Frequently ASKED

questions...

Do you travel for sessions?

Yes! I have photographed portraits and weddings from coast to coast, and I love traveling to new destinations. The session fee includes travel within 6o miles of Fairfax, VA (22030). For sessions outside that range, a travel fee may apply. Let me know where you're interested in having your session, and I can give you a custom quote!

Where will the session take place?

Your photos can either be taken at my natural light studio in Sterling, Virginia, or we can choose an outdoor portrait location together! Sessions at the studio take place in the morning between 10 AM - 1 PM. Outdoor portrait sessions take place either at sunrise in the morning, or in the afternoon / evening before sunset. You can find ideas below. I also occasionally offer in-home sessions.

Top DC locations
Top Virginia locations

We would love to work together - how do we book?

To reserve your session date and time on my calendar, you'll simply need to sign a contract and pay a non-refundable session fee. Both can easily be done online. Email me at info@emilyalyssa.com to get started. I can't wait to work with you!

I noticed you are a film photographer. What does that mean?

If you add on film photography to your session, I will use both my digital and film cameras during your signature portrait session. By film, I mean physical rolls of film I send off to a lab to have developed (not video). I use film because it allows me to slow down as an artist and be extra intentional with every photo. It also gives you soft, creamy tones that are simply not replicated in digital photos. You'll receive your film photos as digital scans, so they will be easily integrated in your final gallery. 

The photos will be edited and ready to view four weeks after your session! You can expect to see at least 35 edited images. 

What if it rains on our outdoor portrait session date?

I'm happy to reschedule outdoor sessions for no extra charge due to inclement weather. We'll work together to find a day and time that works best for everyone. I only ask that we do the session within one month of your original session date.

What is the turnaround time for editing photos?

Can extended family join the photos?

These sessions are for immediate family only (you, your partner, and your children). Everyone else, including your parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews, are considered extended family. If you are looking for an extended family session, please let me know before booking as additional planning and fees apply. Please email me at info@emilyalyssa.com to discuss the details!

For outdoor portrait sessions - absolutely! I love when your furry family members are part of the fun. The one exception is when your chosen location doesn't allow dogs. The studio is located in a commercial building that has a strict no dog policy unless it's a service dog. 

Can our dog join the photos?

What days of the week are available?

All outdoor and in-home sessions take place on weekdays. I also offer a handful of Saturday sessions at the studio throughout the year. 

How early should we book?

My calendar fills up 1-4 months in advance. The busiest seasons are spring and fall. I recommend booking early to ensure you get a spot during those dates! As much as I would love working with everyone, I have to set a limit to give all of my clients the attention they deserve.

Will we need a photography permit for the location?

Some locations in the area do require a photography permit. The most popular spot that does is the National Mall in DC. A $140 permit is required for that location, and you can view my guide here. For other locations, I will let you know ahead of time if a permit is required! I can also guide you in choosing a location that doesn't require one if you prefer.

Can we extend the session time?

Yes, I do offer the option to extend photography time. It's $250 for an additional half hour of photography time, and $350 for an additional hour. These options are great for engagement, couples, or maternity sessions if you want multiple locations or outfit changes. For portrait sessions with little ones, I recommend sticking with the hour included. We always get what we need during that timeframe, and usually by then everyone is ready to be done!