Preparing for your Portrait Experience
Beautiful portraits rarely happen by accident—they are the result of thoughtful planning and careful attention to detail. To help ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable, we’ve provided a few simple guidelines to consider before your session. From wardrobe choices to helpful studio policies, these recommendations will help you feel fully prepared for the day.
Preparing for your Portrait Experience
Beautiful portraits rarely happen by accident—they are the result of thoughtful planning and careful attention to detail. To help ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable, we’ve provided a few simple guidelines to consider before your session. From wardrobe choices to helpful studio policies, these recommendations will help you feel fully prepared for the day.
A Personalized Beginning
Choosing the right photographer is an important decision, and your comfort with that choice matters to us above all else. That’s why we offer a complimentary consultation before scheduling your session.
This relaxed conversation gives us the chance to discuss your vision, expectations, budget, and the overall goal for your portraits — ensuring your experience feels effortless and enjoyable from the very start.
To request your consultation:
Call: 423-378-5044
Text: 423-900-3842
Who Should Be Included?
Many families initially request portraits of “just the kids,” which is completely understandable — they grow so quickly. But over time, portraits that include parents and grandparents often become the most cherished.
A favorite perspective we often share:
We photograph our children for ourselves…
We photograph ourselves for our children and grandchildren.
During your session, we allow ample time for a variety of combinations — full family, individual portraits, children together, parents together — so you don’t have to choose just one.
Who Should Be Included?
Many families initially request portraits of “just the kids,” which is completely understandable — they grow so quickly. But over time, portraits that include parents and grandparents often become the most cherished.
A favorite perspective we often share:
We photograph our children for ourselves…
We photograph ourselves for our children and grandchildren.
During your session, we allow ample time for a variety of combinations — full family, individual portraits, children together, parents together — so you don’t have to choose just one.
Planning Around Little Ones
Families with young children are always welcome, and we understand that moods can shift quickly. If little ones get tired or hungry between the session and image viewing, a small snack usually works wonders.
We have a refrigerator and microwave available if you’d like to bring something along to keep everyone comfortable and happy.
Including Your Pets
For many families, pets are part of the story — and we love capturing that connection.
If you’d like to include your pet, simply review our Pet Policy. beforehand so everything runs smoothly during your session.
Including Your Pets
For many families, pets are part of the story — and we love capturing that connection.
If you’d like to include your pet, simply review our Pet Policy. beforehand so everything runs smoothly during your session.
Wardrobe Guidance
Thoughtful clothing choices ensure your portraits feel timeless, natural, and beautifully cohesive.
What you wear should support the portrait — never overpower it. We guide our clients with three simple principles:
• Dress in a way that feels authentically you
• Choose clean and simple pieces
• Coordinate tones thoughtfully so every member of the family is equally represented.
For detailed recommendations — including specific styling guidance, fit suggestions, and preparation tips — we invite you to explore our complete Wardrobe Guide.
Custom Selections & Investment
Where your portraits are thoughtfully selected and transformed into artwork for your home.
Following your session, you’ll have the opportunity to view your images and select your favorites while the excitement is still fresh.
To ensure your artwork fits beautifully within your home, we recommend identifying potential display spaces in advance.
Measurements or simple photos allow us to digitally preview your portraits at true scale — creating a custom design experience tailored specifically to you.
Portraiture created to be enjoyed for generations.
Our commissioned portrait sessions begin at $500, with most families investing between $1,000 and $3,000 in custom artwork for their home. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and professionally finished to reflect both your family and your space.
Custom Selections & Investment
Where your portraits are thoughtfully selected and transformed into artwork for your home.
Following your session, you’ll have the opportunity to view your images and select your favorites while the excitement is still fresh.
To ensure your artwork fits beautifully within your home, we recommend identifying potential display spaces in advance.
Measurements or simple photos allow us to digitally preview your portraits at true scale — creating a custom design experience tailored specifically to you.
Portraiture created to be enjoyed for generations.
Our commissioned portrait sessions begin at $500, with most families investing between $1,000 and $3,000 in custom artwork for their home. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and professionally finished to reflect both your family and your space.
Displaying Your Portraits Beautifully
Where you display your portraits greatly affects how much you enjoy them. Here are a few simple guidelines:
Choose a gathering space.
Living rooms, dining rooms, and great rooms allow both your family and guests to appreciate your portraits daily.
Give the portrait a place of honor.
Select an uncluttered wall where it can truly stand out.
Protect from direct sunlight.
Avoid placing artwork where it receives strong direct sun. With proper placement, your portraits can be enjoyed for generations.
Still Have Questions?
At David Clapp – The Art of Photography, we want our clients to feel fully prepared and informed before they come to the studio for their session. We've answered some frequently asked questions, but understand that we may not have covered your unique needs. Please don't hesitate to give us a call or request a consultation so we can discuss your needs.
Open M-F 9-5
By Appointment Only