Questions & Answers

What does a Portrait Photographer do?

Just like a heart surgeon is a doctor with a valuable specialty, a portrait photographer special focus is with face and body. We study lighting, posing, anatomy and expression to know how the sun illuminates your smile… or where dramatic shadows make you most alluring… to have you sit or stand or recline in the most flattering ways… and yes, what to do with your hands. Check out our Services page to learn more about “What is a Portrait?” or watch this video. Here is a smattering of what you can expect a Portrait Photographer to do for you: Personal Branding (Headshots) Company Headshot Day Business Marketing Photos Beauty/Power Magazine-Style (Fashion) Couples Engagement Sessions Sibling Bonds Best Friends Legacy Portraits (Generations) Intimates (Boudoir) Maternity
Do you have a Studio?

Yes! SpiderMeka operates out of The Silk Studio, currently located at: 4311 N. Ravenswood, Suite 301, Chicago, IL 60613. Private. Comfortable. Spacious. Gorgeous. Highly Customizable. Bonus: There is ample free parking!
Do you photograph maternity?

Yes! Check out the gallery.
Do you photograph boudoir?

If you’d like to be dipped in milk, buried in leaves… and wearing nothing at all, let’s make some beautiful portraits together. Check out the gallery.
Do you photograph men?

Yes! Have you seen the gallery?
Do you photograph children?

Not unless you – the parents – are in the photos as well! One day your children will look for photos of themselves together with you. What will they find?
Do you photograph outdoors?

Yes! We can discuss locations when preparing for your session. Just remember, we make portraits, not architectural photography. YOU are the main subject.
Do you photograph couples?

Yes! Engagements, best friends, siblings, mother & daughter, father & son… you get the idea. We love to document individual moments and relationship memories.
I’m so nervous about having my photo taken. How do I prepare?

Breathe. Drink lots of water. Think good thoughts. Most of the lovely faces you see on this site have said the exact same things you’re thinking. We’ll go over many more questions and answers during your Design Consultation. It’s your job to take the step to come in. It’s our job to pose you, light you, and bring out the magic that only you hold. And we’re really good at that. Here’s further proof, if you like.
Are there COVID-19 safety measures I should be aware of?

Yes. We put the health and safety of our clients above all else, especially regarding contagions. We ask that you please help us maintain safety standards and reschedule if you experience cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms near or on the day of your session.
What do I do about my hair & makeup?

I specialize in and promote whatever is most comfortable for you. If you’re a rockstar at your own styling, then bring that confidence to the studio. If you’re feeling like your natural look deserves a bit more “oomph”… I work with a few of the most talented professional hair & makeup stylists in Chicago. They will come into the studio for all your pampering before we turn on the camera. Easy. Let us know if you desire a styling option add-on during our Design Consultation.
What is your policy on cancellations and rescheduling?

Life happens. In the event that you need to reschedule, please do so to the best of your ability 72 hours before your session. Rescheduling is permissible twice. If rescheduling is requested a third time, a $100 rescheduling fee will be charged. In the event that you need to cancel, 72 hours notification is required before your session. In this case, your session fee will be returned in full. If you notify us of a cancellation less than 72 hours before your scheduled session, your session fee becomes non-refundable.
How long will I have to wait before I can see my photos?

Immediately after your day in the studio, you’ll book your Ordering Session. That’s when you choose the images you love and want to purchase. Turn-around time is between 3 to 14 days, after payment is received. If you say: Meka, I need these photos sooner or else terrible things will happen! We can probably work with that.
Do I own the rights to my images? How am I allowed to use them?

You buy them, they’re yours! Plaster them all over the neighborhood and tag @spidermeka! We also love to share images on our website to be great examples of the fun we have together, so we also ask verbal permission to do so, and if you’d like to have it in writing, please read and sign: SMP_ImageRelease.pdf
How do I get my photos?

High resolution digital files come with every image purchased — these are emailed for you to download. Your gorgeous art (prints, canvases, frames) will be delivered to your door, or arranged for you to pick up.

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