Find answers to common questions about maternity, newborn, family, wedding, branding, and portrait photography and videography in Ottawa. Learn about booking, locations, wardrobe planning, drone coverage, products, image delivery, and what to expect from your session.
The easiest way to start is by reaching out through my website, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, or email. I personally respond to every inquiry and take the time to learn about your vision, answer your questions, and help you choose the photography experience that best fits your needs. Once you're ready to move forward, I'll send over the booking details, agreement, and retainer information to officially secure your date.
The sooner the better, especially for maternity, newborn, and wedding photography/videography. Popular dates and seasons often book months in advance. If you're planning a newborn session, I recommend reserving your spot during pregnancy.
Yes. A non-refundable retainer is required to reserve your session date. This ensures your spot is held exclusively for you.
Every session includes planning assistance, location recommendations, wardrobe guidance, professional posing support, image editing, and delivery of your final gallery. Specific inclusions vary by package.
Absolutely. Depending on the package selected, consultations can take place by phone, Zoom, or in person. We can discuss your vision, wardrobe, location options, and answer any questions before your session.
Professional photography preserves moments that become more meaningful with time. Beyond beautiful images, you receive expert guidance, professional editing, a personalized experience, and photographs designed to become lasting family heirlooms.
The ideal time is typically between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. During this stage, your baby bump is beautifully visible while you're usually still comfortable enough to move and pose naturally.
I recommend booking during your second trimester to ensure availability and allow plenty of time for planning.
Flowing dresses, fitted gowns, and clothing that highlights your baby bump photograph beautifully. Clients receive wardrobe guidance, and select packages include access to pieces from my client closet.
Yes. Depending on your package selection, you may have access to a curated collection of maternity gowns and dresses designed specifically for photography.
Absolutely. Maternity sessions often include partners, children, and immediate family members to celebrate this exciting chapter together.
Yes. Many families choose to document multiple milestones, and I offer bundled collections that allow you to capture your baby's incredible first year. Options are available for maternity and newborn sessions, as well as First Year Collections that may include maternity, newborn, six-month, and first birthday or cake smash sessions.
The first year goes by remarkably fast, and babies change more during these twelve months than at any other stage of life. Booking your milestones in advance not only helps secure availability but also ensures that these fleeting moments are beautifully documented from pregnancy through your baby's first birthday. Many families find that reserving their First Year Collection upfront provides peace of mind and creates a meaningful visual story of their growing family.
The best time to reserve your newborn session is during pregnancy, ideally during your second or third trimester. I accept a limited number of newborn sessions each month to ensure every family receives the time and attention they deserve, so booking in advance helps secure availability around your due date.
Once your baby arrives, life becomes wonderfully busy. Between sleepless nights, feeding schedules, recovery, and adjusting to life with a newborn, searching for a photographer is often the last thing new parents want to worry about. By planning ahead, you'll have peace of mind knowing everything is already arranged.
Newborn sessions are typically photographed within the first 6–14 days after birth. During this stage, babies tend to sleep more deeply and are naturally curled, making it easier to achieve those classic newborn portraits. However, if you've missed that window, don't worry. Beautiful newborn-style images can still be created for older babies. I have successfully photographed babies at several weeks and even a few months old, with the sweetest results. While the first month is generally ideal, it's never too late to preserve these precious early memories.
The ideal time for a newborn session is between 6 and 14 days after birth. During this stage, babies tend to sleep more deeply, curl naturally into those classic newborn poses, and are often more comfortable being gently positioned.
That said, if your baby is older, don't worry. I have successfully photographed many babies at one month, two months, and even three months old, creating beautiful images that families absolutely love. While the style of the session may naturally change as babies become more alert and expressive, every age brings its own unique charm and milestones worth capturing.
If you're hoping for traditional sleepy newborn portraits, I recommend booking as early as possible. However, it's never too late to document your baby's first weeks and months, and together we can create a session that beautifully reflects this special stage of their journey.
