Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens after I book a session?
First, you'll be asked to sign my client contract and submit a non-refundable retainer of 50% of the session fee upon booking. The remaining balance is due the day of your session. Once your booking is confirmed, the fun stuff (determining a location, styling convos, posing inspiration) begins! You'll immediately receive my Prep Guide & a short client questionnaire, followed by a 1:1 "get to know you" chat where we discuss all the details for your session.
First, you'll be asked to sign my client contract and submit a non-refundable retainer of 50% of the session fee upon booking. The remaining balance is due the day of your session. Once your booking is confirmed, the fun stuff (determining a location, styling convos, posing inspiration) begins! You'll immediately receive my Prep Guide & a short client questionnaire, followed by a 1:1 "get to know you" chat where we discuss all the details for your session.
Q. How many images will I receive?
For a one hour session, you can expect to receive 50-75 images. For a two hour session, I typically deliver anywhere from 100-200 images. You'll get a link to your online gallery where you can view, download and share your photos — and also order prints and keepsakes!
Q. When can I expect my photos?
I do my very best to deliver your photos as quickly as possible! You can expect a few sneak peek images within 1 week & my typical turnaround time for final gallery delivery is about 2 weeks after our session.
Q. When should I book my newborn session?
The recommendation is anytime within 2 weeks after birth because teeny babies tend to sleep more contentedly even when being moved around or swaddled in those cute poses (and before the baby acne starts to show up). But do what feels right for you & your family! The first month is still a fantastic option, especially for twins and preemies. And then at 4–6 weeks, babies start to stay awake for longer stretches so you'll end up with more candid moments, baby eye contact and some really silly facial expressions.
Q. How do I choose a location for my session?
» For Lifestyle Sessions — I always start by asking if there’s a place that is memorable/meaningful to you & your family. This could be your home, in your neighborhood, at a favorite local park, or even one of those iconic Bay Area backdrops. You can also get some inspiration by deciding what kind of vibe you want your photos to have. I’ve done photoshoots all over San Francisco so I’d be happy to make some suggestions.
» For Newborn Sessions — I've found that it's easiest for everyone to work in the comfort of your home but I'm open to any location you have in mind.
» For Cake Smash — I can either come to your home or you have the option to use a beautiful studio in SF located right in my neighborhood (Inner Sunset) for an additional fee.
Q. What if my family isn't super comfortable being in front of the camera?
My goal is to make your photoshoot FUN! I try to build in plenty of time for my sessions so everyone has a chance to warm up & take breaks. I also come equipped with infinite patience & a couple of tricks up my sleeve to help shy kiddos come out of their shells. But in the event that I'm not enough to hold their attention, I do recommend bringing a favorite lovey & copious snacks along — as well as a special treat that that we can offer in a pinch (gummies and marshmallows make great motivational tools, especially for younger kiddos!) You could also plan something fun for the family before or after the session to help sweeten the deal.
Q. How should I prepare for my session?
Tip #1 — Start planning your family's outfits at least a couple of weeks in advance so you can see how everything works together.
Tip #2 — This is your chance to treat yourself to that statement dress or jumpsuit, a fresh manicure/pedicure, and negotiating with your partner for a little extra time spent on your hair & makeup that day.
Tip #3 — This is also a great opportunity to dress your kiddo(s) in those ridiculously adorable outfits & go all out on the accessories.
Tip #4 — Take a moment to browse inspiration images of other photoshoots for poses or styles that you might want to emulate.
Tip #5 — If you’re planning to do the session in your home, it never hurts to do a little de-cluttering in the rooms that we’ll be taking pictures in.
Q. What should I wear for my session?
My most important rule of wardrobe: make sure everyone feels comfortable in whatever you choose! We'll talk about this more during your client consultation, but start by determining what kind of vibe you want for your photos — casual, boho, formal, vintage, playful, etc. Then look for outfits that correlate. Sometimes it’s easiest to start with one outfit (ahem, YOURS) & then build out everyone else's look from there. Choose something that makes you feel amazing & in a color that flatters your skin tone. Then add in 2–3 other colors that play well together to build a palette for the family. You can also bring in some texture into your outfits by adding subtle patterns, different types of fabrics, layering with a jacket, vest or scarf, colorful jewelry, sequins, etc. And when in doubt, you can’t go wrong with throwing in a few neutrals!
Q. Can my pets join my session?
Heck yes! Pets are welcome at all of my sessions.
Q. Do you offer gift certificates?
Absolutely! Personalized digital gift certificates are available for all of my sessions & make the perfect present for any occasion. Contact me for details.
Q. Do you travel?
I’m based in the San Francisco Bay Area but would be happy to travel to any location for a session! Travel fees may apply depending on the distance.
Q. Can I book you for a session type that's not listed?
Of course! I have experience with maternity sessions, couples, engagements, large-scale events, headshots, food photography and more. Feel free to email me at info@kaitlynhoffmanphotography.com
Q. What is your cancellation policy?
Hey, sometimes life happens — I totally get it! If you need to cancel or reschedule our session, please let me know as soon as possible. I do ask for a non-refundable retainer of 50% of the session fee at the time of your booking, which can be applied to a future session.
Q. Do you provide the RAW files?
I'm sorry but I do not provide RAW files as they are not a representation of my work.
Q. What rights do I have to the digital images?
Every session comes with a set of digital images and a print release. This gives you the right to reprint your images for personal use whenever you want. However, you may not sell your images for profit or publish your images without my written consent.
And BTW...
I occasionally share photos from sessions on my website, my social media accounts, or for marketing purposes but I will never provide any identifying information. If you would prefer to keep your photos private, just let me know!