Corporate & Commercial
Frequently Asked Questions
While we’ve tried to cover the most common questions that arise, it’s impossible to answer every single query you many have about your experience with us.
With that in mind, we encourage you to contact us today if you are still unsure about our services. We are more than happy to discuss your requirements before you book an appointment with us.
FAST-TRACK TO YOUR QUESTION HERE:
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What do image 1st® offer?
Our studio has been handcrafted by our design team to offer photographic services to industry professionals and commercial clients as well as non-professional customers looking for iconic images and amazing portrait photography. We cater for full corporate shoots, on-location assignments and individual photo shoots with the same enthusiasm that brings our customers back time and time again.
Back to topWhere are you located?
The image 1st® studio is in Farringdon, the most creative area of London and is surrounded by expressive companies and people. With easy access by rail, bus or car you’ll have no problem getting to us for your photo shoot. For detailed address and contact details, please click here to go to our contact us page.
What are your prices?
All of our shoots are fully customisable, and are built from one of the basic shoot packages that we offer. Individuals have the choice of paying simply for the photo shoot session itself for £95, or choosing an all-inclusive package for £495 which includes all images and retouching on 10 of them. Couples shoots are priced slightly differently to allow for more images to be taken away (and hopefully less arguments to be started over which ones you both want!).
Beyond the basic session fee, customers choosing to "pay as you go" can purchase additional prints and images for £40 each. Of course, we offer full digital retouching on every shot, available for an additional £15 (making each image £55 in total).
Do you offer discounts?
The simple answer to this question is "sorry, no".
As you can see, unlike many other companies we offer an entirely transparent pricing structure that is the same for every single customer. As a result of this transparency, we believe we are one of the most competitive studio in the business and as such are unable to offer any discounts outside of our great value prepay packages.
Is it cheaper to just have the images on CD?
Unfortunately, in this business, the art is in the production of the image itself - the print out of it is simply the end product. It is for this reason that we do not differentiate between CD images and printed images in terms of price. All our packages include the full CD of shots to take away with you on the day, and all retouched images can be provided digitally as well as printed in large format. We would always recommend considering the CD option - remember, the images are yours and having them digitally allows you to reprint them as many times as you wish in future.
Why are you exclusive to three clients a day?
Many studios offer 10, 20, 30 or sometimes up to 50 "slots" during a day. So let’s think about this question in terms of other service industries out there.
If your beauty therapist/massage therapist/personal trainer/(or even dentist!) treated you simply like the "next person in line", wouldn’t you feel a little un-loved? Would you feel like you were receiving their undivided attention? Would you feel special? Would you go back there? We think we can guess your answers...
By ONLY working with 3 clients a day, we guarantee you have our ABSOLUTE attention, throughout your entire visit. You get the exclusive use of our makeup artists, styling team, and of course photographer - and everywhere in the studio is yours to use for the duration. Ask yourself, isn’t that how it SHOULD be...?
Are you one of these "makeover companies"?
No. We've heard countless horror stories of people who pay upwards of £1,000 to get their professional pictures taken at makeover studios. Many of these companies acquire their business through fake competitions, cheap studio sessions and excessive hard selling after you’ve spent a lot of time and effort capturing images with their photographers. image 1st® will NEVER "hard-sell" any product to you - we don’t need to! We believe your images should speak for themselves; if you love them, you can either buy as many as you wish, based on our transparent pricing policy or opt for one of our packages. That’s it - it’s up to you.
Our Tip? If you want professionals to take your pictures then find out more about who you are dealing with. If you want total peace of mind go and meet the team in person. At image 1st® we make a great cup of tea! Drop by anytime and we will be more than happy to answer all your questions. If you cannot make it in person, call us on 0207 250 1313 to chat about your requirements.
Do you photograph groups of people or just a maximum of Two?
Our team is committed to providing you with a photo shoot which delivers EXACTLY what you want. While we specialise in individual portfolio shoots, and unique "couples shoots", we can cater for groups as large as you like. Bear in mind that larger groups often require special equipment, and quite a bit of effort (not only on our part!) to organise and as such, we offer this as a bespoke service. We’re happy to talk through your requirements with you to ensure you get exactly what you want out of your time with us, so call us on 0207 250 1313 to discuss further.
Can I bring a friend to keep me company?
Of course! We understand that it’s often comforting to have a familiar face with you on the day, and if it will make you feel more at ease, we’d encourage you to do so. We provide refreshments throughout your time with us and friends can take advantage of surfing the internet on a personal laptop.
To ensure we get the very best out of you, we kindly request that anyone accompanying you allows our photographic team to perform their work unhindered, but other than that - they can treat the studio just as much like home as we encourage you to.
Of course, you could always make the day a little more interesting by involving them in the shoot as well - why not consider one of our shoots for two and make a day of it?
Can I mix and match styles on the day?
Yes! And it’s our speciality!
While we need to know what "base" you want to use - ie: are you a musician? fashion model? glamour girl? We CAN mix and match as many styles of photography as we can within the time available. Not only does this give you a good breadth of images for your portfolio, it’s also great fun for us! Just let us know, on the day, what specific types of looks you’re trying to capture, and we’ll do our best to fit them all in.
