FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I want your experience to feel seamless, refined, and effortless from start to finish. Below are answers to the most common questions I receive.
Booking & Payment
HOW DO I BOOK A SESSION?
To reserve your date, a signed contract and non-refundable retainer are required. Once both are completed, your session is officially secured on my calendar.
WHAT IS THE RETAINER AMOUNT?
Portrait & Proposal Sessions: 50% retainer at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 24 hours before your session.
Events, Elopements, Weddings: 30% retainer at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 2 weeks prior to your event date.
DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?
Yes. Custom payment plans are available upon request to make your investment more manageable.
All payments must be completed before gallery delivery.
Session Experience
WE’RE NERVOUS ABOUT POSING. WILL YOU GUIDE US?
Absolutely. My approach is natural and refined — I guide you through movement and subtle prompts so you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Nothing stiff or overly posed.
WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?
After booking, you’ll receive a detailed session guide with styling recommendations, color palettes, and tips to ensure your outfits photograph beautifully. But my rule of thumb is to wear whatever you feel the most beautiful and confident in. That’s how we’ll get the most genuine smiles out of you!
CAN WE REQUEST SPECIFIC SHOTS?
Of course. I welcome inspiration and must-have moments while also capturing the candid, in-between details that make your story unique.
Location & Travel
WHERE DO SESSIONS TAKE PLACE?
Sessions are held at carefully selected outdoor locations across Oʻahu — beaches, forest settings, scenic lookouts, and more. I’m happy to recommend locations that align with your vision.
DO YOU TRAVEL?
Yes. Travel outside of Oʻahu is available. Travel fees, airfare, and lodging accommodations must be covered for destination bookings.
After your session
WHEN WILL WE RECEIVE OUR PHOTOS?
Portrait and Proposal galleries are typically delivered within 1–2 weeks.
Events galleries are typically delivered within 3–4 weeks.
HOW WILL WE RECEIVE OUR GALLERY?
You’ll receive a private online gallery where you can download high-resolution images, share with loved ones, and order professional prints.
DO YOU OFFER PROFESSIONAL PRINTS OR ALBUMS?
Yes. Heirloom-quality prints and albums are available directly through your gallery.
professional standards
ARE YOU LICENSED AND INSURED?
Yes. Studio Dessy is a registered LLC in Hawaiʻi and fully licensed and insured. A certificate of insurance can be provided upon request.
HAVE A QUESTION NOT LISTED ABOVE?
I’m here to make this process effortless and transparent. Reach out anytime — I’d love to connect.
Email me at dessy@studiodessy.com
Ready to reserve your date? Inquire here.
WEather policy
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?
Hawaiʻi weather can shift quickly. If conditions are unsafe or heavily storming, we will reschedule at no additional cost. Your experience and safety are always prioritized.
