Are the photographs on your website clients or models?

All images that are shared on any of our websites or social media platforms are of paid/compensated models. This is done specifically to protect our clients. While we appreciate clients allowing us to use photographs from their session to ensure our client's privacy is not violated and that copies of their images are not made, edited, posted as others' work, posted to questionable websites, and more, we have adopted the policy not to put client images at risk.

Do I have to pose in lingerie, topless, or nude in an Artistic Portraiture shoot?

Absolutely not! Our photographers will never demand that a client pose in any manner that makes them uncomfortable. The type of clothing and how much of it the client wants to wear will always be up to the client and local regulations based on the shoot location. During the consultation, clients will be asked about the purpose of the session, who the session photographs are for, the overall theme the client is envisioning, and if they want lingerie, topless, implied nude, or nude images as part of the shoot based on the purpose and/or theme. Please note that anyone photographed as implied nude, topless, or nude must be at least 18 years old, be able to provide proof of age when requested, and have a photograph with their ID and signed contract for our records. 

How much do you edit or retouch the photographs?

Our photographic editing is based on how the client looks to us, along with what the client desires. Unless directed otherwise, we leave permanent marks and items while removing temporary items. Basic editing to remove acne, adjust skin texture, brighten faces, correct white balance, dodge, burn, crop, and color tone images are included in the session investment. More advanced edits will be discussed with the client and, if desired, will be charged at an additional rate. More information concerning editing can be found in our EDITING FAQ below.

I'm not comfortable with how I look. Can I be put on a waiting list until I'm ready?

Society may look at certain elements with the female form and call those elements imperfections, undesirable, or flaws—we don't. We see our client's bodies as being unique to them. Stretch marks, scars, freckles, height, weight, and body type define the individual, and it's their story that we want to preserve. While it is regrettable that many women have been conditioned to accept an unrealistic standard of beauty today and feel they have to use makeup, medical procedures, or unhealthy lifestyles to achieve those standards, we also know that each client's needs are unique.  We can take bookings up to six months in advance of the agreed-upon shoot date. Regrettably, we have not been able to reserve session time for the past six months at this time. However, we will be happy to put you on our email list and send out reminders if you like.

How long are the photography sessions?

Most individuals, including professional models, cannot pose for longer than four hours without it negatively affecting the images. Knowing this, we try to keep most sessions between two and four hours.

What is the difference between an image and a photograph?

In photography, an image refers to a digital file, while a photograph refers to a physical item. However, most photographers and clients use them interchangeably. To eliminate confusion, at Captured Light Studios, LLC., we refer to images and photographs per their original terms. 

To get more specific for those wanting more, when using a digital camera, a digital representation of the scene is recorded to a memory card or other digital storage device and is called an image. This information can be saved in various formats referred to as RAW (this is the proprietary format each camera maker has for storing the information), JPG or JPEG (a standard file format that compresses the information saving on file space), and TIFF (which does not compress the image resulting in much larger files). These files can then be opened in various digital editing programs and manipulated in a manner of ways. To share the manipulated files, the data must either be saved in a format that the client, software, or program can use or the data must be output, printed, to a physical object.   

When a file is created to be used on digital devices, it is referred to as a Digital Image. When the file is printed to a physical object, it is referred to as a print. Regardless of the media the image is printed on (paper, fines, acrylic, metal, etc.) or the look of the print (oil painting, glossy finish, matte finish, etc.), art paper, or glass, it is still referred to as a photograph.

What happens if I have to reschedule or cancel a shoot?

We try to work with everyone as much as possible and understand that life can get in the of living quite often; however, as there are costs involved with every session, we do have some limitations.

Clients who cancel more than 30 days before the session date are eligible for a full refund of their session investment.

Clients who cancel 14- to 29 days before the session can use their investment to rebook the session, provided it is rebooked within a 90-day timeframe from the original date. If the client is not able to rebook within the 90-day timeframe, a refund of 50% of the investment will given. Note that if a location, props, or equipment is being rented for the shoot, the client is responsible for any fees the rental companies charge for the cancellation regardless if the client rebooks or does not.

For clients that cancel less than 14 days before the scheduled session date, a rebooking fee of 50% of the session investment will be charged, provided the client is able to rebook the session within the following 90 days. If the client is not able to rebook their session within the 90-day timeframe,  100% of the investment will be forfeited. Additionally, when renting a location, props, or equipment, the client will be responsible for any additional fees charged by the rental property or companies. 

