What Does a Session Fee Cover?
- Gayle Clearwater
- Feb 1
- 4 min read
"As a small business owner, I offer a highly personalised service where every session is approached with care, intention, and attention to detail".
And How “Pay As You Go” Products Work at Twisted Willow Studio
One of the most common questions I’m asked is: “What exactly does the session fee include?”
And just as importantly — “Do I have to buy a package, or can I choose what I want?”
So let’s break it down clearly and simply.
Your session fee includes:
Your portrait session• In-studio or on location (location sessions exclude mileage)• A relaxed, fully guided experience with posing and direction
Pre-session consultation• Session planning, styling guidance, and creative direction tailored to you
Use of the studio & amenities
• Professional studio lighting, props, and backdrops
• Extensive client wardrobe available
• Refreshments and light nibbles provided during your session
Image selection appointment• A dedicated viewing where you choose the images you love
Basic retouching and preparation• So your images are ready for you to view at your reveal
✨ The session fee is not a purchase of images — it is an investment in the experience, expertise, and creation of your portraits.
After Your Session – Choose What You Love (Pay As You Go)
Once your session is complete, you’re free to choose how you’d like to enjoy your images.
There is no minimum spend requirement on products or digital images. You only purchase what feels right for you.
This allows complete flexibility — whether you want one beautiful piece or a full collection.
Legacy Printed Products – A La Carte
Printed artwork is designed to be timeless — something you can see, touch, and pass down.
You can purchase printed products individually or as part of a package.
Available printed products include:
All printed products are produced using professional fine art materials and trusted suppliers to ensure longevity and quality.
📌 Please note: Printed products do not include the digital files or the session fee (unless you have chosen a package)
Flexible payment options
• Payment plans offered to help you invest in the products you love, at a pace that feels comfortable
Digital Images – Flexible Options
If digital images are important to you (and for many families, they are), you have several options for purchasing them.
Individual Digital Images
High-resolution
Personal print rights
Ideal if you only want a few favourites
Digital Collections
If you’d like more value and a cohesive set of images, digital collections are available:
Essential Collection
5 high-resolution digital images
Personal print rights
Secure online download
Signature Collection
15 high-resolution digital images
Personal print rights
Secure online gallery
Curated branded digital slideshow (streaming-only)
Complete Collection
Final edited images (up to 50)
Personal print rights
Secure online gallery
Curated branded digital slideshow
Additional digital files available if desired
📌 Please note: Digital collections do not include the session fee or printed products.
Flexible payment options
• Afterpay available
• Payment plans offered to help you invest in the products you love, at a pace that feels comfortable
Packages – Best Value for Print Lovers
For clients who love tangible artwork, studio packages combine your session, products, and savings into one beautifully curated option.
Packages include combinations of:
Your photo session
Professional hair & makeup (selected packages)
Albums, folio boxes, or premium products
Printing vouchers
Packages offer the best overall value while still providing you with a choice.
Payment Options & Flexibility
To make investing in your portraits easier:
Afterpay is available
Payment plans can be arranged
Products can be purchased at your viewing appointment
Why This Approach?
Every client invests in their portraits differently — and that choice should feel intentional, not forced.
Some clients select a single statement piece for their wall. Others build a refined collection of albums, digital, and legacy artwork to be enjoyed for generations.
By separating the session fee from image purchases, this approach allows you to:
Invest first in a professionally guided, boutique photography experience
Select artwork and digital images that truly reflect your priorities
Enjoy a considered, unrushed process — free from pressure or unnecessary upselling
Not Sure What’s Right for You?
That’s perfectly okay.
As a small business owner, I work closely with each client — offering clear guidance, honest recommendations, and flexible options — so you can confidently invest in portraits that suit your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Quality, transparency, and client experience are at the heart of everything I do.
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