welcome!
You’re BOOKED! Thank you for trusting me as your photographer. It's a great honor, and I can't wait to
Create Artwork You Will LOVE Like Family!
This client hub has been built to provide you with everything you need to know about having a photo shoot here at Barbara Neely Designs. It gives you a full overview of what to expect, how to prepare, and the ever-asked question “What to Wear?”
So, grab a refreshing drink and take a leisurely scroll around. If you find yourself with any questions or having a hard time locating specific information, please don't hesitate to reach out and give me a call. I would be delighted to have a chat with you.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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My home studio is located at 202 S Mill in Marionville, MO. I'm open by appointment only.
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Contact me with any questions or concerns!
Barbara NeelyPhone: 417-844-4966
Email: barb@barbaraneelydesigns.com
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If for any reason you need to reschedule please notify me as soon as possible. 7 days is preferred so I can fill your time slot.
Photography Sessions can be rescheduled one (1) time for illness at no cost. Additional reschedules are charged at $75 per date change.
Rescheduling due to weather will not incur charges.
What if my child has a bruise? It can most likely be Photoshopped. Just send me a photo and I'll let you know if I can retouch it or if we need to reschedule.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
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Appointment reminders and prepartion tips will be coming to your inbox.
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Let me know your backdrop preference and then choose what to wear. See the what to wear guide below and let me know if you need help deciding!
We also need to plan the artwork we are shooting for before the session. Are we shooting for an album, one large wall portrait or a smaller series of wall portraits? Please see the artwork options below and schedule a consultation if you aren’t sure.
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Our photoshoots are relaxed and fun sessions where we will play and laugh and get natural expressions. Every shoot is paced for the child so some take longer than others.
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Images from your session will be edited to proof stage and ready for you to see within a day or two. The big reveal will be made in person at my studio within 7 days following your session. At this appointment, I’ll help you select the best images and design the perfect artwork and finishes to complement your images and home.
When you schedule please make sure all decision-makers can be present as your order will be finalized on this day.
Book your ordering appointment here: https://barbaraneelydesigns.as.me/op14 -
Your artwork will be printed by the best photo labs in the U.S. and quality inspected by me, personally. I’ll let you know as soon as it’s ready to be picked up and loved forever.
preparing for your session
WE ARE CAPTURING REAL PERSONALITIES. NOT FAKE SMILES.
Our sessions are designed to be more than just a series of posed photos; they are about illustrating who you are right now with honesty. Whether it's the playful laughter of your children, the fierce independence, or the quiet moments of connection, we aim to document the personalities that are real and true. To help you make the most of your session, we've compiled some tips to ensure it's a fun and relaxed experience.
TALK TO YOUR KIDS!
Talk to your kids about the session being a fun adventure. Don't make it out to be something they have to be good and "behave" for. Instead, talk about how they'll be playing and having a great time with me, and that I'll capture those joyful moments. This helps set a positive tone and reduces pressure.
Schedule the session at a time when your children are usually happy and well-rested. Avoid times when they might be hungry or tired to help ensure a smoother experience.
If your child has a favourite toy or blanket, bring it along. These items can provide comfort and can also be a cute addition to the photos. After all these favorite things often become an heirloom as they get older.
Children can be unpredictable. Stay calm and patient, and let me handle any mood changes. Sometimes the best shots come from those unexpected, candid moments.
Bring along some non-messy snacks and water. A quick snack break can work wonders if kids start to get restless or need a little boost.
Let your children have a say in the session and be themselves. Maybe they can help choose their outfit or accessories. When they feel involved, they’re more likely to be engaged and excited.
Relax and Enjoy the Moment! Trust in my experience and ability to capture beautiful moments, even if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Your confidence can make a big difference in how relaxed everyone feels.
Newborns
Newborns typically require a little more patience and a slower pace. We will take our time to make sure your newborn is calm and settled, this might mean we need to pause for feedings and diaper changes. Newborns are best photographed within the first two weeks of age after which they are a little more alert and less posable.
what to wear
classic, timeless, authentic
MY TOP CLOTHING TIPS
KISS (Keep it simple!) Avoid logos and distracting patterns. These will date your images and draw attention away from where it should be. Clean and simple is best.
Coordinate group outfits by choosing all light tones or dark tones for a cohesive look. The person wearing a contrasting color will stand out. Keep color palettes balanced.
What are the prominent colors of your home? If these portraits will hang in your home choose tones that will complement. Neutral colors like black, white, beige, and denim are classic and safe choices.
Do: coordinate colors. Don’t: wear the exact same shirts. This can look a little too forced.
planning your artwork
Between now and your ordering appointment please take some time to think about how you'd like to see these photos displayed in your home or office and if you will be gifting any to friends and family.
Do you like the idea of having an album displayed on a console table or bookcase to remember every expression? Maybe a big statement piece to hang on your wall? Or, would you like to build a gallery wall?
“A house becomes a home when the walls hold the stories of those we love.”
VIRTUAL MOCKUPS TO HELP YOU VISUALIZE
I have awesome software that will allow you to see your photos on the wall at the correct size before you order. This means we can ensure it looks perfect and will be the right fit for your home and style.
All you need to do is send me some photos - snapped on your phone is fine - of where you might like to hang your artwork, and I will do the rest. Just follow the three steps below to get the best photos and then email or text them to me as soon as possible.
heirloom portrait artwork
Make your house feel like a home and remind everyone who enters what is truly important to you with cherished artwork of those you love most.
Each product is carefully, artfully and expertly designed just for you and handcrafted to last for generations. Every finished portrait order includes your ordered images in a web gallery for sharing to social media.
Albums
Handcrafted and made in the USA by the best professional photo lab in the industry. Albums are a perfect way to showcase every expression and detail of your milestone.
from $995
wall portraits
Create a stunning visual display for your home or office featuring those you love.
unframed from $290
ready to hang from $390
keepsake portrait box
Each keepsake box is built of solid wood with a photo wrap cover and includes
a set of gift-sized prints.
from $1450
gift prints
Gift sized prints are a perfect gift for friends and family or to display in your home and office.
sets from $475
packages
Every portrait order is as unique as the individual. Create a custom collection of portrait artwork to adorn your home or office and share with friends and family. Save 20% on your items when you bundle an album with wall portrait(s) and gift-sized prints.
from $1400
“I know how overwhelming these decisions can be. I find joy in helping you you select the best images and artwork for your home and budget. Rest assured we will figure this out together.”
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Payment is required when placing your order, please ensure all decision-makers are present.
Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.
Payment plans via Affirm for those who qualify.
Product credits and collection discounts are only valid at your ordering appointment.