That's completely normal. Every baby is different, and I allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, cuddling, and breaks as needed.
Yes. I provide a carefully curated collection of wraps, blankets, bonnets, headbands, and newborn accessories.
Absolutely. Parents and siblings are always welcome to be part of your newborn session, as these images often become some of the most meaningful and treasured photographs from your gallery. Capturing the connection between your new baby and the people who love them most helps tell the complete story of this special chapter.
Please note that family and sibling portraits may vary depending on the package selected. Some of my newborn collections are designed as baby-only mini sessions, offering a shorter experience focused exclusively on your newborn. If including parents, siblings, or additional family members is important to you, I recommend choosing a full newborn session that allows time for a variety of family, sibling, and individual newborn portraits.
Yes, absolutely. I love photographing twins and multiples, and these sessions are always incredibly special. Because photographing more than one newborn requires additional time, planning, posing, and safety considerations, twin and triplet sessions are customized to ensure the best possible experience for your family.
Please get in touch for personalized collection options and pricing. I'll be happy to learn more about your family and recommend the experience that best suits your needs.
Choosing the right outfits is one of the most important parts of preparing for a family photography session. Coordinated clothing, complementary colors, and timeless styles help create beautiful family photos that will look just as meaningful years from now as they do today.
Every family who books a session with Anna Odeh Photography receives a detailed What to Wear Guide filled with family photo outfit ideas, styling recommendations, color palettes, and examples to help make planning easier. If you would like additional support, I am happy to provide personalized wardrobe guidance based on your family, location, season, and photography style.
Whether you're planning an outdoor family photography session in Ottawa, an extended family photoshoot, or a studio family portrait session, I can help you choose outfits from your existing wardrobe or recommend pieces that photograph beautifully together. Depending on the collection selected, access to pieces from my client wardrobe may also be available, and a fitting appointment can be arranged before your session.
My goal is to make the planning process simple and stress-free so you can focus on enjoying your family photography experience while creating timeless images you'll treasure for generations.
This is one of the most common concerns parents have before booking a family photography session, and in most cases, children do much better than expected.
One of the biggest factors in a successful family photoshoot is arriving relaxed and avoiding pressure before the session. Children often sense stress, and sessions tend to go much more smoothly when everyone treats the experience as a fun family outing rather than something that has to be perfect.
I always encourage parents to avoid forcing smiles, arguing, or repeatedly correcting children during the session. Every child has a unique personality, and my approach is tailored to each family. Sometimes a favorite snack, small reward, or special treat afterward can help keep little ones motivated.
If a child is shy, energetic, or simply not interested in looking at the camera, I focus on capturing natural family interactions instead. Some of the most beautiful family photographs come from genuine cuddles, laughter, playfulness, and candid moments between parents and children. These authentic connections often become the images families treasure most.
Absolutely. I love photographing extended family sessions and capturing multiple generations together. Grandparents, parents, and children all sharing the same frame often creates some of the most meaningful family portraits a family will ever own.
Extended family photography sessions may depend on the collection selected, as larger groups generally require additional time and planning. If including grandparents or additional family members is important to you, simply let me know during the booking process and I will recommend the most suitable session option.
Generational family portraits are especially meaningful because they preserve family history and connections that become increasingly valuable over time.
Absolutely. Pets are family too and are often welcome to participate in outdoor family photography sessions at locations where animals are permitted.
Including your dog can add personality, authenticity, and meaningful memories to your family photographs. Whether it's a playful walk, cuddles together, or simply having your furry companion included in a few portraits, I am always happy to discuss ways to incorporate pets into your session.
For studio or indoor sessions, pet participation may be possible depending on the type of animal, temperament, and session setup. Please mention your pet when booking so we can discuss the best options for your family.
I closely monitor weather conditions leading up to every outdoor family photography session. If significant rain, storms, or unsafe conditions are expected, I will contact you in advance and we will reschedule your session for the next available date.