Clients who cancel a second time will forfeit 100% of their investment and again be responsible for any rental charges.

What is the difference between a headshot and a portrait?

A headshot is an image that generally includes the middle of the subject's chest or higher and the head. Headshots are generally done for actors, business personnel, and social media accounts.

A portrait may include headshots, three-quarter or full-body shots, and is usually displayed throughout the subject's home and social media sites.

Why do you have so many forms to fill out and sign?

This is a two-part question. The questionnaires help us collect information to create personalized and unique photo sessions. By spending several minutes completing the form, we can present several potential image ideas to the client. This personalized approach gives our clients unique images other studios cannot offer.

The second part of this answer concerns legal issues. We understand that filling out a bunch of forms is a hassle, but due to situations that have occurred in the past with other photographers, we feel it is best to protect not only ourselves but also our customers. 

What classifies as implied nude?

Implied nude refers to the specific act of taking photographs that give the impression that the subject is topless or nude, regardless if they actually are. Photographs are crafted, shot, or edited in such a manner as to not show nipples, complete areola, entire buttock, or genitals.  

Photographs of bare backs that do not include any portion of the subject's breasts or at least half of their buttocks are not considered to be implied nude. Additionally, images where the subject becomes exposed, in part or full, while posing are not considered implied nude either.

How much do you charge for prints?

The investment for a print depends on multiple criteria, such as size, type of print, editing, number of prints, shipping, and package discounts. Each client has unique needs, and the investment will vary from client to client. See our IMAGES FAQ below for additional information.

What exactly is Artistic Portraiture?

It is the term we use to distinguish ourselves from other studios. What is the difference between Artistic Portraiture and Boudoir? Actually, lots!

A typical Boudoir shoot is done in less than two hours after makeup and hair, with each woman getting the same poses and lighting as the women before her. The only difference between the two different women’s shoots will be the lingerie or lack thereof. For an Artistic Portraiture session, we begin by finding out what type of images the client is visualizing. This starts with our questionnaire to find out more about the client, the purpose of the photographs, and why they would like them in the first place. Next, we continue working with the client, refining ideas to create at least two unique concepts based on their vision and needs. This approach allows us to capture everything from unique portraits to more intimate images. Due to the time required for this, we only book a limited number of Artistic Portraiture sessions per month. This way, we know we can give our clients the attention they deserve. Capturing images of women that get guys all hot and bothered is easy. Our goal is to create images that make other women say, "Wow, you look beautiful in these," which is more difficult. 

How many photographs are included with an Artistic Portraiture Shoot?

We do not include any photographs or digital images in the session fee for our Artistic Portraiture shoots—the number of photographs or digital images the client purchases will depend on the client. If the client's purpose is to create a single photograph that can be used as wall art in their home, the client can choose the one they want printed from the shoot images they are presented with. Although the session was to create a single photograph, the client always has the opportunity to purchase more photographs or items if desired. 

If the client is more interested in having a book for themselves or to give as a present, images for their social media accounts, or other products made from their shoot, the number of photographs or digital images purchased will be higher, as will the number of images presented to choose from.

How many images do you take per session?

The number of images will vary based on the number of looks the client desires and the length of the session. In general, clients can expect between 10 and 50 images per look, depending on the purpose of the shoot.

Copyright and Image Use

Unless stated otherwise in the session contract, the copyright for all images created during the session belongs to the photographer or Captured Light Studios, LLC. Captured Light Studios, LLC, does not use images created with clients without written authorization from the client and will not sell any client images to anyone other than the client.

Image Rights

Any photographs or digital images purchased are provided as licensed images only and cannot be altered in any manner. Image copyright remains the property of the photographer or Captured Light Studios, LLC. unless purchased separately. Digital images will be delivered as JPEG/JPG format via capturedlightstudios.com or a Google Drive link, in sRBG color profile and 2500 pixels in width for horizontal images and 2000 pixels in height for vertical images unless otherwise stated. Images purchased from Captured Light Studios, LLC. are limited to the following without prior written authorization from Captured Light Studios, LLC.

     1. Posting of digital images to social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) provided the copyright holder is credited.

