I want to make this as easy as possible. These are some frequently asked questions. When you’re ready, let’s talk! 


 

Photo Sessions Q&A

BOUDOIR | MATERNITY | NEWBORN | FAMILY 

Fine Art Prints Q&A

PAPER PRINTS | METAL PRINTS | CANVAS PRINTS | SHIPPING | REFUND/RETURN POLICY

 

Photo Sessions

GENERAL QUESTIONS

 

What Does Will happen During The Session?

Nothing besides fun! 

Part of my job is to help you feel comfortable in your skin and in front of my camera. The truly beautiful photos are those where you’re simply being yourself. I will help you to create genuine emotions and even guide you to your hidden personality. 

I appreciate authentic, genuine images that are not forced. Of course, I'll grab those few lightly posed shots helping you get into place and then encourage interaction and real expressions from there: but often, I'll keep shooting and get the best shots without anyone looking at the camera.  

I Don’t Like “X” About Me. Can We Shoot Around It? 

Let me know before our session date which things you may want me to highlight or avoid photographing. Please, be aware that certain things are out of my control - like the weather, darkness/lighting outside, your confidence, your hairstyle/clothing choice, etc… But I will do pretty much anything to make you feel comfortable. 

Where will the session take place? 

Your session will take place at a location of your choice. The best way to figure out where you want your pictures is to ask yourself what type of person or family you are! Are you homebodies or spend a lot of time outdoors? Do you like city life? Gardens? Or rolling hills?  I can photograph you in a place that is very meaningful to you!

May We Do The Session In Our Home?

I love in-home sessions! If it’s home to your family, that’s all I need to work with. And PLEASE don’t worry about the mess - anything disturbed me. If needed, I’ll help you move furniture/clutter around as we go. 

Can We Photograph Our Pets In Our Home?

If we are shooting an in-home lifestyle session for your family, incorporating your pets is always a bonus, and purely dependent on their cooperation. Some pets are into it, and others get shy, so we would take our time to see if we can include them as much as you within your photos.

What Happens In The Case Of Inclement Weather?

There is no fee for rescheduling because of the weather. I will keep in contact with you before the session to confirm our appointment time and location. I have had clients keep their appointments no matter the overcast skies and the images turned out amazing - just a different mood and background. Some locations can have a very positive effect on images during stormy, overcast conditions. Of course, if those dramatic conditions are no-go for you, we'll find another date.

What Should I/We Wear?

To ensure you and/or your loved ones look their finest on picture day, your session booking fee includes a face-to-face consultation with me. Just remember to be you and to be comfortable! If you already have something unique in mind, we can discuss it over the phone or through email anytime. 

However, here are a few tips:

  • Let your personality shine! 

  • Know the location! Please do not wear bright green when we're shooting at the park. 

  • White is not the only neutral! Tans and creams. Men wearing a light blue oxford and a woman in a blush dress are still neutral. You can try spicing up your neutrals with other textures, patterns, and accessories.

  • Beach can be tricky! Bring back-up clothes for you (your children), if you intend to shoot near the water. Layers are always appreciated at the beach because they can be colder and windy.

Should I Tan Before My Session? 

While spray tanning or fake baking prior to your session may bring confidence, please keep in mind that this enhancement may actually be holding me back. Modern technology gives professionals great tools such as filters, digital airbrushing, and skin softening processes, which make skin tones look their absolute best. That being said, tanning of any sorts in excess may make you appear very orange in your photos. Moderation is definitely the ticket! Be confident in my photoshop skills as they are a much better enhancement choice!

Will We Have An Option To Use Props? 

Yes, small props are used during some of my sessions. I encourage my clients to bring props from home so that their images can be more personal, especially with little ones. Personal items from home may make them more comfortable to photograph.

How To Prepare For The Session?

First, prepare to arrive at the location 10-15 minutes or so early. I understand that sometimes we're all running a little late due to traffic or another unexpected incident, but please, try your best! It's also a great time for us to take care of the paperwork and check out if all the planned ideas are lined up.

Secondly, make sure everyone is well-fed. A full belly puts everyone in a better mood and means we won’t have to cut our session short to get home to eat. If you have little ones I encourage you to bring a snack your child enjoys to keep them from getting hungry (Cheerios are a favorite at my house!). And don’t forget something to drink as well! 

When Can I/We Expect To See Our Photos From Our Session?

Post-production for an individual session is usually completed 4-6 weeks after the date of the soot; couple/engagement/family sessions are completed in 6-8 weeks. If you require the images to be completed before 4-6weeks after the date of the shoot, a rush process fee will be charged.

