Rob Sims Photography-FAQs
Thank you for scheduling your photoshoot. I’m very excited to meet and photograph you!
If this is your first photoshoot or if we’ve not met before, you may have some questions about the process. I’ve compiled some tips from frequently asked questions to help you prepare.
I want you to be comfortable, have fun and enjoy the best experience of your life! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to text me: 310-926-7454.
This is my first photoshoot, what should I expect?
The key to a great shoot is for you to feel comfortable and proud of your hard work. We’ll work together to ensure the best results for your photos. I’ll guide you through the entire process from start to finish, so don’t be nervous!
What can I do before the shoot to ensure I look my best?
Trying on outfits to make sure they suit you is a good start. Shaving/waxing a few days before will help prevent unsightly skin irritations during the shoot. A nice manicure is always a plus. If your skin is fair, opt for a dark tan two shades darker than a competition tan. Skip washing your hair the day before and day of the shoot.
What should I wear to the photoshoot?
It’s best to wear a very loose dress or robe to the shoot. DO NOT wear anything tight and skip the deodorant, sunglasses and hat. Also bring wipes, something warm to wear, a towel and easy walking shoes or flip flops.
Should I have a makeup artist or hairstylist or should I do it myself?
I recommend you have an artist/stylist, but it’s not required; it just helps to have one less thing to worry about before a shoot. The Mac and Sephora counters will also do your makeup for free if you buy $50 of makeup. If you need help finding an artist/stylist, let me know – I also have a package option to add a makeup artist to your shoot.
Any advice for my makeup artist or hairstylist?
Sure! I prefer you avoid over-the-top fake eyelashes – I’m a fan of the natural look. However, that’s ultimately up to you. You should use waterproof makeup and avoid anything that has SPF in it. If you use any kind of powder, make sure it’s colored, not white. Use a soft hold hairspray the wind will destroy your hair.
How dark tanned should I be?
Typically, 2 shades lighter than “competition tan” works best for photos. You should be dark tanned, but not to the extreme of competition.
How dark should my makeup foundation be?
Your makeup foundation should match the color of your chest. Your makeup artist should be able to help blend for best results.
What kind of outfits should I bring?
Just ask me! Location is often a key factor on what to bring. The best inspiration for ideas are on Instagram – check it out to see what other models are wearing. If we shoot on a beach, bikinis are a great option, for example. I typically suggest you wear outfits that help show off your physique and make you feel confident. Best advice: make sure tags are not visible – cut them off before you come to the shoot.
Do wardrobe changes count against my shoot time?
Yes. That is why you are limited to two looks in one hour. To maximize your time, please have your outfits organized and be ready to shoot when I arrive.
I’m new to posing. Any tips?
Of course! Practice in your home, but not in front of the mirror. You need to just move and hold the pose without analyzing it. Practice poses that you see online. I love to show you poses during the shoot, but creating your own is the best.
Where are we going to shoot?
Location depends a lot on the area. Often, when I’m traveling, I won’t have a firm idea on location until the day before. Weather has a lot to do with it, as well.
Can we shoot up to an hour away?
Driving distance depends on the package you purchased and the actual travel time. An additional travel fee may be charged.
Can we shoot at multiple locations?
If my schedule allows, we can move to different locations. Just remember that your shoot time begins when we meet and travelling between locations will count against that time. It’s best if they’re close by.
Can I extend our shoot time?
Extending our shoot time depends on my schedule. If there is time between scheduled models, of course!
What if the location is no longer available or doesn’t work out?
If our location doesn’t work out, I will try my best to find a different location that suits our schedule. We won’t likely run into this issue.
What if it’s windy or raining?
I try to check the forecast beforehand. If I see extreme weather like heavy rain on the way, I will try to reschedule if I don’t have an alternate indoor location lined up. Sometimes wind is unpredictable – a good tip is to bring a hair tie. The wind can destroy your styled hair in minutes!
I have sensitive eyes that can be a problem when shooting in the sun?
I have sensitive eyes too! Looking at the sun is one of the most difficult things to do during a photoshoot. If you foresee the sun being an issue, bring sunglasses that would fit your looks.
Should I bring food and water?
Absolutely Fitness shoots can be exhausting and you will use a lot of energy. Flexing and squeezing for every shot can hit you hard and even I take food and drinks.
Do you mind if I bring alcohol to the shoot?
YES, I do mind. I will not shoot you if you are drinking alcohol. You need to be responsible and do this cold turkey.
When should I arrive at the shoot?
Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early. Try routing the trip with Google maps ahead of time to see how long it will take with traffic.
If I don’t have a car, will you provide transportation?
If you don’t have a car and my schedule allows, I can try to take you to and from the location. If I have back-to-back shoots, or have to go out of my way I will charge you for time and gas. I suggest you coordinate with a responsible friend or try one of the rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.
Can I bring friends or my significant other?
You are more than welcome to bring someone along. In fact, I prefer it! It’s nice to have someone watch us work and we may even be able to put them to work, as well. Just let them know that they’ll need to stay quiet and out of the way, back seat drivers are not welcome.
Can you take a few photos with my partner if they join us?
I can take a few snap shots of you together as a favor, but if I am taking professional photos for your partner to use, they will be charged for the time.
How can I view the pictures after the shoot?
I try to have all photos to my clients within 96 hours. However, if I’m travelling to you and we shoot for days, it could take more time. You will, however, receive every photo that I shoot and they will be all technically correct.
Can the photos be posted on social media?
Please post photos on social media. I would expect you to give credit when posting and tag me on all 3 of my facebook and instagram accounts. However, if you plan to use the photos for any kind of business marketing outside of personal use, my permission is required ahead of time and a fee will be charged.
Can you improve my photos with Photoshop?
I will not retouch photos. I am a professional photographer, not a graphic artist.
Can I have the background of a photo replaced with something else I choose?
Backgrounds can be modified, but an additional fee may be charged.
How do you accept payment?
I collect all fees by the end of the shoot and prefer cash. Retainer fees can be paid using:
* Venmo (robsimsphotography, https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2288975398043648529)
* PayPal (PayPal email is: rob@fmimag.com; please send as “gift to friend” or pay the PayPal fee)
* Cash
* Deposits are nonrefundable
Is my deposit refundable if I must cancel?
If you must cancel close to shoot time, your deposit will likely be forfeited. If we can reschedule and I can fill your time slot, I will allow the retainer to count toward a future shoot. Deposits are nonrefundable but you won’t lose them unless you cancel without warning.
I hope this gives you the information you need! If you have additional questions, please give me a call or text at 1-310-926-7454 or email me at robsimsstudios@gmail.com. I look forward to our collaboration!
Thanks,
Rob Sims
http://robsimsphotographywork.com