     2. Noncommercial posting of digital images for enjoyment/viewing by friends and family.

     3. Noncommercial display of a printed photographer for enjoyment/viewing by friends and family.

Note: It is a violation of copyright law to use any digital image or printed photograph in a commercial manner, take a picture of a printed photograph for use in a commercial manner, modify a picture taken of a printed photograph, or modify any digital image without written authorization from the copyright holder.

Sounds interesting, but how much does it cost, right? 

The investment will depend on what the client desires. Our base investment, called the sitting fee, covers the photographer's time for the session. Makeup, hairstyles, and outfits are the client’s responsibility unless we have been asked to provide those services for additional fees. Please note that per Ohio law, makeup and hair styling can only be done by a board-certified, licensed cosmetician. Other additional fees will apply for travel, location rental, equipment rental, prop rental, etc. Photographs, digital images, or other products are offered separately and not included in the session rate.

What is a TEST shoot?

A TEST shoot is a first-time shoot with a model and photographer. The purpose of the shoot is for both parties to get familiar with each other and see how well they work together while creating new content. Most TEST shoots are TFP (Trade for Photo or Time for Photo) shoots and can be initiated by either the photographer or the model.

How many digital images do models get from their session?

Paid models do not receive any images. Models working under a TFP (Trade/Time for Photos) release will receive a minimum of two (2) base edited images per hour of actual shoot time. More information concerning digital images can be found in our IMAGES FAQ section below.

Do you offer prints?

Yes. Models can purchase prints of images from their shoots. Captured Light Studios, LLC. is equipped to print black and white or color images up to 17 x 22 inches in size. Investment varies based on image size, paper, and editing. Models working with TFP can trade digital images for printed images at the rate of three (3) digital images for a 5 x 7, five (5) digital images for an 8 x 10, and ten (10) digital images for an 11 x 14. Exchange is based on digital images due to the model and cannot be prorated to lower print costs.

Client Questionnaire

Available on our FORMS tab, we have a questionnaire that covers several different bits of information for Artistic Female Portraiture clients to fill out. The purpose of this questionnaire is to give us a little insight into whom the customer is and the reason why they would like the portraits taken, along with information to help us determine/propose ideas for the portrait session.

Headshot / Portrait Contract

All portrait clients (artistic female portraiture, senior portraits, etc.) must complete the Captured Light Studios, LLC. Headshot / Portrait Contract, available on our FORMS tab, and return the form unsigned to Captured Light Studios, LLC. along with any required fees prior to the beginning of their scheduled shoot. Headshot clients are welcome too, but not required to complete the form. Failure to return the Headshot / Portrait Contract at least 24 hours prior to the shoot date shall result in a forfeiture of the shoot date and time, along with any fees due. Directly before the shoot begins, our attending photographer or designated individual will have the client sign and present any ID that is required for the session. At the end of the shoot, the attending photographer will sign the contract and provide a copy (cellphone image, duplicate form, etc.) to the client as proof the shoot took place and that the contract is legally binding.

Model Questionnaire

Available on our FORMS tab, we have a questionnaire specific for models working under a TFP Model Release that we ask to be completed and returned. The purpose of this questionnaire is to give us insight into genres the model is willing to model for, a better understanding of the model's personality, the model’s reason for the shoot, and other bits of information to help us determine/propose ideas for the session. While not required, models working under a PAID Model Release are encouraged to also complete and return the Model Questionnaire.

Model Releases

All models must complete and return the specific model release (paid or TFP) for their shoot unsigned to Captured Light Studios, LLC. Our Model Release forms are available on our FORMS tab or from the model’s specific Google Drive folder. Any other requested form (e.g., Model Questionnaire, Model Social Media Form, etc.) also needs to be returned prior to the beginning of their scheduled shoot. At the completion of the shoot, the attending photographer shall complete and sign the Model Release and provide either a printed and/or digital copy to the model.

Model Social Media Form

This form allows the model to receive credit on any image from their session that is posted on social media. It is available on our FORMS tab. We highly suggest that models complete this form to ensure they receive credit for the work they do.

Printed Photographs

Captured Light Studios, LLC. will offer printed images to our clients for purchase. Costs for these printed images will be based on image size, editing, print media, and delivery fees. The copyright for any printed photograph belongs to the photographer or Captured Light Studios, LLC. unless the copyright is purchased by the client for an additional investment. Until the copyright is transferred, printed photographs may not be duplicated, sold, or used in any manner not approved by Captured Light Studios, LLC. 

