FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
These FAQs are here to provide clarity, transparency, while making everything easy and stress-free. By booking a session and submitting a deposit, you agree to the policies below.
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SPECIFIC? TRY THE SEARCH BAR BELOW TO MAKE THINGS EASIER :)
Where are you located?
QUICK BASICS
-
We’re located right outside Little 5 Points in Atlanta, GA.
241 Maynard Terrace SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
-
Yes — we love to travel. We’re available for out-of-state and international bookings.
Travel costs and fees apply based on location and project.
-
Email us through the Contact page and we’ll reply with available dates/times.
Most clients book (& we recommend) min 2 weeks ahead, but if you need something sooner, tell us — we’ll do our best!
-
Please check your spam/junk folder (it happens a lot).
Add us to your contacts to avoid delays.
All communication: info@joshstringer.com
Digital delivery only: joshstringerphoto@gmail.com
BOOKING & PAYMENTS
-
As soon as possible. We book first-come, first-served.
Dates and times are not held without a deposit.
Tip: Book at least 2 weeks ahead to avoid last-minute booking fees (when applicable).
-
All payments are handled digitally.
We accept:
• Credit & debit cards
• PayPal (including Pay Later, when available)
We do not accept:
• Cash
• Cashier’s checks / money orders
• Personal checks
-
Your remaining balance is due 72 hours before your session start time, unless your invoice states otherwise.
If the balance is not paid by the deadline:
• the session may be canceled and treated as a no-show
• payments may be forfeited
• no images, proofs, downloads, or edits will be delivered until paid in full
CANCELLATIONS, RESCHEDULING & EMERGENCIES
-
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your date and time.
-
• All cancellations forfeit the deposit
• No-shows forfeit all payments
• All sales are final
⸻
Rescheduling is not automatically free because your time is reserved.
Rescheduling with 14+ days’ notice (may qualify):
• With 14+ days’ notice and valid documentation (doctor’s note/emergency), your deposit may transfer one time
• The new session must occur within 30 days
• Only one approved reschedule per booking
Without approved documentation:
• A new deposit is required to book a new date
Same-day cancellation or reschedule:
• The time cannot be refilled
• Full repayment of the originally booked session (including any hair & makeup fees) is required to book again
Work conflicts, auditions, callbacks, travel, or schedule changes generally do not qualify for free reschedules.
-
In rare situations beyond anyone’s control (serious illness, power outage, natural disaster, etc.), we’ll work with you to reschedule or credit your session where possible.
Liability is limited to rescheduling at the studio’s discretion.
-
Life happens — but sessions must start and end on time.
Please email us immediately if you’re running late.
• Up to 15 minutes late: we shoot with remaining time (no refunds or make-ups)
• 30+ minutes late: session may be canceled and treated as a no-show
• If the schedule allows, a same-day reschedule may be offered for a $100 fee (not guaranteed)
WHAT’S INCLUDED & HOW IMAGES WORK
-
It depends on your package.
Your invoice and website listing show exactly what’s included.
Always included:
• Proof gallery (unretouched previews for selection)
Not included unless stated:
• Retouched final images
• Extra edits
• Print products
• Commercial licensing or buyouts
-
Proofs are for selection only.
They may not be posted, shared, edited, filtered, or used publicly.
Unauthorized use of proofs may result in fines or licensing invoices.
-
Very simple:
1. You receive a proof gallery (each image has a filename and a number - DO NOT CHANGE THESE- this is how we find your images :)
2. You email us the numbers you want
3. We retouch and deliver via email
-
Included selections must be made within 30 days of proof delivery.
After 30 days:
• included edits expire
• retouching is billed at standard rates
• sessions older than 6 months may require archive retrieval fees and files may be purged
-
• Actor headshots: $45 per retouched image
• All other sessions: $85 per retouched image (bulk pricing sent with proofs)
• Advanced editing: $120/hour
(background swaps, tattoo removal, heavy wardrobe fixes, etc.)
DELIVERY, RESENDS & ARCHIVING
-
We begin processing the day after your session, once payment is complete.
Typical turnaround: 2–3 weeks
Rush delivery (24-hour) is available for an additional fee.
