with dogs of all temperaments. She is prepared to work with any dog’s personality. Visit her blog post Behind the Scenes at a Dog Session to see what went into her own dog’s pet portrait session (who refuses to listen!). Your pet is more cooperative than you think. Danielle has a ton of patience and is easy going and tries make the photo session relaxing and fun for you and your pet. It is helpful if your dog knows basic commands like sit and down. If your dog does not know basic commands, has a short attention span or is extremely shy, plan on booking a standard session to allow enough time for great portraits.
My dog has aggression issues towards people, can I book a session?
If your dog has aggression issues towards people, contact Danielle to find out if a portrait session will work for your pet. If there is a good chance your dog may attack or bite while being photographed, a portrait session may not be a good idea.
My dog is old or sick, can I schedule a session?
Danielle understands the need for meaningful portraits of your ill or elderly pet. These special photo sessions are typically Essential Sessions since older and sick dogs can only handle a limited amount of time for photographs. She will come to your home to photograph your dog in their own space. These sessions are available on short notice and Danielle will do her best to fit your pet into her schedule.
What will I do while my dog is being photographed?
You’ll be involved in your pet’s session. You may be asked to walk with your dog or make noises to get their attention. And if you would like to be in photos with your pet, no problem, she can do that too!
What should I bring to my dog’s session?
If your dog is food motivated, bring their favorite treats along. Danielle will bring along treats as well as noise makers. Favorite toys, balls and other items that your dog loves are also great to use to get their attention and to include in their photographs. And don’t forget any adorable outfits or accessories your dog owns for a few photos!
My dog needs to stay on leash, where will we go?
Leashes are not a problem! Danielle wants everyone, including dogs to be safe during the session. Leashes can be photoshopped out of your images at no additional cost. 75% of the dogs she has photographed have been on leash for their session. A Harness cannot be photoshopped out of images and will appear in the final photographs.
How many outfits should I bring and what should I wear?
There is not a limit on the number of outfits. Typically, senior portrait sessions are 4-6 outfits, depending on what is brought and how quickly changing takes place. Please remember that wardrobe changes are part of your session time. Bring along a pair of comfortable walking shoes for on-location sessions as we will walk around the area to use various backdrops. Included in the online client planner for seniors is a What to Wear guide to assist you in deciding on outfits.
I’m in band or a sport, can I bring extra stuff?
Of course — bring anything related to your activities! If you are involved in sports and would like to have photographs with your equipment go ahead and bring it. Make sure to bring your jerseys as well. If you are in band or orchestra be sure to bring your musical instrument along. And don’t forget, Danielle is a pet lover, so bring your dog along for a few photos too.
My high school requires my yearbook photo to be plain. Can you do that?
Please submit your specific yearbook photo requirements to prior to your session. She will make sure during your session to get a few photos to suit your yearbook requirements.
Can I bring my parents, siblings and friends?
Your parent(s) are welcome to come along for your session. Less is more when bringing people along. It is preferred that friends do not attend your session because you could become distracted or unable to relax.
Don’t I have to get my senior photos done by my school’s photographer?
You may have to have your yearbook photograph done by the contracted photographer, but you do not have to have an entire session done by them.
When should I have my senior photos taken?
The summer before your senior year is the best time for your photo session. It is typically when you have the least amount of extracurricular activities going on. Once school starts, the clock also starts ticking for yearbook deadlines. Every school district in Columbus has a different deadline, some as early as October, others are due January of your senior year. Be sure to plan ahead, Danielle requires you should have your session done at least 4 weeks prior to your yearbook deadline.