FAQ | shelbyborer

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

While I love getting to know you and your loved ones before you even book, I also want to make sure I’m the right photographer for you. I know it might sound a little cheesy, but I truly believe the connection between a client and photographer is just as important as the connection you have with a soulmate.

Without that moment where things just click between us, I’m just a girl with a camera who might capture some nice photos. But when we do click, when you feel seen, safe, and understood, that’s when the real magic happens. That’s when I’m able to capture the kind of photos that breathe, that hold emotion, that show your beauty in just being. These FAQs are here to give you a better sense of how I work, not just as a photographer, but as a human. My hope is that they help you feel more prepared, more confident, and more excited about what it’s like to work with me. Because this isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s about creating something meaningful, together.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY SESSION?

What you wear truly helps set the tone for your session. While we’ll chat more in depth during our phone consultation, here are some of my go-to tips -

Stick with neutrals and earth tones. These tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus where it belongs - on you and your connection with your loved ones. Bold patterns or super bright colors can sometimes distract from the emotion and energy we’re capturing. Wear something that feels like you. Comfort is key. Choose outfits that you’d naturally wear, things that make you feel confident, relaxed, and authentically yourself. I always say - if you wouldn’t normally wear it out to dinner or a day with friends, it might not be the best fit for your shoot unless it’s helping you tell a meaningful story.

Your session is about celebrating who you are in this season of life. Let your clothing be an extension of that story, not a costume for the camera.

WHAT DETERMINES THE COST OF YOUR MILEAGE RATES?

My travel schedule can make mileage rates feel a bit confusing, so here’s the breakdown. I split my time between Arizona, Nebraska, and Colorado, and only charge mileage when I’m traveling more than 30 miles from wherever I’m currently based.

Here’s how that works:

Arizona (my primary home base): Mileage is charged for anything 30+ miles from my location.
Nebraska (typically 1–2 months in summer + a few fall weeks): I charge mileage for anything 30+ miles from Ogallala.
Colorado (usually a few weeks in summer + a few in fall): Mileage applies for anything 30+ miles from the Denver area.

Mileage is charged at $1 per mile both ways.

I keep my current travel schedule and locations updated on Instagram and Facebook, so you’ll always know where my “home base” is at any given time. If I’m planning to be in a specific town or offering mini sessions in other cities, I’ll announce those ahead of time!

CAN WE SHOOT AT A LOCATION THAT ISN'T

ON YOUR LOCATIONS LIST?

Abso-freakin'-lutely. One of my favorite parts of this job is discovering new places to shoot. It keeps things fresh, fun, and creatively inspiring.

If you’ve got a spot in mind that’s not on my usual list, I’m all for it! All I ask is that you give me a little time to either research it or check it out in person beforehand. That way, I can make sure the location will photograph well and that I’ll be able to capture you and your surroundings in the best possible light - literally and figuratively. Speaking of light, one thing to keep in mind when choosing your location is what time of day you’d like to shoot. The sun’s position plays a huge role in the mood, shadows, and glow we’ll get in your photos and I’ll help guide you on what works best based on the location.

CAN YOU EDIT MY WAIST LINE

AND/OR MAKE ME LOOK THINNER?

I get it. We all have moments where we wish we could tweak a part of ourselves, especially in front of a camera. I’ve been there too. But let me tell you: the most powerful photos I’ve ever taken weren’t about perfection—they were about presence. I’ve been lucky to have photographers in my life who make me feel confident, seen, and safe to be exactly who I am. That’s the same experience I want to give you. Technically, yes I could use Photoshop to change your body. But that’s not the heart of my work. My photography style is rooted in authenticity and connection. I focus on capturing you in the moment, with gentle, true-to-life editing that honors natural tones, textures, and the essence of who you are.

When we first connect, I love asking questions like: What are you hoping to get out of this session? What are your favorite things about yourself and your loved ones? What would make this experience feel easy, meaningful, and true to you? These conversations help me get to know you not just how to pose you, but how to help you feel relaxed, confident, and fully at home in your own skin. Because that’s where the magic happens. That’s when you shine.

CAN I BRING A SHOT LIST OF POSES I'D LIKE TO DO?

Absolutely, you’re more than welcome to send me a few poses or ideas you’d love to try! I just ask that you share them before your session so I can thoughtfully work them into the flow of our time together. That said, my style is more about prompting than posing. I love capturing the natural movement and energy between you and your people, rather than freezing you into stiff or overly structured positions. I might say something like, “Sway back and forth, look out at the view, then look back at me,” or “Wrap your arms around each other and lean into that safe little pocket you love.” Whether we’re frolicking through a field, wandering downtown, or sneaking away on your wedding day, I follow your energy of the setting. So yes! Bring your ideas! But also trust that some of the most magical moments will come when you’re just being you.