Frequently asked questions

What is lifestyle photography?

Lifestyle photography is about capturing life authentically. It's about those real, unscripted moments that show genuine emotions and connections. Rather than traditional, posed photos, I create a relaxed environment where you can be yourselves, letting your unique story unfold naturally in front of the camera.

I'll guide you with some gentle directions and a few groovy moves, so you're never left standing around unsure of what to do. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and at ease, ensuring you never feel awkward. This way, the photos truly reflect who you are and the special bond you share.

What is a Lifestyle Home & Garden photography session?

I'm inspired by the gorgeous imagery in home and garden magazines and have a deep love for character homes and the dedication owners put into restoring them, including the beautiful garden spaces. There's nothing better than documenting the unique story behind a home and its passionate owners.

This session is longer than most because there's so much to capture. From the home's stunning architectural features and cozy furnishings to the intricate interior design details and those tiny, unique elements that make your home truly special. We can discuss the design elements of your home to get it photo-ready, or arrange for a designer to help if needed.

Our region is filled with beautiful homes just waiting to be celebrated for their charm and character.

How long do your lifestyle sessions take?

The length of your session depends on the one you choose. Mini sessions are 30 minutes, while Deluxe sessions give you a full hour. You'll receive a generous number of images that match the session time.

Engagement sessions are longer to allow for a wardrobe change or two if needed. But don’t worry, these aren’t just for the newly engaged—any couple wanting extra time for outfit changes is welcome to book this session too. The shortest sessions are typically school formal or mini sessions, which last about 30 minutes. 

What do we wear to a session?

Consider the location where you have chosen, the style of session you have in mind, the time of year and then dress accordingly.  For couples and families, I suggest picking complementary clothing colours and try to avoid patterns, prints and logos if possible. If you have a favourite outfit with a print design, ensure everyone else wears plain colours, otherwise, your photos will look busy and everyone will be drawn to the pattern. Not a good idea to stand out for the wrong reasons.

What should we bring along with us?

I love the addition of props so if you have anything you would like to incorporate into your photo session let me know so I can work with you. For family sessions where there are young children, I recommend bringing along their favourite toys so they feel more settled and have a distraction.  A photo session can be quite daunting for young children particularly if they are shy or tired and a healthy snack is always a winner.

I welcome as many props as possible for personal branding sessions particularly the tools of the trade you frequently use. Your session is to show what you ordinarily do throughout your working day.

Can we share our photos on social media?

Oh yes please by all means.  You have purchased your photographs and you are welcome to share to your heart’s content.  All I ask is that you respect my work and not add any filters or cropping as this is my artwork and also my reputation as a professional photographer.  I would love you to credit me too by adding @laurenebardsleyphotography

How do we view and download our images?

You will receive an email link to an online gallery where you will be able to access and download your images.

How long do you keep my images for?

I keep all images for two years. It is your responsibility to download your images from the online gallery as soon as possible and save onto a hard drive or USB to avoid disappointment when they are removed from the gallery.

What happens if you get sick or injured and you can’t attend the session?

It’s something I don’t plan on doing, but if that were to unfortunately occur, I will be in contact with you and we can find a solution to reschedule.  For a wedding/elopement or if it’s the only time all the family can get together because of distance, I will do my utmost to provide an alternative photographer who shares a similar style.  I will also hand over the paperwork so they know exactly what we have previously discussed. 

What if I need to reschedule?

Please contact me at the earliest opportunity you become aware that you no longer can commit to the booking date.  Things do happen and therefore we can do our best to reschedule to my next available date. If you decide to cancel, then you will forego 50% of your payment.

How many photos will I get?

Good question, but I can assure you there will be lots.  For an hour long portrait session you will receive around 40 digital images, school formals around 30 images, mini sessions around 20 images, engagement sessions around 80 images and elopements around 250 images.  The minimum images you will receive for a six hour wedding is approximately 400+ images. Personal branding photography sessions differ and the number of images will be discussed at time of booking.

How do I receive my photos?

You will receive an email link to your own personal online gallery. I recommend downloading onto a couple of different storage devices so you don’t lose them. When the gallery is due to expire, you will receive a reminder email.

How long do my images stay on the online gallery?

Wedding & Elopement images stay online for 6 months. All other images stay online for 3 months. I recommend downloading and saving as soon as you have access.

Do you instruct for posing? I feel awkward in front of a camera.

So do I!  As much as I love photographing as candidly as possible, you can’t read my mind nor can you imagine how the photo is going to turn out from my angle.  In this instance, I will offer some direction particularly when we first start shooting.

What happens if the weather turns ugly?

Not every day is picture-perfect, but each day is unique.  Don’t be turned off by an excessively cloudy day.  In fact, cloudy days are perfect for deflecting glare and preventing strong shadows giving you a softer look.  I recommend if your session is planned for outdoors, it is always a good idea to have a backup just in case.  If this isn’t the case and it’s a bucketing down kind of day, we can always reschedule to another date suitable for all parties.

Do you work with additional photographers?

Yes I do.  I have been fortunate enough to work with a couple of great photographers and if you would like an additional photographer at your wedding or elopement this can be arranged.  With an extra photographer there will be an additional charge.

Do you charge extra to travel?

Toowoomba region is a very photographic location and I prefer portrait sessions to be staged close by otherwise there may be an additional charge for travel for a session beyond the region.  For engagements, weddings and elopements there is no additional cost unless it incurs an overnight stay and this may be negotiated at time of booking.

Can we get the original images?

All your images come fully edited and therefore you will not receive original images.  You are procuring an artistic product and therefore no unedited images will be released.

How much editing do you do to the images?

I spend a lot of time and consideration when editing your photos making minor adjustments such as exposure and colour correction. I do not make any changes to appearances, such as the removal of permanent features e.g. moles, scars, nor do I alter body features. For minor skin conditions such as blemishes, bruises, rashes or minor scarring, I am happy to make adjustments upon your consent. If you do feel self conscious about your body image (as we all do) please discuss with me and I will work with you to feel as comfortable as possible and offer suggestions to capture your best side.

How long will it take to get my photos?

For portrait sessions, completion of editing your digital images will take up to four weeks and is subject to change in peak periods.  Weddings up to 12 weeks and Personal Branding photography turn around is much quicker, so you can get your images posted front and centre as soon as possible to attract your customers.

I am selling my home and want some wow factor images

I would love to take internal photographs of your home in readiness for selling. I have the gear and the eye for detail, all you have to do is prepare your home in a way that is appealing to a buyer. For inspiration, have a look through home magazines or if you don’t have the time, hire a stylist who can add props for the photo shoot. Please note, I currently don’t have a drone for aerial photography, but watch this space!

I own a small business or want to promote my side hustle or holiday accommodation

Personal Branding photography is my passion and you’ve come to the right place. Each personal branding story is unique and therefore you will have to get in touch for pricing. All fees are fully customisable to suit your offering, along with the time you need and the amount of images you require. Talk to me about how I can increase your brand’s visibility through creating a stunning image library unique to you. Headshots start at $150 with five edited digital images of your choosing.