What to expect
The experience
From the first message to the final gallery, here is how a session with GKPhoto goes.
Short answer
A GKPhoto session starts with an inquiry, then a short call, then a date and a location. Gabe directs the session, edits every image by hand and delivers a private gallery. Portraits are ready in 48 hours. Events and larger sessions take 2 to 3 weeks. Every session includes a print release.
From first message to gallery
You send a message
Use the contact form, the session quiz or the price card on any page. I reply within one business day with the price for your town and open dates. Asking costs nothing.
We settle the plan
A short call or a few messages. We agree what you want, who is in the photos and where the photos will be used.
You pick the date and the place
A retainer of 25 percent reserves the date. The balance is due on the day. I check the permit rule for your place before you pay. See rescheduling and weather for the rules.
You get a prep guide
Each session type has its own guide: headshots, family, graduation, sports and events.
The session
I arrive early, find the light and direct each frame. You do not need to know how to pose. The package sets the length, from about 20 minutes for a headshot to a few hours for an event.
I edit every image
Each frame is edited by hand for color, exposure and crop. Headshots are also retouched, which means a temporary blemish or a flyaway is fixed. A colleague should still recognize you.
The gallery arrives
Your images land in a private online gallery with full-resolution downloads. See delivery times.
Prints and sharing
A print release comes with every session, so you can print anywhere and share freely. You can also order prints and wall art from the studio store.
What I handle and what you handle
| Task | Who |
|---|---|
| Light, framing and direction | Me |
| Permit check for your place | Me |
| Editing and retouching | Me |
| The private online gallery | Me |
| Outfits and timing | You |
| Arriving a few minutes early | You |
| Choosing your favorites | You |
| Printing, in a store or from the studio | You |
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How long does a session take?
Each package sets the length. A family Mini runs up to 20 minutes, a headshot Professional about 20 minutes and a graduation Classic about 30 minutes. Signature and Elite sessions run 45 to 90 minutes. Events are booked by the hour, from $500 for 2 hours.
Do I need to know how to pose?
No. I direct each frame, and the first minute is built to settle you in. I show you the frame, suggest one small change and move on. Most people relax once they see the first image on the back of the camera.
What do I do before the session?
Pick outfits, confirm the time and place, and choose a backup date. The prep guide for your session type covers the week before, the day before and the day of. It also lists what to bring and what to skip.
When do I get my photos?
Portraits arrive in 48 hours in a private online gallery. Events, weddings and large jobs take 2 to 3 weeks. Rush 24-hour delivery adds $100. Every session includes a print release.
What if my plans change?
One reschedule is included, and it is free with 48 or more hours of notice. Weather reschedules are always free. The retainer of 25 percent reserves the date and is not refunded if you cancel.
Keep planning
Next step
Book your session
Pick a date and I will take it from there.
Prefer to talk first? Call 919-917-3015 or see pricing.
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