I'm overwhelmed -- where do I start ?

Hi! I'm Shalee and I'm hoping to make capturing your photos fun and easy. Check out the drop down options under this section and see some of the session types available. See what you'd like? BOOK IT! Then I'll get a request on my end - I will approve or decline and reach out with other options. Don't see what you're looking for? Reach out and message me.

Once you are booked and approved, you will get two upcoming reminders - 3 days and 1 day prior to your session either via email or text.

Lighting-- Best and Worst. What time of day should I book my session?

This one is frequently under estimated but makes a big impact. I would argue that this matters more than location, outfits and all the rest. I prefer to shoot with natural light outside of the studio and the best natural light is the first few hours of every day or last few hours. In most cases, this is a prettier golden soft light that tends to look a bit more glowing and reduces harsh contrasting shadows. So that being said if you like more moody, heavy contrast photos booking about 2 hours after sunrise or 3-4 hours before sunset would be your ideal timeslot on most days. Weather can easily effect the lighting of the days as well, so please know that even if you book 'golden hour' sunset sessions it doesn't guarantee we will get that lighting if it's cloudy. Mid day lighting on bright days tend to be just too bright for most eyes -- therefore I tend to avoid photos outdoors during this time. The majority of the portfolio section is taken within 2 hours of sunset or 'golden hour.'

How do I choose a location ?

We live in a beautiful place with a lot of options. However, I really love going to a location special to you, even if that's your backyard. If you're just not sure, ask me! I have an ever growing list of favorites that I'm ready to share. I travel within 45 minutes of Traverse City for no fee. If your favorite spot is further, shoot me a message and we can work out an agreement with a small travel fee. I also often run some specials in areas that aren't in my normal range - such as Empire, Elk Rapids, Frankfort, Northport, etc. I often like to bounce around to a couple close locations with seniors to get the most variety out of one area, so be ready to switch it up if we get the opportunity.

How and When do I pay?

Payment is due at the time of the session. I do not require a deposit, however multiple cancellations or a no show do incur a fee.

I accept Cash, Check, Venmo or Credit Card via an email invoice sent after the session is held. If you would like to pay in advance please reach out to me.

What should I wear?

I get asked this a lot. I do have a Pinterest board that has some great color combos I love, look me up at Rolling Fields Photography. The wonderful part about Senior photos is that you can wear what is comfortable for you - you don't have to coordinate with anyone else. Plan for at least one outfit change, even if you're a 'Do I Have To' kind of person. Things happen - clothes get dirty or don't work out as planned sometimes. Feel free to bring sports attire, gear, instruments, hats, scarfs, etc. Plan for layers - summer days are warm but the closer to sunset the cooler it will be. Don't forget a jacket or blanket to keep warm.

What happens at the session?

Yay, it's session day! I know leading up to this can be a bit stressful. At least a couple times a year I have someone VERY nervous about getting their pictures taken. Try not to worry! I personally don't love having my picture taken, so I do my best to make this a comfortable and stress free experience. If you know someone who makes you laugh and relaxed - bring them along.

We will meet at our location at the selected time. We make quick introductions or catch up on what's new. If you have some photo inspiration or poses you love, please share them at the beginning of your session. I generally have a flow of spots at our location that I like based on lighting and setting, or sometimes if it's a new spot I'll take you on a little tour with me. If you aren't up for a mild hike or have some mobility issues, please let me know before hand - there are still lots of great spots that hit the mark. Along the way I may snap some candid shots and stop you unexpectedly with some prompts. Once we make our way to our destination, I'll help by positioning you for that "Look at me and smile" pose - then I do my best to catch some candid or movement moments too. With seniors I always try to remember to let you review the first several poses/images, so that you can help me ensure I'm getting those real smiles and you're happy with what your seeing.

What happens NOW? Where are my photos?

You did it! Now I go home, back up your files, review my favorites and select what I'm going to edit. I almost always have a running list, sometimes it's only 10-12 families long and other times it's 25-40 families long (fall/holidays). I do my absolute best to get all sessions back within 2 weeks, however some sessions take longer than others. I'm working on that and have an 'awesome helper' behind the scenes to keep things moving as quickly as possible. Once the photos are edited, I tend to deliver galleries via email or text message. Everything is downloadable via the gallery website. If you get stuck and don't know where the buttons are, I'll help walk you through it!

Yes, they can be shared on social media - I love to be tagged.