Question 1

What makes The Modern Muse different to other portrait studios?

Accepted Answer

We specialise in empowering women and girls through portraiture, no matter what your age, size or level of experience in front of the camera. And it’s not all about the finished photo, it’s just as much about your journey, from our initial meeting through to final photo selection – you’ll be made to feel like a VIP every step of the way and central to the creative process. Our personalised approach and luxurious editorial-style photoshoots make The Modern Muse a truly unique portrait experience. What also sets us apart are the 12 feminine archetypes we offer for inspiration – think high-end fashion editorial, definitely not your traditional portrait!

Question 2

What are archetypes? Do I have to choose an archetype?

Accepted Answer

We’ve developed 12 feminine archetypes to help inspire and connect with archetype traits that may be present within you, or traits you might aspire to embody. You may feel a connection to The Wanderer and The Rose but want to tap into The Huntress for example, we’ll discuss what you’d like to portray in your photos, whether it’s one or a combination, and we’d love to hear of any other ideas you may have too. Archetypes allow us to explore ourselves, similar to how a fashion model inhabits a personality in a magazine. The physical transformation of make-up, hair, and clothing helps in the transformation of your inner self. We love watching these transformations on-set! Archetypes help open the door to your imagination.

Question 3

What is the schedule of a typical portrait session, and how long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Depending on how many looks or archetypes in your package, allow from 3-6 hours. For a typical photoshoot we’ll welcome you with delicious refreshments before going over the wardrobe, then into hair and makeup. Once you’re ready, we have the rest of the session to play in front of the camera, finding the looks that work best for you, changing outfits and guiding you throughout. Fresh flowers and scented candles set the tone and you’re welcome to play your own music. This day is all about you!

Question 4

Can I do my own hair & makeup?

Accepted Answer

To achieve the high-end product we’re known for, and that you expect, we prefer to use our trusted professional makeup artists and hairstylists. They know our 12 archetypes and they have many years of experience, they know all the tricks essential to achieving a great photograph. However, we want you to be comfortable and if you’d prefer to do this yourself we can discuss this.

Question 5

I have a favourite outfit I want to wear, is this OK?

Accepted Answer

Of course! If it's a great outfit that flatters you and you feel comfortable in it, then it will probably make for a great photograph. Bring it along to our in-person meeting and we can discuss how it could work with the type of feel you’re wanting to portray.

Question 6

I don’t know what to wear

Accepted Answer

We take care of this! Pre-photoshoot we create a mood board in collaboration with you, based on the archetypes you’re inspired by. Then we go into the photoshoot clear about what we’re trying to achieve, any tweaks can be made in a final pre-photoshoot meeting. Sometimes clients bring their whole closet! and sometimes we rent or buy parts of an outfit. And you can wear multiple outfits throughout the photoshoot, so you don’t have to worry about picking just one look.

Question 7

Is it ok to bring my partner/friend for support?

Accepted Answer

On a Modern Muse photoshoot you’ll be made to feel immediately part of our family. We’re a small team of 3 or 4 on the day, and our focus is solely you. But if you think you’d feel more comfortable bringing someone along, you’re most welcome to do so.

FAQs

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

The Shoot

What makes The Modern Muse different to other portrait studios?

What are archetypes? Do I have to choose an archetype?

What is the schedule of a typical portrait session, and how long does it take?

Can I do my own hair & makeup?

I have a favourite outfit I want to wear, is this OK?

I don’t know what to wear

Is it ok to bring my partner/friend for support?

Pricing

How much does a portrait with The Modern Muse cost?

Can I just buy digitals?

I’ve had a photoshoot done before and I didn’t like the photos

Do you do personal branding?

Personal Concerns

I've never done anything like this before, what if I embarrass myself?!

I don’t like having my photo taken!