Portrait Sessions

I offer Senior Portraits, and Family Photos for individuals in Madison County (and surrounding areas). I specialize in personalizing your photos, so be sure to bring some “props” that mean something to you to your shoot! From sports gear, to favorite stuffies, and locations that pull at your heartstrings – your photos should speak to you.

To Book: Claim An Available Appointment OR fill out this Photo Request Form.
You can also Text / Email me today to get more info.

The Process From Start to Finish

2024 SESSION PRICING:

FAMILY PORTRAIT SESSION
includes 2 digital images
$125SENIOR PORTRAIT SESSION
includes 2 digital images
$175
COMPLETE FAMILY SESSION
includes full gallery download
$225COMPLETE SENIOR SESSION
includes full gallery download
$275

▪️ A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to hold your appointment. This policy is in place to deter “no-shows”. Rescheduling is always an option, at no additional cost. If you choose to CANCEL rather than reschedule, your deposit is then forfeited.
▪️ Location Fees: If the location of your choice charges a fee that fee is due along with your deposit. Once this amount is paid in full I will make the arrangements with the location. Location fees are in addition to your session fee.
▪️ You will receive a contract to sign and an invoice for your deposit upon appointment confirmation. Your final balance is due in full prior to your session.
▪️ Each session includes a complimentary digital download of two (2) digital images (of your choice). Additional digital images can be purchased for $25 each through your gallery. OR book a COMPLETE session, which includes a digital download of your entire image gallery! A savings of $200+
▪️ Average Session Length is One Hour: I do not set a timer. You have me until you and I are both satisfied with the images we’ve captured together, whether that means we are over or under on the time.
▪️ Galleries are typically delivered within 1-2 weeks, I will do my best to communicate any potential delays.
▪️ Ask about current promotions & recurring discounts. Payment plans are available upon request.

FAQ’s:

How many photos will I get? The number of finished images in your gallery will depend on the number or people in your group, location/outfit changes, and session length. You can expect at least 10 images for a 1 hour session, usually more like 30+ (sometimes much more!) I take tons of photos at your session, but then I do my best to narrow it down to the BEST options and keep it to a manageable number. You might think you want them all, but trust me: 60+ images makes it so much more difficult to choose your favorites!

Can I order prints from you? Yes! Prints are available for purchase (from a professional print lab) directly through your online photo gallery. Once I have your gallery ready for viewing I will send you the link via email (or in some cases Facebook messenger or text, depending on how we’ve communicated previously). You can check out pricing here (this is not a complete list).

Is an hour long enough? It’s usually more than enough for seniors and average sized families. Though I state that sessions are “one hour”, I do not set a timer. You have me until you and I are both satisfied with the images we’ve captured together, whether that means we are over or under on the time. I would however recommend booking an extended session for especially large groups (8+) as it definitely will take longer to get all the the individual photos, smaller groups, and the ultimate large group shots. Contact me with details.

Do you limit outfit changes? No. These are your photos and you are in charge! Bring all the props, outfits, and ideas you would like with you!

Do you ever offer “Mini Sessions”? Sometimes. Response to these sessions has not been great, and I frequently have no-show or last minute cancellations. My biggest struggle is finding locations to host these. But I will jump at the chance to host minis as opportunities arise! Check here for upcoming events, and feel free to make suggestions.

Why are Senior & Family Portrait Sessions priced differently? Senior sessions typically involve more time on site, and more time processing your photos than family sessions.

Do you have a studio? Not at this time. I prefer to shoot outdoors in natural light settings. I do however have portable studio equipment that I can set up by request at your location, for an additional charge (it takes time to transport, set up, and tear down).

Event Photography: I have photographed lots of local events from Mustang Weekend at SUNY Morrisville to the 100 Year Celebration at Madison County’s Children’s Camp (Camp Lookout), in addition to a few magazine shoots profiling businesses/individuals. If you or your business are interested in event (or other) photography pricing please email me with any important details (location, dates, hours needed, and any special requests) and I will get back to you as soon as possible with a price quote.

Do you do weddings? I have done a few, but it’s not my specialty, nor my favorite. And you deserve someone who is ALL-IN on your wedding day! I would be happy to refer you to another local photographer who specializes in this genre! Please email me and I will send you some information! And please keep me in mind for any other Special Event photography needs.

Can I have all the unedited/raw photos? No. Unedited photos are not representative of my work, I will not give those out under any circumstances. In addition, please refrain from editing the images you receive from me.

How far will you travel? Marcellus Photo Etc provides services in Madison County “and surrounding areas”. This typically means communities closely on the edge of Madison County (such as Sherburne & Otselic in Chenango County, and Waterville & Sylvan Beach in Oneida County). Madison County is located halfway between the cities of Syracuse & Utica, and I have been known to travel to either of these as well. Contact me if the location you would prefer to use is outside of Madison County, and if there are any additional fees we will agree upon them in advance. Factors to consider include: distance, weather conditions, holiday/season, etc.

Oops, I need to cancel/reschedule! It happens, and I really do understand. If you need to reschedule your appointment please contact me as soon as you are able; it’s polite. And I may have made special arrangements in order to meet you (such as with a babysitter or a location site) that I will need to also cancel.

Do you accept payment online?
In addition to cash or personal checks (made out to either Sarah Marcellus or Marcellus Photo Etc) I am able to accept credit cards through my website, plus Venmo, Paypal, or Zelle as follows:

Venmo: https://venmo.com/MarcellusPhoto

PayPal: PayPal.Me/SarahMarcellus

Zelle: 315-396-6726

Be sure to include your full name in the comments if the account is under a name I would not recognize. Thank you!