FAQ
Frequently
Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before booking your photography session.
Before You Book
What types of photography do you specialise in?
I specialise in fashion, personal branding and commercial photography, creating bespoke imagery for individuals, brands and businesses.
My services include:
- Editorial Fashion Photography
- Lookbook & Catalogue Photography
- Campaign & Advertising Photography
- Personal Brand Photography
- Product Photography
- Jewellery Photography
- Beauty Photography
- Model Portfolio Photography
- Runway & Event Photography
How can I book a session?
You can book a session by filling out the contact form on this website or by emailing me directly at samanthapattisonphotography@outlook.com
Will you help me with posing if I'm nervous?
Absolutely.
Whether you're an experienced model or stepping in front of the camera for the first time, I'll guide you throughout the session with posing, movement and expression to help you look and feel confident.
How far in advance should I book?
I recommend booking at least 2-6 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date. Larger commercial projects or editorial campaigns may require additional planning time.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes.
A non-refundable booking fee is required to secure your session date. The remaining balance is due before or on the day of the shoot, depending on the type of project.
What happens if I need to reschedule?
I understand that plans can change. If you need to reschedule, please let me know as soon as possible. Booking fees can usually be transferred to a new date with sufficient notice.
Do you travel for photoshoots?
Yes, I am available to travel throughout Scotland, the UK, and internationally for photography projects.
Travel arrangements are considered part of your personalised quotation, depending on the location and requirements of your shoot.
Can I cancel my booking?
Cancellations are accepted in line with the booking agreement.
Please refer to your contract for full details regarding cancellations and booking fees.
How are the final images delivered?
Final images are delivered digitally via a private online gallery, optimised for various platforms as needed or straight to your email address via WeTransfer.
How long will it take to receive my images?
Delivery times vary depending on the type and scale of your project.
As a guide:
Personal Brand Photography: 2-3 weeks
Fashion Photography: 2-4 weeks
Commercial Photography: 2-4 weeks
Runway & Event Photography: A selection of highlight images can be delivered within 24-48 hours if required, with the full gallery typically delivered within one week.
I'll always provide an estimated delivery timeframe before your shoot. If you require your images sooner, priority editing may be available upon request.
What editing and retouching are included?
Every image includes professional colour correction, exposure adjustments, and standard retouching, such as skin smoothing and temporary blemish removal, while maintaining a natural finish. If your project requires more advanced retouching, such as detailed skin work, complex background edits, or high-end commercial retouching, your selected images can be professionally retouched by specialist retouchers to achieve the highest quality results.
Fashion Photography
Editorial Fashion Photography
What is editorial fashion photography?
Editorial fashion photography focuses on creating visually striking images for magazines and publications, often telling a story through fashion.
Is editorial photography right for my brand?
Editorial photography is ideal for brands looking to create visually striking imagery that tells a story. These shoots are perfect for magazine submissions, fashion campaigns, lookbooks and strengthening your brand identity through creative visuals.
How do you plan an editorial shoot?
I start with a concept discussion, followed by location scouting, model selection, styling, and a detailed shoot plan.
What should I expect during an editorial shoot?
Expect a collaborative environment with a focus on creativity. I work closely with the team to bring the vision to life.
How long does an editorial shoot typically take?
Editorial shoots usually take 6-8 hours, depending on the complexity of the concept and the number of looks.
LOOKBOOK & CATALOGUE PHOTOGRAPHY
WHAT IS LOOKBOOK/CATALOGUE PHOTOGRAPHY?
Lookbook/catalogue photography is designed to showcase a collection of clothing or accessories, highlighting each piece clearly and attractively for potential buyers.
CAN YOU HELP WITH MODEL CASTING?
Yes. I can assist with sourcing and coordinating professional models to ensure the right fit for your brand, campaign, or creative vision. This service can be incorporated into your bespoke project proposal if required.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?
Ensure all items are ready, steamed, and organised. Bring any necessary accessories and coordinate with models and stylists ahead of time.
