FAQ’S

Q: What kind of session can I book with you?

A: The Danielle Elayne Portrait Studio specializes in fine-art photography. If you are seeking a celebratory experience that results in timeless, beautiful images of yourself that you will LOVE, we’re probably the perfect match! Danielle’s photography style can be described as elegant, natural, feminine, and focuses on the beauty of simplicity. We are currently booking Maternity, Boudoir, Beauty, Newborn, and Lifestyle/Branding sessions.

Q: When is the best time to schedule my Maternity Portrait Session?

A: This can be a bit different for each person, but your maternity portraits are best captured between 28-34 weeks. This gets us in the time frame where you've got that wonderfully round belly and are still pretty comfortable moving around. It also depends on which style of maternity portraiture you have in mind. For the more ‘boudoir’ or ‘fine-art nude’ style of portraits, we recommend shooting closer to the 26-30 week time frame so that it’s easier for you to accomplish some of the posing. Have we done sooner? Yes! Have we shot later? Yes! This all depends on how you're feeling and how you're showing. We are happy to work with you on timing.

Q: What is the turnaround time?

A: You’ll view your images with Danielle at a private viewing and ordering appointment 1-2 weeks after your session. You can expect your order to be ready for shipping or pick-up within 4 -6 weeks of your session date. An expedited turnaround for digital images can be requested for an additional fee.

Q: I've never had a photo shoot before and the people featured on your site look like models! What if I’ve never had any portraits professionally taken?

A: As much almost ALL of our clients cannot relate to the feeling that brings up this question—we cannot stress enough that you do not need ANY experience in front of the camera to love a photo of yourself. You don’t have to be “photogenic” or know where to place your hands, how to pose, how to look at the camera, etc—it is OUR job to prepare you, guide you, and pose you throughout the entire process! There is no part of your shoot where you’ll be wondering what to do next. Danielle poses you from the tip of your head down to your tiny pinkie toe.

Also, as flattering as our clients will take that compliment - no, they are not models! They are incredible people just like you who put their trust in our team to showcase their inner awesome. Through our communication and finding what makes YOU feel most beautiful, we work together to bring out the same confidence you see in these photos for you as well.

Q: What do I wear?!

A: This is usually the FIRST question asked. And the answer is...whatever makes you feel beautifully yourself. We know that wardrobe FEELS like such a huge part of your session, but it really shouldn’t be something that worries you or turns into the focus of your preparation. As part of your portrait session, you have access to our wardrobe selection of simple staple items. The majority of the images you see showcased on our website are clients who chose to be photographed in our studio wardrobe. These range from beautiful silk fabrics, flowing cover-ups, casual blouses, sheer garments, and simple pieces that our clients love.

Q: What is considered an “outfit” for my outfit count?

A: Anything you are photographed in is considered an outfit—even your birthday suit! So, a fine-art nude set is one “outfit.” If you choose to be photographed with one of our beautiful fabric selections, that is one “outfit.” A bra and panty set is one outfit. Your session includes up to 4 outfits total, so that gives us room to create variety.

Q: Do I have to have my hair & makeup done?

A: If you’re someone who prefers a completely natural shoot, I am ALL for it! Hair & makeup is not required, but is complimentary with your session fee. Foregoing hair & makeup does not change the pricing of your session fee.

Q: What is a pre-session consultation?

A: All sessions are created and tailored for you, which makes a pre-session consultation an important piece of the process! Once your date has been reserved, we will set up a time to talk and customize your session. We’ll talk about how you’d like to be photographed, your vision for your session, all of your product options, and walk you through what you can expect, step-by-step, to make sure you’re completely comfortable and prepared for our time together. Consultations can be done virtually or in-person if you’re local to Austin.

Q: Should I get my nails done?

A: This is a completely personal choice and comes down to your own personal style. If you’re someone who normally has manicured nails, then definitely! You want to feel like yourself in your photos. If you’re someone who usually NEVER has manicured or painted nails, then we suggest a simple “natural” manicure with no color, but still a touch-up to your natural look. Hands are shown in your portraits often and it’s always great to have a clean look. As for color, we recommend neutrals and soft colors (skin tones/blush tones/grey tones). Definitely stick to your own personal style and something you’ll like to see in photos, but avoid anything too bright or distracting.

Q: Where will my session take place?

A: Your session will take place in our beautiful portrait studio located in Austin, TX.

Q: How long will my session last?

A: You can plan on us being together for around 3-4 hours total, including hair & makeup time.

Q: What kind of retouching is done on my photos?

A: This can be a sensitive subject, but don’t worry – it’s on everyone’s mind and is a very common question. No one has ‘perfect skin.’ Skin is textured, baby! Everyone has blemishes, redness, bumps, unevenness, or areas they just wished were a little smoother. While we focus on keeping a natural look, your images are retouched for all-over skin smoothing and evening. This includes any breakouts that pop-up up to small scars (if requested). Our philosophy is that anything that would have disappeared on it's own in 2 weeks will be removed, anything that is permanent on your beautiful body stays! Unless otherwise requested and discussed.

Q: How should I prepare for my session?

A: As we’ve said before, details are our jam. Rest assured that you will be given every piece of information on what to expect and how to prepare (body & mind) for our time together. Once your session has been booked, you'll receive our complete Portrait Prep Guide to make sure all your questions are answered. We’ll also check in with you along the way to make sure you feel comfortable and prepared. Know that you can reach out to us with ANY questions. We’re here to make sure you feel as comfortable and ready as possible. Your pre-session consultation is also a great time to go over many of the preparation details in-person.

Q: Which days of the week are sessions available?

A: Our studio currently offers weekday availability for all portrait sessions (M-F). We do not book Saturdays or Sundays.

Q: What products are available to display my images?

A: We offer high quality fine art prints, photo display albums, and gorgeous wall art options to display your art and beautiful memories for years to come. You will see samples of these options during your consultation or at the studio during your shoot!

Q: Who will be present during my session?

A: We call ourselves the dream team. It's not very original, but it's true. Present at your session will be Lauren, a talented stylist, makeup artist, licensed cosmetologist, AND licensed barber! While most of her beautiful work is done before we start shooting, she is also there to assist during your session for touch-ups and set work.

Q: Can I bring someone to my session?

A: We do not allow guests to be present during your session, but if you’d like to have someone accompany you, we invite them to join in on the fun during your hair & makeup styling! Guests can be distracting while the actual shooting is taking place.