-
Yes — please save your files in multiple places (back-ups)
Resend fee: $55 per request
-
We keep images for at least 6 Months (barring rare technical failure).
Optional guaranteed archival:
• $75/year
If you return later and files are still available, archive fees may apply per stored year plus retouching costs.
RETOUCHING RULES & ARTISTIC CONTROL
-
All retouching is done in-house to maintain quality and consistency.
Light cropping is fine.
Please avoid filters or edits that alter skin tone or color, especially for casting.
While we welcome reasonable retouch notes, final artistic decisions regarding lighting, composition, and retouching remain at Josh’s discretion to ensure consistency with our portfolio and professional standards.
HAIR, MAKEUP & SET RULES
-
Our set is closed.
If you use your own artist, you must use them before your shoot and arrive camera-ready.
Artists interested in becoming preferred collaborators may submit portfolios for review.
-
Hair & makeup is booked as a bundled service.
Skipping one does not change the rate — the artist’s time is still reserved.
DURING THE SHOOT
-
It depends on the session and number of looks.
A safe planning rule is up to 1.5 hours per look so nothing feels rushed.
-
A look is any visually distinct version of you.
If you change anything that would reasonably make casting directors, clients, or the public see you as a different version of yourself, it counts as a new look.
This includes changes to:
• clothing or layers
• hairstyle
• facial hair
• makeup level or style
• accessories (glasses, hats, jewelry)
• overall character, tone, or “type”
Final determination of what constitutes a look is made by the photographer to ensure fair timing and image quality.
-
Upgrades are always welcome.
Significant downgrades or removals of major add-ons are generally not allowed once booked, as time and team members are reserved.
-
Yes — BTS is welcome.
Please do not film or photograph lighting setups, modifiers, or technical layouts.
If BTS accidentally shows the setup, we may ask you to crop or adjust before posting.
Show the vibes, not the spellbook. 😉
-
Yes, and you’re not awkward, you’re just human. 😄
Direction is included in every session. I don’t just stand there clicking a button and hoping magic happens, I coach you through all things that casting actually responds to. (not as in dept as the Masterclass, but you’d be surprised of how much you’ll learn with us.)
Think of it like this:
You bring the talent. I help you aim it.
PETS & STUDIO ENVIRONMENT
-
Yes — we love pets. We also have two studio cats.
Please let us know in advance so we can plan safely.
If your animal damages anything, you’re responsible for repairs.
Last-minute pet arrivals may require a fee or may not be possible.
COPYRIGHT & LICENSING (CLEAR + SIMPLE)
-
No. Josh Stringer / JAS Productions retains copyright (industry standard).
You are purchasing a license to use the images based on what you booked.
Custom licensing and full copyright buyouts are available.
-
Think of licensing like choosing an ice cream cone:
• Small cone – Actor Headshots - Casting platforms, agents, personal actor website, actor social media
• Medium cone – Branding / Editorial - Personal branding, press, business profiles, limited promotion
• Large cone – Commercial / Advertising - Ads, conventions, events, merch, paid promotions, large-scale marketing
If you purchase a larger cone, you’re allowed to use the image in all the ways below it.
If you purchase a small cone, you can’t use the image for larger purposes without upgrading the license.
If you’re unsure which cone applies, email us before using the image — we’ll guide you.
Designers & third-party use
If a designer, editor, production company, or third party will be using your images, they must be properly licensed.
Sharing images with third parties does not grant them usage rights unless specifically licensed.
-
Actor headshots include:
• Casting platforms (Actors Access, Casting Networks, IMDb, etc.)
• Personal actor promotion on social media
• Personal websites and portfolios
• Agent/manager submissions
-
Actor headshots may not be used for:
• Convention banners, booths, or posters
• Merch, branding, album covers
• Paid ads or sponsored posts
• Event promotions or ticket sales
• Business branding, coaching, services, or products
• YouTube/podcasts tied to paid offerings
Unauthorized commercial use may require takedown and/or invoicing at the appropriate licensing rate.
WHAT MAKES A GREAT SHOOT
-
Have fun — personality reads on camera.
