FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Every question you’re afraid to ask.
Answered honestly, so nothing stands between you and saying yes to yourself.BOOKING & FEES
What is included with the session fee?
The $500 session fee covers everything that happens before your reveal - your consultation, the full session, professional hair & makeup, and all post-production editing. It also includes your in-person ordering session where you’ll view your final images.
The session fee does not include prints, albums, wall art, or digital files. Those are chosen separately at your reveal.
How do I book?
Use the Contact link at the top of the page or send an email directly to info@photosbyashleigh.com . We’ll start with a brief consultation to make sure it’s the right fit, then get your date reserved.
Is the session fee refundable?
The session fee is non-refundable, as it secures your date and covers the preparation that goes into your session. However, if something comes up, it can be transferred to a new date. Life happens - just reach out and we’ll work it out.
PRODUCTS & DIGITAL FILES
Do I get digital files with the session fee?
The session fee does not include any products or digital files. Digital files are available as an add-on to your product purchase at your reveal. They cannot be purchased on their own - they’re designed to accompany a physical product collection.
Can I edit my own images?
Unedited images are never released, and clients are not permitted to apply additional edits, filters, or alterations to their images. As the photographer, Ashleigh retains full copyright over all images. Unauthorized editing is a violation of federal copyright law and the terms of your client agreement.
Your images are delivered fully edited and ready to love exactly as they are.
When is my minimum purchase due?
Every client prepays at least the $1,500 minimum purchase, either a collection or an à la carte album, paid in full one week before your session. Payment plans are offered before your session only and must be completed by then.
Is sales tax added?
Yes, Virginia sales tax is added to product orders. It's 5.3% in most of Virginia and 6% in Northern Virginia counties.
What is a web file?
A web file is a small, watermarked digital image intended for sharing on social media. It is not suitable for printing - the resolution is optimized for screens only. Full-resolution digital files are available for purchase as a separate add-on.
What is the minimum product purchase?
The minimum purchase is $1,500 and is prepaid before your session, either as a collection or an à la carte album. At your reveal, you can upgrade or add à la carte items. Pre-session payment plans are offered to make your investment as comfortable as possible.
What if I upgrade at my reveal?
Upgrades chosen at your reveal, whether to a higher collection or added à la carte items, are paid in full at that time.
Can I return or exchange my products?
Every product is custom-made for you, so returns and exchanges aren't available. If a product arrives with a printing error or is damaged, I'll remake it once I receive the damaged item back. I have your products shipped to me and inspect each one before it reaches you. For out-of-state orders, products ship directly to you.
THE SESSION
What should I wear?
Bring 3 to 5 outfits that make you feel something - lingerie, a silk robe, an oversized sweater, a bodysuit, whatever feels like you. After booking, you’ll receive a full styling guide with outfit inspiration, tips for every body type, and recommendations for where to shop if you’d like something new. You won’t show up guessing.
How long does the session take?
Your session day includes hair & makeup (about 1 hour) and the shoot (60-90 minutes). Your reveal is scheduled within two weeks of your session, once your images are retouched, and takes approximately 1 hour.
I’m nervous. Is that normal?
Completely normal - and honestly, expected. Most clients arrive nervous and leave wishing the session could have lasted longer. Ashleigh’s entire approach is designed to put you at ease before the camera ever comes out. You don’t need to know how to pose, what to do with your hands, or how to look “good enough.” That’s her job, not yours.
Can I bring someone with me?
The session itself is just for you - no guests during the shoot. In our experience, having someone else in the room during the session creates distractions that can make it harder for you to relax and fully be in the moment, and our studio space simply isn’t set up to accommodate additional guests. However, you are absolutely welcome to bring a supportive person with you to your reveal if you’d like someone by your side when you see your images for the first time.
Still have a question we didn’t answer?
Send a message - there's no such thing as a question that's too small or too silly.