Frequently Asked Questions

The easiest way is to reach out through our contact page or call us at (860) 399-6613. We'll talk through your goals, confirm availability, and send over a simple booking agreement. A 25% retainer holds your date — the balance is due one week before your session.

We accept all major credit cards, Venmo, Zelle, and personal checks. Payment details are included in your booking agreement.

Life happens — we get it. Sessions cancelled or rescheduled with at least 72 hours' notice can be moved to a new date at no charge. Your retainer is non-refundable but always transferable to a future session. For weddings, your signed contract has the full terms.

Absolutely. We serve clients throughout Connecticut — New Haven, Hartford, Old Saybrook, and beyond — at no extra charge. For sessions outside Connecticut or destination weddings, travel expenses (mileage, lodging where applicable) are billed at cost. We love to travel — just ask.

Not at all — it's the most common thing we hear. Our sessions are relaxed, conversational, and fully guided. We'll walk you through every pose and expression so you always know what to do. Most clients are surprised at how quickly they loosen up. Posing is our job — you just have to show up.

It depends on the package. Headshot sessions run 30–90 minutes. Family portrait sessions are typically 30–90 minutes. Wedding coverage is booked by the hour — most couples choose 6–10 hours. We always build in breathing room. Great photos are never rushed.

Both — and we love each for different reasons. Our studio is conveniently located just off I-95 in Westbrook and gives us full control over lighting. On-location sessions bring Connecticut's landscapes into your images. Many clients choose a combination. We'll recommend the best option for your specific goals.

We keep a close eye on the forecast. Overcast skies are actually ideal for portraits — soft, even light with no harsh shadows. For severe weather, we'll reschedule at no charge with at least 24 hours' notice. A little rain can make for beautiful, atmospheric images too.

Headshots and portrait sessions are delivered within 7–10 business days. Wedding galleries within 4–6 weeks. You'll receive a private online gallery link via email — your images are a click away. Rush delivery is available as an add-on.

Each package includes a set number of professionally edited images — see the Pricing page for specifics. We never deliver quantity over quality. Every image in your gallery has been individually reviewed and edited for color, exposure, and retouching.

Yes — we love knowing your preferences upfront. If you have a look in mind (light and airy, moody, film-inspired, clean and crisp), share some reference images during your booking call. Minor retouching is included in all packages; advanced retouching can be requested for an additional fee.

Yes. Dream Life Photo offers fine art prints through our curated professional print labs — the highest quality available. Framed prints, canvases, and custom albums are all available. Pricing is available on request.

We recommend 9–12 months in advance, especially for popular Connecticut dates (June, September, October). We do occasionally have last-minute availability — don't hesitate to reach out. Dates are held on a first-come, first-served basis once the retainer is received.

Yes — Dream Life is a full-service photography and video studio. We offer wedding videography as a standalone service or bundled with photography for a seamless experience with one creative team. Ask about video add-ons when you reach out.

Absolutely. We've documented weddings throughout New England and beyond. Travel costs are agreed upon during booking. Destination weddings are something we genuinely love — a new place paired with the joy of your day makes for extraordinary images.

Commercial work is scoped and priced per project — every brand's needs are different. We'll discuss your goals, intended usage, timeline, and creative vision, then provide a detailed quote. Most commercial projects begin with a no-charge discovery call.

Product photography, corporate and team headshots, event and conference coverage, restaurant and food photography, brand lifestyle imagery, and short-form social video. Recent clients include Paramount+'s Frasier relaunch, MOOV Health, La Joya Fresh Mexican, and Comomango.