Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are you approved to work on the US Naval Academy campus?
A: Yes, we are a USNA BSD Approved Business Partner* and have a valid DoD ID to access the Yard. Very few portrait photographers have this access.
Q: Are you the photographer who helps sponsor Commissioning 101?
A: Sure am! And, it’s always a great event!
Q: I like your scenic portraits. Does the Academy provide this service?
A: No. The Academy contracts a large photography company for typical senior head shot type portraits on a painted background. (That portrait is also used in the Lucky Bag year book, although they will accept ours as well.)
Q: When do you schedule the sessions?
A: Sessions on the Yard are usually scheduled as soon as the trees green up and the spring flowers start to bloom. That’s usually in mid-April, and we often go into the first part of May, and then have the previews ready for you to view by Commissioning Week. Of course, we work around the weather, and around finals. (Your session fee includes reasonable reschedules due to weather or other valid reasons.) Some parents prefer that we do their Mid’s session in the fall, and we can certainly accommodate that as well. Sessions in the studio can be done at any time of the year.
Q: How will my son/daughter be contacted?
A: He/She will be texted or e-mailed with information on the right uniform to wear, and how to schedule for a convenient time. Because of your Mid’s busy schedule, we will give them a link so that they can book their session online 24/7.
Q: How much do these portraits cost?
A: The Session Fee for on “the Yard” appointments is $750, which is a savings from our regular rates.
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The Session Fee INCLUDES a flexible printed portrait collection, as well as a full-size digital image.
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The Session Fee also covers reasonable reschedules due to weather or because your Mid can’t make the original date.
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Other collections, wall portraits, albums, and digital images are available.
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In-studio sessions are only $650. We'll be happy to offer a 20% savings should you choose both the studio and Yard sessions.
Q: What if I want additional portraits?
A: We offer the very finest portrait finishes available anywhere. There is no minimum purchase after your initial session fee, and there is no sales pressure.
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Additional desk-size portraits start at just $125. Wall portraits start at just $285.
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Our standard Embassy Finish offers a durable textured surface with a protective coating that doesn't require glass. We also have a variety of canvas and other finishes available as well. Our portraits have an archival life expectancy of 100-300+ years, depending on the finish.
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Because there are often a variety of great poses, some parents also opt for our handcrafted Signature albums.
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Digital Images: Full-size digital images start at just $99, depending on how many you purchase.
Q: How will we view the portraits?
A: Your previews will be uploaded to a private online gallery. You will have 30 days to make your selections. In addition to the previews, the gallery will also give you a realistic view of various sizes so that you can make the right decisions. If you prefer, we can also schedule an in-person appointment in our studio for you to review and select your favorites.
Q: Can we schedule a family portrait on the grounds at the Academy?
A: YES. Although it’s a busy time for you (and us), we can accommodate a few families during Commissioning Week, or for another time you are in town.