DESIREE ORTMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
YOUR TOP
10
QUESTIONS ANSWERED
THE COMPLETE GUIDE
TO PLANNING YOUR SENIOR SESH
desiree MEET
reviews RAVE
Welcome!
Hi! So you’re a senior (or maybe you’re the mom of a senior). I’m so excited to tell you more about how we can make your senior portrait experience one to remember. My senior year was awesome, but my senior photos… not so much. I remember my mom told me that I was having them taken at Sears in the mall. Not sure if it was the marbled backdrop or my awful bangs, but they were terrible. You photos will not be. And it’s my job to make sure of it. Not to get ahead of ourselves or anything, but realistically this is the last time you will have professional photos taken until your wedding day… say what?!? So why not take the time to document who you are at this very second in your life and celebrate the fact that you’re starting your next chapter. My goal as your senior photographer is to design a custom portrait session that is oneof-a-kind. I believe that every person is different, so I’m passionate about photos that bring out every senior’s unique personality. We’ll work together from beginning to end to choose a location that matches your personality, outfits that suit your style, poses that are natural and photos that are magazine-worthy. And while your photos will be beautiful, these photo sessions are so much more than just photos. The experience is the ultimate confidence boost you didn’t even know you needed! Keep reading to learn more about the process, the investment and next steps! I can't wait to work with you!
xo, Desiree
I tend to find something wrong with every photo I take but I truly felt like I didn’t take one bad photo! BETHANY G.
TABLE OF CONTENTS... THE COMPLETE GUIDE
The experience with Desiree was everything I imagined and more!!! She has such a good eye for locations and made the entire shoot about what I wanted. - Alexa C.
Contents: 06 10 12 18 22 26
ABOUT ME
Get to know me before we begin working together
THE DOP EXPERIENCE Not your basic senior pictures! We'll work together to create a one of a kind experience just for you!
THE PROCESS You're ready to schedule your session with me, but what happens next?
THE INVESTMENT Session Fees, Collections and A La Carte Pricing Guide
THE FAQ'S Answering the most common questions I get asked here.
THE NEXT STEPS Ready to book your session with me? Here's your next steps.
(443) 567-1464 HELLO@DESIREEORTMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM WWW.DESIREEORTMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
ABOUT ME... I'M A SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER IN BALTIMORE, MD
Hey Girl, Hey! Hi there! I’m Desiree, but you can call me Des (Dez). I’m a wife, a mom, an Aquarius, Type A, enneagram 3 who loves shoes, home décor, crime shows, 90s R&B, cheese and podcasts (not particularly in that order).I am passionate about what I do and I can’t wait to hear more about how we can make your senior photo experience one of the best memories of your senior year. Before we get into the nitty gritty, let me tell you a little more about ME!
LIFE BEFORE THE LENS I was born and raised in Bel Air, MD (hey, hey CMW seniors). I graduated from the University of Delaware in 2003 with a degree in Communications and started in sales + marketing right after graduation. I worked for Black & Decker for 8 years, and left my job in brand marketing in 2011 to stay home with my first born, Scarlett. I continued to do freelance work until my son, Kellan was born in 2014. I dabbled in some other businesses, but kept going back to the idea of being a full-time photographer. I love the freedom my business brings. I’m able to attend all the sporting events and bonus perk – I usually get to be the team photographer, too!
SO, WHY SENIORS? When I first started my photo biz in 2017, I was a jack of all trades – I photographed families, newborns, weddings, kids, sports, events… you name it, I did it, but something about working with seniors was different. Maybe it was the fact that every shoot was wildly different or maybe it was the one-on-one connection, but there was something notably different. And one day it hit me… these senior portrait sessions were more than just photos. They were a genuine confidence boost for teens. As a teen, I struggled with self esteem, and wasn’t really sure where I fit in. I can only imagine how teens today feel now that social media exists. It’s amazing what a positive photo experience and gorgeous images can do for a teenager’s self esteem! In 2020 I shifted my biz to focus on teens and seniors and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
THE DOP EXPERIENCE NOT YOUR BASIC SENIOR PICTURES
THE DOP EXPERIENCE
WHAT MAKES SENIOR PICS WITH DOP DIFFERENT?
