Celtic Shadows Design

All sessions start with an informal meeting where we can discuss clothing, locations and other session details that may concern you, as well as to plan how you will display your new images. If you have no ideas for a session that's alright we have lots of ideas and locations for you to decide on. Once the session is finished I will select best images (usually around 20-40 images for an individual session), and then work on those images to further enhance them. This is emailed to you for you as a PDF contact sheet for viewing at your leisure or we can arrange a viewing at your home. During the viewing you can decide whether you want the images as black and white or colour and the various options such a prints, canvas art or gift key rings to name some of the services we offer. For individual portraits an hour is usually sufficient, for group shots allow up to two hours especially if younger children are being photographed. However if things don't quite work out we don't clock watch and will work with you to get the best shots or if necessary we can arrange to re-schedule the shoot for another day.

For glamour makeovers it's the client's responsibility to get permission to use premises if they are not going to be home based. We will advise where possible to alternative locations or to help gain permission where possible for your choice of location.

For the babies that are able to sit down and toddlers, a dressing gown or a soft cotton towel can prove useful and can be used for the session itself. A favourite toy can also be useful as a prop, as can the child's favourite comforter; Be that a muslin wrap, the blanket or their dummy. Although these may be unwanted in the actual photograph they can give a baby comfort if they don't wish to co-operate during the session.

Also if your child likes dressing up to be a fairy princess or Superman then let them bring the costume we encourage your child's creativity and will use the costume as part of your session. If you like bring something that defines who you are, you might be a musician, craftsman or play a particular sport then we can incorporate that into the session.

Avoid the latest catwalk fashions and contemporary clothing which may date quickly. Remember the 70's flares, 80's hair styles and stripy clothing, padded shoulders and 90's shell suits? As these go out of fashion they can make your pictures look dated. Instead go for the timeless classics such as jeans and an unbranded casual top or a simple dress always look great for an informal photograph as help making you feel more relaxed. Also avoid bright colours, patterns, stripes, polka dots and distinctive bold logos as you don't want to distract people or make yourself a walking advertisement. Solid blocks of muted colours generally work best. If you would like to be photographed together as a group, it's best to wear colours of a similar tone. Different colours are fine, but where one person's colours are much brighter than anyone else they can detract attention from the others.

Also take care that items don't clash. When bringing clothing to a session bring two or three different outfits so that if there are any problems we can try to work around them.

For all model portfolio sessions proof of age is required and a parent or guardian is required to sign a model release prior to the session commencing if you're under the age of 18. The release is a requirement for any model portfolio session and is to protect all parties involved. Suitable identification can include driving licence, passport or an proof of age ID card.

For under-18s your parents or guardians must attend the session as chaperones. In addition due to UK laws unders-18s are not permitted to do glamour sessions.