What Size Can I/We Print Our Photos Up To With Our Full Resolution Image Download?

In most cases, you can print your photos up to 12x18 inches without any quality loss.

There are 2 types of folders with 12x18 inches photographs, 300ppi:

  • EDITED 

  • RETOUCHED 

You can not print out the WEB subfolder which means all the photographs are 1500px long side, 72ppi

What’s The Difference Between EDITED And RETOUCHED?

Edited images are cropped, straightened, and adjusted for exposure, temperature, white balance, contrast. Improved with simple effects that make them my own artistic style.

Retouched images typically require more time spent which includes sharpening, removing blemishes, brightening teeth, smoothing skin, removing distractions in the background, and adding effects and filters that make them my own artistic style.

Do You Give Out Raw (Unedited) Files? 

 
 

BOUDOIR


First and foremost, I want you to look sensual, sexy, and CLASSY. I'm not a photographer for Playboy or Penthouse and I don't shoot erotica - my focus is more on showing people how beautiful and sexy they are than on the actual act of sex. If you are looking for an erotica session, that is fine, but I am not the right photographer for you. I do not photograph real or implied masturbation, penetration, or erections.

I use shadow and light to shape an image and make the viewer want to see more, or what might be in the next frame. BUT it doesn't mean we won't dip our toes into more risquè poses.

We will go over your level of nudity in our many consultations. However, clients often feel bolder in a session and you might ask to try a topless shot or a "pleasure pose." I will never pressure you into doing something you don't want to do, and I'll always keep those lines of communication open. Keep in mind, that your images will always remain private until you sign a release.

Will The Boudoir Shoot Be Private?

YES, your boudoir photoshoot is completely private – your comfort is my priority.  I get this question a lot. I know that when you take off your clothes (ANYWHERE!) you'd want to know who might be in attendance. It’s going to be just me and you. Since I want to deliver the best images for you, I know that having someone (even a friend) hovering over my shoulder, is almost always a distraction for you. It makes it hard for you to relax, be your sexy self, and ultimately let go and have the most fun. 

I Am Not Sure I Want To Share My Images. Do I Have To Share My Images? 

NO, I do not require clients to share their images. I deeply care about my client's privacy and want to ensure your privacy concerns are addressed immediately if there are any. I understand that these images are intimate and you may not be completely comfortable with pictures of yourself online. ANY and EVERY picture I share I have that client's permission. You can decide what images you allow me to share if any at all.

Do You Have The Right To Post My Photos?

When you come to me, our entire professional relationship is based on trust. When you sign a contract with me to book a session, you're not signing a document that says I can share your images. After the shoot, I will present you with a separate document called a "Permission Slip." This puts you in the driver's seat as far as your images go. You can choose to share your images, share them anonymously, cropping the face out, or not share them at all. No pressure is ever placed on you to do that. I've also been asked on occasion to sign a non-disclosure agreement, and once I review the terms of the agreement, I'd be happy to sign one.

I'm A Plus-Sized And I'm Not Sure If Boudoir Is For Me?

A boudoir experience is all about empowerment, rediscovery, and embracing who you are. I believe all bodies are beautiful! No matter your age, shape, or size, boudoir is for EveryBody! I will make sure to capture that sexy, confident person you are, and give you an experience you will never forget. Get ready to feel empowered. Your curves and folds shouldn't prevent you from this empowering and uplifting experience. It DEMANDS that you walk towards it and face your fears. In fact, my favorite part of your boudoir experience is tearing those fears up and lighting them on fire when you see your final images. I don't want you to be happy. I want you to be blown away.

Do You Photograph Couples? 

Yes. This type of session includes lovers in an intimate setting while I will document things such as a kiss, caress, and an embrace. These sessions are always fun, never intimidating, uncomfortable or obscene. The idea is to leave much to the imagination but to capture a special moment with your loved one.

How Do I Prepare For The Session As Far As My Skin, Hair, Nails, And Skin (is the Brazilian Wax necessary)?

I always tell clients that good skin starts with good hydration. So in the weeks before your session, you want to be hitting drinking water hard. At the time of your session, I want to have your hair clean and styled, and fresh makeup on. Last night's mascara that's become today's smokey eye isn't ideal. Plus, you'll want to get your beauty sleep, since you'll be needing ALL your energy for posing in the shoot. It's a little harder (and more fun!) than it looks, so you'll need your z's. If you need a touch-up with your roots or highlights you'll want to plan accordingly, and a trip to the nail salon for a mani-pedi with a neutral color is ideal. As for the big question about waxing. That's completely up to you. I have clients who shave or go full Brazilian with their naughty bits. It's your choice. Just make sure that with waxing, you give some time for skin to recover, especially facial waxing so that you don't have any redness on shoot day. That all being said, typically some of those areas are in soft focus and I'm an EXPERT at Photoshop and I can take care of all the typical bumps.