YOU DO YOU.
My ultimate goal in every session is to create images that are a true reflection of YOU - your vibe, your style, your personality. I pride myself on a shooting style that is dynamic and fun. I believe editing should not be overdone. I will never make you look air-brushed or alter your natural skin tone.
EASY. My senior sessions are fun and effortless. I assist you with everything from outfit selections to posing and in the end, you're left with images that are magazine-worthy!
CONFIDENCE BOOST.
Most seniors come expecting pictures to document their senior year, but leave with a new found confidence. It’s my job to be your personal hype girl resulting in an expereince that is a total ego boost.
WHEN YOU RECEIVE YOUR IMAGES, I'M CERTAIN THAT YOU'LL BE BLOWN AWAY BY THE FINAL PRODUCT.
THE PROCESS FROM BOOKING TO FINAL PHOTOS
Des made the planning process so easy. I saw a bunch of cute photos in diners on Pinterest and absolutely fell in love. It was difficult finding a diner that was still in good shape and had the 50’s aesthetic but Des found the perfect spot. It had everything I wanted: neon lights, a pay phone, checkered floors, and 50’s decor. - Jessica D.
THE PROCESS
PRE-SESSION PREP So, you're reading this guide and thinking, "OK, enough already, I'm ready to schedule my session." To secure a date and start planning, simply email me confirming that you'd like to book. Still have questions? Be sure to check out the FAQs (page 10).
DOP Questionnaire
Pay Session Fee
Once you've notified me that you'd like to
After we have a date, I will send over a
schedule your session, I will send you a
contract for you to sign. All of my contracts
questionnaire for you to fill out. This will allow me to get to know you better and determine the ideal time of year and
and payments are online, so as soon as you sign, you can pay your $350 session fee.
general vibe for your session.
Discovery Call After that, we will jump on a call to discuss all the specifics about your session. We will finalize the location and begin chatting about your outfits!
Select a Date
DOP Style Guide Once you pay your session fee, I will send you an electronic copy of my exclusive DOP style guide. This 30+ page guide details all of my favorite locations, provides outfit inspiration and places to shop!
On our call, we will also select a date for
Outfit Selections
your session. Typically I shoot on weekday
Leading up to your session, I'll continue to
evenings about 2 hours before sunset, but if
work with you via text to finalize your outfit
you're opting for a shoot in the city, I often
selections for your session. If you need a
shoot earlier. My weekend availability is
little extra help, I can even assist with direct
extremely limited.
shopping links.
I can't think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself. EMMA STONE
Can I tell you something I wish someone told me when I was a high school senior? The next time you take pics like this, it will likely be your wedding day and by then you'll be a completely different person. So let's celebrate YOU in the most fun way possible! My biggest goal as your photographer is to make you feel comfortable and confident. I strive to bring out everyone's unique personality which is why start to finish, every session is 100% unique. PAGE 6
My sessions are infused with movement and fun so your personality can shine. I've been photographing seniors for years now, and there is no greater feeling in the world than making someone see their true beauty. In today's modern world with everyone curating the picture perfect life square by square, it's so easy to see your flaws first. If there's anything I can promise you it's that you'll leave your session feeling like a complete super model. And when you see your pictures... well, you'll be speechless.
Shoot Day PROFESSIONAL STYLING Every senior session begins with make-up at my home studio. Jump to the next page to see why I include this luxury service to every session.
CUSTOM EXPERIENCE After your make-up is complete, we'll head out to start shooting. Included with your session fee is up to 2 locations (within 10 miles of each other) and a maximum of 5 outfits. We'll have the day mapped out a few days prior with a solid plan to make sure we get all the shots you want.
NATURAL POSING One of the biggest questions I get is, "do I need to know how to pose for the camera?" And the answer is, "no!" I will guide you through all of the posing. My goal is for your photos to look natural and not forced or fake, so we'll do all the hair flips and model walks and we may even lay in the grass. I promise you'll leave with all the confidence in the world!