Can I bring a scrap book of ideas to the photo shoot?
YES!
Many of our clients do so, and it gives us a great opportunity to talk through those looks that really turn your head. Remember, it’s YOUR photo shoot - while we’re more than happy to advise on what type of shots will make you look amazing, it’s always great when a customer brings their own thoughts and ideas to the table so that we can build on these together. It’s an idea to consider images you do like, as well as those you don’t - you’ll be able to discuss these with your stylist and photographer before beginning the shoot so that we can ensure you leave with a set of images that were exactly what you wanted to achieve.
Good sources of images for consideration are magazines, other models’ websites, and of course through searching for images on the Internet. Try to get your options down to a reasonable number of looks (10-20 images is a good number for us to work with) so that we can work through with you which styles will work for you in conjunction with the outfits you’ve brought along.
What do I need to do before my photo shoot?
Remember - we’re here to make you look good, but in order to do that successfully, we need as pure a foundation to build from as possible!
Wash and dry your hair the day before you arrive, but please don’t style or put any product in it (trust us - we’ll do that!).
Wear little or preferably no make-up. (DON’T worry! Our team will make sure you look gorgeous before your shots!) For girls who require professional looking nails at the last minute, don't forget that you can purchase white nail tips from a variety of stores and chemists.
You might want to pop a large towel into your suitcase too; we may do some wet look shots with you if you’re keen for "something different" and for hygiene reasons we prefer you bring your own towel to dry yourself off afterwards.
What clothing should I bring with me?
Your photo shoot is about your individual style and tastes, and as such, image1st® do not supply you with outfits. We recommend that you bring a variety of clothes - normally around 6-10 different outfits. However, don’t see that as a limitation; you can bring as many as you wish (or can carry!), including a selection of lingerie, props, accessories and jewellery. The more items you bring, the more fun we can have with you creating unique styles and ultimately, the better your photographs will be!
Can I wear Fake Tan prior to the photo shoot?
Can you? Yes.
SHOULD you? We’d recommend not.
Remember, our images can be "tweaked" to give you the look you want, but it’s much easier to add a golden glow to nice even skin than it is to remove orange streaks from a self-tan that’s gone wrong! While some fake tans can look stunning, we’d advise against applying one specifically for your shoot with us just in case something unexpected happens. If you do wish to, or regularly use such products, we recommend using a light type that gives you a chance to regulate intensity with each application and to avoid disasters like uneven colour, lines and spots. Experiment with these products well in advance of your shoot, so you know that the colour will look right for you.
What’s the studio like?
BIG. Yes, it’s big - AND fun! But seriously...
Our sets are styled and recreated continuously, blending different textures and inspirations, from reconfiguring traditional moods to subverting contemporary aspirations.
The studio space is configured to make you feel at ease and to inspire your creative moods in a private environment. We want you to feel at home in the studio, and you’ll have full access to all areas for shooting, relaxing or just plain old nosing around if you want to!
The studio boasts an open kitchen, two washrooms, a lift, ironing facilities, filming area and wireless internet access. If you would like to hire the studio space, please call Doren on 0207 250 1313 for further information.
How safe is the studio?
To ensure your safety and security at all times, we are fully insured and covered for public liability. Our studio maintains your privacy at all times. You can of course bring a friend or chaperone along if you wish; we want you to feel at ease at all times.
What can I take away with me on the day?
Well, firstly, a huge grin from ear to ear knowing that you’ve captured some of the most stunning iconic images of yourself you’ll ever see! Beyond that, depending on the options you purchased on the day (or prepaid upfront), you’re able to leave with:
- a full CD of all your raw images
- an order confirmation with a list of images you’d like retouched and/or printed instructions on how to tell us which images you’d like to have retouched at a later date
- a professional portfolio album to store your printed images for future display
- a link to our e-card generator for issuing to potential agencies
- a contacts list for agencies and companies to approach with your professional portfolio
- access to a team of people who will gladly talk to you at any point in future! (we love hearing from past customers!)
Note: Due to the time and effort that is involved in producing final images, it is unlikely that you’ll leave with either prints or digitally retouched images on the day. We aim to dispatch all images to you within 6 weeks of your order confirmation. We do offer a "rush" service, and can usually meet most deadlines for a marginal increase in imaging charges - please contact us for further information on this service, we’re happy to help.
Who owns copyright of the pictures?
The simple answer? YOU!
Unless agreed otherwise, you can print, email and use your images in any way you wish as long as it’s in a non-commercial manner (that basically means you can’t make money from the sale of any of our images). You are the owner of the images you have purchased and can use the images to promote yourself online, in portfolio books or with agencies. All we ask is that the images are not used commercially in any way unless you have received written permission from us that you can use them. You do not have the right to directly profit from our work in any way.
What is a "model release form"?
On the day, we’ll ask you to sign a confirmation that you understand the terms of the copyright agreement you have entered into with us for your photo shoot.
