Cara Jonas Photography – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I’m not a model and I’m not sure what to do or how to pose, will someone direct me?

Absolutely! But our goal is to make your images look natural and not overly posed. We balance your unique style and attitude with the best positions to maximize your specific body shape. We prefer to say we give you direction, rather than place you in specific poses. Cara has studied lighting techniques to also help highlight the best and hide the rest! If your photographer doesn’t use supplemental lighting (even on location!), please consider giving us a chance to earn your business.

How many outfit changes do I get?

Our sessions are time based, not outfit based. If you book a 2-hour session, you get as many poses and outfits as we can fit into 2 hours! The faster you change, the more variety you get. On average, most people get about 3-4 clothing changes per hour. Bring lots of options and we will help you narrow it down. Be sure to include your activities for Senior portraits (sports, dance, music, etc.) and any Brand related items for our Corporate clients..

What will my session be like?

In a word, FUN! Cara puts all the focus on YOU when you’re being photographed. You’ll fill out a Questionnaire before your session where you’ll have a chance to tell her about any special concerns and describe your perfect session. She will show you the back of her camera as your session progresses so you’ll see the amazing images you are making together. You might even forget you’re being photographed!

Should I bring my parents with me?

Yes! If you are under 18, you are required to have a guardian with you during your session. Plus-we want to make sure they are as happy with your images as you are!

Can I bring my pet, siblings or car?

Please! Please! Please! Any of these options are great to include and really highlight your personality or brand. Bring small pets in a carrier, larger ones should be brought by someone who can take them home afterwards. Bring a leash, water, and treats to get their attention.

Do I get my photos on a disk?

If you are looking for images for Facebook, Instagram, etc., then Absolutely! We offer those in addition to your prints. If you’re looking to print your own, we do not offer that. With our portraits, you have high quality, archival prints that are made to last for many years. Most print your own options like home printers and local print labs yield prints that will only last for a few years before degrading or bleaching. In addition, those labs perform color correction which can de-saturate and color shift your final product. For something important like your senior portraits, you want prints that you will be proud to show your children one day.  Our Corporate and Branding sessions offer digital options appropriate for marketing and advertising usage.

What can I do to help make sure my pictures are amazing?

The most important thing to ensure good portraits is to spend time preparing for your session. Choose outfits that you like and that look good on you. Solid colors and long sleeves are always good choices.

IRON EVERYTHING! Wrinkled clothes will ruin any session and we cannot edit out wrinkles. Fitted clothes are always more flattering on everybody type than baggy or boxy options.

LADIES: Either do your makeup or schedule hair and makeup with us. Keep it natural but know that it may take a little more than you normally wear to look good in photos. Practice your looks and take selfies to see what looks best. Mascara, lip gloss & foundation are a great basic look. If you have any questions or concerns about makeup or your complexion, see a dermatologist or visit the cosmetics counter at the local department store. CHECK YOUR NAIL POLISH! Keep it neutral and make sure it’s not chipped (fingers and toes!!!)

Seniors: Don’t panic if you break out before your session. Most skin blemishes are easily retouched. It’s better to apply your makeup as normal rather than trying to cover up problem areas.

GENTLEMEN: Shave before your appointment. Remember a belt that matches your shoes if needed for your outfits.

EVERYONE: Make sure you are comfortable with your hair – if you get a new hairstyle and you don’t like it, you won’t like your portraits. Schedule a haircut 1 – 2 weeks prior to your session. Get plenty of rest the night before your session. Bring your clothes in on hangers, and make sure they are neat and not wrinkled up.

Finally, come in with a good attitude. Your session should be fun, and you are half of the energy for you session!

What if I don’t like my pictures?

Your happiness is our absolute priority. During your session, you will see some straight out of camera shots and you can provide input on what you like (or don’t like) about the images being created. Our session guarantee allows for a free re-shoot if we don’t meet your needs.

You offer sessions in both Cincinnati and Port Clinton, do you offer any other ‘destination’ type sessions?

Yes! We will shoot anywhere you want your session. We offer Senior sessions in both Cincinnati and Port Clinton (and surrounding areas) since we have access to studio space in both of those locations. But we are always up for a road trip (or air trip!) so give us a call and let us help you plan your ultimate destination shoot. You’ll get one of a kind pictures that no one else has!!!

Our Corporate work can be done in studio or in your location.

I want to have my pictures done later in the year. Why should I call now?

Our Senior season schedule always fills up fast. Due to the level of service we provide during and after your session, we accept a limited number of appointments during the year. Don’t be disappointed—call today!

I wear glasses (or braces) can you get rid of the reflection (or hardware)?

If possible, remove the lenses from your frames or borrow a pair from your optometrist. This is the best solution. But we also have a few tricks that we can use if that isn’t an option for you. This does extend the time for your session, so please let us know when you call if you have any special circumstances we should be aware of. Retouching costs for braces can get expensive very quickly so we recommend scheduling after your braces are removed if that is an option.

What if it rains on the day that I am scheduled for outdoor pictures?

The studio monitors the weather, and we will determine if you session should be rescheduled. We will contact you at least 24 hours before your session if we have any doubts about the weather and agree on the best plan.

I’m used to photographers offering preset packages. What is your Create Your Own Collection (CYOC) plan and what makes it so special?

This is one of the most unique things about our studio. You know the drill, you get your pictures taken and then you’re forced to order a bundle of products (that the photographer THINKS you need-oh and by the way-THEY bundle them based on their sales goals, not based on what you actually want) and you end up paying for products that you don’t need and never use. NOT AT OUR STUDIO! Our CYOC plan is a 4-step process with types of products grouped together so that you can select the specific items that you want. Once you select at least one product from each of the four steps, you qualify for additional discounts and lots of great bonuses. We think it’s pretty awesome!

Our Corporate packages have been designed to maximize flexibility and provide you the images you need for marketing and online profiles.

I just had my photographs taken…now what?

We get it, waiting is awful!!! Within 2 weeks we’ll schedule a viewing session to view and order your images. The first time you see your images they’ll be on the big screen! It makes it so easy to choose the best expression and poses. Make sure you review our Price Guide and use the Notes pages to pre-plan the sizes and styles of images you will need. When you leave you’ll have all the decisions made and you’ll have one less thing to take care of. We’ll be there to help you make the correct decisions. No other studio in the area will take this kind of time to help you make the best decision for your family.

Our Corporate clients get to be stars too with a reveal session, but our order process is more about selecting the best images for your image strategy and making sure we edit the finished product in a way that allows you to use them as needed.

Alright, I’ve read enough… I want in!

Contact us now and we’ll get you scheduled.