Digital Images

Captured Light Studios, LLC. will offer a selection of digital images in JPEG format to our clients for purchase. Costs for these digital images will be based on editing. JEPG files shall be provided in 8-bit format at 72 PPI/DPI with the longest edge for a horizontal image set at 2500 pixels and the longest edge for a vertical image set at 2000, in sRBG, grayscale, dualtone, tritone, or quadtone format. TIF images are available for an additional investment. The copyright for any digital image belongs to the photographer or Captured Light Studios, LLC. unless the copyright is purchased by the client for an additional investment. Until the copyright is transferred, digital images may not be duplicated, sold, or used in any manner not approved by Captured Light Studios, LLC. (see Image Usage Rights on the Questionnaire and Models Social Media forms).

Editing of Images

Captured Light Studios, LLC. shall include limited editing for all digital and print images offered to clients and models. Editing shall be limited to white balance/exposure correction, dust spot removal, blemish removal, simple stray hair removal, and removal of strings from outfits. Any additional editing requested, shall be done at an additional investment. 

Artistic Portraiture

For outfits, we like to work with our clients and choose outfits based on what will be created. This could be anything from swimwear to formal wear, lingerie, or accessories for partial/full nude. When choosing outfits, solid colors tend to work best and give the most flexibility in a shoot. As for your hair, we do not recommend getting it done just for your session, as this can lead to issues. More importantly, do not wash your hair the day before or of your shoot as it can become problematic due to lack of oil during the shoot. If you are comfortable with full body spray on tans, it is fine to do so 3 or 4 days beforehand, but we do not recommend getting a spray tan or attempting to tan before the shoot if you do not already have a tan. If you have any skin blemishes, leave them alone, as trying to address them makes post-production more difficult and may result in images where it is obvious that something was edited out. As for nails (both finger and toenails), we recommend that they are either clear or done as a French manicure. Don't feel you have to go to a salon to have your nails done. Glue on nails; again, either clear or French manicure, will work just fine. We do not recommend the press-on style nails as they may pop off during wardrobe changes or under some lighting setups. 

Try to get a good night's sleep the night before your shoot, and limit/eliminate alcohol, salt, and extra liquids (to prevent bloodshot eyes and bloating). If possible, do not wear any tight-fitting undergarments or clothes before arriving for your session, especially if you will be doing implied, topless, or nude photos. Impressions left from tight-fitting undergarments and clothing may be impossible to remove 100% in editing and still look natural.

We understand that this type of portraiture may feel intimidating, but let us take care of you during your shoot and enjoy it.

Portraits

Most portrait sessions will involve 2 - 4 outfit changes and will not include a makeup artist, hair stylist, or set stylist. If you have any skin blemishes, leave them alone, as trying to address them makes post-production more difficult and may result in images where it is obvious that something was edited out. When choosing outfits, solid colors tend to work best and give the most flexibility in a shoot. Try and get a good night’s sleep and limit or eliminate any alcohol, salt, or extra liquids the night before.

For women, we recommend having clear or French-manicured nails. Glue-on nails are fine, and press-on nails may be acceptable due to the limited time most portrait sessions are. We suggest having your hair done before your session; just make sure to bring combs, brushes, hairspray, and any other tools and products to do touchups after changing outfits. 

For men, we recommend shaving the night before and the morning of the session. Use a brand-new blade and high-quality gel or foam to help eliminate cuts. If you normally roll the sleeves up on your shirts, do so before putting them on. Clean any dirt or grime off of boots and hats. 

Headshots

Most headshot sessions will involve a single outfit and will not include a makeup artist, hair stylist, or set stylist. If you have any skin blemishes, leave them alone, as trying to address them makes post-production more difficult and may result in images where it is obvious that something was edited out. When choosing outfits, solid colors tend to work best and give the most flexibility in a shoot. Try and get a good night’s sleep and limit or eliminate any alcohol, salt, or extra liquids the night before. Check out the suggestions under Portraits for additional tips.

Couples

Most couple sessions will involve a single outfit and will not include a makeup artist, hair stylist, or set stylist. If you have any skin blemishes, leave them alone, as trying to address them makes post-production more difficult and may result in images where it is obvious that something was edited out. When choosing outfits, solid colors tend to work best and give the most flexibility in a shoot. Try and get a good night’s sleep and limit or eliminate any alcohol, salt, or extra liquids the night before. Check out the suggestions under Portraits for additional tips.