Frequently asked Questions
General
What are the benefits of professional photos?
Better dating profile pictures up your chances of meeting someone special. Think of your profile picture as the virtual version of a first date – and a great opportunity to make a positive first impression. If your dating profile pictures show you at your best then you’re setting yourself up for success. Getting a professional photographer is a great way to take the stress out of profile pictures and will guarantee you a set of natural, quality photos for online dating.
I always look awful in photos, can you help?
It’s perfectly natural to worry about how you photograph. But there’s a world of difference between a smartphone snap and a professional dating photographer. Natural, relaxed photos will show you at your best. I can’t promise that you’ll suddenly look like Brad Pitt or Angelina Jolie. But I can guarantee a set of natural, flattering dating profile pictures that will make people want to meet you.
I’m nervous about being photographed in public
Public photoshoots are common in London. My setup is discreet and doesn’t involve a lot of lighting equipment etc. If you’re worried about running into someone you know then we’ll discuss a cover story, but it really isn’t anything to worry about. We can also aim for quieter times of day — just pop any special requests on the booking form.
I want my photos to be vertical (or horizontal)
No problem. I give clients both horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portrait) orientations anyway, as different apps and platforms require different picture orientations. Just let me know if you only want your photos orientated one way.
Are you an inclusive business?
100% yes – all colours, races, genders, sexualities and body types are welcome.
I have mobility issues
No problem. Let me know when you book the shoot so we can discuss locations – there are plenty of places we can use that are more accessible.
Do you have any age restrictions?
You just have to be over 18
Can I see your terms and conditions?
Terms and Conditions can be found here or by following the link at the bottom of the page
Booking
Can I reschedule?
You can reschedule a shoot once but please give me at least 48 hours notice. Rescheduling within 24 hours of the arranged time may be charged at 50% of the fee.
Is there a cancellation fee?
For up to two days before the shoot there is no cancellation fee. Between 48 hours and 24 hours there is a 50% cancellation fee. Shoots cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, and cancelled shoots that have already been rescheduled, are charged at 100%.
Why is payment taken at the time of booking?
I receive a lot of booking requests and also run a separate photography business. Paying in advance makes the booking process run more smoothly. It also frees me up to focus on getting the best possible selection of photos from your shoot, rather than chasing invoices.
What package should I buy?
Generally the Gold package works well for most people. But if you want more final photos, more outfit changes, or more variety of photo backgrounds, you might want to consider the Platinum or Bespoke packages. Bespoke packages are for people who want shoots in alternative locations.
Are you available on weekends?
I am able to work some weekends but these bookings are limited.
How does booking work?
Select your preferred package, location, and date from the dropdown menus on the booking page. Or, pick the Bespoke Package and pop a note in the comment section telling us where you’d like to do it. Once a time is confirmed, you’ll be sent a PayPal invoice. Payment is taken at the time of booking.
I want my shoot in a different location
If you want your shoot in a different location, you can arrange a Bespoke Package.
Can bespoke shoots happen outside London?
Yes, Bespoke shoots can take place anywhere, although this can be more expensive – travel time and costs are added to the price for shoots outside London.
Can I arrange a longer Bespoke Package?
Of course. Just add a note in the comment section on the booking page telling us what you’d like to arrange.
Preparation
What should I wear?
Wear something flattering that you feel comfortable in – think date outfit. Generally black or white clothes do not photograph that well – bright colours are good. Most of the photos will be mid shots (waist up) or head and shoulders, so your bottom half is slightly less important, unless you specifically want full-length pictures. Having a few different layers and accessories in a bag works really well.
What should I bring with me?
In addition to a change of clothes and accessories, feel free to bring some everyday props. Props are great for dating photos because they give you something to do with your hands and they can say something about you and your interests. Newspapers, books, water bottles, yoga mats, musical instruments and skateboards are all good examples.
Can I wear my glasses?
Absolutely, but please make sure they are clean. If you have anti-reflective glasses, that would be helpful. If you wear contacts and lenses then feel free to bring both.
The Shoot
How does the shoot work?
Expect an informal meet-up; we’ll have a chat and when you’re feeling a bit more relaxed, we’ll take a few pictures in different places around the location. People generally find it gets much easier as they get use it.
What happens if it’s raining?
If bad weather is forecast we might need to reschedule. This needs to happen at least 24 hours before arranged the shoot time.
Where do I get changed?
If you need a full outfit change, there are public toilets, or toilets in cafés and bars, near most of the locations. It’s also worth bringing a few different layers and accessories in a bag, which you can put on wherever we are.
Are the shoots always outdoors?
The Silver, Gold and Platinum packages are mostly outside but if you want some photos in café or bar etc as well, that can usually be arranged – just let me know. Bespoke Package shoots can be wherever you want, as long as we have permission to take photos there.
How will I recognise you?
We’ll arrange to meet in a specific location. There’s also a photo of me on the about page. We can always call each other if there’s a problem.
After the shoot
How will I see the images?
I will upload a selection of the unedited images to a private gallery for you to choose from. Once you’ve selected your favourite photos, I will then edit them and send you the final images.
When will the images be ready?
I aim to upload the first edit within one working day of the shoot, although it can take a few days if it’s a very busy time. Once you have made your selection, I will get the final edit to you within 1-2 more working days.
Do you retouch the photos?
I lightly edit all images. This means adjusting the white balance, exposure, crop, contrast, brightness and sharpness etc. as well as removing small marks such as blemishes, spots or stains. The photos are supposed to look natural so I do not do heavy stylized retouching or airbrushing, although this can be arranged for an extra free if necessary.
What size are the photos?
Standard images are 2500 pixels long and 72 DPI
Can I keep the unedited or RAW files?
Sorry I am afraid not. There are quite a few reasons why photographers generally do not do this – partially because the RAW files are an incomplete work but also for technical reasons related to copyright.
Can I have high-resolution files of the photos?
High resolution images are available for £15.
Can I have extra photos?
Additional images can be purchased for £15 each.
Do you back the photos up?
I keep a back up of final edited photographs for one year.