HOW MANY OUTFITS CAN BE PHOTOGRAPHED?
This depends on the complexity of the outfits and changes, but typically I can shoot up to 15-20 outfits in a full-day session with very careful planning.
Campaign & Advertising Photography
What is the difference between editorial and campaign photography?
Campaign photography is usually more commercial and brand-focused, designed for advertising and marketing purposes, while editorial photography is more creative and story-driven.
How do you ensure the photo graphs align with our brand?
I begin with a detailed consultation to understand your brand's goals, target audience, and visual preferences. I then develop a creative plan that aligns with your vision.
Do you provide creative direction?
Yes. I offer creative direction as part of the planning process, including concept development, mood boards, styling guidance, shot lists, and collaboration with your marketing team where required. This can be incorporated into your bespoke project proposal.
beauty photography
What is beauty photography?
Beauty photography focuses on highlighting makeup, skincare, and the overall aesthetics of the model. It often involves close-up shots to emphasise facial features, makeup details, and textures.
Is beauty photography suitable for brands as well as models?
Absolutely.
Beauty photography is ideal for makeup artists, skincare brands, cosmetic companies, salons and beauty professionals looking for premium marketing imagery.
How should I prepare?
Ensure your skin is clean and moisturised. Avoid trying new skincare products right before the shoot to prevent reactions. Get plenty of rest the night before and stay hydrated.
Do you provide hair and makeup?
Yes. I collaborate with experienced professional hair and makeup artists to help ensure you're camera-ready and feeling confident on the day of your shoot. These services can be arranged as part of your bespoke photography experience.
What should I bring?
Please bring any makeup products you prefer to use, particularly if you have sensitive skin or specific product preferences. I also recommend bringing a selection of outfits, including tops with a variety of necklines, to create a diverse gallery of images. Any brand-specific products, props, or accessories should be provided by the client or arranged in advance of the shoot.
How long does a beauty shoot take?
The duration can vary depending on the complexity of the shoot and the number of looks needed.
Model portfolio photography
What is a portfolio session?
It's a professional photoshoot designed to create or refresh your modelling portfolio with high-quality, industry-standard images. The goal is to showcase your versatility through a mix of editorial, beauty and commercial-style shots.
Who is it for?
This shoot is ideal for both aspiring and professional models looking to build or refresh their portfolio with high-quality, industry-standard imagery. It's perfect for agency submissions, brand collaborations, castings, and personal promotion, as well as freelance models wanting to showcase their versatility and expand their portfolio.
What styles are included?
The session includes a variety of styles, such as:
- Editorial - High-fashion and magazine-style shots
- Beauty - Close-up portraits highlighting facial features
- Commercial - Natural and approachable looks for brand campaigns.
How will it benefit my career?
A strong, diverse portfolio helps you stand out to agencies, attract more bookings, and showcase your range as a model. High-quality images make a lasting impression and increase your chances of getting signed or booked.
How long does the shoot last?
Sessions typically run between 1-3 hours, depending on the number of looks and the package chosen.
runway & event photography
What does runway photography involve?
Runway photography involves capturing live fashion shows, focusing on the models as they walk the runway, as well as the ambience and key moments of the event.
How do you photograph fashion events?
I cover all aspects of fashion events, from candid moments and guest interactions to detailed shots of the fashion pieces being showcased.
How quickly are event photographs delivered?
I understand the fast-paced nature of events and can provide a selection of edited images within 24-48 hours, with the full gallery delivered within a week.
What equipment do you use?
I use a high-end camera and lenses suited for low-light and fast-paced environments, ensuring high-quality images even in challenging conditions.
Personal Brand Photography
I've never had professional photographs taken before. Can you help?
Absolutely.
Most of my clients aren't professional models. I'll guide you through posing, expressions, movement, and positioning throughout the session to ensure you feel comfortable and confident.
What should I wear?
I'll provide guidance on outfit selection, colours, and styling choices that align with your brand and the goals of the shoot.
