Frequently Asked Questions

answered by Pearland photographer at Taryn Melgoza Photography

How long will the sessions last?

Newborn sessions typically last 2-3 hours while all other portrait sessions last 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the number of locations and the age of the child.

When do you schedule newborn sessions?

Anytime between 4 days to 3 weeks. As babies grow, they become more alert and less “squishy” which makes it difficult and sometimes not possible to capture the sleepy newborn positions that we are known for. Although we DO photograph older babies and the end result is still precious, the poses will look different.

What do I need to bring to my newborn session?

My studio is filled with props, teeny tiny baby hats, headbands, and other accessories that you have seen in my newborn images so you don't need to bring anything to your session at all. Most people just show up with their baby and let me take care of the styling details, but feel free to bring anything special that you would like to incorporate into your baby’s session.

When should I schedule my maternity session?

Maternity photos are best done between 30-35 weeks.

Do you offer a maternity wardrobe?

Yes, I have a large collection of maternity gowns available to my clients. Please contact me for more information.

Can I buy digital images?

Absolutely! These are the most popular items we offer. They are put on a USB with a print release agreement. Digital images can be reproduced as many times as you like. Share them on Facebook, post them on a blog, and use them for holiday cards or birth announcements. I recommend using www.mpix.com for your personal printing needs.

Do you offer mini-sessions?

I offer mini-sessions a few times each year on specific mini-session dates/events. I usually offer these events a few times each year which may include: Valentine’s Mini Sessions, Motherhood Mini Sessions, and Fall Family Mini Sessions. Dates are always announced on my social media accounts and newsletter and spaces are limited. Be sure to add yourself to the newsletter to stay informed on any upcoming mini-session events!

What is a reveal appointment?

This appointment is scheduled with Stacy about 2-3 weeks following your session date. You will get to see the slide show of your fully edited gallery of images and see samples of all of our printed products. Jenna will be able to guide you through the ordering process to help you choose the print products and digital images that fit your needs. Your order will be placed at this appointment and you will pay at this time.

What if I have an out-of-town family that wants to order?

If you have family that cannot attend the ordering appointment, then we can FaceTime or do a Zoom call at the ordering appointment or they can order from the USB images at a later date.

What is included in the Creative Fee?

This $350 Creative Fee is required to book your appointment on our calendar. It covers the pre-session preparations, the photographer’s time and talent, the use of any of our props or wardrobe options, editing of the images, and the in-person ordering appointment. It does not include any prints, products, or digital images. Those are all purchased at your reveal appointment.

Do you photograph births?

No, I have such a full portrait session calendar that there is no room for me to be on-call for births. I would love to be able to offer this sometime in the future!

Do you photograph weddings or birthday parties?

No, I only photograph portrait sessions at this time. However, I do love to photograph bridal portraits and engagement sessions!

When can I expect to see my photos?

I will post a Facebook + IG sneak peek a few days following your session. Feel free to share it or use it as your profile photo, just please do not crop the logo. The rest of your gallery will be ready for viewing at your in-person ordering appointment about 2-3 weeks following your session date.

How many photos will be included in my gallery?

I always guarantee a minimum of 25 unique images, but I usually edit and deliver waaaaaaay more than that because I have a hard time narrowing it down. On average, you will receive anywhere from 50-100 images in your final gallery.

How long does it take to get my print orders?

On average, all prints are ready for pick-up or delivery about 3-6 weeks after your ordering appointment. Digital images that are purchased are delivered within 48 hours in an online gallery that you can share with family and friends, and they will also be included on your USB when you receive your print products. Canvas gallery wraps, albums, and fine art prints take about 2-3 weeks to arrive. Custom framed prints can take up to 8 weeks and must be picked up in person as we are not able to ship those because of the glass.

What kind of camera do you use?

Canon R6

What lenses do you use?

35 f1.2, 50 f1.2, 100 f2.8 (macro lens), 70-200 f2.8 , 135 f2, 200 f2

How do you keep newborns asleep?

A warm studio, white noise, various soothing techniques, and a lot of experience working with babies!

What do you use for lighting?

Our Pearland studio has two large windows so I am able to use both natural light and an Alien Bee 400 for my studio light. Outdoors, I only use natural light.

Where do you get your props, headbands, hats, etc?

Most of my little newborn accessories are on Etsy or from my favorite newborn prop vendors. If you have a newborn session coming up and would like to pick out some of your own accessories, I am happy to send you some preferred vendors on Etsy. I get most of my props online, at antique stores, or in the hobby lobby.

Do you photograph extended families?

Yes, I do!

Did you go to school for photography?

No, I graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Industrial Distribution in 2006. I worked in the corporate world for 3 years before changing careers and becoming a math and science teacher. I taught 7 & 8 grade algebra and science for 4 years and then we welcomed our first baby in 2012. After he turned one, I decided to pursue photography full-time and started my business, although I had been learning and practicing photography for about 4 years prior to starting my business. I have taken numerous newborn posing workshops and photography classes to sharpen my photography skills and to ensure your baby is always safe during their session.

If you have additional questions, please contact me and I would be happy to answer!