Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions and answers for your convenience. Please let us know if there is a question we did not answer here.

The Experience

Do I Have To Come In For A Consultation?

We strongly recommend it — not because we’re trying to “sell” you, but because it’s where everything gets easier.

The consultation is where we:

learn what matters to you in this season of life
help you plan clothing and location
talk through what you want to create for your home
remove the stress before the session even happens

If you can’t come in, we can do the consultation by phone or video.

What if my kids don’t behave?

This is one of the most common worries, and we get it.

But here’s the truth: your family doesn’t need to perform.
They just need to show up.

We’re parents too. We know how kids are. We photograph with patience, humor, and flexibility, and we’re very good at creating portraits that feel real even if the day is a little chaotic.

There’s no pressure here.

How Long Will Our Session Last?

Most family sessions last about 60–90 minutes.

Some sessions are shorter, some take longer — but we plan the time around your family, your kids’ ages, and the kind of portraits you want to create.

Can You Photograph Different Groupings At Our Session?

Yes — and we encourage it.

During your planning consultation we’ll talk through the groupings that matter most:

the full family
each child individually
siblings together
parents with each child
grandparents (if included)

We’ll help you build variety without it feeling like a checklist.

Can We Bring Along Our Family Pet?

Absolutely.

Pets are family, and often they’re part of the story of this season of life.

Just let us know in advance so we can plan the best way to include them.

Do you work with subjects who have special needs or who are dealing with illness?

Yes.

We photograph with patience, flexibility, and deep respect.

If your family is navigating a medical situation, sensory needs, or anything that requires a gentler pace, please tell us. We’ll plan the experience around what feels safe and manageable for you.

Planning & Location

Where is the studio located?

Wehmeier Portraits is based in our home in Orland Park.

After many years in a retail studio, we moved to our home in 2017 — and it has become one of our favorite changes we’ve ever made.

It’s quiet, comfortable, and relaxed. We have:

a dedicated camera room
a calm presentation space for viewing your portraits

Address:
14410 Raneys Lane, Orland Park, IL

When you arrive, we recommend parking in the driveway for easy unloading (especially with little ones).

What Are Your Hours?

All sessions and meetings are by appointment only.

We do offer evening and weekend appointments, but those are limited and tend to book quickly.

Can You Photograph At Our Home?

Yes — and in many cases, that’s one of the most meaningful options.

Your home holds your real life. It can add a layer of emotional truth that no park can replicate.

If we’re photographing at your home, we may recommend a quick scout beforehand to plan the best time of day and location.

Do you recommend outdoor locations?

Yes.

We’re happy to recommend locations we love, or explore a place that matters to you.

One important note: some parks and venues require permits, insurance paperwork, or advance notice, and that can take a few weeks. If you have a specific location in mind, tell us early so we can plan properly.

Do You Travel For Photo Sessions?

Yes — absolutely.

If you’re dreaming about something outside the southwest suburbs, let’s talk. We’ll walk through what’s possible.

Can we reschedule if someone gets sick or the weather is bad?

Yes.

Kids get sick. Life happens. And outdoor sessions sometimes need flexibility.

If your child isn’t feeling well, or the weather isn’t cooperating, we’re happy to reschedule.

Viewing, Ordering & Artwork

How do we view our portraits and place an order?

After your session, we schedule a time for you to return to the studio for your Order Appointment.

This is where you’ll see your portraits for the first time — and where we help you select and design what you want for your home.

We strongly recommend that all decision-makers attend, because this appointment is where your order is finalized.

How many images will we see?

We typically show:

about 30 images for individual sessions
about 40–60 images for family sessions

We guide you through the selection process so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Do you retouch the portraits?

Yes — all portraits you purchase are professionally retouched.

We remove temporary distractions like:

blemishes
flyaway hairs
spots on clothing

We do not erase permanent features (scars, moles, tattoos) unless you request it. Our goal is always to flatter you while keeping you looking like yourself.

How long does it take to receive our finished portraits?

Most orders are completed in 2–3 weeks.

Some frame choices or specialty products can take longer, and we’ll keep you updated throughout the process.

Can you help us install portraits on our walls?

Yes.

We offer complimentary portrait hanging for wall art clients, because we want your portraits to live in your home — not sit in a box.

Are digital files included?

We include a web sized image file of each ordered image, sized for personal sharing (phone, email, social media).

We keep the print-quality files in-house because it’s our job to make sure the final artwork looks as beautiful as possible — and that quality is only guaranteed through the finished pieces we produce.

Investment & Payments

How much do families typically invest?

Every family is different — because every home and every order is different.

You are always in control of what you purchase.

Most families invest $1200 or more in finished artwork.

If you’d like, we can give you guidance during your consultation so you feel confident about what to expect.

Do You Offer Gift Certificates?

Yes.

Gift certificates can be purchased in any dollar amount, or as a session + artwork package.

Most families choose gift certificates starting around $500.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept:

cash
check
Venmo
all major credit cards

Do You Offer Payment Plans?

Yes.

If you’d like to divide your purchase into monthly payments, we can do that.

A few notes:

the session fee must be paid on or before the session date
finished products and digital files are delivered once payment is complete

Do You Have a Guarantee?

Yes.

If you are not completely satisfied with your portraits, we will either:

re-photograph your session, or
refund what you have spent with us

Just for Fun

Do You Still Have The Pig Orchestra And Chicken?

Yes. But, some of the pigs are getting close to retirement. We are currently auditioning for their understudies.

Let's Talk

Proudly serving the southwest suburbs and the greater Chicago area for over thirty years. Including the communities of Orland Park, Homer Glen, Tinley Park, Lemont, LaGrange, Palos Park, and Burr Ridge.