Deirdre Mulhern Photography

Main Line & Philadelphia Area Photographer

Frequently Asked Questions


What is natural light photography?

Natural light photography refers to the practice of capturing images using only natural light sources, such as sunlight, rather than relying on artificial lighting. In natural light photography, photographers utilize available sunlight to illuminate their subjects, creating images that often showcase a soft, authentic, and organic look. I utilize natural light most of the time when taking photos. However, there are some situations that do require a little extra help from my flash and I will utilize it when needed. Don't worry though! My flash technique gives the appearance of natural light in the finished photograph!

How much does a family photo session cost?

Pricing can vary based on factors like session duration, location, and the number of edited photos. I offer different packages to accommodate various needs. You can find detailed pricing information on my services page or contact me for a personalized quote.


How long does a typical family photo session last?

A standard family photo session usually lasts around forty-five minutes to one hour. This allows enough time for different poses, candid moments, and any special requests you may have. For sessions with young children this amount of time allows for breaks as needed. 

What should we wear for the photo session?

Wear outfits that complement each other in terms of color and style. Avoid overly matching, and choose clothing that reflects your family's personality. I recommend avoiding large logos or busy patterns that may distract from the subjects. When you book your session, I will send you a style guide.

Can we include our pets in the family photos?
Absolutely! I love capturing the entire family, including furry members. Just let me know in advance so I can plan accordingly and ensure we capture some memorable moments with your pets.

When is the best time for a family photo session?
The "golden hour" shortly after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful, soft lighting. However, I'm flexible and can schedule sessions at times that work best for your family's routine.

How many photos will we receive, and when will we get them?
The number of photos depends on the package you choose. Typically, you'll receive a gallery of fully edited, high-resolution images within a minimum of three weeks after the session. I prioritize quality over quantity.

Can you recommend locations for our family photo shoot?
Certainly! I have a list of great outdoor and indoor locations, but I'm also open to your suggestions. Whether it's a favorite park, your backyard, or a meaningful location, we can discuss and choose a spot that suits your vision. Please keep in mind that permits are required for some locations.

What happens if it rains on the scheduled day?
I keep a close eye on the weather forecast leading up to the session. If rain or strong wind is likely, we can reschedule to ensure optimal conditions for your photos. This may also be necessary if the temperature is uncomfortably cold. Your comfort and the quality of the images are top priorities.

What happens if my child gets sick and we need to reschedule?
Kids are like tiny, adorable petri dishes of germs, and catching a bug is just part of their daily adventure. As a fellow mom in the trenches of parenthood, I totally understand that our little ones can have their own plans, and sometimes, those plans involve a runny nose or a surprise bout of the sniffles. So, here's the deal – if your kiddo is feeling a bit under the weather on the day of our photo session, no worries! We can totally reschedule without any stress. After all, capturing those genuine smiles and belly laughs is what it's all about, and I want your kiddo to be at their absolute best for our time together. Let's make sure we capture those moments when everyone is feeling tip-top, and the sniffles are just a distant memory. I just ask that you let me know as soon as possible. I always appreciate a heads up!

What happens if you, as the photographer, need to cancel our scheduled session due to an emergency or illness? 
Life can throw unexpected curveballs, and if I find myself in a situation where I need to cancel our planned session due to an emergency or illness, your needs and convenience are still my top priority. As soon as I'm aware of any issues, I'll reach out to you right away to explain what's going on.
When I get in touch, I'll give you a couple of options. We can reschedule our session for a time that works better for both of us, or if that doesn't suit you, I'll happily refund any retainer or payment you've made. I want to make sure that even if something unexpected happens on my end, it doesn't inconvenience you any more than necessary. Your trust means the world to me, and I'm committed to being upfront and open about any changes to our plans. If you have any questions or concerns about this, just let me know. I'm here to make this process as smooth and
stress-free as possible for you

Do you offer retouching or additional editing services?

Yes, basic retouching is included in all packages.  I believe in keeping it real, but I also understand that sometimes life hands us tiny blips like a small bruise, a bug bite, or a skinned knee. So here's the deal – I follow a gentle 7-day rule for retouching. If it's a temporary little visitor that will be gone within a week, like those adventurous battle scars from a day well spent, I'll happily make those small adjustments. This includes grown-ups too. My goal is to capture the real, authentic beauty of your family, and that includes you. No need for major tweaks or alterations – let's celebrate the genuine, wonderful you. Kids, just like us, are looking for the 'you' they know in the photos, not some altered, perfected version. Embrace those laughter lines, the love-filled moments, and the authenticity that tells the story of your family.










Photography
Deirdre Mulhern