Also:
• Get rest and hydrate the week before
• Bring props, pets, or references if desired
• Avoid last-minute cosmetic procedures
Important: wardrobe, grooming, and preparation choices are the client’s responsibility.
Dissatisfaction related to clothing, grooming, or preparation does not qualify for a refund or reshoot.
Do not get Botox, peels, tanning, or aggressive treatments within 2+ weeks (ideally 30 days).
Skin reactions may require paid advanced retouching or a reschedule requiring a new deposit.
-
We treat your headshots/ shoot like the marketing assets they are, not like a quick photo day.
That means:
• heavy direction (included)
• real acting-based coaching
• lighting + angles built around what we need, not ONE lighting tech for everyone.
• industry-level quality (because… that’s literally what I do for TV/film too)
You’re not just getting photos.
You’re getting strategy, coaching, and images built to move your career forward.
-
The Master Class is not required, it’s for actors who want the session to go deeper.
Every session already includes full direction and coaching.
The Master Class option is for people who want extra time focused on things like:
• branding and casting type clarity
• expression range training
• “what casting is actually reading”
• refining choices so your headshots match your audition energy
• feedback that helps beyond the shoot day
In short:
Headshots + career coaching + confidence boost.
It’s for the actor who says:
“I don’t just want new photos, I want to level up.” CLICK HERE TO SEE FULL BREAKDOWN OF WHAT THE MASTERCLASS IS
-
I don’t guess — I stay connected to the industry. 🎬
I shoot for professional productions, marketing teams, and networks where images have to actually perform, not just look nice.
Casting doesn’t need a photographer who has opinions.
They need an actor whose headshots look bookable, current, and truthful.
My job is to direct you into that.
RESHOOTS & REFUNDS
-
Do you offer reshoots or refunds?
We do not offer reshoots or refunds due to personal preference.
You’ll view images during the session — please speak up in real time so we can adjust.
Reshoots are only considered in rare cases of technical failure or data loss. No refunds ever, all sales are final
CONSULTATIONS
-
Yes. Consultations are available for actors, photographers, and business owners.
Rates:
• $500/hour (2-hour minimum)
• 5-hour package: $2,000 (can be split into multiple sessions)
-
These policies help ensure every client has a smooth, professional, and fair experience.
By booking a session and submitting your deposit, you agree to the terms below.
⸻
Hair & Makeup
• Session rates include standard hair and makeup applications.
• Extra services (such as excessive length, thick hair, washing, texturing, or extensions) may incur additional charges, which will be quoted and approved before work begins.
• If you bring your own artist, all work must be completed before arrival — our sets are closed, and only our team is present during the shoot.
• Same-day additions for hair and makeup are subject to artist availability and a rush booking fee.
⸻
Retouching & Photo Editing
• ActorRetouching ($45/image) ALL Other Sessions ($85/image - bulk discounts pricing sent with PROOFS): Blemish removal, light skin smoothing, and minor flyaway cleanup.
• Photo Editing ($120/hour): Advanced edits such as fabric wrinkle removal, background changes, tattoo removal, or hair adjustments.
• Retouching and editing are not included in the base session fee unless specifically stated on your quote or invoice.
⸻
Booking, Deposits & Cancellations
• A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your date and time.
• The remaining balance is due 72 hours before your session begins.
• Cancellations or no-shows forfeit all payments.
DAY-OF CANCELLATION & RESCHEDULE POLICY
All same-day cancellations or reschedules require full repayment of the originally booked session fee, including any hair & makeup artist fees.
Because day-of changes cannot be rebooked and the time is fully reserved for you, the full session rate (plus any HMUA fees) must be paid again to secure a new date.
*ALL SALES ARE FINAL*
Rescheduling
• Reschedules made with at least two weeks’ notice and valid excuse (Dr note etc) may transfer the original deposit to a new date within 30 days of the original session.
• Deposits do not transfer to a new date unless there is an approved valid reason (such as a doctor’s note or emergency documentation).
• Without approved proof, any reschedule requires a new deposit.
• Only one approved reschedule is allowed per booking.
• Work conflicts or schedule changes do not qualify as valid reasons for a free reschedule.
