Thank you for choosing Summer Beam Photography! 

 

​Please read about your upcoming photography time and
find out about local activities for after your visit. ​

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What to expect: 

Enjoy the beautiful country atmosphere of wooded paths, fields, forests, and flower gardens. Nature creates the most beautiful backdrops that we could not replicate. We work continuously to make this a special place where you can create timeless photographs. 

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Rain or shine. Working outside has its challenges, so it is good to be prepared before your session. The photographer may call to discuss the session over the phone before you arrive. The weather may change throughout the day, but unless we have severe weather and the photographer calls you directly, plan on attending your session to be photographed. Some of the best photos are taken on overcast days. At times, a flash may be used to create the right lighting. If you have special considerations or concerns please let us know. 

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Bugs. Bugs are important to the garden and there may be several bugs or bees buzzing around, though they usually avoid people. When you are done please check yourself for ticks, bugs or other irritants. We offer blankets, benches and other props to help keep you off the ground, especially if it is damp outside. Please know that by booking the appointment you are accepting any risks that come with being in the outdoors. If you have allergies please let us know and come prepared. We work diligently to make the area as safe and welcoming as possible. 

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Changing scenery and lighting. As the seasons change, backdrops change. Certain flowers only bloom at certain times, trees change color for a few weeks in autumn, fresh snowfalls only last so long. Lighting can also change day to day. If there is a specific look you are interested in please let us know. We are working to update our homepage to inform clients about exciting times of year to have photos taken. 

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Restroom. Please note that there is no public bathroom onsite. We hope that you have fun and embrace the opportunity to create photographs that an indoor studio would not be able to replicate. Nature is beautiful and offers incredible opportunities for portrait photography. 

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What to wear: 

Wear what you are comfortable in, class it up a little since these are photos you will be enjoying for years to come.  

For individuals, a nice blouse or sweater will compliment a pair of jeans, slacks or a skirt depending on the weather. Light colors look good anytime of year. Consider colors that compliment your eyes or the scenery, and if you are unsure, feel free to bring more than one top.  

For small groups and families, choosing a color scheme of three or fewer colors will work well. Autumn colors or subdued colors look excellent in photos anytime of the year. Button up shirts, knit sweaters, or flowy dresses are all classy options. Avoid clothes that are tight, baggy, or have graphics/logos on them. Or you can also have each person wear the same color top if you choose. It is your preference. We find it is best to complement each other while allowing each person to express their personality, and the attire does not have to match exactly. 

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What you will get: 

The photos from your session are both yours and the photographers. We want you to enjoy your photos the way you want to and do whatever you need to with them. These photos will be yours to download and save so that you can post, share, print, etc.

Session options: 

20 minute session: The 20 minute session allows for at least three poses and will result in a minimum of 8 digital images including post processing. 

50 minute session: The 50 minute session allows for at least three poses and will result in a minimum of 12 digital images including post processing. 

Photos will be edited and shared electronically within 7 to 10 business days, we will get them to you as soon as possible. 

The photographer maintains rights to the photos for use on the website and in marketing of the business etc. If you are uncomfortable with your image being used in our marketing just let us know, we would not want to ask you to do anything that you are uncomfortable with. 

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Payment:

Please book your appointment online then pay with cash at the time of your appointment. Personal checks are accepted as well. If you forget payment, the photographer reserves the right to hold photographs until the session is paid in full. 

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Session times: 

The photographer will contact you for a brief phone consultation prior to the appointment at the number you provide in the booking form to give an overview of the session and provide location information. 

We are offering sessions that run 20 or 50 minutes: 

20 minute session: This time is usually enough time to photograph several poses but not so long that anyone starts to get antsy. We will explore a couple of the outdoor areas. This session is suitable for individuals, couples, or a group/family of up to 4 people. 

50 minute session: this time creates the opportunity for more poses in more areas of the yard resulting in more images. This can create a relaxing and fun experience for individuals, couples, or small families. This option is also suitable for larger families so we will have enough time to coordinate everyone for each photograph. 

If you have special considerations or any concerns, please message us. 

 

Location: 

We are located in central Massachusetts. Most photo sessions take place at our location in the town of Barre.

The photographer will call at the number you provide in the booking form to give an overview of the session and provide location address information. 

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Cancelations: 

The photographer reserves the right to cancel or reschedule in the event of emergency, weather, etc. Working outside can be challenging. Please assume your appointment is on as scheduled even if weather is questionable. We will work to communicate with you if we need to reschedule.

Cancelations can be made by calling or emailing through the contact form.

Please provide at least 48 hours notice.

No-shows may not be able to reschedule. 

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What to do after: 

After your session you may be up for some activity:
 

Flowers: We do not provide pick-your-own flowers, but there are local places for this: 
Lone Birch Blossoms – Hardwick, MA – Pick your own flowers, mid-summer to early autumn. 
Frog Hollow Farm Stand – Hubbardston, MA – offers pre-cut bouquets at a roadside farmstand mid-summer to early autumn. Across from Barre Falls Dam entrance. 
Farmers Markets throughout the summer on the town common in Petersham on Fridays, Barre on Saturdays, Hardwick on Sundays. (some towns offer winter markets as well). 

Walking: Enjoy short and long local walks at these outdoor family and pet friendly locations open year-round: 
Barre Falls Dam – Barre, MA – Offers views, fields, trails, wildlife viewing, disc golf and local history. 
Mandell Hill – Hardwick, MA – Hilltop site at an old farm, fields and trails. This is just up the road from the Lone Birch Blossoms pick your own flower farm. 
There are many local nature areas to enjoy. 
Geocaching sites can be found at many of the outdoor nature preserves.