FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about sessions, training, locations, downloads and more.

Jump to: GeneralScheduling & bookingLocations & travelPricing & paymentEdits & deliveryRescheduling & weatherBoudoirFamily & newbornLife events & weddingsTraining & mentoringStudent downloadsDay courses & businessKit & prepPrivacy & consentImage use & copyrightGift vouchersContact

General

Where is your studio based?
Studio 50, 1853 Studios, Osborne Mill, Oldham/Chadderton, OL9 6QQ.
Visits are by appointment — I’ll send access and parking info with your booking confirmation.
What do you shoot?
People and their stories — family & newborn, life events, boudoir, creative portraits, and one-to-one training. Sessions are calm, friendly and story-led, at your chosen location or my studio.
What does “general photographer & visual journalist” mean?
I’m trained to work across styles and settings — from natural-light documentary (quiet, real moments) to portrait & studio lighting (planned, flattering setups), plus events coverage and thoughtful post-production. I can guide you gently when direction helps, or blend into the background when the moment matters.

Scheduling & booking

How do I book?
Hit Book A Session with a few lines about what you want, where, and any dates in mind. I’ll reply with availability and a tailored quote.
How often are lessons or sessions?
You set the pace — day-after-day, weekly, monthly or ad-hoc. No fixed schedule unless you want one.
Do you provide a contract?
Yes — every booking comes with a simple booking agreement for secure e-sign (no printing). It confirms what we’re doing, when/where, fees, rescheduling/cancellation terms, privacy choices and delivery. Your date is secured once the agreement is signed and a small retainer is paid.

Locations & travel

Do you travel to me?
Yes — I shoot at your home or a location you love within ~15 miles of Oldham. Further afield is fine; I’ll quote for travel/time.
When is the studio used?
Mainly for lighting/posing work or when you want a clean, controlled set. Otherwise, locations are brilliant for natural stories.

Pricing & payment

How much does it cost?
I use “starting from” prices so we can tailor your session. Family & events are quoted by time, plan and travel. Training starts from £25. I’ll confirm everything in your quote.
When is my booking confirmed?
When you’ve signed the booking agreement and paid the retainer (the rest is due around the session/event as outlined in your agreement). Receipts provided.
How can I pay?
Bank transfer is easiest; card or cash can be arranged.

Edits & delivery

What do I receive?
A curated, fully-edited digital gallery in my signature style. From there you can download, choose favourites, and order prints or wall art if you like.
How long does editing take?
Typically within 2–3 weeks for families/portraits (often sooner). Events may take longer depending on coverage. I’ll give you an ETA when you book.

Rescheduling & weather

What if it rains?
We can embrace it (umbrellas can look great), switch to a covered spot, or reschedule to the next available date — whatever suits you best.
Can I move my date?
Yes, life happens. Give me as much notice as you can and we’ll find a new slot.

Boudoir

Will my images be private?
Always. Nothing is shared without your written permission. Many clients keep everything private — totally normal.
What should I wear for boudoir?
Bring 2–4 options you feel confident in — pieces that fit well and move well. Simple black/neutral sets, a favourite colour, an oversized shirt/robe or knit, and something softer or editorial if that’s your vibe. Steam/press items, avoid tight straps beforehand (to minimise marks), and bring jewellery or heels only if you enjoy them.
Do I need to know how to pose for boudoir?
Not at all. I’ll guide you through flattering shapes with gentle prompts and micro-adjustments so it stays body-positive and never forced. We’ll set the mood together and work at your pace. Boudoir is strictly 18+.
Do you provide lingerie, hair or makeup?
Not as standard. Wardrobe and HMUA are client-arranged unless we agree otherwise in advance. I can organise trusted HMUAs with notice — this will incur an additional cost (and may require a deposit).

Family & newborn

How do you work with little ones?
Sessions are baby/child-led: breaks when needed, play first, photos second. No pressure, no rush.
What should we wear?
Wear clothes you feel great in. Neutrals or colours that sit well together (avoid heavy logos and neon). Aim for texture and layers over lots of outfit changes. Coordinate rather than match for family groups. Clean shoes, lint roller, spare layer. If you wear glasses, a non-glare pair helps.

