ITHACA, NY | ALL SESSION TYPES


Investment & Sessions


Here at Cardinal Creek Portrait Co., I believe in transparent, straightforward pricing with no hidden fees or confusing package structures. All session types are offered at the same base pricing, allowing you to simply choose the experience that best fits your vision, needs, and desired level of coverage. Whether you are looking for the Full Experience Premium Package, the Classic Package, or the Essential Package, each option is thoughtfully designed to provide a meaningful and personalized experience. I am so excited for the opportunity to work with you and help document this special season of your life.

 

Session Offerings

 

GRADUATION

MILESTONES

SENIOR

FAMILY

ENGAGEMENT & COUPLES

PROFESSIONAL & BRANDING

MATERNITY

LIFESTYLE

Engagement session

Full Experience

Premium

Every Chapter

$750

 

This session is ideal for those who want the most complete and flexible experience, resulting in a gallery with greater variety, depth, and storytelling. With additional time and flexibility, we're able to move through multiple locations, incorporate outfit changes, and create a gallery that feels cohesive, natural, and reflective of this season of your life.


Nothing about this session is rushed. We have the space to settle in, explore, and create with intention so your images feel genuine, not forced. I guide you through the entire process while giving us the flexibility to refine, adjust, and capture moments as they naturally unfold — so you can feel comfortable, confident, and fully present while we create something meaningful and true to you.


What's Included:


  • Extended session (60–90 min)
  • 2–3 locations
  • Travel within 15 min built in
  • 2–4 outfit changes
  • Full gallery
  • 15 min on-site image preview
  • Pre-session planning consultation
  • Priority editing (10-day turnaround)


Exclusive Perks:


  • 1-year gallery access
  • 5 complimentary prints
  • Priority future booking
  • First access to seasonal minis
  • Flexible scheduling options


 

Portrait model
*Most popular*

Classic

This Chapter

$500

 

This is where most clients find their sweet spot. You'll have enough time to settle in, get comfortable, and walk away with a strong, well-rounded gallery without feeling rushed.


What's included:


  • 30–45 min session
  • Multiple locations welcome (travel during session time)
  • 1–2 outfit changes
  • Full gallery
  • Styling assistance
  • Online gallery (90 days)
  • Digital download



 

Ithaca College graduation

Essential

This Chapter

$375

 

Sometimes you just need a handful of beautiful, intentional photos — and that's exactly what this session is designed for. Simple, focused, and intentionally efficient.


This session moves quickly, with more direct guidance to make the most of our time, ensuring you walk away with a small set of strong, intentional images.


What's included:


  • 15–20 min session
  • One location
  • 10–15 edited photos (photographer selects finals)
  • Online gallery (30 days)
  • Digital download

 

FAQ

Can we customize a package?

Absolutely! If you do not see exactly what you are looking for, please do not hesitate to reach out. I understand that every session, vision, and need is different, and I am always happy to discuss customization options whenever possible. My goal is to create an experience that feels thoughtful, accessible, and tailored to you. I would love to hear your ideas and see how we can bring your vision to life together.

How far in advance should we book?

I recommend reaching out as early as possible to ensure the best availability, especially during busy seasons such as graduation season and fall. While I occasionally have last minute openings, booking in advance allows us the most flexibility when selecting a date, planning your session, and bringing your vision to life without feeling rushed. If you are hoping for a specific timeframe, location, or seasonal look, earlier is always best!

How long does it take to get our photos?

My current quoted turnaround time is 4–6 weeks. I know this is an incredibly exciting season, and I understand how eager you will be to receive your images! That said, I never want to rush the editing and delivery process. Each gallery is carefully reviewed and thoughtfully edited to ensure your final images feel polished, cohesive, and true to your story. I will always do my best to return your gallery as quickly as possible while still giving your images the time and attention they deserve.

Do you offer albums or prints?

The Premium Package includes 5 complimentary professional prints to help you bring your images to life beyond the screen. Your photographs deserve to be preserved, displayed, and enjoyed for years to come, and these included prints are a beautiful way to begin doing just that.

Do you offer sneak peeks?

As a general rule, I typically do not offer sneak peeks. I truly value taking the time to carefully review and thoughtfully edit each gallery rather than rushing portions of the process.

