FAQ’S

All you need to know

Family photoshoot in West Yorkshire 
Why should I choose Cecilia Costello Photography?
I absolutely love meeting and photographing new families. Be it a newborn baby and their smitten parents, a family with toddlers or older children; grandparents, great grandparents, and even the family pets!

My clients tell me that I’m patient, professional, warm natured and fun to be around. They find my way of photographing relaxing and enjoyable – even the camera-shy clients enjoy the experience.

My products are beautiful, sourced from some of the best suppliers in the UK. I work closely with my clients to make sure that the finished product they buy fits into their home beautifully. Be it a beautiful storytelling frame, a collection of single frames, a keepsake album, contemporary wall art or a collection of fine art prints; each product is finished to a very high standard. I love to tell stories with my imagery and would be delighted to tell yours.

Where do you normally photograph families?
All my sessions take place at your home or a location of your choice. I will travel to capture your memories and mileage is charged at 45p per mile over 25 miles from Bradford.
What does a photoshoot involve?
We spend around two hours together at your home or one of your favourite Yorkshire Dales locations, so that I can capture some lovely relaxed images for you that will provide wonderful memories to last a lifetime.
What time do you start the portrait session?
Usually my portrait sessions start early in the morning as everyone is at their best. As young children tend to have a nap after lunch I find a 10am (or earlier if possible) start is best for everyone.
We’ve not had photos taken before at home or on location, what can we expect?
When I arrive at your home, I’ll take time to get to know you and your children before my camera even makes an appearance. I usually do this over a cup of tea whilst I explain how the photo session works. I will then wander round your home and garden to find the best light. I only photograph using natural light so don’t be surprised if some of the shots are taken in places you’d never thought possible. I like to include activities on my photoshoots so we can play games, build Lego, bake cookies or cakes and in the summer water games in the garden go down a treat. Whatever you enjoy doing as a family, I will capture it for you.

If we’re meeting away from your home, then I’ll join you on your family day out and capture it as it unfolds.

What clothes look best in the photos?
I always suggest simple, plain colours for everyone, and for children it’s worth having a change of clothes as this gives a variety to the photos. Please avoid wearing busy prints and logo’s as this will date the photos. Your child’s special party dress or football strip can be worn towards the end, as children don’t like taking them off!
If we’re not going to be in the photos, can we leave you with the children whilst we catch up on jobs?
It is important that parents are always on hand during the portrait session. As well as for health and safety reasons, having you there will make the child feel more comfortable.
My child can be quite shy, if they don’t smile can I help by asking them to say ‘cheese’ / ‘smile’?

My photography style is very honest and I’m looking for ways to really capture the spirit of your child, be this smiling, thinking, playing or simply being themselves. I will take time to get to know your children and develop their trust so that they are relaxed and in the end forget me and the camera. Please – I know it’s hard – refrain from asking your child to say ‘cheese’. Sometimes, I’ll ask you for a word that your child finds funny and use this if they are shy.

What do we do if my child gets hungry or restless?
With newborns and babies, please try to give them a feed before I arrive. If you could also turn the heating up as a lot of newborn photos will be taken with your child just in their nappy. With older children please make sure they’ve had their breakfast to give them energy for the morning. There is always plenty of time for little breaks, snacks and nappy changes whenever required.
What happens if it rains or we are poorly?
There are some things we can’t control. If one of you is poorly or it’s horrendous weather and we’ve planned an outdoor shoot, then I’ll rearrange your session with no extra charge.
How do I view the photographs?
I’ll arrange a viewing and ordering session at your home where I will present a slideshow of your edited photographs and show you samples of the different wall art that I offer. I’ll help you decide which ones you’d like in an album or have transformed into timeless pieces of art. I offer beautiful bespoke frames, canvases, albums, coffee table books, acrylics and a number of other lovely products.
Can I buy print ready digital files?
Most of my clients choose to buy beautiful story telling frames or keepsake albums, however there are some that like to have digital copies to share with family and friends. A full set of digital print ready files can be purchased for £950. Please ask for more details.
Let's do this

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When we first looked to find a photographer to take some pictures of us and our little boy, I was looking to find someone with a great informal style, memorable images and able to help us relax and enjoy the session. I’m so glad we found Cecilia!

VICKY BROWN