Free Photo Shoot

Entrants must be residents of York, Adams or Lancaster counties in Pennsylvania or of Carroll, Baltimore or Harford counties in Maryland. Minors (under the age of 18) can only enter with a parent/legal guardian's permission.

I'm including this question in our FAQs, because I was recently reading on Reddit about some photographers offering contests for "free photo shoots," but then twisting it around to mean that the clients won the photo shoot but not the actual pictures which result (which they were then charging for).

Believe me, our giveaway is not that! This is a real monthly giveaway where, presuming we have enough entries in any given month, we then select a winner to receive an absolutely free local photo shoot with free professionally edited downloadable digital photos. There is no hard upsell here (I'm a terrible salesperson anyway!), nor is there any surprise ending twist where we ask you for money after the shoot. If you want to use our photo print service (which would cost you money), that choice is completely up to you; or you can have your photos printed elsewhere (also at your expense).

Our photographer will travel to your home or location of choice within 15 miles of New Freedom, Pennsylvania. If you live outside of that 15 mile radius, we can try to do the shoot at a nearby park or public place within our immediate service area (weather permitting!).

We will give you 10 professionally edited images (digitally downloadable files) typically within 14 days following the free photo shoot. We will provide them to you in print resolution files (which can then be printed or shared online).

You can post the images on your social media sites, blogs, business sites, etc.

You can have the digital files printed by your service of choice, and we can give you a "Permission to Print" form if that is needed. Or, you can have our photo printing partner professionally print them, but you will be responsible for the fees involved.

The free photo shoot may last anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes depending on location, weather, wardrobe, shoot theme, people involved, etc.

Yes, you may have up to 4 wardrobe changes during the free photo shoot (so a total of 5 different looks/styles during the shoot).

Here are just a small handful of creative wardrobe options to consider for the photo shoot:

1. Bold Patterns & Prints: Florals, geometric shapes, animal prints, or abstract designs can add visual interest and energy to photos.

2. Monochrome Outfits: Dressing in a single color or varying shades of one color creates a sleek, editorial look and enhances the subject’s presence.

3. Vintage or Retro Styles: Outfits inspired by the '60s, '70s, '80s, or '90s (think bell-bottoms, polka dots, leather jackets, or oversized blazers) bring nostalgia and character.

4. Flowy Dresses or Skirts: Long, flowy fabrics create movement and a dreamy, romantic vibe, especially in outdoor settings.

5. Layered Looks: Combine jackets, scarves, hats, and vests for dimension and depth, perfect for autumn or urban shoots.

6. Statement Accessories: Hats, bold jewelry, funky sunglasses, or unique shoes can make a simple outfit stand out.

7. Themed Costumes: Embrace a specific theme - like bohemian, fairytale, fantasy, or steampunk - for a stylized, creative shoot.

8. Textured Fabrics: Velvet, lace, sequins, denim, or leather add tactile interest and can catch or reflect light in unique ways.

9. Contrasting Colors: Mix and match complementary colors for bold, eye-catching results.

10. Minimalist/Neutral Tones: Simple, clean lines and neutral palettes focus attention on the subject and create timeless images.

11. Matching Outfits (for groups or couples): Coordinated looks create unity and harmony, while contrasting styles can highlight individuality.

12. Cultural or Traditional Attire: Wearing clothing tied to heritage or tradition brings depth, meaning, and vibrant visuals.

13. Sporty or Streetwear Styles: Sneakers, joggers, hoodies, and caps lend a relaxed, urban vibe.

14. Capes, Cloaks, or Dramatic Outerwear: Adds drama and flair, especially for fashion-focused or fantasy shoots.

15. Unexpected Combos: Mix formal and casual elements (e.g., tuxedo jacket with jeans) for a high-fashion, editorial twist.

When planning a wardrobe, consider the location, mood, and story you want to tell. Don’t be afraid to experiment and layer for added creativity!

Here are a few creative locations to consider for your photo shoot (and the possibilities are virtually limitless!):

Abandoned Buildings or Factories: Provide a unique, gritty, and dramatic backdrop with interesting textures and lighting.

Botanical Gardens or Greenhouses: Offer vibrant colors, lush greenery, and natural light.

Rooftops: Give you cityscape views, unique angles, and dramatic sunsets or skyline shots.

Libraries or Bookstores: Create a cozy, intellectual, or vintage atmosphere among books and architectural details.

Urban Alleys or Graffiti Walls: Add an edgy, artistic element with colorful street art.

Historic Sites or Castles: Bring a sense of grandeur, history, or fantasy to your photos.

Carnivals or Amusement Parks: Provide playful, colorful, and lively backgrounds with lights and rides.

Coffee Shops or Cafés: Offer a warm, inviting, and candid setting for lifestyle shots.

Open Fields or Flower Meadows: Perfect for soft, dreamy, and natural portraits.

Beaches, Cliffs, or Lakesides: Give you stunning natural scenery, reflections, and golden hour lighting.

Parking Garages: Offer modern, minimalistic, and industrial vibes with interesting lines and shadows.

Farms, Barns, or Orchards: Create rustic, earthy, and authentic settings.

Bridges or Boardwalks: Add architectural interest and leading lines to your compositions.

Art Museums or Galleries: Provide elegant, minimalist, or avant-garde backdrops.

Train Stations or Vintage Railways: Offer a sense of nostalgia, movement, and adventure.

When choosing a creative location, consider the story, mood, and style you want to convey - and always check to see if you need permission or permits to shoot there!

Lots of reasons! It provides publicity for our photography business, but we also very much enjoy giving away the occasional photo shoot. It gives us another way to engage with the surrounding communities and meet new people. It also offers those - who may not normally have a paid photoshoot - the opportunity to experience a professional shoot.