With that being said, I completely understand that certain sessions, such as maternity photos, graduations, engagements, or pregnancy announcements, may involve time sensitive milestones or announcements. If you know your session falls into that category, please let me know as early as possible. We can discuss your timeline and see what may be possible. While sneak peeks are never guaranteed and are always dependent on current workload and turnaround volume, I will absolutely do my best to accommodate whenever I can.

How much posing is involved?

Truthfully, every session is different because every person is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question!

My goal is always for your session to feel natural, comfortable, and genuine rather than overly posed or stiff. Some sessions flow effortlessly with candid movement and interaction, while others may need a little more guidance and direction, and that’s completely okay.

If you’re someone who feels confident in front of the camera and naturally falls into movement and connection, I’ll likely take a more documentary-style approach and let those moments unfold naturally. If you’re unsure what to do with your hands or nervous about being photographed, don’t worry at all. I’m always happy to step in with prompts, movement suggestions, posing guidance, and direction throughout the session.

And if you have a specific pose, vibe, or “dream shot” you’ve been hoping to recreate, I am absolutely open to incorporating that into your session as well.

At the end of the day, these sessions are about you. I’m just the girl behind the camera helping tell your story.

Where will my session take place?

At this time, I do not have a studio space. Sessions will typically take place outdoors at a thoughtfully selected location or in your home if you prefer a more personal, intimate setting. I am always happy to discuss location ideas and help choose a setting that best fits your vision, comfort level, and the overall feel you are hoping to capture.

Are pets welcome?

Absolutely, pets are welcome! I know that for many people, pets are family, and I am always happy to include them in your session whenever possible.

That said, I do ask that pets attending sessions are comfortable around new people, reasonably well behaved, and able to safely handle the session environment. Sessions can sometimes involve unfamiliar locations, other people, distractions, and equipment, which may be stressful for pets that are highly anxious, reactive, or fearful around strangers. My priority is always creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, including your pet.

If you are unsure whether your pet would be a good fit for the session environment, please feel free to reach out ahead of time and we can discuss the best option together. Additionally, clients are responsible for confirming that their selected session location is pet friendly and complies with any local leash or park regulations.

How are payments structured?

A 25% non-refundable retainer is required at the time of booking in order to officially reserve your session date on my calendar. The remaining balance is due on or before the date of your session.

Please keep in mind that your session date is not considered secured until the retainer and signed contract have been received.

Can extended family or additional people join the session?

Absolutely! Small additions, such as parents, siblings, partners, or close family members, are typically welcome depending on the session type and timing.

If you are hoping to include a larger group or extended family members, please reach out ahead of time so we can discuss the details. Session pricing and timing may need to be adjusted depending on the number of individuals participating and the overall vision for the session. My goal is always to ensure we have enough time and space to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Do you offer group graduation sessions?

Yes! I absolutely offer graduation sessions for friends, roommates, couples, and small groups. Group sessions can be such a fun way to celebrate this season together and capture the relationships that made your college experience meaningful.

Because group sessions require additional time, posing, coordination, and image delivery considerations, pricing for these sessions is customized based on the size of the group and the overall vision for the session. If you are interested in booking a group graduation session, please reach out and I would be happy to discuss options and create a package that best fits your needs.

Do you travel?

Yes! Travel within 20 miles of Ithaca, NY is included with your session. If your desired location is outside of that range, please feel free to reach out so we can discuss the details, available options, and any potential travel fees. I am always happy to explore meaningful locations whenever possible!

What time of day do sessions take place?

Most sessions take place during the hour leading up to sunset, often referred to as “golden hour.” This time of day typically provides the softest light, the most flattering tones, and the warm, timeless feel. The exact session time will vary depending on the season and sunset time throughout the year.

That said, I understand that sunset sessions may not always work for every schedule or lifestyle. While I do strongly recommend them whenever possible for the best overall lighting and color, I am always happy to discuss alternative timing options that best fit your needs and vision.

Do you photograph weddings?

At this time, I am not currently offering wedding photography services as a lead photographer.

That said, I may occasionally consider select opportunities for smaller events or second shooting inquiries on a case by case basis. If you are interested in working together, please feel free to reach out and I would be happy to discuss your vision further.

 

Let's document your story

 

Thank you so much for considering Cardinal Creek Portrait Co. to document such meaningful moments in your life. It is truly an honor to be considered for these memories, and I do not take that lightly. If you have any questions, ideas, or would simply like to talk through your vision, please do not hesitate to reach out. I cannot wait to connect with you and hopefully create something beautiful together.