| Chad Mitchell Photography - Senior Photo FAQs | ![]() |
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What are your sitting fees?
Our sitting fees range from $35 to $55. We have three different options. Our $35 sitting fee includes four (4) outfit changes or settings. Our $45 sitting fee includes six (6) outfits or settings. And, our $55 sitting fee includes eight (8) outfits or settings. You may mix settings for indoor/studio photos or on-location photos at a destination of your choice. Please note, there is not a set time limit on our sessions. We do what it takes to get the shot, and we pride ourselves on taking the time to make your session perfect!
Do you have print packages available?
Yes, we do. If you love a certain photo or set and just want to make an easy decision on prints, we've already done the work for you. We have various packages already configured, starting at $86, which include various print sizes and wallets. If you would like to create your own customized package, you certainly can. We offer one FREE unit per $200 of your order. The more you order, the more we reward you for your business by giving you a greater amount of FREE prints!
What if my school already uses another contracted photographer for our yearbook?
No problem. By law, you are not required to use your school's photographer for your senior photos. Simply have your headshot taken for the yearbook with your school's contracted photographer, then schedule your session with Chad Mitchell Photography for your senior portfolio. Or, if your school allows a non-contract photographer for yearbook headshots, we have a selection of formal canvas backdrops for standard yearbook headshots.
Can Chad Mitchell Photography take yearbook headshots?
Absolutely. Even if Chad Mitchell Photography is not your school's contracted photographer, we can take your yearbook headshots (if your school allows this). We just need to know if there are any special requirements set by your yearbook editor/staff.
Can I bring family or friends with me during my session?
Definitely! In fact, we encourage you to bring your family and friends. We want your session to be fun, exciting, and genuine. Sometimes, when working with a new photographer, it's best to have family or friends there to help make your session seem more natural and less uncomfortable when meeting someone new. And as always, Chad Mitchell Photography wants you to walk away with an awesome experience. We strive to make your session fun and enjoyable. Please feel free to bring anyone along to make the experience that much more enjoyable and fun.
Will Chad Mitchell Photography travel to a special location?
Yes, we will. Not only are your senior photos a priceless photo session, but your senior photos are also the opportunity to capture a personal glimpse of your life at this point in time. Sometimes, your life revolves around a special event or location. Because we are in tune with what seniors want to express in their photos, we are more than willing to travel to your special location. What's more, Chad Mitchell Photography will travel for free to your location if it is within Central Illinois.
Does Chad Mitchell Photography shoot outdoors during the colder seasons and winters?
Yes, we do! In fact, we are one of the few photographers in Central Illinois who will shoot outdoors during colder temperatures and the winter months. What Chad says to seniors is, "If you can handle it, we can handle it!" So if your ideal senior session includes photos in the snow, you've chosen the right studio for your senior photos. Due to the equipment we use, we will not shoot during rain.
How do I proof my session?
Chad Mitchell Photography is 100% digital; therefore, you can proof your session at a private location on our web site at www.chadmitchellphotography.com. If time permits, you can even expect to proof your session within hours of your session. Regardless of when you place your order(s), we keep your proofs online for one (1) month. After one month, your proofs are taken down.
Can I include my own props?
Yes, you can. Chad Mitchell Photography has a complete selection of backdrops and props specifically designed for seniors. However, if you would like to bring your own props, we welcome the idea free of charge. We are very creative, and we love the opportunity to express each senior's personality in every photo. Whether your prop is as small as a trophy or as large as a truck, we recommend that you bring it.
What about pets?
We do allow some pets on the grounds, but we don't allow pets inside our studio. We respect your relationship with your pet; however, we must respect our other clients who may be allergic to pet hair or dander. Plus, "Fido" usually doesn't understand how hard it is to clean a 10' x 20' backdrop should he or she get extra nervous during a session. Sorry, BitBit.
I don't know what I want, so can Chad Mitchell Photography help me out?
Many times, we have offered suggestions to seniors who don't quite know what they want to do for their senior photos. Whether it's clothing choice, backdrop colors, props or outdoor locations, we have plenty of options for the more discriminating senior.
Do you offer special printing?
Yes, we do. Whether your want color, B&W, sepia tone, spot colors (i.e. duotone / two-tone), collages, creative borders/edges, or irregular-sized prints, we can do it. Just let us know in advance what you have in mind, and we will work for you to create it. If you're not sure, we would be happy to suggest something unique.
What's up with the free 8 x 10 deal?
For years, Chad Mitchell Photography has grown through "word of mouth". As a show of appreciation to our customers, if you refer a paid sitting (whether a senior sitting or another type of photography), we will gladly pay you back with a free 8 x 10 of your choice. This referral program is unlimited. If you give us one lead, you get one free 8 x 10. If you give us 20 leads, you get 20 free 8 x 10s!
Can you fix my complexion?
Yes, we can. Shooting digital and having a background in graphic design, Chad Mitchell Photography can fix most problems associated with complexion. Depending on the complexity of the correction, there may be a small charge associated with your photo of choice. We offer free touch-ups/enhancements on minor issues, and we are one of few professional photographers in the area to offer this free of charge. For major enhancements, there is a fee of $10 per pose.
What about sunburns?
We completely understand that seniors want a deep, dark tan for their senior photos -- especially when shot during the summer months. We are forgiving, but the camera is not. Although we can correct most sunburns and tan lines, it is highly recommended that you not get a sunburn at least three (3) days before your scheduled session. If you do, please re-schedule.
What about eyeglasses?
Besides photographic techniques and post-processing digital work, we can remove glare from most eyeglasses or eliminate it before we even push the shutter on our cameras. We do, however, recommend that you contact your optometrist to ask about borrowing frames that match your regular prescription. Most optometrists are okay with loaning out frames for your session or temporarily removing lenses before your session. Ideally, this is recommended for glare-free photos. For enhancements to prints due to eyeglass glare, there is a $10 enhancement fee per pose.
What are your hours?
Sessions by Chad Mitchell Photography are by appointment only. We can schedule your session when it is most convenient for you. We are available during the weekdays as well as the weekend. If your summer job requires it, we can also schedule late sessions. We are available on Sundays, too. Chad Mitchell Photography is a full-time, full service studio, and we are more than happy to make the scheduling easier on you.
How do I schedule my session?
To schedule your session, you can contact Chad Mitchell Photography at 217-872-6856 or by writing us at chad@chadmitchellphotography.com.
When do I pay?
Your sitting fee is due upon your arrival of your session. With print orders, payment in full is required before we place your order with our lab. For all print orders only, 7.5% sales tax must be added.
How soon do I get my prints back once I've placed the order?
We have selected one of the best professional labs in the Midwest to do our printing. With an ideal Midwest location, we are able to place orders and have them returned within days. Please allow 5-7 days for most orders.
All images © Chad N. Mitchell
**** Call Us At 217.872.6856 ****

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