Live in the moment, soak in the seconds.
…But What About the Weather:
I shoot all over the United States and have learned to keep my eye on the weather! In order to accommodate for weather issues, I’ve chosen to shoot scheduled sessions regardless of what the weather says. Most of the time, the weather clears up. If not, we can dodge any raindrops by using land formations or surrounding structures strategically. If we need to reschedule or
choose a different hour to shoot during the same day we’ve currently scheduled, I will let you know the day prior to our session. If we need to change our location to somewhere more convenient for rain’s sake (sorry, not to California, but maybe indoors locally) I will discuss that with you the day prior to our session as well.
Location, Location, Location:
No matter where we are, America has some of the most beautiful locations within our reach. I will always have session recommendations based on our general location—either in door or out door. However, you may want to collaborate on a location that is meaningful to you and I want you to know: I am SO here for it!! I would love to know the location on your mind so that I can research it in order to serve our session well. I also think about locations based on family size and kiddo age because those are huge factors in the success of a session.
A Word on Editing:
Sometimes I’m asked questions about airbrushing and body shaping. My answer is counter-cultural and worth unpacking because I think we’ve been lied to. We’ve been sold an idea that beauty comes in a certain shape, in a certain color and with a symmetry I’m not even sure exists. I’m over it, and I’d like you to know that in my career as a professional photographer I never have played that game.
Beauty is a feeling. I only care that you feel connected to your own beauty and to the beauty of the people around you so that I can capture that connection.
All of that being said, will I touch up blemishes, bruises or noticeable eczema? YUP. Will the Spiderman bandaid on your toddler’s shin magically disappear? YUP. Will the bald spot on your husbands head highlighted by that direct sunlight become less noticeable? YUP. I do light amounts of natural editing because you and your people are already a wonder to behold, and I know better than to mess with what God’s already made perfect.
Preferred Vendor List, Anyone?
Yes! Whether you’re needing a makeup artist for a family session or EVERYTHING for a wedding, I have curated a list of vendors who excel no matter the situation. (And there have been some situations—think “The Wedding Planner” only in real life. You can find much of their work in my portfolio, as I strive to document their success too! Here is a list and please note that while I’m available to answer preliminary questions about each of these vendors, they will have more information about their particular services than I do.
A word on discrimination:
Haley Maria Smith Photography values all humans as unique individuals, and welcomes the variety of experiences they bring to our work and lives. As such, we have a firm non-discrimination policy. We believe everyone should be treated equally regardless of race, sex, gender identification, sexual orientation, national origin, native language, religion, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. It’s our honor and privilege to love all and serve all.
Payment Deets:
I require a 50% non-refundable deposit at the time of booking to reserve your time and day. When you reserve your date and time, I honor our agreement by declining other session opportunities during your requested session. The remainder of the payment can be issued day-of. Should we need to reschedule our shoot due to an emergency (or the crazy weather!) I consider your non-refundable 50% deposit a place-holder for the new date and time we set. Should you choose to cancel our session, your non-refundable deposit is still non-refundable.
I can receive payment in many different forms, but I usually send a PayPal invoice to you for a smooth transition. You do not need to be a PayPal customer to complete your transaction and client are able to pay with their debit or credit cards easily.