Professional Make-up Professional make-up is included in your session fee. For the past 4 years, I've partnered with a group of local make-up artists. Their #1 goal isn't to make you up beyond recognition, but rather to enhance your natural features. Having make-up done before your session truly enhances your experience and provides an immediate confidence boost. If you'd like to add on hair to your session check out the a la carte pricing on page 20.
AFTER YOUR SESSION
SO NOW WHAT?
SNEAK PEEK I know you're so excited to see some of your photos after your session which is why I always share a sneak peek on social media within 24 hours of your session!
PROOFING GALLERY Approximately 3 weeks after your session, you will receive a private online proof gallery with all of your images. These images will be lightly edited and watermarked.
PRINT COLLECTIONS After viewing your gallery you will select which collection best suits your needs (see page 19 for more details)
DELIVERY Once you've chosen and paid for your collection, I'll profesionally retouch all of your final selections and deliver your online gallery for download. All print orders are placed directly through your gallery. You can redeem any print credits through your gallery as well.
THE INVESTMENT
I accept a very limited number of seniors each season in order to offer you a luxury, boutique experience. The DOP Senior Experience includes professional make-up and a twohour photoshoot where we will capture all aspects of your personality with up to 5 outfits and 2 locations. Your session is broken into two payments: A Creative Session Fee and A Print Collection Fee. Keep reading for all the details.
INVESTMENT
CREATIVE SESSION FEE
$350 The Session Fee covers the time + talent for your portrait session. This non-refundable fee is due upon booking and secures your date. Below is a list of everything that's included in this fee:
DOP Style Guide In this this 30-page guide I outline all of my favorite locations, provide style tips and places to shop for your session. Pre-Session Consultation Call About 2 months before your session, we'll jump on a call so I can get to know you better. We'll discuss locations and outfit ideas. Professional Make-up ($100 Value) An hour prior to your session, we'll meet at my home studio and one of my professional make-up artists will get you camera ready. 2-Hour Portrait Session with up to 5 outfits + 2 Locations On the day of your shoot, we'll work together for up to 2 hours. We'll explore up to to 2 locations (for example a beautiful field and a nearby downtown spot). You're allotted up to 5 outfits so you can explore a variety of styles.
Digital files, prints & albums are NOT INCLUDED in this initial creative fee. These photo products are available for purchase separately after your session through Collections and A-La-Carte .
INVESTMENT
CHOOSE FROM 3 COLLECTIONS
BUILD YOUR CUSTOM COLLECTION So what's the total investment? It's totally your call! Instead of paying for a bunch of photos you don't need, my collections allow you to select exactly what you want. And the good news? You don't select your collection until you see your photos! HOW DOES IT WORK? After your session, you'll receive a private proofing gallery with 125-150 watermarked images. After viewing your proofs, you'll select one of the collections below. All of the print credits are redeemed directly through your gallery. Additional print products are available a la carte (see page 20).
COLLECTION 1
COLLECTION 2
COLLECTION 3
$395
$595
$895
10 Fully Retouched Digital Images $50 Print Credit
20 Fully Retouched Digital Images $150 Print Credit
30 Fully Retouched Digital Images $250 Print Credit 10 x 10 20 Page Album
PRICING GUIDE
A LA CARTE
pretty in print I truly believe that photographs are meant to be printed - they are a legacy that are too important to live only on social media or stored on a USB. They are made to be displayed in your home. There is nothing in the world that brings back more vivid memories, than a photograph.
PRINTS & DIGITAL 4x6 5x7 8x10 11x14 4 Wallets All Digital Files (can be purchased with Collection 3)
$6 $9 $15 $48 $11 $500
ALBUMS & FOLIO BOX 10x10 Album (20pages) 5x5 Album 5x5 Companion Album (must be exact duplicate of other album ordered) 4x6 Folio Box w/ 20 Prints
$360 $240
ANNOUNCMENTS Graduation Announcements w/ Envelopes (set of 25)
$140
$180
$260
*additional large format products available
PROFESSIONAL HAIR If you'd like to add hair services to your session, you can do so for $100. This needs to be paid for upfront with your session fee.
TRAVEL $50 for locations more than 30 miles outside of Bel Air MD; destination shoots available upon request - inquire for fees.
