Frequently Asked Questions

Tell me about the $25.00 Deposit Fee for my in-studio photography session.

There's only one appointment on that day at that time. So, that time is reserved special for you. We schedule our sessions about 60 minutes apart to allow your photography to flow with fun and ease. If your group is larger than four (4) then your deposit is based on the size of your group.

Deposits for on- location sessions?

This is based on the location of the photography and type of photography.

When are payments due?

If your order is $250.00 or less, payment is due in full at the time placed. If your order is over $250.00 then 50% is paid at the time placed and the balance is due when order is ready.

Do you take credit cards?

Yes, we accept cash, checks, VISA and MasterCard.

We've heard that portraits at D. Kirby Smith Photography are expensive, but comparing your prices we see that you're only slightly more than the ordinary studio. Why do people think D. Kirby Smith Photography is so expensive?

Compared to what? Clothes? Entertainment? Other photographers? No. Check it out -- but carefully. Professional photography isn't a commodity, like breakfast cereal or a TV. There is a HUGE difference between the quality, creativity, service and price individual photographers offer. You can certainly find photographers who charge less; you can find many who charge a lot more. BUT, people who compare value (quality, creativity, service and price) generally are thrilled that they chose D. Kirby Smith, Photography.

Our customers love our work so much that the comment we hear most often is, "Dallas really made it impossible to pick ... We love them all!" We believe that people hear we're expensive because they ask their friends and neighbors what they ended up spending on the pictures. When they hear the total, they feel we must be expensive without knowing everything the person received for their money. We feel it's a great compliment when our customers order a lot and from many different poses -- it means we've done our job extremely well! It's hard to pick just one or two poses, so our customers may order from multiple poses and get a great value for their dollar! We believe in treating our clients the way we would like to be treated, so you'll get no sales pressure from us. We prefer to let our work do the selling. Remember, the most expensive portraits are the ones you don't like. What isn't easy to compare is what you get for your money! We would be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation appointment to discuss your photography.

How can I prepare my child for the session?

Please resist the urge to tell your child to smile or insist they be on their best behavior as this often backfires. Simply say, "we are having our portrait taken and it will be fun." We have photographed hundreds of children and assure you this is the best way. Remember, pre-planning is the best way to put your mind at ease that all will go well on the day of your session! Do not use up all those smiles! This may sound silly but an infant that is played with excessively, prior to a sitting, can become tired of being "happy."

What if my child is sick on the day of photography?

A sick child will photograph like a sick child. If your child is not feeling well, we will be happy to reschedule your session.

What should I tell my child about the session?

Tell your children they are going to D. Kirby Smith Photography to play. This will encourage them to become more receptive to the photographic experience. The "window of opportunity" with children is short. We suggest doing individual sittings in order to capture each child's unique personality. At certain ages, incorporating a parent into the sitting helps to stabilize the child and allows each child to be most relaxed and looking his or her best.

What type of clothing should be worn for our portrait session?

For plenty of helpful suggestions on planning or dressing for your portraits, please go to our "Portrait Tips" page.

What if I want to wear glasses in my photographs?

We highly recommend that you visit your optometrist--most will be happy to remove your lenses or let you borrow a set of frames similar to what you normally wear for the session! Glare from the lights can usually be prevented, but not guaranteed. Glasses that change in different lighting conditions should NEVER be worn for photography.

Can I be photographed with my pet?

OF COURSE YOU CAN! Remember, "Elephants are FREE"! When you book your appointment please be sure to let us know you will be bringing your pet. It's a good idea to bring their favorite treats to get their attention when the photographs are being taken. Our focus is on YOU and your expression ... your pet is a nice prop to the photograph!

What about tanning?

A nice tan always looks good, but don't over-do, really dark tans don't photograph especially well. Red peeling skin really doesn't photograph well. We recommend that you don't tan 2-3 days before your session; this prevents redness, and fresh tan lines from becoming a permanent part of your portraits.

What if I have bumps or bruises that show on my skin?

Bumps, bruises, scratches, etc. which you can see, will be seen in the photographs. Minor light scratches or bumps are always retouched.

Should I get a haircut or change my hairstyle before my appointment?

Getting your haircut, especially for guys, just prior to the session is not recommended. Get your hair trimmed a week or so before the session. For ladies, we do not recommend a new hairstyle, unless you are very sure you'll like it. The number one reason ladies do not like their pictures is because of their hair. Don't experiment before your pictures. Styling your hair at home is the most convenient, but feel free to bring what's needed for touch-ups.

How early should I arrive for my (our) appointment?

No more than 5-10 minutes before your appointment. The important thing is to be ready when you arrive. If you are bringing children, definitely don't arrive too early -- their attention span is short. If needed, we have a large dressing room to change your clothes or check yourself before your session.

How long is my session?

Generally, we reserve 50-60 minutes for your photography. Babies and younger children do not always require that much time.

What if I want photographs outdoors and it is raining?

Call before you leave the house to check with us. If weather doesn't permit the outdoor portion of your session, we will reschedule for you.

What is retouching and how much does it cost?

Normal retouching is included in everything you purchase from D. Kirby Smith, Photography, except previews. Normal retouching includes softening lines around the mouth and eyes and removal of blemishes.

How long does it take to get my preview viewing ready?

Normally previews viewing are ready within 3-5 days of your photography appointment. We will schedule your appointment after your photography session, before you leave.

Do I need an appointment to pick up my finished portraits?

Yes, so that we can be sure to have someone here available to help you.

What are your studio hours?

We are open for your convenience by appointment.

What if I have a question that isn't answered here?

Feel free to call the studio at 803-324-8190