Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

How do I book a session with Glerum Photography?

Start by reaching out through the contact form on my website. I'll respond within a day or two and we'll set up a time to talk — either in person, by phone, or over video — so I can learn about what you're looking for. From there we'll plan the details together and choose a session date. I don't do same-day bookings; every session starts with a conversation first.

Where is Glerum Photography located?

I'm based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I photograph families and seniors throughout the greater Grand Rapids area, including Grandville, East Grand Rapids, Jenison, Hudsonville, Byron Center, Caledonia, Forest Hills, and communities across West Michigan. I'm also happy to travel to the lakeshore for sessions in Grand Haven, Holland, Saugatuck, and other Lake Michigan locations.

What kind of photography does Glerum Photography specialize in?

I specialize in two things: family and children's portraits, and high school senior portraits. These are my focus and where I put all of my creative energy. I've photographed engagements, weddings, maternity sessions, newborns and a wide range of other subjects in the past, but families and seniors are where my passion lives.

What is your photography style?

I'd describe my style as natural, relaxed, and personal. I'm not a "say cheese" photographer — I want your portraits to look like you, not like a stock photo. I seek to use natural light whenever possible, but I am comfortable with off-camera lighting as needed. I favor real expressions over forced smiles, and work to create images that feel authentic to who you are. Every session is different because every person and family is different.

How far in advance should I book?

For senior portraits, I recommend booking at least two to three months ahead, especially if you want a late summer or fall session — those time slots fill up first. Family sessions are a bit more flexible, but fall is still the busiest season. The earlier you reach out, the more scheduling options we'll have.

Why should I choose Glerum Photography for my senior portraits?

Because your portraits should look like you — not like everyone else's. I start every session with a conversation about who you are, what you love, and what you want your portraits to say. From there, we build a session around your personality, your interests, and the locations that mean something to you. No two sessions look alike, because no two seniors are alike. I also share images with you throughout the session so you can see how great things are looking in real time, which helps you relax and be yourself.

Families and Children Questions

What should my family wear for our photo session?

Coordinate without matching. Choose a color palette — say, earth tones, blues and creams, or muted fall colors — and have everyone pick outfits within that range. Avoid matching t-shirts, large logos, and neon colors. Layers and textures photograph well. The goal is for everyone to look like themselves while looking good together. I'm happy to help with outfit planning during our consultation.

How do I keep my kids calm during a family photo session?

That's my job, not yours. I keep sessions relaxed and low-pressure, and I expect kids to act like kids — running, laughing, being goofy, maybe having a moment. All of that makes for real, honest images. Bring snacks, bring a favorite toy if it helps, and don't stress about perfect behavior. Some of the best family photos happen in the unplanned moments.

Where are the best locations for family photos in Grand Rapids?

It depends on the feel you're going for. Parks like Millennium Park, Townsend Park, and Provin Trails are great for natural, wooded settings. Downtown Grand Rapids offers urban textures and architecture. The lakeshore is beautiful for open, airy images. Your own backyard or a location that's meaningful to your family can be the best option of all. We'll figure out the right spot together during the planning process.

What is the best age to photograph children?

Every age has something worth capturing. Toddlers are wild and unpredictable and produce the most joyful, chaotic images. School-age kids are starting to show their personalities in new ways. Tweens are in a brief, beautiful window between childhood and adolescence that passes fast. There's no wrong age — there's just now, and now doesn't last.

What is a family documentary session?

A family documentary session is like a "day in the life" — I come to your home or wherever your family spends its time and photograph the real, unscripted moments of your daily life. Baths, meals, play, bedtime routines, the everyday chaos that you'll look back on someday and miss. These sessions require more time to unfold naturally, so they run a minimum of two hours, though longer sessions tend to produce the best results.

Process Questions

Do I get digital files of my photos?

Yes. Every session includes full-resolution digital files with a release that allows you to print and share for personal use. Files are delivered through an online gallery where you can also order professional prints if you'd like.

Do I have to order prints through you?