If the forecast calls for cloudy or overcast skies, your session will usually proceed as planned. In fact, overcast conditions often provide some of the best lighting for family photography. The clouds create soft, even light that is flattering for all skin tones, minimizes harsh shadows, and allows us to capture beautiful images throughout the session.
Many of my favorite Ottawa family photography galleries have been photographed on overcast days, so if you see clouds in the forecast, there is no need to worry. Soft natural light often creates the most timeless and flattering family portraits.
Absolutely. In fact, one of the most common things I hear before a portrait, branding, or headshot session is, "I'm not photogenic."
The truth is that being photogenic is not something you're born with. Most of the people you see in my portfolio are everyday clients, not professional models. Through proper lighting, flattering angles, posing guidance, expression coaching, and a relaxed environment, I help clients look and feel their best in front of the camera.
My sessions are designed to feel comfortable rather than intimidating. We take our time, chat throughout the session, and often play music that helps you feel relaxed and confident. Instead of worrying about how to stand or where to look, you'll be guided every step of the way. My goal is not just to create beautiful portraits but to help you genuinely enjoy the experience.
Many clients arrive feeling nervous and leave surprised by how natural and enjoyable the session felt. The right photographer, the right guidance, and a comfortable atmosphere can make all the difference.
Personal branding photography is much more than a professional headshot. It is a collection of custom images designed to showcase your personality, expertise, business, products, services, and the story behind your brand.
In today's digital world, people often connect with a business online before ever making contact. Professional branding photography helps build trust, credibility, and recognition by allowing potential clients to see the person behind the business. Whether you're an entrepreneur, author, realtor, coach, artist, content creator, or small business owner, professional branding images help create a stronger connection with your audience.
Branding sessions can include professional portraits, lifestyle images, behind-the-scenes content, workspace photographs, product photography, and custom content created specifically for your website, social media, marketing materials, publications, and advertising campaigns.
Yes. I offer professional headshot photography for entrepreneurs, corporate professionals, business owners, authors, actors, creatives, and anyone looking to elevate their professional image.
A professional headshot is often your first impression online. Whether it's for LinkedIn, your company website, speaking engagements, publications, business cards, social media profiles, or marketing materials, a strong headshot helps communicate professionalism, confidence, and approachability.
Sessions can be tailored to suit your industry and personal brand. Whether you're looking for a clean corporate headshot, an environmental portrait, an actor headshot, or a modern personal branding image, we'll create photographs that reflect who you are and how you want to be perceived.
Absolutely. Depending on the collection selected, outfit changes may be included and are often encouraged for branding and portrait sessions. Multiple outfits help create variety and allow us to capture different looks, moods, and uses for your final images.
I am happy to provide wardrobe guidance before your session to help ensure your outfits complement your brand, industry, and goals.
Absolutely. In addition to photography, I bring over 20+ years of experience in graphic design, marketing, branding, and social media. This allows me to create content that not only looks professional but also supports your business goals and helps you connect with your ideal audience.
Branding sessions can be customized to include professional photography, social media content, website imagery, videography, and marketing materials tailored to your business. Together, we'll create visual content that reflects your brand, builds trust with potential clients, and helps your business stand out online.
I highly recommend booking your wedding photographer and videographer as early as possible, ideally 12 to 18 months before your wedding date. Wedding dates are unique because they cannot easily be changed, and once a date is reserved, it is no longer available for other couples.
Our team accepts a limited number of weddings each year to ensure every couple receives the attention, creativity, and level of service they deserve. Because of this, popular dates—especially during peak wedding season—often book well in advance.
If you've found a photography and videography team whose style, experience, and approach align with your vision, I encourage you not to wait. Securing your date early gives you the best chance of reserving your preferred team and allows plenty of time for planning your engagement session, wedding timeline, photography coverage, videography coverage, and all the details that help create a seamless wedding experience.
Absolutely. My team and I provide wedding photography, wedding videography, and drone coverage throughout Ottawa, across Canada, and at destination wedding locations worldwide.
