Running Late for Your Photography Session? What You Need to Know

Running Behind? I Totally Get It!

Life happens! Whether you're getting a newborn ready, wrangling toddlers, or dealing with unexpected traffic, I understand that things don't always go according to plan.

As a photographer and mom of three, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to get everyone ready and out the door!

I want your session to feel relaxed and enjoyable, but arriving on time is important so we have enough time to capture all those beautiful images.

First Things First: Please Send Me a Text!

Please text me your ETA when you're on your way, even if you're running on time. And if you're running late, a heads-up is especially important!

This helps me plan ahead and figure out whether we can still accommodate your session.

Late Arrivals for Studio Sessions

I understand that small delays happen, especially with little ones!

Here's how late arrivals are handled:

  • Petite Sessions: More than 5 minutes late may result in a late fee or require rescheduling.

  • Full Sessions: More than 15–20 minutes late may result in a late fee or require rebooking.

  • Rescheduling: If we need to reschedule because of a late arrival, an additional booking fee applies, as outlined in your photography agreement.

Please expect a late fee if you arrive late, with a minimum of $50. Fees are assessed case by case, taking into account how late you arrive and whether you communicated your delay. The fee will be added to your collection invoice.

And just a reminder: arriving late doesn't extend your scheduled session time.

Outdoor Sessions: Timing Is Especially Important!

Outdoor sessions are carefully scheduled around the beautiful, soft light before sunset.

Unlike studio sessions, we can't simply extend our time outdoors. Once the sun goes down, that beautiful light is gone!

If you arrive more than 10 minutes late for ANY outdoor or on-location session, we'll need to reschedule, and an additional booking fee will apply.

This applies to every type of outdoor session, including maternity, family, senior, and petite sessions.

I know delays happen, but outdoor sessions are especially time-sensitive.

Why Starting on Time Matters

Every session is thoughtfully planned to allow enough time for posing, outfit changes, different setups, and all those beautiful in-between moments.

Newborn sessions also need time for feeding, soothing, and settling baby.

Please don't intentionally arrive late because you feel you won't need your full session time. Your appointment time has been reserved exclusively for you, and the session length is carefully planned based on my experience as a professional photographer. Arriving late, even by choice, will result in a late fee.

Late arrivals may also mean skipping certain setups or poses, which can affect the variety of images in your final gallery.

I want you to enjoy your experience, without feeling rushed!

A Few Tips to Help Your Session Run Smoothly

  • Plan to arrive 5–10 minutes early. This gives you time to park and get settled.

  • Check traffic the night before. Use Google Maps to check the estimated travel time for your actual arrival time, not just the current traffic conditions. Not sure how? Just ask me, I'm happy to help!

  • Prepare everything the night before. Outfits, shoes, and accessories are much easier to organize without the last-minute rush.

  • Allow extra time for little ones. Diaper changes, snacks, and unexpected meltdowns happen!

  • Double-check your location. I photograph at my Redmond studio and various outdoor locations throughout the Seattle area.

Thank you so much for understanding! Being on time allows me to give every family the attention and care they deserve, and helps us create beautiful images without feeling rushed.

I can't wait to photograph you!

Julia Christina Dewolf

Julia Christina is a newborn and maternity photographer who has more than 10 years experience, working in the Seattle area.

https://juliachristina.com
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