What Should I Wear? How Many Outfits Can I Bring?

Once you've completed the booking process with me, we will have a face-to-face consultation about your session, including what to wear. Meantime, think about the “vibe” you want. Do you like a more sultry and seductive style? Sweet and innocent? If you are doing a session as a gift, is there a particular way you would like to be featured for your partner? Have fun shopping and assembling a line-up of outfits that highlight your personality, compliment your features, and make you feel sexy and confident. Most clients choose some form of lingerie. A bra and panty set, bodysuit, robe, stockings, a t-shirt with underwear, or nothing at all – whatever you choose, it will look amazing. In an hour or so photo session, you will typically have time up to 4 looks or outfits. Make sure you have shoes, jewelry, thigh highs, and any sentimental items you’d like to include like a hat, helmet, veil, etc. Don't stress too much about wardrobe. I could spend an entire session shooting a client in just their “birthday suit”. 

Still, need help? Check out my inspiration and shopping board. What Do I Bring?

Do You Provide The Outfits?

I strongly suggest bringing your own lingerie because I want to be sure you’ve picked items that fit you perfectly and that you love. Select outfits that match your body type and suit your session goals. 

Or you can take advantage of my Client Wardrobe! 

I have a closet that is constantly being updated with beautiful pieces for you to use for your session! In addition to outfits, I have gorgeous shoes, jewelry, and accessories available.

**All items are properly sanitized and washed before and after being tried on. I do REQUIRE clients to wear their underwear under ANY items they borrow from the Client Wardrobe!**

Is Lingerie Required For The Shoot?

Not at all! I encourage you to think outside the box! Do you want to eat a giant slice of chocolate cake, in flannel pajamas, sitting on a couch, because it makes you feel sexy? Then guess what we’re gonna shoot?

How Much Do You Edit/Retouch?

I do some retouching, including removing temporary blemishes and skin smoothing. But I do not believe in changing your natural body shape with editing. I make sure to pose you flatteringly during your session so that you look your best. If you are concerned with things like cellulite, scars, or stretch marks, please let me know ahead of time if you would like me to lighten or remove them. I think they are all natural and beautiful, but I do understand if you don't want them in your images.

When Do You Suggest I Book My Boudoir Photo Session? 

My first question would be "Do you have a particular date you want to have your products by?" 

If the answer is "YES" then I recommend selecting a date that is at least 8-12 weeks away from that date. So you will have time to print your album or other gifts in hand.


Paper Prints

What Type Of Photographic Paper Do You Use? 

Exclusively on Kodak ENDURA Premier Paper, which is the highest quality photo paper available on the market. Its archiving ability exceeds one hundred years. All Kodak ENDURA Premier Paper is acid-free.

The LUSTRE photo paper is most closely related to a matte finish but, has a textured appearance and a very slight sheen to it. It makes skin tones appear very flattering. This paper type is the standard paper type in professional printing. 

The METALLIC photo paper finish has unique properties. It is a high-gloss photo paper that provides a three-dimensional feel to your images as it has metallic properties within the emulsion. This paper type displays strong bright colors, and bold, rich blacks for better contrast. This paper type looks great for outdoor, wildlife, and black-and-white images.

The GLOSSY photo paper finish has the traditional glossy look—with bright, bold colors that last.

What is mounting?

Mounting is a substrate/material which your print is adhered to for support, hanging, and framing. There are some options available at this moment:  black Styrene, Single-Weight Matboard and Double-Weight Matboard:  

  • STYRENE is a 2 mm thick plastic composite which is only available in black. Styrene is extremely resistant to warping due to its rigid nature. Hanging hardware is not included.

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  • SINGLE-WEIGHT MATBOARD is a cardboard material bonded together to create a 14-ply board (1/16" inch thick). Single weight matboard is extremely lightweight but I do recommend framing matboard mounted prints. Single Weight Matboard is only available in white. Hanging hardware is not included.

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  • DOUBLE-WEIGHT MATBOARD is a cardboard material bonded together to create a 28-ply board (1/8" inch thick). Double weight matboard is extremely lightweight, durable with minimal bending but I do recommend framing matboard mounted prints. Double-Weight Matboard is only available in white. Hanging hardware is not included.

Why is mounting suggested for prints I want to frame?

