Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our most Frequently Asked Questions at Lydia Leclair Photography. Visit our Harwich Port studio serving Cape Cod, MA and surrounding areas.
What is the best time of day for a portrait session?
Outdoor sessions are booked 1-2 hours before sunset. If there are newborns or little ones with an early bedtime, we can book even earlier than that. Morning sessions are also an option 1-2 hours after sunrise.
What is the best location or beach for our session?
There’s no single “best” location, it’s whichever one that feels right for you. Some families have a beach they have been visiting for decades, while others know they want something specific (a lighthouse, beach dunes, low tide etc.) I’m always happy to recommend a location based on the look you’re drawn to, the time of year, and how private or scenic you’d like the setting to feel.
How many people can be included?
Family sessions are designed to include everyone who is part of your gathering — grandparents, adult children, grandchildren, partners, and pets. Whether there are 3 of you, or 33, there is no additional charge. During our time together I’ll guide the flow so we capture both full group portraits and smaller family combinations.
What if there are family members with disabilities, or grandparents with limited walking mobility?
I am happy to accommodate any and all requests and modifications. I can recommend beaches that work with wheelchairs or do not have a long walk to the beach/ water. I am also happy to bring a couple stools or chairs (either for the actual pictures, or for grandparents to sit and rest during our time together).
What happens if it rains?
We can reschedule to a new date and time. If you are traveling to the Cape and only here for one week, we typically book your session at the beginning of your stay in case we need to move it a day due to unfavorable weather. I am unable to reserve specific rain dates as I photograph every evening in the summer, however I have always been able to make it work with multiple sessions per day (could be different than original time).
What do we wear?
I recommend coordinating (not matching) outfits, and also make sure the outfits and color scheme are what you want to see on your walls (or in an album)! Neutrals, beach tones, and earth tones are always lovely for a session on Cape Cod.
What if it's cloudy?
We are good to go! Overcast lighting is very beautiful and flattering. The only time we would need to reschedule is if it's raining or very windy.
How does retouching work?
Retouching depends on the collection you choose. All images receive professional, natural editing. Collections that include master retouching feature additional refinements such as removal of stray hairs, acne, sunburn, and tan lines, while still keeping skin and details realistic and true to you. The goal is polished, timeless images that are never overdone.
Can I include my pets in the portrait session?
Absolutely!! For beach sessions, dogs are not allowed on public breaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day. However, there are select beaches that allow dogs all year.
Get in touch.
For more information, as well as detailed pricing and availability, call 774-408-8818, email lydia@lydialeclairphotography.com, or submit the form below and I will be in touch as soon as possible.