Frequently Asked Questions

Professional photographers have a knack for highlighting those unique qualities that define you. With their artistic eye and technical skills, they can convey the spirit of your family or organization in a way no amateur snapshot could. A pro knows how to direct everyone to look natural, capture candid moments, and edit images to tell your story. So if you want photos that authentically represent your family or nonprofit's heart and soul, hire a talented professional photographer. They'll work with you to produce images you'll treasure for years.

Typically, early morning or late afternoon and early evening is ideal for capturing soft, golden light that flatters subjects. Golden hour is the one hour after sunrise or one hour before sunset and blue hour is the one hour before sunrise or one hour after sunset. Midday sun can be harsh and create unwanted shadows. If you're going for moody vibes, sunset or blue hour lets you play with warm hues or cool tones as the light fades. And don't forget - weather affects the mood too. Overcast days diffuse light nicely while clear skies amp up contrast. Really think about the look you want, and schedule your shoot during the magical "golden hours" or when the weather matches your vision. Your pics will turn out gorgeous!

We believe in capturing genuine moments that showcase the unique personalities within each family or the essence of your non-profit. Our approach involves building a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere and encouraging natural interactions. By doing so, we aim to reveal the authentic spirit of each individual or the heart of your organization. We will guide and direct you through the shoot, putting you into positions we think you’ll feel comfortable in. But you always have the option of passing on our suggestions or requesting to try something you’re interested in. This ensures that the photos we create are a faithful representation of the genuine connections and personalities we encounter.


Dressing for a cohesive photoshoot involves selecting outfits that harmonize without being overly uniform. Opt for a color palette that complements your setting and suits the mood you want to convey. Coordinating colors rather than matching exactly can create visual interest. Steer clear of busy patterns, as they can be distracting. Consider the environment – earthy tones for outdoor shoots or subtle neutrals for indoor settings often work well. It's about balancing individual expression with an overall cohesive look. Encourage everyone to wear what makes them feel comfortable and confident, as genuine comfort translates into authentic, happy expressions. Don't shy away from layers and textures; they can add depth to the visual narrative. Ultimately, the goal is to create a collection of images where each person's unique style contributes to a visually pleasing and unified outcome.


Selecting the right location for your photoshoot plays a vital role in aligning with your style or the mission of your non-profit. For a contemporary and urban vibe, consider cityscapes or modern architectural backdrops. Natural settings like parks or beaches evoke a timeless and organic feel. If your non-profit focuses on community, shoot in locations that reflect local connections, such as community centers or neighborhood landmarks. Consider the visual story you want to tell – whether it's about family, teamwork, or social impact – and choose a setting that enhances that narrative. Remember, the location is not just a backdrop; it's a crucial element in conveying the essence of your style or the mission of your non-profit.

If you’re looking for a photo shooting location in the Indianapolis area, check out 20 Perfect Places to Capture the Beauty of Spring in Indianapolis, IN.

A typical portrait photoshoot session usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to capture a variety of poses and expressions. This duration provides a comfortable window for individuals or families to relax, ensuring authentic moments are captured. During this time, we prioritize creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, encouraging natural interactions that reflect genuine personalities.

For event shoots, the duration aligns with the contracted length of the event. We work closely with you to understand the schedule, key moments, and any specific shots you desire. Our goal is to seamlessly blend into the event, capturing candid and meaningful images that encapsulate the essence of the occasion. Whether it's a portrait or event session, communication is key – we collaborate to understand your vision and tailor the experience to meet your expectations.

Our editing process is meticulous, aiming to enhance the natural beauty of each photo while staying true to your vision. We begin with color correction, ensuring accurate tones and a consistent look. Basic retouching is applied to refine skin tones and remove minor imperfections, maintaining authenticity. We then assess the overall composition, adjusting exposure and contrast as needed. Our commitment is to deliver images that reflect the genuine spirit of the moment while meeting the standards you set for the final product.

Bringing along meaningful props or accessories can add a personal touch to your photoshoot. Consider items that reflect your personality, hobbies, or shared interests. For family sessions, perhaps bring a favorite board game or a picnic blanket for candid moments. Accessories like hats, scarves, or statement jewelry can add flair and individuality. If it aligns with your non-profit mission, incorporating relevant items or branded materials can strengthen your visual narrative.



However, it's crucial not to overwhelm the scene. Keep it simple and meaningful, ensuring the props enhance rather than distract. Ultimately, the focus should remain on capturing authentic moments and expressions. Feel free to discuss any ideas or preferences you have, and we can work together to integrate them seamlessly into the photoshoot.