Life events & weddings

What’s your style at events?
Quietly documentary — genuine moments over staged ones. I’ll step in only when needed (group shots, key moments).
What’s in the event agreement?
Coverage hours, locations/timeline, travel, what’s delivered (gallery/turnaround), payment schedule, rescheduling/cancellation terms, permissions (venues, clergy, registrars), and a simple weather/contingency plan. If a second shooter is needed, it’s listed here too.
Do you use contracts for funerals or sensitive events?
Yes — a short agreement keeps things clear and respectful: timings, delivery and privacy preferences are confirmed in writing so the day runs smoothly.

Training & mentoring

Who are lessons for?
Hobbyists getting off AUTO; GCSE/college students who want guided help; retired beginners who prefer a calm pace. Completely bespoke. No online lessons.
Where do lessons happen?
At your chosen location or in my studio (studio is ideal for lighting/posing).
What kit do I need to bring for 1-to-1 lessons?
Bring the gear you actually use — we’ll teach on your setup.
  • Camera (any brand) + lenses you own (a basic zoom is fine)
  • Batteries fully charged (+ a spare) & your charger
  • Memory cards (formatted, with space)
  • External flash / speedlight if you have one (for flash sessions)
  • Tripod if you want long-exposure or studio work
  • Laptop for editing lessons with Adobe Lightroom/Photoshop installed (updated), plus charger
  • Any triggers/modifiers/light stands you own (for studio/flash tuition)
  • Small extras: lens cloth, notebook/pen, weather-appropriate clothes

Don’t own a flash or studio lights yet? We can still run natural-light lessons or build a shopping list — but practical flash/studio practice requires your own kit.

Do you provide kit for lessons?
No — lessons are bring-your-own equipment. I’ll teach you on your camera/flash so what you learn sticks. If you’re still choosing gear, I’m happy to advise; arranging hires is by prior agreement and will incur additional costs.
Do lessons have a contract too?
Yes — a simple lesson agreement confirms the plan, location, session length, fees and rescheduling terms. It also notes that lessons are bring-your-own kit.

Student downloads

How do I access the lesson PDFs?
Go to the Student Downloads hub. Each week has its own password which I give you in your lesson.
Can I buy the materials without lessons?
Yes — you can purchase individual weeks or the full beginners bundle from the hub if you’re not a current student.

Day courses & business training

Do you offer day courses or team training?
Yes — on-location day courses and staff training are available by quote. Share your goals and I’ll tailor a plan.

Kit & prep

What should I wear to a shoot?
Wear clothes you feel great in. Neutrals or colours that sit well together (avoid heavy logos and neon). Texture and layers beat lots of changes. Coordinate rather than match for family groups. Clean shoes, lint roller, spare layer. Non-glare glasses help if you wear them.
Do I need to know how to pose?
Nope. I guide you with simple direction and tiny adjustments so you never feel awkward. Natural and comfortable is the goal.
Do you provide clothing, hair or makeup?
Not as standard — wardrobe and HMUA are client-arranged unless we agree otherwise in advance. I can organise a stylist/HMUA with sufficient notice; this will be an additional cost (and may require a deposit).

Privacy, consent & accessibility

Do you share images online?
Only with your written permission. Private is perfectly fine.
Will I need to sign a model release?
Only if you want me to share images on my website or socials. Sharing is opt-in and recorded in your agreement.
Accessibility needs?
Tell me what you need — I’ll adapt the plan, locations and pacing so the session works for you.

Image use & copyright

Can I print and share my photos?
Yes — personal use is included (printing, sharing with friends/family). Commercial use (brands, ads, products) needs a separate licence — just ask.

Gift vouchers

Do you do gift vouchers?
Yes — physical or digital. You choose the amount or “a session from £…”. I’ll help with wording if it’s a surprise.

Still stuck?

Ping me a message with your ideas, dates and rough location — I’ll get right back.