For destination weddings, travel arrangements should be discussed and confirmed well in advance. Depending on the location and coverage requirements, travel expenses such as transportation, accommodations, and meals are typically the responsibility of the client.
Every destination wedding is unique, and I am happy to create a customized proposal tailored to your wedding plans, location, and coverage needs.
Yes. Engagement sessions are available as standalone sessions or can be included with select wedding collections.
Engagement photography and videography sessions are a wonderful opportunity for us to get to know each other before your wedding day and help couples become more comfortable in front of the camera. They also provide beautiful content for save-the-date announcements, wedding websites, social media, and keepsakes leading up to your celebration.
The number of final images depends on the collection selected, the length of coverage, the number of photographers and videographers involved, and the events being documented throughout your wedding day.
Every wedding gallery is carefully curated and professionally edited to tell the complete story of your celebration. My focus is always on quality, meaningful moments, and delivering a beautiful collection of images and memories rather than limiting your experience to a specific number.
Video deliverables vary depending on the videography collection selected and may include highlight films, social media reels, ceremony coverage, speeches, and other custom options.
Absolutely. With years of experience in both wedding photography and wedding videography, I can help guide you through building a timeline that allows enough time for portraits, family photographs, wedding party images, video coverage, drone footage, and all the important moments throughout the day.
A well-planned timeline helps reduce stress, keeps the day running smoothly, and ensures you have the best possible lighting and opportunities for both photography and videography while still enjoying your wedding day.
Yes. Wedding collections can be customized to include photography, videography, drone coverage, engagement sessions, highlight films, reels, or a combination of services depending on your vision and needs.
I work alongside a trusted and experienced team of photographers and videographers to ensure seamless coverage throughout your wedding day. Depending on your preferences, coverage may be arranged with a women-only team or a mixed photography and videography team.
From intimate celebrations to large multicultural weddings, every collection can be tailored to fit your unique plans. Whether you're looking for photography only, full-day photography and videography coverage, cinematic wedding films, aerial drone footage, engagement sessions, or destination wedding coverage, we can create a customized collection designed specifically for your wedding.
While not required, professional hair and makeup can help you feel confident and camera-ready while enhancing the overall look of your images.
Yes. I work with talented local professionals and am happy to provide recommendations.
Yes. Select packages include access to pieces from my client wardrobe collection
Depending on your package and wardrobe selection, fitting appointments can be arranged before your session.
Sessions can take place in my studio, at carefully selected outdoor locations throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas, or at a location meaningful to your family.
Yes. Travel throughout Ontario, Canada, and destination locations is available.
Yes. In-home sessions are available for select session types, including newborn lifestyle photography and lifestyle family sessions.
Delivery times vary depending on the type of session and the season. Most portrait, maternity, newborn, family, branding, and headshot sessions are delivered within approximately 14 business days.
Wedding photography and videography collections require additional editing and production time and are typically delivered within approximately three months. If you require images sooner for a special purpose, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate your request.
Your images will be delivered through a private online gallery where you can view, download, share, and purchase additional products.
Most sessions include a proofing gallery featuring the best images from your session. Depending on the package selected, you may choose your favorite photographs according to the number of images included in your collection. Additional images or the full gallery may be purchased separately if desired.
Yes. Every image included in your final gallery is professionally edited to ensure a polished and timeless result while maintaining natural skin tones and authentic details. My editing style focuses on creating beautiful images that feel natural, elegant, and true to life.
Yes. Professional prints, fine art wall displays, heirloom albums, and other printed products are available for purchase. I am happy to help you select products that best showcase and preserve your photographs for years to come.
Your online gallery will remain active for one month from the delivery date. During this time, you can download your images, share the gallery with family and friends, and place product orders if desired.
It is the client's responsibility to download and safely store all purchased images. While I make every effort to maintain backups, long-term storage is not guaranteed. If a gallery needs to be restored after it has expired, a gallery retrieval and reactivation fee of $70 may apply.