What is the goal of the session, what will I get as a result?
The goal is to spend about an hour and a half capturing you at your very best so that you have stunning images in your gallery, each a work of art. Not only for one picture to frame and submit to the yearbook, but a variety of images that represent your personality for an album or collage as a keepsake of this thrilling time of life. This means we have spent time selecting the location that compliments your personality, you have selected clothing (most seniors have 3 outfits) and accessories that you will love to look back on and remember as your ideal style one day. I will take lots of pictures of you and with my keen eye pick out the very best ones for you to see. It may feel like you are in a magazine photo shoot because it’s not your typical “sit here turn your head just so” school portrait. We’ll do a variety of poses, head shots, you sitting, laying down, standing or twirling. We’ll meet somewhere really picturesque, possibly a field, park, beach or a more urban area with walls and doors as a cool textured background. Pick two places if you like, but let’s pick them close by so we don’t cut into our session time too much.  We’ll chat and laugh and you’ll feel silly pretending to be a model but that is okay because I am used to people feeling silly around me, it’s all in a day’s fun.



Another item that I offer which is more popular than a bunch of digital images is your very own custom app of all of the images in your gallery. These are fun because you can share the link with anyone who has a smartphone or tablet and they can have all of your favorites right on an app!  So convenient!

When do I get to see my pictures?
I know the waiting is hard, so I do my best to post your images on my website as soon as possible. After uploading all of the pictures I took of you onto my professional editing software (Lightroom & Photoshop) I go through each one and pick out the very best images (in other words: you look awesome, the lighting is just right, etc.) then I spend up to an hour on each image, editing it to perfection.  This means fixing the white balance, contrast, and making sure each color and vibrancy is just right.  Oh and yes, I do edit out pimples. I make sure you have a nice selection of head shots, and a variety of other shots and I upload your watermarked images to my website in your very own password protected gallery. Once it’s up, (usually about a week or two after your session) I will email you your gallery link and password for you to check them out. I love hearing your first impressions, so feel free to email me after you get to take a look.  I usually take orders over email, but I’m also available to come to your home and take your order in person if it’s easier for you.  Once I receive payment you should have your portrait artwork in your hands in approximately two weeks.

Do you have samples of your cards, albums, and collages?
Sure do! And more designs are being added all the time.  I can’t wait to show you the beautiful albums and collages I have available. The link to my pricing and product guide is provided in your welcome email. If you haven't emailed me yet about scheduling a session, please email me at denise@denisegammellphotography.com

Do you do the yearbook picture too?
Yes! Most area schools simply request a head and shoulders professional photograph with proper dimensions and a neutral background. Since I am a natural light photographer, we won’t be going into a studio but I can provide a backdrop if needed so that it looks exactly like a studio portrait. While rare, I’ve heard of schools that require you to do the free sitting with the contracted chain studio for your one yearbook photo.  When schools want the chain studio picture it is usually no purchase required, one quick headshot picture, and free to you. If that is the case with your school, go ahead and do that free shot with the chain studio so that we can spend your photo session time doing the beautiful shots that capture the real you. Thankfully most high schools have moved beyond the days of boring blue backgrounds and have embraced the artistry of creative portrait photography in the 21st century. In the following comparison you can see what I do in the "Boutique Photographer" category compared with the "Yearbook Photo" that many of the chain studios offer.

What should I wear?
Pinterest {CLICK HERE to see Senior Girl Ideas} is a wonderful source of finding fashionable outfit ideas and accessories. You can always bring several outfits to your session and I will help you pick out what will photograph well. Definitely put together your outfits well in advance and have a friend photograph you so you can see how it looks all pulled together. Make sure you really like your shoes and have a few optional accessories should we need an extra something. Once you have booked your session you will be receiving a .pdf style guide which will help you tremendously. I highly recommend a hair appointment a few hours before your session. 


Do you have any referral benefits?
I do! I do! Earn a print credit for each referral you send me once they have placed their order. I would rather reward my wonderful clients than spend $ on ads. It’s a win-win for you & me!  Thank you!


Do you have a model program?
If you are a current junior, you can apply to be a model. Applicants need to fill out a model application by the deadline. You do not need to look like a model, you just need to love to be in front of the camera and share pictures of yourself. There are a few select spots per school so apply early for the best chance. Click the link for more details about being a model for {SENIOR PORTRAITS in CT}