Question 1

What does a Portrait Photographer do?

Accepted Answer

Just like a heart or brain surgeon is a knowledgable doctor with a valuable specialty, a portrait photographer specializes in all the facets of the body, skin, and face.  We study lighting, posing, anatomy and human 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)  Business Marketing Photos Beauty/Power Magazine-Style (Fashion) Couples  Engagement Sessions Family Bonds Siblings Best Friends Intimates (Boudoir) Maternity

Question 2

Do you have a Studio?

Accepted Answer

Yes! SpiderMeka operates out of The Silk Studio, currently located at:
4311 N. Ravenwood, Suite 301, Chicago, IL 60613.    Private. Comfortable. Spaceous. Gorgeous. Highly Customizable.   Bonus: There is ample free parking!

Question 3

Do you photograph maternity?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Check out the gallery.

Question 4

Do you photograph boudoir?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Do you photograph men?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Have you seen the gallery?

Question 6

Do you photograph children?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You know what makes a better experience? When parents are in the photos as well. One day your children will look for photos of themselves together with you. What will they find?

Question 7

Do you photograph outdoors?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

Do you photograph couples?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Engagements, best friends, siblings, mother & daughter, father & son… you get the idea. We love to document individual moments and relationship memories.

Question 9

I’m so nervous about having my photo taken. How do I prepare?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Are there COVID-19 safety measures I should be aware of?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We at SMP put the health and safety of our clients above all else, espeically during this time of pandemic. We ask that you please read and sign our COVID-19 waiver prior to arrival on your session date to help us maintain safety standards.   SMP Covid Release Form.pdf

Question 11

What do I do about my hair & makeup?

Accepted Answer

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. AND… with COVID-19 being a health concern right now, be certain that we all are taking extra precautions to protect you and sterilize tools used. Let us know if you desire a styling option add-on during our Design Consultation.

Question 12

What is your policy on cancellations and rescheduling?

Accepted Answer

Life happens. In the event that you need to cancel, three (3) full days notification is required before your scheduled session. In that case, your session fee will be returned in full. If you notify me of a cancellation within 72 hours of your scheduled session, your session fee becomes non-refundable, will be kept on file, and may be used toward a future session. In the event that you need to reschedule, 72 hours notice is required.

Question 13

How long will I have to wait before I can see my photos?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

Do I own the rights to my images? How am I allowed to use them?

Accepted Answer

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 that you give us permission to do so: SMP_ImageRelease.pdf

Question 15

How do I get my photos?

Accepted Answer

High resolution digital files come with every image purchased, and are most common for Personal Branding orders — 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.

Questions & Answers

Don’t see an answer

to your question?