Over time, un-mounted prints can collapse on themselves in the frame due to the weight of the print itself. Giving a support back-bone such as mounting will prevent this and extend the prints lifespan. 

Can I have a print mounted on a larger size mounting material (e.g. 8x12 print on 10x15 mounting)?

No, the mounting material and print will always be the same size.

Are the mounting materials acid-free?

They are not acid-free or archival.

What Is The Difference Between Metallic Prints and Metal Prints?

Metal Prints are created by infusing an image onto raw aluminum using a dye sublimation process. They are 2 mm thick and are finished with a protective white gloss. Metallic Prints are images printed on the Kodak Professional Endura Premier Metallic photo paper. The metallic photo paper has a high gloss finish and is created using a chemical printing process called Digital Chromogenic Printing or C-Print for short.



Metal Prints

WHAT’S a metal print?

Metal Prints are a newer type of wall decor rapidly gaining popularity! Metal Prints are considered to be the most vibrant of all print media, they also come in one standard finish which is glossy.

The metal printing process ensures the image(s) will have sharp, crisp contours created by infusing the image onto a 2 mm thick raw aluminum sheet using a printing process called Dye Sublimation.

What Is The Basic Hanging Hardware For Standard Metal Prints?

The hanging hardware that is available for the Standard Metal Prints is determined by the size of the Metal Print you are ordering.

  • METAL EASELS are small aluminum easels that are intended for small prints. This hardware allows the print to be set on a table or shelf. The Metal Easel is available for these following sizes: 4x6 and 8x12. This hardware is shipped along with your metal print, unattached.

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How to Use: You will remove the protective layer on the adhesive. Then, you will bend the bottom portion of the easel out to create the 'stand'. Lastly, you simply press the easel onto the backside of your Metal Print as shown in the image.

PLEASE NOTE: The metal easels are not meant to be used to hang your metal print on a wall.  They will not support the weight of the print. If used as a wall hanger, you do risk the chance of the metal print falling and getting damaged. I will not be responsible for any replacements.

  • BLACK SHADOW MOUNTS are a square mounting option intended for the small to medium sized metal prints. The mount is made from wood and is black in color. The Black Shadow Mount is available for these following sizes: 8x12 and 12x18. This hardware is shipped along with your metal print, unattached. The black shadow mount also allows space between the wall and the print and results in a “floating” effect. 

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How to Use: You will first remove the protective layer from the adhesive on the mount. Then, you will want to adhere the mount to the back of your metal print and press firmly down as shown in the image below. Then, simply place a nail into your wall and slide the print over to lock it in place. (Nails are not included)

  • FLOAT MOUNT HANGERS are aluminum rectangles intended for the  larger sized metal prints. The Float Mount Hanger is available for these following sizes:  12x18, 16x24, 20x30 and 24x36. This hanger is adhered to the backside of your metal print in the house. The float mount hanger also allows space between the wall and the print and results in a “floating” effect. To hang your metal print up with the float mount hanger, all you need to do is add a nail to the wall! (Nails are not included)

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What’s A Metal Print Standoffs?

Metal Print Standoffs are the metal prints that come with stainless steel posts which are placed at each corner of the metal print. The stainless steel posts are ⅝" in diameter and provide a 1" standoff from the wall. 

All Metal Print Standoff orders are shipped with the following hardware:

  • 4 posts per Metal Print

  • A paper hanging template per Metal Print

  • Drywall anchors and screws

Metal Print Standoffs are available for these following sizes:  8x12, 12x18, 16x24, 20x30, and 24x36.

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Are Custom Sizes Available For Metal Prints?

No. Metal Prints are pre-cut in set sizes. Due to the durable aluminum material, there is no ability to trim or cut them to allow custom size prints.

Can Metal Prints Be Cleaned?

Yes. Metal Prints can be cleaned with a dust cloth or with glass cleaner and a clean rag.

 

Can Metal Prints Be Kept Outside?

Yes, however exposure to the elements and weather conditions will shorten the lifespan of the metal print.

What Hanging Hardware Is Complementary To Each Other?

If you are ordering a mix of small/medium format and large format metal prints I advise ordering the Black Shadow Mount and the Float Mount Hanger to compliment each other. They both provide a parallel half-inch standoff from the wall.

Are Metal Prints Or Metal Print Standoffs Magnetic?

No they are not magnetic. 


Canvas Prints

What’s A Canvas Print?

A canvas print, not to be confused with a canvas painting, is an image printed on museum grade cotton canvas. Then, it goes through a lamination process to add a protective gloss providing added longevity. Each piece arrives to you ready to hang with a sleek, black backing, protective wall bumpers, and a pre-installed sawtooth hanger or wire hanger. 

