What are your rates?

Headshot sessions start at $200, with options depending on how much time, variety, and retouching you’re looking for. You can view our full headshot pricing and package details here.

Event and production photography typically ranges from $150–$400+, depending on the length and scope of coverage. We’re also open to discussing special arrangements for select organizations and productions, including advertising trades.

Have something else in mind? Reach out and tell us about it! We’re happy to put together a quote based on what you need.

What’s included in a headshot session?

Every headshot session includes professionally edited images, multiple looks and backdrop options depending on your package, guidance throughout the shoot, and access to our private Berea studio.

You’ll also be able to see your photos on a larger screen as we shoot, so we can make adjustments together and make sure we’re getting exactly what you need.

How many photos will I receive?

We believe in giving you options! Most headshot sessions include a gallery of approximately 40–60 professionally edited images, depending on your package and session.

For events, productions, and other sessions, gallery size varies based on the length and nature of the shoot.

How are my photos edited? Will I still look like me?

Yes — you’ll still look like you!

Every delivered image is professionally edited for color, lighting, cropping, and overall polish. Headshot sessions also include retouched images, with different retouching options available depending on how natural or polished you’d like the final result to be.

Our goal isn’t to change the way you look. We want you to look like yourself on your best day.

What’s your turnaround time?

We aim to deliver most galleries within one week. Turnaround can vary depending on the type of shoot and time of year, but we’ll always let you know what to expect.

We know you’re excited to get your photos, so we work to get them back to you as quickly as we can without rushing the editing process. If you need a shot sooner due to an upcoming audition or other reason, just tell us! We can usually get you one right away!

Where is your studio?

Our private studio is located in Berea, Ohio, just minutes from Baldwin Wallace University.

The studio includes professional lighting, 37 backdrop options, a changing area, and live image previewing so you can see your photos throughout the session.

We’ve worked with clients from throughout Northeast Ohio and beyond, and you definitely don’t need to be a BW student to book with us!

What should I wear?

That depends on what you need your photos for, and we’ll help you figure it out!

For headshots, we generally recommend bringing several options so we can create different looks during your session. Solid colors often photograph beautifully, but there isn’t one set of rules that works for everyone.

Before your session, Sara can help with wardrobe, hair, makeup, and overall styling choices so you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.

Can you help me prepare for my session?

Absolutely. Once you’re booked, we’ll send you information to help you prepare, including clothing recommendations, studio or location details, and session tips.

Sara is also available to help with styling and wardrobe choices, while Tim handles scheduling, logistics, and the photography side of things.

By the time you arrive, you’ll know exactly what to expect.

I hate having my picture taken. Can you help?

Absolutely — and you are definitely not alone.

You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do in front of the camera before you arrive. We’ll guide you throughout the session, help with expressions and positioning, and keep things relaxed.

You’ll also be able to see your photos as we shoot, which makes it much easier to figure out what you love and make adjustments along the way.

Our goal is for the session to feel collaborative, comfortable, and actually fun.

Can I see my photos during the session?

Yes! Our studio offers live image previewing, which means you’ll be able to see your photos on a larger screen while we’re shooting.

We love this because it makes you part of the process. We can compare expressions, try different backdrops or wardrobe choices, fix little details, and make adjustments before moving on.

No waiting until your gallery arrives to wonder whether you got the shot.

Why should I book Tim & Sara Bates Photography?

We’re a husband-and-wife team, which means you’re getting two people focused on making sure you have a great experience.

Tim handles the photography and works with you on posing, expressions, and creating the right images for what you need. Sara keeps an eye on styling, wardrobe, hair, and all those little details that are easy to miss while you’re in front of the camera.

We also give you plenty of room to customize your session. With 37 backdrops, multiple looks, live image previewing, a large final gallery, and customizable retouching, your session isn’t built around forcing everyone through the exact same setup.

Most importantly, we want you to leave feeling like yourself — and excited about your photos.

How do I book?

Start by filling out the contact form on our website or sending us an email.

We’ll talk through what you’re looking for, answer any questions, find a date that works, and get your session on the calendar. Once you’re booked, we’ll send you everything you need to prepare.

When and how do I pay?

Payment is typically due at the conclusion of your session unless we’ve made other arrangements in advance.

We accept Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, Apple Pay, check, and cash.

Need to spread out the cost? We also offer payment plans that allow you to split your session into two or three payments. Just ask us when booking and we’ll help set it up.

Any applicable cancellation or rescheduling fees are covered in our booking policies.

How will I receive my photos?

Once your photos are ready, we’ll send you a link to a private online gallery where you can view, download, favorite, and share your images.

Your high-resolution digital files can be downloaded directly from the gallery, and you’ll also have the option to order professional prints.

Do you photograph events and theatre productions?

Yes! In addition to headshots, we photograph theatre productions, concerts, performances, events, and other live productions.

We’ve worked with performers and organizations throughout Northeast Ohio and beyond, and coverage can be customized based on the needs of your event or production.

Reach out with the date, location, and what you’re looking for, and we can talk through coverage and pricing.

Do you offer prints?

Yes! Professional prints and other photo products can be ordered directly through your online gallery.

You’ll always receive your included digital images regardless of whether you order prints, so there’s no pressure or requirement to purchase anything additional.