THE FAQ'S... GET YOUR ANSWERS HERE
01
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS ON MY SCHEDULED DATE?
I’ll never make you shoot in the rain, so I usually don’t make the call to cancel until a few hours out. Maryland weather is so unpredictable especially in the summer that I prefer to wait it out before jumping to reschedule.
02
DO I HAVE TO HAVE MAKE-UP DONE?
My session fee is $350 and that covers the cost of makeup. While I STRONGLY recommend having your makeup done, if you’d prefer not to, you can request it, and I’ll deduct $100 off the session fee.
03
I’D LIKE TO HAVE MY HAIR DONE ALSO, CAN YOU DO THAT?
If you'd like to add-on hair, you can for $100. I partner with several stylists in the area and can easily add hair services on to your session!
04
05
HOW DO WE DECIDE WHERE TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Before we even pick a date, the first thing we talk about is where you’d like to shoot. If you aren’t sure, I can supply you with samples of galleries to determine the vibe you gravitate towards. So much is dependent on the location which is why I like to sort out that detail first. I have a collection of locations I love, but if you have a vision in mind that’s totally out of the box, I’ll scout locations just for you!
WHAT’S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO DO PHOTOS?
That's totally up to YOU! While most seniors prefer to do their photos the summer before their senior year or in the fall, the timing is totally dependent on the vibe you want and what you want to wear. Want lush flowers and sundresses? Then July-September is ideal. Want chunky sweaters and gorgeous fall tones? Late October and early November is best. Not sure, just contact me and we can chat about what's right for you!
06
I WANT TO DO MY SHOOT AT THE BEACH; DO YOU TRAVEL?
Yes, I travel, but so charge a fee. I charge $100 for every 60 miles outside of Bel Air, MD. Additional fees are required if an overnight stay or airfare is needed.
07
HOW DO I CHANGE OUTFITS WHEN WE’RE SHOOTING?
Girl, I got you! I bring a portable pop-up changing tent to every session so you can privately change on the spot and we don’t have to worry about walking to and from the car for every change!
08
AM I OBLIGATED TO PURCHASE A COLLECTION AFTER MY SESSION?
Yes, I require a minimum total spend of $745 for every session. While you can purchase items a la carte, my collections provide the best value.
09
WHAT IF I WANT TO ORDER MORE PHOTOS LATER?
Absolutely! I keep all of my galleries open for up to a year, so you can order more products directly through your gallery at anytime.
10
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Struggling with what to wear? I'm here to help! I pride myself of designing custom portrait sessions that bring out your individual style and personality - simply put, I don't want you to go out and buy a white sundress because that's what your BFF did. Your look depends on where we're shooting and the sorts of things YOU like to wear. The styling process starts right after booking your session. You'll receive a link to my DOP Style Guide that contains all sorts of info about selecting your outfits - everything from where to shop, to what to avoid - it's all in there. During our discovery call, we'll chat in detail about what you're thinking and then we'll discuss specific ideas leading up to your session. I've even sent specific shopping links to make the process even easier.
Des makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and never fails to capture the best photo of you! She knows how to work every angle, and is incredible at playing with light. Shooting with her is an experience you will never forget!
KENDYL L.
SO... WHAT'S NEXT? HOW TO BOOK YOUR SESSION
Your Next Steps...
01 02 03
BOOK YOUR SESSION So you've read through this guide and you're ready to book your session... GREAT! Shoot me a message in HoneyBook and let me know that you'd like to schedule your session! I book about 3-4 months out, so don't wait!
SUBMIT QUESTIONNAIRE Once you confirm you're ready to book your session, my assistant will send you a quick questionnaire for you to fill out so that I can get a general idea as to when you'd like to do your session and gather some ideas as to some potential locations for your session.
SELECT DATE + SIGN CONTRACT After you submit your questionnaire, we will set up a time for your consultation call. On this call we will select a date for your session. Once the date is chosen, I'll send over a contract and you'll pay your $350 session fee. We'll continue to chat leading up to your session to solidify outfits and shoot-day details.
(443) 567-1464 HELLO@DESIREEORTMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM WWW.DESIREEORTMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM