Our Portrait Session Process
Inquiry & Connection
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Start by reaching out through my contact page or send me a direct email at clarejoannacreates@gmail.com . We’ll begin chatting about what type of session you’re looking for, your vision, timing, and which package may be the best fit for you.
Booking Your Session
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Once you’re ready to move forward, we’ll choose your session date and time.
To officially reserve your spot, I’ll send over a contract and invoice for your non-refundable retainer. (If you are under 18, a parent or guardian will complete the booking paperwork.)
Planning & Creative Direction
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This is where the fun begins. We’ll connect by phone, video call, email, or messaging to talk through the look and feel you want for your images. We’ll discuss:
Locations
Outfits
Props
Overall style / mood
Personality and vibe
Goals for the photos
If helpful, we can also build a mood board / shot list for inspiration.
Final Prep & Session Game Plan
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Before your session, I’ll check in with you to finalize details, answer questions, confirm outfits/locations, and create a loose shooting plan so we’re fully aligned and stress-free on session day.
This is your time to relax and enjoy yourself.
I’ll guide you every step of the way with natural direction, movement prompts, and encouragement so you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely yourself.
My goal is to create a fun, easygoing experience while capturing beautiful images you’ll love.
After your session, I’ll carefully edit your best images and deliver them in a beautiful private online gallery.
From there, you’ll be able to download your images, share them, and order prints or products directly.
Your Photo Session
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Editing & Gallery Delivery
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Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, let’s connect!
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Your final images will be delivered digitally through a private online gallery. From there, you can easily download your high-resolution files, share them with family and friends, and order professional-quality prints directly through the gallery shop. Prints can be shipped straight to your home or to another address of your choice.
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My standard turnaround time is typically 2–3 weeks after your session. If you need your images sooner for graduation announcements, deadlines, gifts, or special events, I also offer rush editing services with delivery in approximately one week or less whenever my schedule allows.
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Almost anywhere you’d like. I believe the best locations are the ones that feel personal and meaningful to you.
I’m always happy to recommend some of my favorite local spots—parks, trails, open fields, downtown areas, scenic overlooks, and hidden gems around Central Pennsylvania. Some personal favorites include Canoe Creek State Park and Rails to Trails.
If there’s somewhere important to you, even better. Family land, your college campus, a hometown street, favorite coffee shop, workplace, barn, hiking trail, or anywhere tied to your story can make your images even more meaningful.
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Most outdoor portrait sessions are scheduled toward the end of the day when the sun is lower in the sky and the light becomes soft, warm, and flattering—often known as golden hour. This time of day creates beautiful natural tones, softer shadows, and a timeless look in your final images.
If evenings don’t work for your schedule, I’ll absolutely do my best to accommodate you and find the best possible timing based on your availability, location, and the style of images you’re hoping for.
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Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring a parent, guardian, sibling, or friend for outfit help, support, or just moral encouragement.
I simply recommend keeping the group small so the session stays relaxed, focused, and distraction-free.
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Yes — I encourage it when it feels authentic to you.
Props can add personality and help tell your story. Whether that’s sports gear, musical instruments, flowers, books, your car or truck, a pet, hobby items, graduation gear, or something meaningful to your interests, I’d love to hear your ideas during our planning process.
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Once you book, I’ll help guide you through outfit ideas based on your location, season, and the overall vibe you want. I’m happy to help narrow down options or review choices before your session.
The goal is for you to feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself.
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Absolutely. Most people tell me this before their session.
You do not need to know how to pose or what to do. That’s my job. I’ll guide you naturally through the entire session so you feel comfortable, confident, and look like the best version of yourself.