Irina Fortey Photography

Frequently Asked Questions

family-newborn photography in Ottawa

What is your style of photography?
I specialize documentary photojournalism, it is a style of photography which aims to capture and document real-life events, situations, or milestones in an artistic manner and the art of the everyday. With photojournalism we incorporate things you would typically do in spaces you love. This can be hanging out at home, visiting your favourite playground, or going to a favourite coffee shop. It is incorporating "real-life" into a session. Locations are chosen by clients. When extended family sessions or group photography is present, it is candid and relaxed in nature. I also capture “in studio” editorial portraits against a simple background for families who wish to use my space.

Why do you still shoot film?
I am fully trained in film photography from my studies at Ryerson University, from rolling my own film to processing and printing my own work. Right after graduation, the digital trend became the understanding and popularity has grown ever sense. Most people would find it hard to believe but I had to learn digital photography on my own, outside of school! I graduated right at the turning point and needed to learn the digital medium. For many years I've shoot only digital and about 5 years ago, I began to document more and more with my film camera. Today, I may be considered a hybrid between the two but lean towards film. Why? The process allows me to slow down and connect more authentically with the people in front of me. It provides mixing the technical side of capturing with the human side of memory in a more meaningful way. It also makes me happy to offer a more nostalgic piece of work in a world that has more pixels than prints. This slowed down process makes creating and capturing more fulfilling as we patiently wait the arrival of the negatives and have the process of excitement to build.

When is the best time to book a photography session?
Anytime. Your life is in stages, from a newborn to toddler to preschooler and beyond. Capturing your family periodically is important to preserving the moments of today forever.

What if my baby/toddler/child is uncooperative?
I've been a professional photographer for over 12 years, and I'm also a mother of two.  Trust me when I say that there is no situation that I haven’t encountered before.  My experience with newborns, toddlers and kids means that I can work fast and efficiently while keeping it fun.  I believe that photo sessions should be a joyful time for family bonding, not a chore.  And I am confident in my ability to make that happen. So sit back and relax.  Your child and I will be the best of friends by the end of our photo session. 

What if the weather is calling for rain and my session is outdoors?
We never know what mother nature has in store, I leave back up dates always in my schedule. We will aim to regroup for a session based on when the day is better.

What is your turnaround time?
You can expect to view your images within four weeks from your session date.  Albums and prints take an additional two weeks from the time your order is placed.  For any digital files, you will receive a link and will be able to download them directly to your computer.

What is your pricing? Do you offer digital files?
My pricing is all inclusive, I believe in providing a full experience and guide you through the entire process. A session can be anywhere from an hour to two hours to even 4 hours depending on our goals. My focus is to listen and provide families with something beautiful and tangible to take away from their session.  I believe photography is best enjoyed in print, where it evokes feelings and can withstand the test of time. All inclusive collections include, pre session consultation, capture, editing and proof galleries, a custom designed album and your entire image collection in high resolution digital files. You can review details here.

Do you offer mini-sessions?
Yes, you can contact me directly to see which dates are offered. Mini Session begin at $350.00 for 30 minutes and include a collection of digital files.

How do I reserve a session date?
Once a mutual date is decided, you will be emailed an online booking portal. You will be able to sign the portrait agreement, review studio policies and submit your first payment. The session fee must be received within three days of booking or the scheduled appointment will be forfeited. I am unable to hold any dates past this period.

How do I view my session images?
My photo sessions are designed to be easy.  My entire workflow,  from the shoot to the product in your hand, has been designed with you and your busy life in mind.
Here is a detailed time frame:
Expect your images to be ready for review within 4 weeks from your session date. An online private link will be submitted and active for 7 days, you must review and submit your album favourites during this time. If you miss this window, a $50 re-upload admin fee is applied. Final albums will be delivered within 3 weeks from the date they were approved.

How do I book my session with you, Irina?
I am so glad you asked! Click below and let's chat on creating a keepsake for your family! We will schedule a meet and greet and get to know each other first, this way you can review and experience a one-on-one approach to creating art for your family.