Can we shoot in multiple locations?
Depending on the package selected, multiple locations can absolutely be incorporated into your session.
How any outfit changes are included?
The number of outfit changes depends on the package you choose. Before your session, we'll discuss the type of content you'd like to create and plan outfits accordingly.
Can I use the photographs on my website and social media?
Yes.
The imagery is designed to be used across websites, social media platforms, marketing materials, and other business content.
Can we create content for different platforms?
Absolutely.
Your session can be planned to create imagery suitable for websites, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, newsletters and printed marketing materials.
How often should I update my brand photographs?
Many clients book every 3-6 months to keep their content fresh and aligned with their business growth.
Do you offer ongoing photography packages?
Yes.
I offer monthly and quarterly Personal Brand Photography memberships for businesses that need a regular supply of professional content. These packages are ideal for keeping your website, social media, and marketing materials up to date throughout the year.
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY
CAN YOU WORK TO OUR BRAND GUIDELINES?
Absolutely.
I can work from your existing brand guidelines to ensure your imagery remains consistent with your visual identity across all platforms.
CAN YOU PROVIDE PROPS AND BACKGROUNDS?
Yes. I have a selection of professional props and backgrounds available to suit a variety of styles. If your project requires specific props or bespoke styling elements, these can be sourced and incorporated into your photography proposal during the planning process.
HOW LONG DOES A PRODUCT SHOOT TAKE?
The duration depends on the number of products and the complexity of the shoot. Typically, a product shoot can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH?
I photograph a wide range of products, including fashion items, skincare, makeup and more. If you have a specific product in mind, please get in touch to discuss what you are looking for.
CAN YOU PHOTOGRAPH PRODUCTS ON WHITE BACKGROUNDS?
Yes.
I offer clean white-background product photography suitable for online stores and marketplaces, as well as styled product imagery for marketing campaigns.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE?
Packages include professionally edited, high-resolution images, consistent styling and backgrounds, and a private online gallery for viewing and downloading your final photographs. Where required, services such as advanced retouching, creative direction, or bespoke styling can be incorporated into your personalised project proposal.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY PRODUCTS?
Ensure all products are clean, sealed and in perfect condition. Remove any tags or stickers and make sure all items are ready to be photographed.
DO YOU CREATE STYLED PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY?
Yes.
Alongside traditional product photography, I also create styled imagery designed for advertising, websites and social media campaigns.
jewellery Photography
What makes jewellery photography different?
Jewellery photography requires specialised lighting and techniques to capture the intricate details and reflective surfaces of jewellery pieces.
How should I prepare the jewellery
Please ensure that all pieces are clean and polished to remove fingerprints, dust, and smudges. It's also helpful to provide any specific props or displays you want to be used.
Can you photograph macro detail shots?
Yes. I can create detailed close-up images that showcase the craftsmanship of your jewellery, highlighting features such as engravings, gemstones, settings, and textures.
How do you manage reflections?
I use specialised lighting techniques and equipment to minimise reflections and highlight the beauty of each piece.
What is included in a jewellery photography package?
Packages include professionally edited, high-resolution images, specialist lighting techniques, and careful handling of both reflective and non-reflective surfaces to showcase your jewellery at its best. Where required, advanced retouching, creative styling, and bespoke production services can be incorporated into your personalised project proposal.
Image LicenSing & Usage
Who owns the copyright?
Copyright always remains with Samantha Pattison Photography. Clients receive a usage licence appropriate for the agreed purpose of the images.
What is an image usage licence?
An image usage licence outlines how your photographs can be used. Every project is different, so licences are tailored to the intended use, whether that's social media, websites, advertising, print, editorial publication or wider commercial campaigns.
Can I purchase and extended licence?
Absolutely.
If your business grows or you'd like to use the images in additional ways after your shoot, extended licensing can be arranged upon request.
Still have a question?
Every project is different,
so if you can't find the answer you're looking for, I'd be happy to help.
