Child Portraiture
Authentic portraits of the kids, so you remember this unique time in their lives.
A few words about William
I’m William, the photographer behind Petruzzo Photography. Since 2008, I’ve been capturing portrait sessions that feel natural and intentional, fun, and most importantly, genuinely reflect the people in them. Regardless of who is in front of my camera, my goal is the same: help you look like yourself on your best day. Ideally without making it weird.
I live in Bowie with my partner and our dog Bailey. When I’m not behind the camera, I’m usually nerding out on impractical coding projects, playing with creative tools, 3D printing, refining a new workflow, or finding excuses to go outside and exercise.
Ready to talk?
Feel free to fill out the form below and I’ll respond via email, phone or text as soon as I can. Usually within 24 hours. Don’t worry, I will not share your contact information with anyone else.
Child Portraiture FAQ's
Are there any other fees I should expect?
Child Only Portraits sessions are all-inclusive and you generally won’t be required to spend anything additional after the session. However, if you wish to schedule a session outside of my normal service area you will be required to pay for travel. If applicable, you’ll also pay for parking and event or location admissions during the session, any prints that you choose to buy from me, as well as any advanced retouching you might request.
Are you good with kids?
You bet! I have tons of experience working with children. And, I am an uncle to a small army of nieces and nephews who have put me through the wringer over the last 20 years. I believe it’s important to let children take the lead, and I base sessions with children around playful interactions as much as possible.
Can I bring my dog or cat?
Absolutely. But, be aware that they don’t always want to play along and can eat up a lot of time that we might otherwise use to create images. I recommend bringing a dedicated helper with you so that we can capture a few images with the animal, and then focus on other images. If you’re primarily interested in images of your pet, you might want to consider my Pet Portraiture services instead because the rhythm of those sessions is built around the animal.
Can I change outfits during a session?
You can, but it isn’t recommended in most cases, since it will take time we could be using to capture photos. I am also unable to guarantee there will be a suitably private place to change clothes. That said, if you’d like to introduce more variety, I would recommend swapping accessories and outerwear, rather than a full outfit.
How far will you travel?
Child Only Portraits sessions include travel to locations within 35 miles of the 21054 zip code. Travel beyond that will cost a little extra. Express Sessions are limited to locations in Bowie and Crofton, MD.
How long before the images are finished?
Standard turn around time for Child Only Portraits is around 2-3 weeks or less, but not guaranteed. If the images need extra time to look their best, I’ll give it to them. I will always keep you in the loop if things are taking a little longer. Guaranteed rush delivery is available at an additional cost.
How long do sessions usually last?
Child Only Portraits will last around 60 minutes. Express Sessions are capped at 25 minutes. Under some circumstances, sessions may run a little long and may be cut short if something out of my control ends things early.
What ages are considered children?
As far as portrait sessions are concerned, children are people from the ages of 3 to 15 years old. Ages younger than that are considered babies, and ages older than that are considered adults. Basically, if they’re old enough to “play along”, but probably not old enough to drive themselves to the session, they’re children.
What if someone gets sick, there is bad weather, or an emergency?
I’ll make every effort to accommodate changes in schedule. It’s important to keep in mind that I can only reserve one date at a time per booking, so schedules will be based on current availability at the time of rescheduling.
What kind of session do I book for my child?
If you want to focus your images on one child — say for their 10th birthday or their high school graduation — I will book this as a Personality Session, a session for one person. If you have several children and just want a session that focuses on them together, I will book this as a Family Session.
Where will the session take place?
Child Only Portraits will always take place on-location. Depending on what style of images you like, we may shoot in your home, in a local park, a museum, or a downtown area. Any location that appeals to you, and we are legally allowed to photograph in, is a possible candidate. If you’re looking for inspiration, take some time to browse my extensive locations directory. I am also more than happy to offer up some suggestions.
Who will be my photographer?
Most of the time I’ll photograph your session personally. Some folks may get to work with my associate of more than 15 years, Felipe. If you have been referred to me by someone who has worked with Felipe in the past, I’m happy to assign your session to him. In either case, you will know who your photographer is when you book your session.
Will you photoshop the images?
Depending on the context of the image, we will remove some non-permanent blemishes and may slightly soften skin where it looks unnaturally rough. I do not generally perform major cosmetic adjustments on portraits.