When choosing your Canvas Prints, you can select to have the image wrap around the edge of all four sides. During this process, the canvas is wrapped around the stretcher bars and secured to the frame. Or, you can choose to add a white or black border to all four sides of the canvas so the image prints the front face only.

The type of hanger your Canvas Print will have is dependent on the size being ordered. PLEASE NOTE: you cannot choose the type of hanger you would like for your Canvas Print.

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The 8x12" Canvas Prints will receive the small sawtooth hanger. The 12x18" and 16x24" Canvas Prints will receive the large sawtooth hanger. 



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The 20x30" and 24x36" Canvas Prints will receive the wire hanger.

How can I clean my Canvas Print?

You can wipe down your Canvas Print using a damp cloth or duster!

Can you print custom sizes?

Unfortunately, no. 

Do you offer custom depths?

Unfortunately, no. The 0.75" or the 1.5" depth Canvas Print only.

Can I choose to not have the laminate?

No, the lamination is part of the canvas production process.


Shipping

How long does it take to get my order?

Processing time or 'In-lab time' refers to the time it takes your order to make it through lab.Please make sure to note, the processing time of your order is SEPARATE from the SHIPPING TIME of your order. 

The time from when you submit the order to when it is delivered to your doorstep, you do want to factor the processing time PLUS the shipping time. 

Product creation times vary, however, print orders will generally be completed within 1-2 weeks after the product order is submitted.

Example:

  • Prints: 3 business days In-lab time + 2-3 business days shipping to Midwest

  • Canvas Prints: 5 business days In-lab time + 3-5 business days shipping to West Coast 

  • Metal Prints: 3 business days In-lab time + 5-7 business days shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada


Do you offer international shipping or shipping to non-contiguous states?

Yes, I do! All orders shipping outside of the United States are shipped via USPS Priority/International delivery services only. Expedited shipping is not available to destinations located outside of the contiguous United States.

If you would like to ship an order outside of the United States and would like an estimated shipping quote, please contact me with information on the contents of your order and the physical shipping address. You can submit this information via ticket.. Once submitted, I will contact you with a shipping quote as soon as possible :)

PLEASE NOTE: The size and weight of the package will factor into the cost of the estimate. The final shipping cost can vary plus or minus a few dollars depending on the final weight. Please note that I cannot guarantee delivery dates for international orders due to factors like customs clearance


Refund /Return

Photo Sessions. 

I take your investment seriously, and I’d appreciate it if you took my investment of time and resources into your success seriously too. In the case of camera failure, inclement weather, or any other unforeseen incident that prevents me from shooting on a scheduled date the client will get a full refund of their deposit if applicable. No refund will be given under any circumstances if you fail to attend the activity on the day and at the time listed when the booking was made.

Due to the nature of digital photography and the fact that photographs, once sent via GoogleDrive, cannot be returned.

PHOTO-PRINTABLE ITEMS. 

Once a transaction has been completed (i.e., the buyer selected and paid for any sort of printable goods and then Ksu Koystinen sent the buyer the item) it is then considered non-refundable. If a buyer has selected and purchased an incorrect item, he/she must notify Ksu Koystinen, before receiving the "Incorrect" item. Refunds will NOT be given due to "not liking a photo", selecting an incorrect photo after the buyer has already received the photograph or any other reason. If a mistaken photo IS sent to the buyer, as documented on the invoice, Ksu Koystinen will send the correct photo to the buyer free of charge.

Due to the nature of the products provided, refunds will not be given unless otherwise specified and reported within 48 hours (2 business days) from the date It was received: 

  • DAMAGED ITEMS: In the unfortunate event, if you received a package/item that was damaged you can submit a contact form. Please attach a photo of the damaged item(s) and shipping container.

If the shipping container was not damaged, please include this information and enclose images of the damaged contents. Once you submit a contact form, I will reach out to you as soon as possible to assist in this matter!

  • RECEIVED PACKAGE WITH MISSING ITEMS: In the event, if an incomplete order is received, you can fill the contact form. Please be sure to include the order ID and the specific item which was missing from your order. Orders which contain products with varying production times will ship separately. For example, if you order photo prints and canvas, the prints will finish first and ship out then, the canvas will arrive separately afterward.

  • RECEIVED SOMEONE ELSE'S ORDER: Unfortunately, while extremely rare, this could happen through human error. Please enclose any identifying information I may be able to use for follow-up through the contact form


 

If you require any more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact me by email at ksukoystinen@gmail.com or via Contact form.