This FAQ page is for Family (Maternity & Engagement), Senior, & Professional Headshots sessions. For weddings or other events, please use the Contact tab and I will follow-up with you. For all things Boudoir, please review the M.M.P Boudoir tab at the top of the page. For all things Wedding related, please review the M.M.P Weddings tab at the top of the page.

I'm interested in booking a session, what's next?

First off, YAY!! I'm so excited you're ready to have some fun! If you want to book a session, you can either click on the "Book" button which will take you to my scheduling page or go to the "Book Now" tab at the top of the page and select the session you want to schedule. From that page, you can select the date and time that works best for you. All sessions scheduled require my approval. If you have questions about the scheduling process, you can also email me at [email protected] or fill out the contact form under the "Contact" tab. Once I receive the notification, I will reach out to you to discuss any questions you have.

Is there a deposit or retainer to hold my date?

Yes. In order to lock in your date, I do require a retainer fee. Depending on the session you book, the retainer fee can be $50 to $200, and 50% of the session cost for boudoir and weddings. The deposit is applied towards your total session cost. This fee is non-refundable. Should we need to reschedule your session due to weather or medical reason, this will be applied to the new time. Your deposit can be paid via Venmo @MDRWeber. Your session is not officially booked until the deposit has been paid.

What should I wear to my session?

I have a Pinterest board just for this reason! From family sessions in the spring or fall, to looking your best for headshots, I've got you covered with suggestions on what to wear. Go to Pinterest and search Mahogany Moon Photography to see my boards. If you don't have Pinterest, please use the contact form to reach out to me and I will email you some suggestions.

What is your shooting style?

I would say my shooting style is more go with the flow, candid, and natural. I will give you directions on which way to look or where to place your hand, but that's about it. If it's a family session, I will tell you to talk to the other people as if I'm not there or to tell an inside joke, then I will capture that moment. I want to capture real emotions. Fake smiles come across clearly in pictures and that the last thing I want for your memories. If you’re looking for a traditional (posed)shoot, then let me know and I can make it happen.

Who picks the location for the session?

That is up to you. I'm happy to suggest locations within the Des Moines area (within 15 miles of downtown Des Moines). There are local parks that I love shooting at. I am willing to travel; however, there will be an additional charge. Please contact me if you have a location that is outside of the Des Moines area.

Do you offer indoor sessions?

While I typically hold sessions outdoors, I do have a studio for small family sessions, maternity, engagements, seniors, and professional headshots. If you're interested in an indoor session, please let me know during the booking process and we can discuss what is available based on what you're looking for.

How long before I receive my pictures?

For Family, Seniors, & Professional Headshots, I will have a sneak peek available within 48 hours after your session. Your gallery will be available for you to select what photos you want after 2 weeks. You will then have a week to select the number of photos you want based on the package you select. Please contact me if interested in purchasing additional images. All photos will be delivered via email for you to download within 2 days of receiving your selection.

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Does my package include prints?

You do have the option to order prints from your gallery through my website. They are done by a third-party lab and will be delivered directly to you. All portrait packages come with a print release allowing you to have the images printed through a lab of your choice. If you're in the Des Moines area, I recommend using Christian Photo for a fast turnaround (& so you can support a locally owned business). If you want to go with an online option, I recommend Mpix.com or Shurrterfly.com. I do not recommend using places such as Walgreens, CVS, or Walmart as their printer quality is not up to my standards and can negatively impact the quality of the images you receive.

If you have a question that is not answered here, please use the contact form and I will get back to you.