Frequently asked questions

What types of photography do you specialise in?

My speciality and preferred subject to shoot is portraits, candid shots, and day-in-the-life photography, but I cover most aspects of photography.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our outdoor shoot?

The weather rarely does what I need it to but so far, it hasn't ever caused me to need to cancel a shoot. If the weather conditions are likely to cause issues with the photoshoot, we can reschedule at no extra cost or move to an indoor location if we can find something suitable.

Where are you based, and do you travel for shoots?

I'm based in the Rotherham/Sheffield area so have quick access to Doncaster, Leeds, York, Wakefield and the surrounding areas, but I am happy to travel.

How can I contact you?

You can reach me on instagram here or at hello@ryankirkphotography.co.uk. I am always happy to answer any questions you may have.

Why should I choose you?

I'd like to think there are a few reasons that you would choose me. First of all, professionalism is absolutely paramount for me. I suspect that got an eye roll from you, but let me explain.

I want whoever has hired me to be completely comfortable with my presence, be that on a 1-to-1 basis like portrait photography, shooting an office space or taking photographs of your hotel. It's vital to me that you feel secure in the fact that I can be trusted and you're in safe hands.

My approach is adapted to suit the individual or business and we can discuss expectations before we make any commitment to booking. If you need me to blend in and take candids without disturbing work, I can do that or if you're a creative and want to try some poses without being judged, we can do that too.

What is it like to shoot with you?

I think "casual and lighthearted" is a good way to describe it. You can see some of my interations on Instagram (@ryankirkphoto). Most of the people I work with want someone relateable and to not be made to feel uncomfortable. I'm very adaptable so it depends on your preference but it's a safe place where you're free to be silly, get weird, have a laugh or do your best impression of a serious face, but you'll only be able to hold that for so long!

If you want to grab a coffee before the shoot to ask questions or just get into the right headspace, we can.

It's absolutely judgment free, and you have just as much control over the shoot as I do. If you want to try something different, you can say so. If you're feeling uncomfortable, let me know and we'll adjust. Feeling awkward with posing? I'll guide you. Don't like one of the photos? I'll delete it; it's as simple as that.

Can I bring someone with me for a solo shoot?

I have no issue with you bringing someone else along with you to the shoot if it makes you feel more comfortable. The only thing I ask is that you give me advance notice and that they do not take any photos or videos themselves during the photoshoot. They also cannot take part in the photoshoot itself.

Will there be any physical contact during the session?

I will never place you in a situation where you feel uncomfortable. Throughout our session, I will communicate openly about what I am doing, so you’ll always know what to expect.

On rare occasions, I may need to step into your personal space for a particular shot, but I will always inform you beforehand.

It’s very unlikely there will be any physical contact during our photoshoot, I believe that such interactions should be kept to an absolute minimum. Since I work alone and without a stylist, minor adjustments like smoothing a piece of clothing or repositioning a prop might be necessary and I typically explain to you how you can make these adjustments yourself rather than me intervening. If any physical contact is ever required, I will always ask for your consent in advance

General Questions

Portraits, Couples & Personal Photoshoots

Can I change outfits during the shoot?

I'd encourage it! It gives me something new to photograph and gives you variety in the end result. I really don't mind how many outfit changes you want to do but the time to change will be included as part of our agreed shoot time. I also cannot provide any changing facilities so its up to you to find an appropriate place to change.

Do you work with children?

I am happy to if it is part of a family photoshoot or there is a parent/guardian present. On a 1-to-1 basis, I work with over 18s only.

How do you handle copyright and usage rights for the photos?

You are free to save, share, print, and use the images for your modeling portfolio or on your website, essentially, whatever you like. Once you’ve paid for the photos, they are yours to use. However, please note that you cannot sell the rights to these photographs to anyone else or any organisation without my consent. For example, this includes uploading them to a stock website or selling them for use in advertisements.

Can you send me the RAW files?

I focus on delivering high-quality, edited photographs that best represent the session. If you have specific requests for additional edits or formats, feel free to let me know, and I’ll be happy to accommodate those within the final deliverables but I do not provide the RAW files.

Can you work with disabled people?

Absolutely! I am committed to providing an inclusive and accommodating experience for all clients, regardless of their abilities. If you have specific needs or considerations, please feel free to discuss them with me ahead of time so that we can create a comfortable and enjoyable environment during the session.

Are you LGBT friendly?

Yes, I am proud to be LGBT-friendly and welcoming to all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves.

Will you do a photoshoot for free?

I totally get that everyone deserves great photos, but a photoshoot has real costs for me—even before we start snapping. From pricey editing software to website hosting and ongoing training, there's a lot that goes into each session. Photography equipment is often extremely expensive and the editing process is very time consuming.

While I don’t generally offer free shoots, I’m open to reduced-cost sessions if they bring value in other ways. If you have a project or concept in mind, let’s chat and see if we can work something out!

”I just love how calm and polite you are during a shoot, I think your other clients must feel that too.”

James