Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do you prefer to shoot in black and white?
  Susan will photograph in color if requested. In her view though, black and white photographs have a timeless quality that preserves the spirit of the subject in a way that color cannot.
2. What camera format do you use?
  Susan shoots primarily in 35mm in order to have flexibility with movement around young children. On occasion, she will shoot medium format to allow for developing a large portrait. Susan does not shoot in digital format for black and white photographs because she does not believe the tonal qualities will hold true.
3. What is the best age to get professional photographs?
  We all wish we had more great photographs of our children. Over the years, Susan has found that there are certain ages where a child's look really transitions: around 6 months, 1 - 3 years, 5 - 6 years, 12 - 13 years and 18 years old. Many families work with Susan to make sure they capture each stage in a unique way. This may also mean creating situational photographs where your child is engaged in an activity such as fishing, playing an instrument or dancing.
4. Should we shoot in the studio or outdoors?
  You should choose the location that best fits with your family's personality and with your vision of the resulting photographs. Susan's studio provides a convenient, quiet setting where she has successfully done this many times for clients. The result is more formal in feel than outside and the scheduling is more flexible. Outdoor shoots can be ideal for large families, busy toddlers or teenagers because they provide a very comfortable setting. Susan can work with you at the time of scheduling to decide on the best location for your needs.
5. How long will the shoot take?
  Susan asks for you to plan for about an hour, but she will spend the time necessary to ensure she has captured the personality of the people she's photographing. She understands that her client (i.e. the child) is not always predictable and agreeable. She incorporates time during the shoot for young children to have "breaks" and "bribes" and for infants to have a bottle if necessary. For teenagers, Susan suggests the parent leave the location for a period to allow them to relax into themselves. Susan realizes the way to discover what makes each client special is through patience, communication and trust.
6. What should we wear?
  The general rule in black and white photography is to keep the clothing simple, so as not to distract from the individual. Susan prefers solids to patterns, yet a subtle floral or plaid is sometimes very sweet. Most importantly, dress your children in comfortable clothes that they like to wear. Keep in mind that Susan likes to make the most of each shoot, and will want to take a few frames with the Mom, Dad or both if the opportunity presents itself.
7. How is your process for selecting photographs unique?
  Putting portraits together in a framed setting or in a grouping in the home provides a unique opportunity to tell a story. A critical component of Susan's service is working with you to pick those photographs that, together, portray your child's true personality. She will spend 30-45 minutes with you, reviewing approximately 65 4x6 proofs and helping you narrow your choices. This is to ensure that your experience with Susan Sidebottom Photography is rewarding from start to finish and never overwhelming.
8. Can I get a portrait with my pet?
  Yes. Susan will accommodate your whole family, including pets.