Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What do I wear? Where should we go?

What is the payment process?

Can I customize my session?

What should I expect from my photographer?

What is your turnaround time?

Do you deliver raw photos?

How does photo selection work?

Why are mini sessions only available on select dates?

What is your cancellation & rescheduling policy?

When are you available to travel?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What do I wear? Where should we go?

The planning process can be both exciting and stressful. If you need help deciding where to shoot, I have a list of go-to locations, depending on the vibe you want for your photos (nature, buildings, desert, beach, studio). I can also help you with outfit ideas and choosing color palettes. It's important to feel comfortable and confident!

For graduates, please read through the Grad Shoot Tips page.

For creative shoots, I can recommend talented stylists and hair/makeup artists upon request. I have also created dozens of mood boards for modeling test shoots with Ford RBA, Agency AZ, Photogenics LA, Priority Talent, LA Models, and more.

What is the payment process?

I require a 50% non-refundable deposit at the time of booking to reserve your session date. The remaining 50% is due 1 day prior to our shoot. Tips are not required but always greatly appreciated!

Accepted forms of payment: Zelle, PayPal, cash. Payment details will be included in the contract.

Can I customize my session?

Yes! Contact me for a customized quote if you are interested in adding outfits and/or locations to your session. If you would like more images than listed, consider booking the next highest package. Other add-ons include film photos, additional time, and a few photos with family/friends.

What should I expect from my photographer?

Quality, Professionalism, Guidance, Experience, and more.

Here is a guide on tips for choosing the right photographer for you (also conveniently located in the website menu for your reference).
https://photosbymeli.mypixieset.com/choosing-your-photographer/

What is your turnaround time?

The turnaround depends on how much I shoot and how busy my schedule is. For portrait sessions it ranges from 2 days to 2 weeks; during peak grad season (April-June), my turnaround time is 2-3 weeks. For weddings, it's typically 4-6 weeks. I try to get them back to you as soon as possible while making sure I take time for the final products. You may request expedited editing for an additional fee if desired.

EXPEDITED EDITING FEES
8-10 days: $100 | 4-5 days: $200 | Next day: $350

Film photos are developed by a film lab in Orange County. Their turnaround time is 7 to 14 business days. If my digital edits are ready before then, I might send you the digital gallery first and then notify you once the film photos are sent to me and uploaded in your gallery.

Do you deliver raw photos?

Nope. Delivering raw/unedited photos is like selling an unfinished painting and it would not be an accurate representation of my creative style. Editing photos is half the art of photography and it's what makes my photos unique. I also do not allow clients to select proofs. For storage purposes, raw files will be deleted 72 hours after the gallery has been delivered. If you feel like I missed something from our session, let me know!

How does photo selection work?

I will select the final photos that get edited and hope you will trust my judgement as the photographer! During our session, I'll show you previews on my camera screen to get a feel for what poses you like, dislike, or want to reshoot. Given that I do not deliver raw photos for any reason, I also do not allow clients to select proofs.

Why are mini sessions only available on select dates?

Mini sessions are best for quick grad photos and professional headshots. Since they are only 15 minutes long, I like to shoot multiple mini sessions consecutively. The dates in which mini sessions are available are often determined by earliest inquiry and popular demand.

If there is not enough demand for mini sessions at a particular campus, they will not be available for that campus. If you are interested in a mini session on a date that has little to no demand, ask some friends if they want to do a mini or regular session before or after yours! If they do, 99% of the time I will open up availability for a mini session.

What is your cancellation & rescheduling policy?

The first reschedule is no charge provided that it is requested at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled shoot date/time. Within the 24 hour window, cancellations and reschedules incur a minimum $50 fee. Shoots that are rescheduled due to inclement weather, such as rain, will not incur any fees. Cloudy weather is not considered inclement; please check the weather before selecting a date!

Cancellations are allowed. However, the non-refundable deposit will not be refunded for cancellations or reschedules under any circumstance. A contract will be provided with more details and terms for cancellations and rescheduling fees.

When are you available to travel?

Although I am working full-time in LA, I plan out my schedule to ensure that I have available dates to travel for shoots! It varies every week so contact me as early as possible if you want to snag a specific date, especially for weekends and during peak graduation season.