⸻
Late Arrivals & Shoot Time
• Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking and prep.
• Your session time is reserved exclusively for you. Late arrivals reduce your available shoot time.
• Up to 15 minutes late: We’ll shoot with the remaining time — no refunds or make-ups.
• 30+ minutes late: The session may be canceled and treated as a no-show.
• If the schedule allows, a same-day reschedule may be offered for a $100 fee, but availability is not guaranteed.
⸻
Holding Studio Time & Extensions
• The time you book is the time reserved. Please schedule enough time for the number of looks or wardrobe changes you’d like.
• Extensions may be available at an additional hourly rate, pending availability.
⸻
Reshoots & Refunds
• We do not offer reshoots or refunds due to personal preference (e.g., “I don’t like how I look”).
• Reshoots are only granted in rare cases of technical failure or data loss.
• You’ll view your shots during the session, so please speak up if something feels off — we’ll adjust in real time.
• Our lighting and editing style are consistent throughout our portfolio; please review our galleries before booking to ensure our aesthetic fits your goals.
⸻
Rush Orders & Last-Minute Bookings
• Book at least two weeks in advance to avoid rush or last-minute booking fees.
• Any booking made within 14 days of the shoot date may be subject to a last-minute booking fee.
• Rush editing (24-hour turnaround) is available at an additional cost, based on the number and complexity of requested images.
⸻
Liability & Studio Conduct Disclaimer
By entering the studio or booking a session, you agree to the following:
• Liability Waiver: Josh Stringer Photography, its owners, employees, contractors, and agents are not responsible for personal injury, illness, property loss, or damage sustained before, during, or after your session.
• Clients and their guests assume all risks associated with being on the premises and release the studio from any liability claims.
• Safety: Clients agree to follow all safety instructions from the photographer or staff. Only the client being photographed and essential personnel are permitted on set.
• Property & Equipment: Any intentional damage to studio property or gear caused by the client or their guests will be the client’s financial responsibility.
• Image Rights: All images remain the intellectual property of Josh Stringer Photography under U.S. Copyright Law. Usage rights are granted only as outlined in your invoice or license agreement. Unauthorized reproduction, alteration, or redistribution is prohibited.
• Force Majeure: In the event of circumstances beyond our control (illness, power outage, natural disaster, or other emergency), liability is limited to rescheduling or refunding payments at the studio’s discretion.
• Acceptance of Terms: Payment or deposit submission confirms that you have read, understood, and agreed to all studio policies, terms, and conditions.
⸻
MISC:
Proofs are not for any use besides referencing for purchase. ANY unauthorized use or editing to proofs will be subject to fines. In viewing these proofs you comply with these terms and are liable. Please DOWNLOAD and SAVE your proofs/products/pictures to your computer. If proofs/products/pictures have to be resent there is a $55 fee each time proofs are needed to be resent. Enjoy your photos :)
Any full res. digital copies purchased are to be owned and only used by the initial purchasing party. Other non relatives or relatives DO NOT have permission to have access or copies of the digital files purchased by said client. Any unauthorized distribution and or copy (copies) of any media, the client will accept full responsibility and pay for each product that has been in breach of this agreement.
All images created by Josh Stringer are licensed, not sold. Your actor headshot session includes personal usage + casting platform usage (Actor’s Access, Casting Networks, IMDb, personal website, online profiles).
Any commercial use — including but not limited to conventions, ticket sales, YouTube, podcasts, ads, event promotions, business branding, product promotion, merch, album covers, or any revenue-generating purpose — requires a separate commercial license.
Unauthorized commercial use may require immediate takedown and/or invoicing at the appropriate licensing rate.
BTS is welcome as long as lighting setups, modifiers, and technical layouts are not shown. Posting the lighting diagram/setup may require a review of usage rights to protect the studio’s intellectual property.
By booking, you agree to these terms.
_____
Our goal is to make your experience efficient, enjoyable, and stress-free — these policies simply ensure fairness and clarity for everyone.
FINAL NOTE
Booking a session, submitting a deposit, or making payment confirms that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to these FAQs, our Studio Policies, and our Terms & Conditions.