You are not required to order printed photos directly through me, but if you wish, you can order professional prints directly through the online gallery. I offer assistance with creating your print order if needed.

Can I post my photos on social media?

Absolutely. Your digital files come with permission to share on social media for personal use. Most of my referrals are word-of-mouth, so I ask that you credit Glerum Photography when you post. Senior Sunday, holiday cards, profile pictures — share away.

Do you retouch your photos?

Yes. Every image I deliver is professionally edited and retouched. This includes color correction, exposure adjustment, and basic editing for families and children. Seniors receive skin retouching that looks natural — I want you to look like the best version of yourself, not like someone else. I don't do heavy Photoshop manipulation or body altering.

Senior Portrait Questions

What is included in a senior portrait session?

Every senior session includes a planning consultation where we talk about your interests, your style, and your ideas for locations and outfits. The session itself is approximately two hours, which is usually enough for two locations and multiple outfit changes. After the session, I professionally edit and retouch the images, upload them to an online gallery, and deliver full-resolution digital files with a print release.

Do you retouch acne in senior portraits?

Yes. Acne is temporary — your senior portraits aren't. I'll clean up breakouts, blemishes, and skin irritation so that your portraits reflect how you actually look, not how your skin happened to look on one particular afternoon. That said, I keep retouching natural. I'm not going to give you poreless, airbrushed skin that looks like it came out of a magazine. You'll still look like you — just on a really good day.

What should I wear to my senior portrait session?

Bring outfits that feel like you. I recommend three to four outfit options so we have variety, and we'll talk through your choices during the planning consultation. Layers, textures, and solid colors tend to photograph well. Avoid large logos or busy patterns. And bring comfortable shoes for walking between locations — you can always swap into dress shoes for specific shots.

My general advice is to wear clothing you feel comfortable in. If you never wear short skirts or hate wearing a tie, don’t wear one for your session - you won’t feel comfortable in it and that can show.

How long does a senior portrait session last?

A standard session lasts about two hours. That's usually enough time for two primary locations — for example, downtown Grand Rapids and a more natural outdoor setting — along with multiple outfit changes. If you need more time, sessions can be extended for an additional fee, or we can schedule a second session on a different day.

When is the best time of year for senior portraits in Michigan?

Late summer and early fall are the most popular — the light is golden, the lakeshore is gorgeous, and Michigan's fall color is at its peak. But honestly, every season has something to offer. Spring gives you blossoms and fresh green, winter can be dramatic and moody, and summer offers the longest golden hour. The best time is whenever feels right for your senior.

Can I bring a friend or pet to my senior portrait session?

Absolutely. A lot of seniors bring a friend along to help them relax and have fun, and friends are welcome to jump in for a photo or two. Pets are welcome too — dogs, horses, goats, you name it. If it's part of who you are, it belongs in your portraits.

Where do you take senior portraits in Grand Rapids?

Anywhere that fits who you are. Some popular options include downtown Grand Rapids for urban backdrops and brick textures, Millennium Park or Provin Trails for natural settings, and the Lake Michigan lakeshore for dunes and open water. But we're not limited to those — if you have a favorite spot, a family farm, a theater stage, an auto shop, or somewhere only you would think of, let's go there.

What if it rains on my senior portrait session day?

We'll be in touch on the day of your session if the forecast looks iffy. Depending on the location and how adventurous you're feeling, we might grab some umbrellas and roll with it — rain can actually make for dramatic, unique images. If the weather is truly unworkable, we'll reschedule to a date that works for both of us. It's never a problem.

How long until I receive my senior portrait photos?

I typically post a few preview images to social media within a few days. The full edited gallery is usually ready within two to three weeks. You'll receive a link to an online gallery where you can view, share, and order prints, along with full-resolution digital downloads.

Do you photograph both guys and girls for senior portraits?

Yes — I photograph senior guys and senior girls, and no two sessions look alike. I work with athletes, musicians, artists, dancers, and everyone in between. Guys' sessions are just as creative and personalized as girls' sessions. You can browse the Senior Guys and Senior Girls galleries on my site to see examples.