FAQ for Fiona Eaton of Eaton Photography

Where are you based?  And where will you travel to?

I am based in Sydney and I am available for photographic sessions within the Sydney Metropolitan area.  Out of area requests are welcome, please just discuss this when you make an enquiry or a booking.   

Where are the photos taken?

Your photos are taken at a beautiful location of your choice - at your house, a local park, by the water etc. 

Do you have a studio?

My work is predominantly done at outdoor locations because this suits most families and individuals.  However, I can bring along an indoor studio backdrop in order to take photographs in your home, but I still choose to use as much natural light as possible. 

You mention that your style is candid and natural.  What do you mean by this?

Many people complain about photographers who give too much direction, or who tend to bark orders.  This is completely not my style.  I want you to enjoy yourself so that it’s a fun day that produces beautiful photographs.  I’d rather capture an exquisite image of a couple chatting, or a child exploring a flower, than to orchestrate every single move that you make.  Although I'll mix in a few more 'posed' shots that will still be natural. In this way, the whole session is as candid and natural as possible, and the photos are candid and natural. 

Can I call or email further questions before I actually make a booking?

Absolutely.  Choosing a photographer is a big decision, and you need to be able to ask as many questions as you like.  

Will I be pressured into making a booking if I call to ask some further questions.

Never! Ask as many questions as you like and then shop around.  

How do I make a booking?

You can either call or send an email via my contact page.  Either way, I will send an email to confirm your session type, the cost, the date, the time and the location. I will then follow up with a phone call the day before the session.   

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, in order to secure your booking, I ask that you pay $40 via direct bank deposit. This is non-refundable. However, it can be transferable to another date if the photo shoot needs to be cancelled due to illness within your family or poor weather conditions (for outdoor shoots).  

What happens on the day of the shoot?

I meet you at the agreed location, and after getting to know each other a bit, I take the photographs during the allocated time.  Remember, the process is relaxed and fun.  

I don’t like my photo being taken.  Do you make me pose?

As mentioned, the emphasis is on fun, and I will cater my style to your needs.  While I do offer some direction I don’t put you in a continual series of poses!   Some people want a lot of direction, while other people don’t.  We’ll do whatever you are comfortable with. 

What do I wear on the day?

Feel free to dress up or remain casual.  If you want to change into different outfits that is fine. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you are wearing.

Try to avoid large logos or clothes with writing on them as they will draw attention away from your faces. Also, be aware that some bright colours and patterns might do the same.  If in doubt bring the outfit, along with an alternative option.

If you would like to have some photos of your child dressed in a costume (fairy, cowboy etc) just bring them along. If wearing white – it would be best for all of the family to be wearing white (e.g. white top and jeans/denim) Please be aware that if only one member of the family is wearing white that they will stand out from all of the other family members because white is very eye catching and reflective.

What should I bring to the photographic shoot?

• Snacks and drinks for the children to keep them happy through the photo session.
• A favourite toy or two, especially one that might encourage a few smiles.  
• Any 'props' you may like to have in your photos e.g. bubbles, kids chair etc.  
• Feel free to bring along accessories like hats, necklaces etc. Especially nice is for your child to ‘dress up’ – such as with a lovely summer hat, or a cosy looking beanie and scarf in winter.  
• Bring an extra change of clothes for kids in case they get wet or dirty.

I want an outdoor photo shoot, what if the weather is bad on the day of our shoot?

Naturally the weather can create problems for an outdoor photo shoot, so if necessary we can reschedule, or relocate. We will discuss all the options on the day prior to your shoot.  

How do we receive our photographs? 

You will receive your photographs on a disk, ready for you to have printed (don’t forget that most packages include two free enlargements). The disk has a printable surface so there is actually a gorgeous photo printed on it!  On the disk you will find a proof sheet and two folders - one with your images in high resolution and one with them in low resolution. Your disk is delivered in a hard, protective case along with a letter providing further information.  

How do we organise our free enlargements?

Go through the photographs on the disk and let me know which ones you’d like to have enlarged.  I will then organise this and send them to you in the mail.

Roughly how long does it take before we receive the photos on disk?

Generally within 2 – 3 weeks.  I’ll always email you once the photographs have been sent, so you can look out for them in the mail!

Why are you so affordable?  Are you less experienced than other photographers?   

I have been taking professional photographs for 10 years, and while I could definitely charge a lot of money, I choose not to because this would make professional photography out of reach for many people.  Professional photography is not a hobby for me, it is my job, but one that I want everyone to have access to.

Can you relate to children?

With a child of my own, absolutely!  Children require the photographic shoot to be fun, and I certainly won’t be bossing them around like a stern teacher.  Children require their own special amount of patience, and I have a lot of that.  

Can I see samples of your work?

For sure.  There are photographs throughout this site, but if you would like to see more, please get in touch. 

 Why did you start your own photograph business?

Because I’m passionate about photography and I wanted to spend my work hours pursuing something that I’m passionate about.  I also saw that there were not many affordable family photography packages.  I want professional photography to be accessible to everyone.  

Are you a member of any industries or associations? 

Yes, I am an emerging member of the AIPP Australian Institute of Professional Photography.

What do you most enjoy about being a photographer?

Meeting people, capturing a family on 'film' (digital these days!), but most of all, capturing the essence of personalities, especially the kids! I most enjoy creating beautiful images that I know the family will love and treasure forever.  Although it is just a moment that I’ve captured, that ‘moment’ could be admired by many people for several decades! There’s only once chance to get it right, and I always like to get it right!