FAQ

What is the Brilliance Event?

The Brilliance Event is loosely based on boudoir style photography, but let me tell you why I don’t call it boudoir.

The word “boudoir” is not my favorite.

First, it sounds completely outdated.

Second, and I apologize in advance, I loathe the French language. It isn’t pretty to me at all.

And third, its a style of photography connected to your taking images as a gift for someone else.

This is for you.  This is because of you.

This is empowerment.

This… is brilliance. You are brilliance.

How will the session go? Do I just show up & strip down?

When you first arrive, you’ll relax and get glammed up with Katie. Then you’ll put on your starting outfit and we’ll take it from there. You’re 100% in control of how we start and where we go from there. Your comfort is most important and I’ll never ask you to do anything you’re not completely on board with. If you have multiple ensembles, start with the most covered and we’ll see what you have and make a plan. You can always change any plan!

I’m not a model--- can I book a session?

ABSOFRIGGINLUTELY! These sessions are for everyone. You don’t need to be a certain size, or body type, or height or ... anything. You have everything you need to feel beautiful. (Other than over 18, you have to be of age.) You’re not too old. You’re not too thin/fat/flat/curvy/wrinkled/pale… You’re exactly who I’m looking for. This session is for you!

How do I pose? I don’t know how to ‘be sexy’

Let me tell you, you do.

But I’ll work with you the whole time - and like I tell all my clients, the more awkward it feels, the more chance you’re probably doing it right ;) We’ll collaborate together and consult the pinterest gods if need be.

How long will it take?

Your session will take approximately two hours. You’ll arrive and spend approximately an hour with Katie while she dolls you up. Then you’ll spend approximately an hour in session with me :)

Can I come early and stay late?

This day is about women and empowerment. The sense of community that has been built over the past sessions is amazing. Women are showing up early and hanging out after championing each other on, helping with outfit selection, laughing, singing, drinking, snacking, and just enjoying the energy we’re creating. The space allows for plenty of gathering space and private shooting space so please, feel free to join us from start to finish or any hours before and after your session you’re able!

Are hair and makeup included? Can I do my own & save money?

Every session includes full makeup and hairstyling. Getting your makeup and hair done sets the tone for your session. It gives you time to relax and feel pampered. But more importantly, having a professional do your makeup means they know how to do camera-ready makeup that will truly make you feel and look like you’re ready to take over the world! Honestly, you will want to have Katie go with you everywhere once you experience this luxury!

I never have my makeup done/don’t wear makeup and now... I feel like a drag queen.

You can talk with Katie before she starts and let her know what you usually do, how you’d like to look and by all means, if along the way you feel like you need an adjustment, just let her know! It may look like a lot of makeup if you’re staring right super close to the mirror, but the camera will never be that close. In addition, makeup naturally ‘relaxes’ a bit after application. Add to that good light, and the post-production of your photos, and you won’t look like you’re wearing stage makeup in the end result.

Do I have to strip all the way down?

NO! As the session progresses you will find a groove. And that groove can lead you anywhere you’d like to be. Even without completely disrobing we project an illusion with a well-placed pillow, a sheet, or whatever else.

Can I bring a friend with me?

Of Course! If you feel like you’d like someone with you, let’s do it. They can definitely hang during your hair and makeup and you can decide if you’d like them to come in with you. It can be beneficial or distracting. We can see how it’s working out and you or I can decide at any time that maybe they should wait in the other room. If you’re planning on this, please let me know in advance. 

Are you going to post these all over the internet?

Absolutely not.  The images are 100% private, for your eyes, and any eyes you deem fit, only.  

I may ask if there are any images you’re ok with me using either online, or in additional promotional materials, but it’s only a question and you’re absolutely allowed to say no.

Gallery Delivery

In a few weeks, you’ll receive a private gallery link in your email. The password-protected link will give you access to view all your images. You’ll select your top 5 and I’ll make those available for download (after additional retouching, if requested.)

Do you offer a payment plan? 

In general, it’s a $200 deposit to hold your spot with the balance due before the session, however, I’m open to discussion.  We can work out something that suits you financially and I’ll hold your images until you’ve paid in full. The hair & makeup artist’s fee is non-negotiable and included in the deposit to hold the spot. I do accept PayPal which offers 6-month 0% financing if approved through PayPal credit.

After the session:

I’ll take all your gorgeousness home and get to work.  Images will all be lightly edited. Additional retouching may be applied to a few of my favorites. Full retouching of 5 images is included with every session by request. You can pick your favorite images, and we’ll talk about what you might like touched up.  Scars, acne, blemishes, stretch marks and cellulite in addition to bruises and other random marks you may have on the day of your session are all adjustable. I don’t “take off 15 pounds!” you don't need it. I work with you to find the most flattering poses and lighting to highlight you best features. We’ll have talked about your favorite and least favorite parts prior to the session.

Can I decide to purchase files & albums after I see my images?

Let’s do it! I’ll invoice you and once paid, you’ll receive instructions to download and/or how to select your album images.

What’s your refund/cancellation policy?

Due to the custom nature of photography, the session fee and anything you purchase is non-refundable. I am committed to working with you to ensure you love your photos. You’ll have final say on all retouching and you’ll see all album layouts before they go to print. Your session involves more than just my schedule, due to that, times are not easily rescheduled. If you’re not able to make your session, your balance is still due and we will talk about what will work for you and the other parties involved in scheduling (hotel, hair, makeup etc)

Any other questions? Ask Away!