Frequently Asked Questions

Your Gallery

Will my photos be kept private?

When booking your session, we provide options to ensure your photos remain private. If you decide not to keep your images confidential, please note that Russ Bratcher Photography and our partners may share them on our website and social media platforms. In such cases, our talented photographers may also incorporate these photos into their portfolios and social media accounts.

Do I own my photos?

You have full non-commercial rights to the images you purchase. It’s essential to remember that you cannot post or distribute pictures you haven’t purchased, even if there’s a watermark present. If a Russ Bratcher Photography photo that has not been purchased is being used without permission, we kindly request its removal. Failure to comply within 24 hours may result in a fine.

What is your refund policy?

Unfortunately, purchased photos are non-refundable. We advise double-checking your cart to ensure you select the images that truly resonate with you.

Do you offer print services?

Absolutely! Russ Bratcher Photography does offer printing services. Throughout the year, we provide package deals in collaboration with select print partners.

What type of products and sizes do you print?

We offer printing options, from standard wallet size to wall canvases and seasonal cards. All your orders can be conveniently placed through your online gallery.

Can I request the RAW file?

As customary in the photography industry, we do not provide RAW files to clients.

How long will I be able to access my gallery?

Upon receiving your gallery, you’ll have a week of seven calendar days to view, share, and select your photos for purchase. Please keep in mind that unless you’ve requested or purchased extensions for your gallery, our system may not retrieve your pictures after 60 days from the initial delivery date of your gallery.

When can I preview my photos?

A gallery link will be sent to your provided email within 1–2 weeks following your session. It’s worth noting that the gallery size of 40+ photos applies if you arrive on time for your session.

Can I tag your company on social media?

Yes! We prefer that you support our business by tagging us in all social media posts. The tag will be @russbratcherphotography on Instagram and Facebook. 

Preparing for Your Session

Do you provide makeup and hair services?

Currently, we do not offer hair and makeup services, so please arrive camera-ready with your preferred hair and makeup done. Many of our clients are self-styled, and they consistently look fantastic. However, if you wish to have your makeup or hair professionally done, please feel free to do so!

What if the weather is bad?

Russ Bratcher Photography typically operates in various weather conditions. Please be aware that a no-show or cancellations after 8 PM the day before your session will result in a $75 fee. In extreme weather conditions, such as lightning, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards, and acts of God, we prioritize safety and will proactively cancel your session.

What happens if I show up late?

We highly recommend arriving at least 10-15 minutes early to account for potential transportation delays. If you run late, please promptly notify your photographer via text or call. Your “arrival time” refers to when you meet up with your photographer and are ready to capture memories.

What else should I bring to my session?

Since your session is outdoors, bring seasonally appropriate items for comfort. Bring essentials like water, and a snack to maintain energy. Don’t hesitate to get accessories and props to add a personal touch! If you photograph an infant or young child, consider bringing their favorite toys, blankets, and items that capture their attention and help our photographers capture their best moments. Remember to bring treats, water, and their favorite toy for the perfect shots for pet sessions.

What should I wear?

Wear outfits that make you feel your best! We suggest bringing light outfit changes to add variety to your gallery. Layered items like tops, jackets, vests, scarves, hats, and jewelry work well for achieving different looks. Opt for comfortable clothing that allows movement, avoiding overly stiff or tight-fitting garments. Solid colors and timeless styles often yield great results. Avoid patterns and logos that might divert attention from you. Please refrain from wearing the color blue and blue jeans if possible. Clothing colors that will provide timeless photography for you are brown, blush, gray, white, off-white, and black.

Can I bring pets to my session?

We love it when clients get their pets to their sessions! Pets add an extra dose of fun and cuteness to the photoshoot. However, please check with the location authority in advance to confirm whether pets are permitted.

Can I bring props to my session?

Certainly! You are welcome to bring props, including basic ones like balloons and signs. However, if you plan to get more complex support, such as smoke bombs, we recommend checking with the location authority to ensure they are allowed. Most family photography sessions do not require props.

Booking Your Session

Why am I being asked to pay a retainer?

Retainers are necessary to secure your session time and book your photographer. Please note that retainers are non-refundable.

How do I book?

Begin your booking process by visiting our website, Russ Bratcher Photography. Fill in the inquiry form, answer a few questions, and initiate the process of selecting your session’s date and time.

Can I book at other dates and locations that are not listed?

You can choose the date, time, and place of your session. Please refer to [here](insert link) to learn more about booking your session.

What is my deadline to cancel or reschedule?

You can cancel or reschedule regular sessions up to 10:00 AM, two days before your session. After this point, a cancellation fee of $40 applies to cover your photographer’s time and commitments. No-shows or cancellations after 8 PM the day before your session will incur a $75 fee. Rescheduling beyond this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of the retainer fee.

Can I book back-to-back or multiple sessions?

For mini-sessions, booking back-to-back sessions is possible. However, it is generally unnecessary for standard 30-45 minute family sessions.

How it Works

How long will my session be?

A typical Russ Bratcher Photography session involves approximately 30-45 minutes of active photography, which includes transitioning to different locations to provide a variety of poses and backdrops. This timeframe assumes that clients arrive on time at the designated meeting point, allowing our photographers to maximize their time efficiently. Please keep in mind that our photographers are often scheduled for back-to-back sessions.

What is a gallery credit?

Gallery credits enable you to download a specified number of photos from your gallery. Standard credit tiers include 5, 10, or access to all images in the gallery. These credits can be purchased during your session booking. If you want to download more photos than your initial credit allows, don’t hesitate to contact your photographer to add more credits to your gallery.

Who can I bring with me to my session?

Feel free to bring along friends, family, pets, or anyone who adds to your happiness! If you book a family photography session, please limit your party to immediate family members. For sessions involving larger groups, please inform us during the booking process. Additionally, check local ordinances or studio rules to ensure compliance with any group size limitations.

What kinds of photo sessions do you capture?

Our team of skilled photographers is proficient in various portraiture styles, including but not limited to lifestyle, family, engagements, fitness, business headshots, acting headshots, model portfolios, and more. We’re here to help you capture almost anything you desire for non-commercial purposes. Commercial photography includes stock photos, book covers, album covers, real estate, interior homes/businesses, food photography, and e-commerce products. We do offer commercial photography; please inquire with our team.

Photographers

Who will my photographer be?

Russ Bratcher boasts extensive experience in various styles, including business and acting headshots, dance, lifestyle, fitness, family, engagement, tourism, and more. You’re in expert hands!