Is your business in Warrenton or Harrisonburg?
I started my business in Warrenton where I grew up. After getting married and moving to Harrisonburg, I have decided to "expand" my business to both areas. It's the best of both worlds. Plus, I travel almost anywhere in and near VA for weddings!
Do you offer other kinds of portraits?
Yes! Weddings, seniors, couples, and families are my specialties, but I am open to almost any other type of session! Other portraits I've done include events, maternity, corporate headshots, graduations, and class photos to name a few. I do not offer studio newborn or cake smash sessions, but I'd love to recommend some talented photographers for that!
How do I book?
Yay! I'm so glad you're interested in a session with me! Head over to my Contact page and fill out the inquiry form - it's the best way to get my attention! After we talk details, I'll send you a booking link where you'll fill out a questionnaire to help me get to know you better, sign a session contract to solidify the details, and make your first payment. Payment methods can include credit card, ACH, Venmo, and PayPal, cash, or check.
When and where do you hold sessions?
To offer the best quality and consistency in my work, I typically hold sessions about 1 - 2 hours before sunset or earlier in the morning when the sun is still rising. I also love to shoot in open grassy areas with access to shade in case of harsh light. I have a large list of location options available for Northern Virginia here and am currently scouting locations in/near Harrisonburg - but my current favorite is Shenandoah National Park. I am always down for client suggests/desires. We can also explore indoor options for those colder months! Sometimes your own home is the best photo studio!
What's your turnaround time?
Photos can up to 3 weeks (usually less depending on season) to finalize. A few sneak peeks get sent out within 24-48 hours of portrait sessions. Wedding galleries are delivered within 6 weeks. with 20+ sneak peeks within 24 hours. Once your photos are done, you will be emailed a secure link with your password to access and download your gallery. Albums will be guaranteed available online for 60 days, so always make sure to download your gallery!
Do you offer prints?
Yes! You can order prints straight through your photo gallery from a trusted printing service! You can also get them printed from any other service you prefer but please note that if you do choose to print images outside of the service integrated with your gallery, I'm not able to assist with quality issues or misprints. However, I am happy to provide you with editing/resolution adjustments on images as necessary depending on your printing needs. I recommend printing from high quality services as opposed to Walgreens/Walmart as their printers may not create accurate colors.
Can I post my photos online?
You can absolutely post them everywhere! I'd love to see them so feel free to tag me (@racheldodsonphotos)! The only thing I ask is that my images not be altered or sold. Photography is an art, and I spend much time and effort curating beautiful images!
What's your cancellation and late policy?
I know life can be unpredictable. If you need to cancel your photoshoot, please notify me at least 24 hours in advance in order to receive a refund of your amount minus the retainer fee (if you don't want to reschedule). I am always happy to work with you to reschedule but I cannot guarantee availability.
Sessions cannot not be extended in the event of late arrival, so I always recommend arriving a few minutes early, especially if you have children who may need some time to adjust.