To secure your preferred date and ensure ample preparation time, we recommend scheduling your photoshoot at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons. This allows for flexibility in choosing the perfect time and location, as well as accommodating any specific requests or themes you may have.



During busy seasons, such as holidays or special events, it's advisable to plan even further ahead, ideally 2-3 months in advance. This helps in avoiding scheduling conflicts and ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. However, we understand that sometimes spontaneous moments arise, so don't hesitate to reach out, and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs, even on short notice when possible.

Our approach combines both posed and candid moments to create a well-rounded collection of images. We believe in providing gentle guidance for poses to ensure everyone looks and feels their best. This involves suggesting natural and comfortable positions that showcase your personality while maintaining authenticity.



Simultaneously, we value capturing spontaneous, candid moments that reflect genuine emotions. These unscripted interactions often result in some of the most memorable and authentic photographs. Our goal is to strike a balance, ensuring you have a mix of beautifully composed, posed shots along with candid, heartfelt moments that truly tell your unique story. Throughout the session, we encourage natural interactions, allowing personalities to shine while providing direction when needed to enhance the overall visual narrative.

In the event of unfavorable weather on the scheduled day of the photoshoot, we prioritize flexibility and collaboration. We keep a close eye on the weather forecast leading up to the session and stay in communication with you.

If conditions are less than ideal, we can discuss potential alternatives such as rescheduling to a more suitable day or exploring indoor locations that align with your style or the mission of your non-profit. Your comfort and the quality of the photos are paramount, and we're committed to finding solutions that work for everyone involved.



Clear communication is key, so we'll keep you informed and work together to ensure the best possible outcome, regardless of the weather challenges.


Creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere is crucial for capturing authentic moments. We start by fostering open communication and discussing your preferences and any specific concerns beforehand. During the session, we maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor, encouraging natural interactions and genuine expressions.

To alleviate any potential nerves, we often begin with easy and relaxed poses, gradually progressing to more directed shots as everyone becomes more at ease. Music, jokes, or light conversation can also contribute to a laid-back environment.



Flexibility is key; we adapt to the energy and pace that suits you best. By prioritizing your comfort and creating a positive atmosphere, we aim to capture not just beautiful images but the true spirit of the moment. Feel free to share any preferences or concerns, and we'll tailor the experience accordingly.

For more, check out Six Tips for Planning Amazing Family Photos

Upon completion of the photoshoot, you'll be allowed to use the images for personal or non-profit use of the images. While you're free to share and use the photos for your intended purposes, it's important to note that the copyright and ownership of the images remain with the photographer.



For commercial or external use beyond the agreed-upon scope, additional permissions and licensing may be required. It's essential to communicate your specific needs and usage intentions beforehand, allowing us to provide clarity and discuss any necessary arrangements.

Our goal is to ensure a transparent and positive experience, so feel free to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the usage rights of the photos. We're here to facilitate an arrangement that aligns with your needs and respects the creative rights of the photographer.

Respecting your privacy and maintaining confidentiality is a top priority. We take great care to ensure that any sensitive information shared or observed during the photography process remains confidential. Personal details, conversations, and images are treated with the utmost respect.



Before the photoshoot, we discuss and establish clear boundaries regarding what can be photographed and shared. If there are specific privacy concerns or limitations, please communicate them openly, and we will adapt our approach accordingly.



Your comfort and trust are paramount, and we are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and discretion throughout the photography process.

Certainly! We understand the importance of client feedback. Please take a look at the homepage for testimonials from previous clients who had similar needs or preferences to yours. Their experiences can offer valuable insights into our approach, professionalism, and the satisfaction of their unique requirements. We're proud of the positive relationships we've built and the meaningful moments we've captured for our clients, and we look forward to providing you with the assurance you seek through their testimonials. You can also view the homepage of our website and Google reviews to read reviews people have shared and see organizations we have worked with.

What sets Ellegood Photography apart is my commitment to making every client feel comfortable and confident, whether they’re camera-shy or seasoned pros. I specialize in creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere during each session, so the genuine smiles and authentic moments shine through in every shot. With a versatile approach, I capture everything from large family gatherings to corporate headshots, ensuring every photo tells a story. My attention to detail and focus on quality ensure that you get the perfect shot, no matter the occasion. You can count on me to be professional, personable, and deliver beautiful photos on time, every time.