Policies & FAQ

A trail of footprints meanders along the sandy beach by the ocean shore in soft focus.

Policies

Retainer

A retainer may be requested according to the scope of the project. All retainers will be discussed upon approval of the proposal.

Retainers secure the photoshoot session date as well as cover admin and planning fees before the photoshoot.

Cancellation

All retainers are non-refundable unless I must cancel the photoshoot due to unforeseen circumstances. As mentioned the retainer covers the consultation, admin tasks related to the photoshoot as well as planning.

Before canceling a photo session, we can discuss a rescheduling. Poor weather conditions may require rescheduling.


Rescheduling

You may request to reschedule your session up to 48 hours before the scheduled date, as long as the new session takes place within two months.

If rescheduling is necessary due to unforeseen circumstances or extreme weather conditions, please notify me at least 12 hours before the session - unless it is an emergency.

Multiple rescheduling requests may result in the retainer being forfeited, and a new retainer will be required to rebook.

If the rescheduling terms are not met, the session may be canceled without a refund.

Refunds

By booking, you acknowledge and accept my editing and photography style. Please review my portfolio to ensure my style aligns with your vision before confirming your session.

After the session, the fee is non-refundable, as it reflects the time and expertise dedicated to your shoot.


Image Delivery

Image selection and editing typically takes about two weeks, depending on the project's scope (volume of images and complexity).

If you have specific deadlines, let's discuss them beforehand to ensure timely delivery. A fee will be applied for rushed selection and editing.

Editing

While minor adjustments to the editing may be discussed to match your brand identity, please ensure that the overall photography and editing style you are looking for aligns with my work. My editing reflects my artistic vision, and consistency is key to maintaining the quality and authenticity of my images.

If you choose to alter the images in any way after final delivery, please ensure a note is included, such as: Photographed by Rachael Kershaw and edited by (Name). This helps maintain clarity about my original work.

RAW Files

I do not provide RAW files, as they are the foundation of my creative process. Instead, you will receive high-resolution edited images that reflect my artistic vision.

Online Gallery

Your final images will be delivered via a private online gallery, allowing you to view, download, and share them easily. Galleries will remain available for 1 month, so please download all images before this deadline. Requests for files after this period may incur a retrieval fee. All files will be permanently deleted 6 months after the session.

Usage and Licensing

For brand and commercial shoots, usage rights and licensing will be discussed and customized based on your specific needs.

For private photo sessions, images are for personal use only. You may share them on personal social media and print them for personal purposes. Any commercial or marketing use must be agreed upon in advance. This applies for Personal Branding photo sessions.

Additional Services

Additional internal services, such as extra editing and printing, are available. Please inquire to discuss options and associated costs.

I can also assist in booking external services, including hair and makeup, manicures, and styling. These services are provided by trusted partners and may have their own requirements, such as deposits or contracts.

Weather

If the weather is not on our side for an outdoor shoot, we may choose the option to reschedule or find another location that will allow us to capture the images.


FAQ

Where are you located?

I’m based in Playa Negra, Guanacaste, and frequently travel to nearby beaches like Playa Avellanas, Playa Junquillal, Playa Blanca, and Tamarindo without any extra fees. For other locations, travel fees apply.

I am also available to travel internationally.

What types of photography services do you offer?

I specialize in portrait and lifestyle photography, focusing on brand content and personal branding to capture authentic moments and tell unique visual stories.

Please enquire for other types of photography as I may be able to provide recommendations.

How do I book a photography session with your team?

To book a session, reach out through my website, Instagram, or WhatsApp with your preferred dates and the type of shoot you are interested in. I will get back to you to discuss the details, my availabilities and schedule your session.

Please send me as much information as you can when you reach out (i.e. type of session, date, timing, number of people, preferred location)

Can I choose the location for my photo shoot?

bsolutely! Whether it's your home, a scenic outdoor spot, or another venue, I am open to shooting in locations that match your vision. Depending on the location, travel fees may apply.

How long does a typical photo session last?

The duration of a session varies based on the project.

Personal Portrait sessions usually last 1 hours, while brand shoots may take longer. We will discuss the specifics during our planning phase to match your needs.

How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?
We understand the anticipation of seeing your final photos. Our editing process typically takes 1-2 weeks, depending on the volume of images and the complexity of editing required. We prioritize quality and attention to detail to deliver exceptional images that exceed your expectations.
What happens if the weather is unfavorable on the day of an outdoor shoot?

If the weather doesn't cooperate on the day of an outdoor shoot, we can discuss alternatives such as rescheduling the session or finding an indoor location. I want to ensure the best possible outcome for your photos, and I am flexible in adapting to unforeseen circumstances.

Do you provide Hair and Make-up services?

I have partners who can provide this service and we can definitely include these services in your shoot. Additional fees will apply according to your requirements.

Each partner has their own process and may require separate contracts, deposits and payments.

Quotes for partner services will be provided separately.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Yes, you can purchase a gift certificate. In order to do so the photoshoot must be paid in full. No refunds will be applied to certificates and the certificate must be used within 1 year of purchase.

How long in advance should I schedule my photoshoot?

For a brand photoshoot, I highly recommend that we start discussing the scope of the project a minimum of 3 months prior to the desired delivery date of your images.

For a personal photoshoot, I would suggest 1 month before the session however you may request a photoshoot at anytime.

Do you work alone or with a team?

I mainly work with an assistant or alone unless the scope of the project requires to have a larger team. Make-up artist, stylists and other technicians may be brought on to the project if required to ensure the success of the shoot.

Will you be the photographer?

Yes, I will be taking the images during your session unless otherwise discussed.

When will I receive my photos?

You will receive your edited images approximately two weeks after the session. If you need them sooner, let me know, and we can discuss expedited options.

Do you offer prints or albums?

Yes, I can coordinate the printing of high-quality prints and custom photo albums. If you are interested, we can explore the options and pricing during our consultation.

Can I bring a friend or partner with me to the shoot?

Of course! Feel free to bring a friend or partner.

If the person that will accompany you has a specific role in the shoot, please let me know in advance (i.e. stylist, make-up artist,...)

What is your story?

Have a look at my about me page - I tell you a little about where I am from and my backstory. You can also read about my journey on my blog or send me a message through the website or instagram if you would like to connect.


Los Pargos, Playa Negra,

Guanacaste, Costa Rica


Available for projects worldwide.

Phone

+506 8539 8965

E-mail

connect@rachaelkershaw.com