FAQs
Welcome to my FAQs section. I am so glad that you've taken the time to peruse my website and see if I may work well for your photography needs. Whether it's a birthday, birth of a child, engagement party, or so much more, we are there for you with whatever memory you'd like to capture for years to come. If you don't see the answer to your question here, or if you'd just like to say HI, please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
Who is Smile Photography?: Kristen Vinci-Taylor is the founder, owner, and primary operator of Smile Photography LLC.
How do I contact you?: The best ways to contact myself is via phone/text at 609-618-2520 or via email at smile4photos@yahoo.com. It is okay to contact me via social media, however sometimes my responses aren’t as timely as the previously mentioned communication options.
Do you have liability insurance?: Yes, I absolutely do. In fact, most locations require this of a photographer in order to work on their property.
What type of equipment do you use?: I am a proud Canon user and supporter.
How far are you willing to travel?: A certain amount of miles from our studio in Manahawkin, NJ is included in a variety of our sessions as discussed under the prices section of our website. Should you choose to book us and you are outside of the posted travel guidelines, please contact us to discuss specifics and any additional fees that may apply.
How long in advance do you recommend booking?: If you are booking us and need a specific date then it is best to do so asap. If you would like maternity photos done then the ideal time frame is around 36 weeks. Newborn photos should be taken when our little one is 7-14 days old. Another important thing to note is that you should book us at least two weeks before you need your photos since that is our typical turnaround time.
Do you do weddings?: I am not available to hire for large weddings. However, if you are having a ceremony only type of wedding then please contact myself to discuss specifics. And congratulations!
Do you also do videography?: No, I do not.
Are you pet friendly?: Of course I am! In fact I encourage it as they are part of the family as well! Pets are welcome in our studio and on location if your location choice allows it. Pets must be under control at all times and may not be left in a vehicle during extreme temperatures. This will not be tolerated!
Do you use live animals during your sessions?: No, unless the live animal is your family pet. I firmly believe that live animals, such as bunnies for Easter sessions, are unsafe for my clients and for the animals.
Do you ever run discounts or specials?: We sure do! We do mini sessions multiple times a year which are a great deal, however they book fast and space is limited. Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms and check your emails for updates! We also offer a referral discount if you tell your friends about us and they book a session or event.
Do you have gift certificates or registries?: Yes, we do! You may purchase gift certificates in person or online. Online purchases will be mailed to you to gift to it’s recipient. Please speak to us regarding making a registry for your baby shower, small event, etc.
What is your payment schedule?: A 50% retainer is required to hold your date and time. This retainer is non-refundable. The remaining balance is due at least 24 hours before the time of your session. For your convenience we accept all major credit cards, check, and cash.
How do you recommend we prepare for our sessions?: Once your session has been booked you will receive a PDF with a personalized prep guide full of tips and tricks so you’re ready for your session.
Are you open to ideas for our session?: We welcome any ideas you may have for your session. If possible, please tell us your thoughts prior to your session so we prep if need be. We start working for you long before your session by doing prep on our equipment and/or the studio or location of your choice.
How long will it take to see my photos?: We try our best to post a preview of your photos to social media and our blog within one week of your session. All of the photos we have chosen to edit will be ready within two weeks of your session. If you would like to expedite this process you may speak to us directly regarding terms and pricing.
Will I receive all of the photos from my session?: You will receive the number of photos agreed upon in your initial contract. If you wish to purchase more photos you may do so for an additional fee.
How can I view my photos?: We will notify you when your client gallery is ready for viewing. You can then visit the gallery and see your watermarked photos. If you would like to view your photos without watermarks then you may do so in person by scheduling some time with us. You will then need to pick the appropriate amount of favorites which you will receive without watermarks in a new gallery. No watermarks will be removed from photos until your final gallery is created.
How long do I have to select my favorites?: You will have 20 days from initial notification to select your favorites. If you do not do so then the photographer will make the selection for you.
How long do I have to download my final choices?: You will have 14 days to download your photos before your gallery is removed. There is a $15 fee to reopen a gallery.
What can I do with my photos once they are downloaded?: You will have printing rights to your photos so you may do as you wish. However, we can not guarantee printing quality unless you use our printing services.
Do you backup your photos?: Yes, we certainly do. However, we only do so for 4 months so it is important that you download in the appropriate time frame and backup your images as well. We also offer USBs of your session photos for $35 if you would like an additional form of backup for your precious images.