Don’t I have to use the school yearbook company?
No, you do not have to go to the school yearbook photographer. You are free to make your choice about your senior photographer.
It is a good idea to look around at several small, independent photographers and make a decision based on the quality of their work. Portrait photography is a specific skill, and even the most talented wedding, Bar Mitzvah and pet photographers may not deliver the classic high school yearbook photo that every senior deserves. Studio Sami takes pride in our ability to adhere to school-specific background colors and styles, while giving each student the care and attention that standard yearbook photographers are often too busy to provide.
Why should I go to Studio Sami for my senior pictures?
The first and most important thing is individual attention. Graduating from high school is a major event in your life, and a session with Studio Sami will give you individualized attention and a portfolio of special images just for you. Portrait work is the only thing we do.
How much does a Studio Sami session cost?
No matter what kind of shoot you’re looking for, Studio Sami has got you covered. Inside, outside, quick session, or long, we’re sure to have a package that fits your needs. Session options
Is there a minimum order?
The minimum order is $149, which can be reached through a variety of packages to meet your individual needs. Package prices start at $149, with the average order costing approximately $350. A brochure containing a menu of packages will be provided to you at your first session. The New Jersey 7% sales tax is added to all print packages.
How many poses can I have?
You are not limited to a set number of poses. We are not the high-volume yearbook photographer, so we’re able to tailor your session to your individual need, the clothes you have and the props you bring.
Do you guarantee your work?
Absolutely. We have 100% customer satisfaction policy. If you are unhappy with your session in any way, we will refund your session fee or reschedule a new session at no additional charge.
What can I expect during my photo session?
The length of the shoot will depend on which session you choose. Parents and friends are always welcome, but a solo trip is fine as well. Regardless of the package you choose or who you bring, we can guarantee you’ll have a great time.
Do I have to do cheesy poses?
Absolutely not. The whole point of your portrait session is to make you look like you. Studio Sami will never make you feel obligated to do something you’re not comfortable with.
Where is the studio located?
We are located at 67 Church St., Montclair (entrance from Valley road) across the street from Montclair Board of Education.
What about evening and weekend appointments?
We know that seniors sometimes have to balance school, work and extracurricular activities. Weekend and evening appointments can be booked without any extra charge, so even the busiest of seniors can still have a special photo shoot.
I’m ready to book my session. How and when should I do it?
You can call our studio at 973-746-8685 or book your session online here.
I need a business headshot…What should I wear?
For men, we recommend a medium or dark suit jacket. If you are not wearing a jacket, you should wear a shirt color other than white. For women, we recommend a top with a simple neckline (scoop neck works well) with minimal jewelry. The simpler the better. Solid colors are best for women’s tops.
I’m an actor who needs a headshot…What should I wear?
Generally, we recommend solid color tops with no large designs or logos. It’s a good idea to choose colors that provide a contrast with your skin tone. Wearing a color that complements your eye color is great way to go, too.
I’m a model who needs a headshot…What should I wear?
Modeling headshots needed for comp cards frequently involve more clothing changes than a single headshot. Bring several changes of clothing, from casual to dressy. We’ll take close-up headshots and three-quarter length body shots. Models typically select two or three additional image files beyond the standard single image headshot package.
Can I change clothes?
Yes, absolutely. You are welcome to bring two or three changes of clothing in order to represent a variety of styles.
What does my session fee pay for?
The session fee pays for studio time during the session and one finished, retouched high-resolution print for use in print and/or web.
Where will my session take place?
Individual headshot sessions take place in the studio. If you’d like, we are also available to come to you in the workplace to photograph your entire office staff (inquire within for a budget estimate).
How long will you spend with me?
Most sessions run approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Typically, we take a few rounds of photographs, review our results together on a monitor, and see which expressions or poses work best. Then we make adjustments to achieve your best shot. It is a very collaborative process and can be lots of fun.
Is there a choice for background colors?
The standard background we use is white and gray. In our experience, the white or gray background is best for headshots because it’s clean, neutral, and adaptable for most web and/or print uses.
What about my hair or make-up?
You should arrive with your hair styled in a way that you are comfortable with. Some women prefer to go to a stylist before the session; others prefer to style their hair on their own. Make-up should be light and natural-looking. A light foundation or blush to even out skin tones is perfect. If you wish us to hire a stylist for your shoot, please let us know and we can arrange this added service.
Can I see images in color and black & white?
Yes. We’ll photograph your session using color, but can preview the images in both to see which expressions, poses and clothing looks best with each. Your final selections can be prepared as color and/or black & white files.
How do I make my selections?
While in the studio, you will preview the images on our computer monitor. We work together to narrow down your favorites, comparing images side-by-side. If you need the valued opinion of a colleague, spouse or professional acting coach, we are able to post your top selections to a temporary iPhone app/web gallery in order to reach your final selection.
What if I want additional poses?
You can choose as many as your budget allows. Your session fee includes one finished, retouched image with unlimited usage rights. Any additional digital image files are also available for purchase.
What is the turnaround time?
Once you make your selection, we generally take no more than 3-5 business days to retouch and prepare your file.
Can you come to my office?
We often work with companies that need several executives photographed in a single business day, and we bring the studio to their office. Generally, this works well if you have a workplace of busy professionals where it is worth the extra budget to have us come to you. Contact us for an estimate if this interests you.