Serendipity: A fortunate occurrence created by unanticipated luck. The discovery of things unsought.
Okay, so you’re asking yourself, “What does this have to do with photography?” Simple. In the summer of 2006, I would have laughed if someone told me that a year later I’d be blessed in not only launching a business of my own, but also being commissioned by others to do something I love. I attribute it to that definition above — a fortunate occurrence (completely unsought) and unanticipated luck!
So, I’m passing on that fortunate occurrence in 2010 by way of ‘Serendipity Sessions’ …
What is a Serendipity Session?
Serendipity Sessions are held on pre-determined dates and locations, last for 30-45 minutes, and involve only one outfit. Online gallery within three weeks with approximately 15 images to choose from. Images are basic proofed (no extensive or artistic edits, only exposure and white balance adjustments). Perfect for those needing a quick turnaround. Gallery purchasing options include the Essential and Signature Lines (Premium & Luxe Desk & Wall Art Prints and Luxe Gallery Wrapped Canvases) — Luxe Boutique items are not available for purchase. Prints & canvases are fully edited prior to printer submission.
In summary: Serendipity Sessions are less customized than our full custom sessions, quicker turnaround, basic proofing for disc and galleries, and limited product line selection to choose from, lower investment.
Tell me more … includes the nonrefundable creative fee for your session and the behind the scenes editing/gallery launch of 15 images. No prints or products are included.
What is included?
The Lite version (option A)
The Luxe version (option B) allows you to upgrade and include the basic proofed digital negatives sized to print up to 5×7 along with any prints you choose to purchase. Also included is (1) Artist’s Choice 10×15 Luxe Wall Art Print and (1) Artist’s Choice 5×7 Mini Masterpiece.
Designed for … children (age 6 months and up; max 3 siblings), families (max 5 immediate family members), high school seniors & adult individual portraits, engagement/couples, maternity (no studio poses), business headshots, or to mark any important event you can think of (holidays, birthdays, graduations, starting school, opening a new business, and other major milestones not listed)!
These sessions are NOT designed for: newborns/infants under six months of age or maternity sessions involving studio styled posing/backdrops – these are customized sessions that require more than 30-45 minutes to complete.
Available dates for 2010 …
Currently, the following dates are set aside for Serendipity Sessions:
March 27 — Canton
April 18 — Athens
Do I pick the time slot I want on these dates?
No — time slots are assigned based on payment confirmation/contract receipt. Time slots will start at 8:30 am and be limited to a set number on that date. We start early to get the best lighting.
How much???
Option A: Serendipity Lite:
$100 nonrefundable retainer fee required to hold time slot (assigned in order of payment & contract receipt) + required minimum print order of $250. No option to upgrade to the Luxe version once the session commences.Option B: Serendipity Luxe:
$500 — $250 up front (includes $100 nonrefundable retainer fee required to hold time slot — assigned in order of payment & contract receipt) & $250 balance due no later than 3 business days prior to session date. Value of Luxe session & print/digital products: $760.
Do your special offers/seasonal specials apply to the Serendipity Sessions?
No — Special offers and seasonal specials are only for Off the Beaten Track full custom lifestyle sessions unless otherwise stated …
What if bad weather/rain results in canceling a Serendipity date?
I’ve plotted out a few ‘bad weather dates’ for the months most likely to result in rescheduling — should this become necessary, all clients booked for that date will be notified of rescheduling options. Please note that reschedule dates may be a different day of the week (Monday if a Federal Holiday I have off work or on the opposite weekend day of the original session date (Sunday instead of Saturday or vice versa).
What’s the difference between the basic proofed images offered with a Serendipity Session and the fully edited images offered with a regular session?
Here are a couple of examples:


Is it possible to have acne/blemishes edited on these?
Initially the plan was for these to be quick edits — so the galleries would launch faster (or the disc be in your hands sooner). However, after a few inquiries, I’ve decided to add in the option for minor acne/blemish editing for an additional $35 per session. For full artistic edits (including airbrushing of more than minor acne/blemishes), a full session would need to be booked.
Ready to book?
Contact me for availability — you’ll be sent both a contract as well as directions on paying the retainer fee.
The fine print: Page last updated 1.26.10. Session details and options subject to change without notice. Dates subject to rescheduling if illness (on the part of the photographer) or inclimate weather result. Due to the limited availability, reschedules by clients are only allowed in the event of illness or family emergency; all retainer fees are non-refundable. Once your session is confirmed you will receive the package listed as of your confirmation date.