There is also an optional, separate, Model Release Form, should you be willing to allow us to use your images on our website and printed material in future. We can discuss this on the day; it is entirely voluntary and sets out our obligations to you should you be willing to allow us to use the images, as well as yours to us. Experienced models that wish to discuss any release terms with us, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a chat.
What is retouching?
Remember the phrase "the camera never lies"? Well, every now and then, images need a little helping hand to make them look that little bit more special. Digital retouching is an extension of the services we provide at image 1st® and simply refers to the practice of enhancing photographs to ensure any imperfections are improved and that the image looks as great as it possibly can. Our team of digital retouchers have years of experience in the industry. They can enhance your images, remove spots and blemishes and re-shape your figure to perfection. To achieve all this we use state of the art equipment and conform to industry standards.
What happens to my photographs after I purchase them?
We maintain the security and privacy of all clients photographs. After shooting, viewing and finally editing your images, they are securely backed up (and burned to CD for you if you requested this service), then removed from all computers and memory cards. The photos are then stored in a safe location, where they cannot be accessed by anyone, apart from our team. We aim to delete ALL our images from this secure storage facility once they are over 6 months old.
Do I need to be a professional model to be photographed by image 1st®?
You don’t have to be a professional and in the industry to enjoy our services. While image1st® specialises in providing exclusive photo shoots to professionals, we also have the capacity to offer a limited number of sessions to non-professionals. Everyone starts somewhere - so who knows? Your session with us could be the start of an amazing career! Contact us today if you are still unsure about our services. We are more than happy to discuss your requirements before you book an appointment.
What does TFP and TFCD mean?
Quite often, some photographers will offer you 'FREE' portfolio images in return for your time. No money changes hands and the photographer will provide the model with a selection of images for the shoot. These are known as Time for Print (TFP's) and Time for CD (TFCD's) shoots.
While such a proposition may sound attractive, you must remember that in such arrangements, THEY own the copyright to the images. Indeed, you will likely be required to sign a specific model release form (unlike our terms) which assigns ALL rights to them, allowing them to profit from the sale of your images or for their own self promotion at any point in future.
Ultimately, your image could appear in any media the photographer chooses - and if your photo makes them a fortune, it’s entirely their fortune; not yours. While our standard agreement you enter into with us prohibits the use of any images we shoot for you for commercial resale, we CAN (and do) offer different agreements based on your requirements. So, if you’re an experienced model (or even someone new to the industry), DO think carefully about the repercussions of entering in to such an agreement before signing on the dotted line.
TFP/CD is also a great way for amateur photographers who are new to the business, to build their own portfolio up without the need for large financial outlay. At image 1st®, we employ some of the best photographers in the industry - including the acclaimed Joby Rawlins, and use the very latest equipment to ensure your images are nothing short of stunning. For this reason, we do not enter into TFP/CD agreements.
Are you a modelling agency?
No, we are not.
While the team have extensive experience in the industry, our studio is set up to provide imaging services into the modelling world - not to directly promote models.
We provide all our portfolio package customers with tools that will help them get an extra step up when starting out in the modelling industry, but we are unable to offer such services ourselves. We believe our attention to providing quality iconic images is where our strength lies, and want to ensure you get the best out of our services by focusing on that alone.
However, with our experience in the world of modelling agencies and the photographic world, we can advise, assist, and provide guidance to our customers in who to approach, how, and the best way to make an impression. Remember: Our advice, while as valuable as our images, is always free!
Can I have a photo shoot with image 1st® in any location other than London?
Well, the complicated answer is "yes"! - We offer location shoots, and our team has travelled to Europe, North America, Asia, and all places in between to perform photo shoots for clients.
However, we guess you mean "do you have any other studios?" and the answer to that question is no.
We want to keep our team, as well as the experience we offer, friendly and exclusive. While it’s sometimes possible to do this in a company that offers 4, 5, 6, 10+ studios around the country, we believe it’s right for our clients to ensure they always receive the very best service from the very best talent - talent that we’re able to keep together, working as one team in one location. Feedback from our clients tells us that by having our unique blend of skills under one roof ensures the quality of our images is unrivalled in the industry, an accolade we’d never want to risk losing.
That said, Farringdon is right in the heart of the City of London, and a great place to spend some time - for those travelling from further afield, why not make a day or two, or even weekend, of your visit to us. We’re happy to advise on local hotels, attractions and transport options; just call us on 0207 250 1313 to talk them through with us.
How do I book?
You can book online, right now, by selecting your base package from our book a shoot page. We want you to feel 100% confident with your online purchase, so if for any reason you are unhappy with your online purchase, please contact us within 7 days of receipt and we’ll offer a full refund.
Customers who wish to discuss any aspect with us further, or who want something a little "different", please don’t hesitate to call a member on the team on 0207 250 1313 to make your booking.
All dates and times are subject to availability.
72 hours notice is required to alter a booking and we allow one free reschedule of appointment time. In order to ensure we’re fair to all our customers, any further schedule changes (or changes made within 72 hours) may be subject to a cancelation fee of £95.
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