How do I book a session, and is there a deposit required?

Follow the "Inquire Now" buttons on this page or visit my "Inquire" page from the main navigation menu. You will be prompted to fill out a submission form that will help me determine how best to support you along this process. You can expect a response from me within 72 hours, excluding holidays. For quick questions, feel free to DM me on Instagram (@sapphirephotographic) or shoot me an email at hello@sapphirephotographic.com.

Once you've selected your package, I will send you a session confirmation portal containing our contract and to collect a 50% deposit to secure your date. If applicable, I will also work with you to schedule a planning consultation call prior to your session date.

Do I need to prepare anything before the shoot, and will you help me plan?

If applicable for your selected package type and unique needs, we will schedule a planning call before your session to help you be prepared. If applicable, I will reach out to you to schedule this when sending you your session confirmation information.

I offer more in-depth Creative Direction and Casting services for an additional rate. We can determine if your project is a good candidate for extra service during our planning call.

Where do you shoot — do you come to my location, or do we choose a location together?

Whichever works for you! I am happy to offer location guidance for the Gunnison Valley and Fort Collins regions once we have booked your session and are in the planning stage.

What happens if I need to reschedule or cancel?

Rescheduling or cancellations are permitted up to 7 days before your scheduled session date and time for a full refund of your deposit (if cancelling). Cancellations or rescheduling leading to cancellation made within 7 days of session date and time forfeit your deposit.

What happens if the weather is unfavorable on the day of an outdoor shoot?

If the weather doesn't cooperate on the day of an outdoor shoot, we can discuss alternatives such as rescheduling the session (at no risk to your deposit) or finding an indoor location. I want to ensure the best possible outcome for your photos, and am happy to be flexible in adapting to unforeseen circumstances.

How do I know which package is right for my business?

Based on the information you provide in your inquiry form, I can guide you to the package best suited to your individual needs and expectations. I am happy to answer any extraneous questions before and after booking your session!

Are travel costs included, or are those extra?

Travel costs are included for any projects within the Gunnison Valley and Fort Collins regions. For projects elsewhere in the state of Colorado and beyond, an additional fee for transportation (gas and/or airfare) and lodging (if applicable) will be added to your quote and invoice, TBD based on distance and duration of trip.

Can I add on services the day of the shoot if I decide I want more coverage?

Add-ons must be selected during the booking process and paid for in full with the overall invoice at least 24 hours before your session. If you decide to add on an extra service or product more than 24 hours before our session and have already completed your initial invoice, please notify me and I will send you an additional invoice for your selected addition!

What is a commercial license, and why do I need one for my business photos?

Having a commercial license and usage agreement in place is standard practice across the commercial photography industry. When a photographer creates an image, they own the copyright to that image by default — even after delivering it to a client. Without an active license in place, any business use of those images technically constitutes copyright infringement, regardless of whether or not the user paid for the shoot. A commercial license is the legal agreement that defines your right to use your images for your business and documents the terms of that use in writing, protecting both of us in the process.

To learn more about commercial licensing, this blog post by Anne-Marie Couturier is a must read!

What exactly does "commercial licensing for 3 years" include?

Every branding session includes a 3-year commercial license, active from the date you receive your final gallery. This covers use of your images on your business website, blog, and email marketing; digital advertising and social media; printed materials such as brochures, business cards, signage, and product packaging; and press releases or editorial features. All licensing terms are outlined in a signed licensing agreement issued alongside your session contract.

What happens when my 3-year license expires — do I lose access to my images?

You don't lose your images, but your right to continue using them in certain contexts does expire. Images used in ongoing or static formats — such as your website or printed materials — will need to be renewed if they remain in active use. Images distributed during the active license term via social media or email marketing don't require renewal for continued use on those existing posts. When your term is approaching expiration, reach out and we'll sort out a renewal agreement and rate, or we can schedule a new session to refresh your content.

Can I share my images with a third party, like a PR firm or a graphic designer?

Yes, you may share your images with a graphic designer, marketing agency, or similar entity working directly on your behalf. However, these parties may not reuse the images beyond the scope of your project, and the license remains non-transferable. Your images may not be sublicensed, redistributed, or used in any context outside of your own business promotion.

What does "shot on film" mean for my business photos? Will they look different from digital?

Film has a distinct look that's difficult to replicate digitally: rich, organic tones, natural grain, and a depth and warmth that tends to feel less processed and more timeless than digital photography. For branding work, this translates to imagery that feels considered and distinctive rather than generic. Your gallery will be majority film, with any digital images processed to blend seamlessly. To learn more about film and why it's my chosen medium, visit my 'Why Film' page.

How will my images be delivered?

Your finished gallery will be delivered as high-resolution JPEG files via an online gallery, from which you can download full-resolution copies at any time. PNG files are available upon request. RAW and TIFF formats are not available.

Can I request specific shots, or do you direct the session?

We collaborate! For all sessions except the Executive Portrait, we'll schedule a planning meeting — over Zoom or in person — before your shoot date. We'll cover your brand specifics (color palette, services, target clientele), how you intend to use the images, and your vision for the day. Shot lists and specific requests are welcome. For E-Commerce and Styled Campaign sessions, we'll also confirm product quantity and looks to be photographed.

If you're coming in without a clear vision, I offer Creative Direction and casting services as an add-on. Mention this in your inquiry and I'll build this into your custom quote for your review.

Branding galleries are delivered within 4-6 weeks of your session date. Executive Portraits may be delivered within 3-4 weeks. Please keep this in mind if you are on a content schedule or deadline. If this is the case, please mention your desired date of receipt of deliverables when inquiring.

Do you work with businesses outside of Colorado?

Yes! Pending availability, I am happy to travel anywhere to create photos for you. Just mention your locale in your inquiry submission and we'll go from there. Please note that projects outside of the state will incur travel and lodging fees additional to your standard rate. These will be included on your custom quote once we have discussed the scope and scale of your project.

Will my photos be used in your portfolio or on social media?

Yes, unless you request to refrain from your images being shared on my website, social media accounts or in digital and printed marketing materials. In rare cases, images from your session may be selected for publication in relevant trade magazines or related outlets. I will never use images from your session for uses beyond those listed above.