Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you want to know before booking your session.
The Experience
Do you pose your clients?
Not in the traditional sense. I use prompts — questions, movement, and gentle direction — to help you feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera. We talk, we laugh, we move through the session naturally. As your confidence builds, so does the authenticity of the images. The result isn't a performance — it's your personality, your emotion, and your real connection captured in portraits that genuinely feel like you.
What's it like to work with you?
Most clients tell me it feels more like spending time with a friend than a photo shoot. I arrive early, scout the light, and have a plan — so when you arrive, all you have to do is show up. We'll talk, I'll ask questions, and before long you'll forget the camera is there. I work with one client per day, so there's no rushing, no assembly line. Your session is my only focus — from the first hello to the final gallery delivery.
Do you work with kids? What about camera-shy clients?
Absolutely — some of my favorite sessions have been with wiggly toddlers, energetic tweens, and adults who swore they were unphotographable. I don't fight energy, I redirect it. For kids I use games, prompts, and movement to capture genuine joy rather than forced smiles. Every client is different — some need more time to warm up, some have sensory sensitivities, some just need someone patient and unhurried. Whatever you bring to the session, I meet you there. Comfort always comes before the camera.
The Logistics
Where do you shoot?
I photograph throughout Pensacola and the surrounding Gulf Coast — Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Perdido Key, Fort Pickens, Gulf Breeze, Pace, Milton, and beyond. Sessions aren't limited to the beach. Downtown Pensacola, local parks, historic districts, and locations meaningful to your family are all fair game. If you have a spot in mind, let's talk about it. If you don't, I'll suggest options based on your style, the season, and the light.How long have you been a photographer?
I've been behind the lens for decades — long before Barefoot Photography had a name. What started as a passion for capturing people and moments has grown into an intentional boutique business built around one thing: photographs that feel genuinely true to who you are. The name may be new, but the eye, the patience, and the love of the craft go back much further.How many clients do you take per day?
One. Always one. Your session is never squeezed between two others or rushed to make room for the next family. When you book with me, you have my complete attention — before the session, during it, and through every step of gallery delivery. That's not a limitation, it's a choice. It's how I do my best work.
Planning Your Session
What should we wear?
Choose outfits that feel like you — comfortable, intentional, and coordinated without being too matchy. For families and groups, I recommend choosing no more than three colors. Two complementary colors in multiple shades, paired with a neutral like white or cream, creates a cohesive and beautiful look without feeling stiff or uniform. Solid colors and simple patterns photograph best in natural light — avoid large logos or busy prints that draw attention away from faces and expressions. For beach or outdoor sessions, soft neutrals, whites, and coastal tones work beautifully at golden hour. Most importantly — wear something you feel confident in. Confidence shows up in portraits, and so does discomfort. When in doubt, I'm happy to help you think it through before your session.How far in advance should I book?
For spring and summer sessions — especially May through August — booking 4 to 6 weeks in advance gives you the best choice of dates and times. Senior portrait sessions for the upcoming school year tend to book earliest, so if you have a Class of 2026 or 2027 senior, don't wait. That said, I know Gulf Coast vacations don't always come with a lot of planning time. If you're visiting and looking for a last-minute session, reach out anyway — I'll always do my best to make it work.How do I book a session?
Simply reach out through my contact form and tell me a little about what you're envisioning. I'll follow up within 24 hours to discuss dates, locations, and details — or you're welcome to text me directly at (850) 977-9994. Once we've confirmed the plan, I'll send a deposit invoice and a digital contract to secure your spot on the calendar. Closer to your session date I'll be in touch to confirm timing based on weather and sunset/sunrise conditions, as applicable.Are outfit changes allowed?
For senior sessions, absolutely — in fact I encourage it. Bring your cap and gown, a favorite casual look, something that feels totally you, and anything else that tells your story. We'll make selections together and fit in as many looks as time allows. I'm happy to discuss your options in advance — feel free to send me photos of what you're considering before your session.For family sessions, I generally recommend one coordinated look so the session flows naturally. If you have a special request for a wardrobe change, let's discuss it in advance so we can build it into the plan.
Are pets and props welcome?
Absolutely — both are warmly welcomed and encouraged. Pets make wonderful additions to portraits and props can add personality and meaning to your images. I just ask that we discuss both in advance so I can build your ideas into our creative plan.For pets, please note that we follow the rules and regulations of our session location — some parks and beaches have restrictions. All animals must be friendly and under control. Aggressive or dangerous animals cannot be accommodated.
For props, the more personal and meaningful the better — a favorite book, a musical instrument, a family heirloom. If you're not sure whether something will work, just ask. I love getting creative.
The Barefoot Experience
How are my photos delivered?
After your session I'll send you a link to a private, password-protected proof gallery where you can view your lightly edited images. From there you'll choose your favorites according to your purchased package. Once selections are made, I'll deliver your final gallery — professionally edited and ready to download in both high-resolution files for printing and web-ready files for sharing. Your gallery link is sent to the contracted client and can be shared with family members so everyone can enjoy the images.How long until I receive my images?
Your proof gallery will be delivered within 7 business days of your session. Once you've made your selections, your final edited gallery will be delivered within 7 business days. Rush delivery may be available for an additional fee depending on availability — just ask when you book.I professionally edit every image in your final gallery. I don't outsource your memories. Editing includes color correction, light retouching, and the kind of careful attention that makes your images look their absolute best.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Your deposit is non-refundable and secures your date on my calendar. If you need to reschedule, I ask for at least 72 hours notice and will do my best to find a new date that works for both of us. One reschedule is permitted per deposit — after that a new deposit is required to rebook.If weather or an unexpected emergency on my end requires a change, I will make every effort to accommodate your schedule as a priority.
Life happens — I completely understand. All I ask is that you communicate with me. If you're running late or something comes up, please text me. I often travel an hour or more for sessions, and a quick message goes a long way. In the event of a no-show without prior communication, the session is forfeited and the deposit is not refunded.