What is your style, and what can we expect from you as our photographer? 

I like for my photography to be authentic and all about you. When you look at your photos, I want you to feel like I captured the essence of who you are. I hope to provide you with memories that will transport you back to this time for a lifetime to come! I will always focus on taking classic “everyone smiling looking at the camera” photos, but if you’ve looked at my work, you’ll see I love to capture fun, authentic & honest family moments, and you loving on your family!

As your newborn and family photographer, I’ll be there to help you feel comfortable, guide natural interactions, and make sure everyone has fun, too!

As your wedding photographer, I’ll be there to celebrate your love, walk you through the planning process, and help you enjoy your special day while capturing its essence.

When should I book my session? 

The sooner the better! For family and newborn sessions, I recommend contacting me at least 2-3 months ahead of your desired session time. If you’re hoping for a Fall session, look out for signups in my email newsletter in July! If you're considering booking me as your photographer for your wedding please contact me as soon as possible. I will guide you through the process to determine if I'm the right photographer for you!

What do you mean "the right photographer for you"? 

As much as I would love to personally photograph every couple & family who come my way, I know that my style doesn't suit everyone. The most important thing to me is that you get images and an experience that you will love and cherish for a lifetime. For that reason, I work hard to ensure that we are a good fit for one another - both in terms of your expectations for your images, and also your overall vision for your experience.

What should we wear? 

I’ll share a few of my favorite tips as guideline for your session! For family & newborn sessions, find clothing that does not wrinkle easily, fits properly (needs minimal adjusting), and also makes you feel comfortable and confident. The comfort you feel shows through in your images. I always recommend a clean and neutral color palette for newborn sessions, helping to keep the feeling of your images relaxed and focused on your baby (think creams, light grays, pastels). For outdoor family sessions, try to coordinate colors, rather than exactly matching. A neutral color palette with pops of jewel tone color tends to work well! If you’re looking for more light & airy photographs, I recommend light and mostly solid clothing (white, cream, and light pastels). Mama, choose your outfit first and then coordinate your family to you! Also, I recommend flow and texture of your dresses or tops, as they flatter all body types and bring movement in the fabric to add a feminine touch. For inspiration, feel free to look at my Pinterest pages! Upon booking, I will also send you a Style Guide, which includes information on the pieces available in my Client Wardrobe (coming soon!)

Family: https://www.pinterest.com/shuffmanschmidt/family-photography-inspiration/

Newborn: https://www.pinterest.com/shuffmanschmidt/newborn-photography-inspiration/

Maternity: https://www.pinterest.com/shuffmanschmidt/maternity-inspiration/

Couples: https://www.pinterest.com/shuffmanschmidt/couples-photography-inspiration/

What is the most important thing we can do to prepare for our session?

I love this question! The BIGGEST thing you can do is RELAX, set a POSITIVE tone, and TRUST me. Easier said than done, right? Here me out. Parents actually set the tone for how our session will go. If there is high pressure, stress, bribing, forcing smiles, more than likely you will NOT like your pictures. When you discipline for not smiling, punish for not sitting still, or bribe for better behavior, you inadvertently ZAP the magical energy right out of there. You’re frustrated and upset, the kids are now defeated and dysregulated, and now we have an uphill battle to get back to that sweet spot of authenticity and joy. Please know as a mama of three young boys myself, I have TONS of tricks up my sleeves for encouraging fun, joy, connections. I got you and can take control of the session so you don’t have to.

Where there is chaos, embrace it. Where there are sillies, lean in and giggle too! Where there are tears, please hold and tenderly support. Where there is movement, move too. Let your kids be kids and enjoy them in all of it. THAT is the secret to loving your photos, I promise you.

When do our sessions take place?

I photograph in the morning and the evening, when the sun is lower and offers a soft glow for our images. This is in the hours following sunrise or just before sunset!

How many people can be included in my session?

Up to six family members! Contact me for pricing for larger groups..

What if it rains!?

As a natural light photographer, I will be checking the weather and communicating with you accordingly! If we decide to make a call to cancel, we simply reschedule for a better day! If your session is in the Fall, my busiest season, I will coordinate reserving a predetermined inclement weather date with you.

How do I receive my photos? 

For family & newborn pictures, your online gallery of edited images will be delivered in 2-4 weeks. You will be able to share with family and friends, as well as receive printing rights for personal use! Similarly, as your wedding photographer, I will share your gallery of edited images 6-8 weeks after your wedding. I share an early sneak peak gallery as well! 

Where are you located? Do you travel? 

Sarah Schmidt Photography serves the greater Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland areas. I travel upon some request! Additional travel fees do apply for out of town weddings, in addition to family sessions outside of a 25 mile radius to Fairfax Station, Virginia. We can discuss this further upon inquiry!

Do you charge sales tax? 

Yes, in accordance with state law, 6% Northern Virginia sales tax is added to all payments.

What types of payment do you accept? 

Payments may be made using cash or written check primarily! Please inquire for additional payment options if needed.

Do you offer mini sessions?

Yes. Mini Sessions are held a couple of times a year on specific days at a discounted rate with a shorter session time. To receive information about mini sessions when they go live, email me to sign up for my newsletter!

Do you do engagement sessions?

Yes! Engagement sessions are included in each of my Wedding Photography packages.

Do you offer any smaller packages for those not having a typical wedding? 

Yes! I love shooting small weddings and elopements. Just let me know when you are planning to marry, to see if I have availability. I can do anything from two to four hours to cover your ceremony, some portraits, and any celebrations you have planned!

I am interested in booking you, what do I do next? 

This is wonderful news! I am so honored to be chosen to capture your memories! Please fill out my inquiry form to get started, and I’ll be in touch with next steps.