2021 has been interesting, huh? However, some things just have to happen every year, which means it’s almost time to grab your slots for the NCT Aberdeen Photo Fundraiser Autumn mini sessions. These happen twice a year in Spring and Autumn, and they prove to be a win win for everyone - raising funds for the NCT Aberdeen branch, while providing a quick, fun and affordable photo opportunity for local families. I thought it might be useful to answer some of the most frequently asked questions in one blog post, so you can know what to expect if you are lucky enough to secure a slot!

WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE MINI SESSIONS TAKING PLACE?

My autumn mini sessions this year will take place on Friday 8th, Friday 29th and Sunday 31st October 2021 with around 50+ slots available over the three days. The final location is usually decided around 2 weeks before, once I can assess it’s suitability, but it will be a woodland and/or riverside location in the Peterculter/Maryculter area. It won’t be accessible by public transport, so this is something to factor in to your planning if you aren’t a driver.

WHO ARE THEY SUITABLE FOR?

Everyone! I have had a wonderful mix of families over the past few years. I feel there is no ‘best’ age or time for family photos - every stage has it’s own special moments so you don’t need to wait! I’ve had all age ranges from newborn to school age and beyond, baby bumps and even the odd dog or two tag join in with the rest of the family on these sessions.

WHEN WILL THE SLOTS BE RELEASED?

NCT Aberdeen will release the slots via their intrabiz booking system on Sunday 8th September in the evening. Previous photo fundraisers have sold out in well under an hour, so it’s worth setting a reminder and keeping an eye out on their page. Once you have selected a slot and entered your information, you will then receive an email containing a link to make your payment of £5 and complete your booking. Check your spam box if you don’t see it as it can sometimes end up there. Your £5 goes directly to NCT Aberdeen to help fund the work they do supporting parents across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Session slots are limited to 1 per family - please only book 1 session

HOW MUCH DO THE IMAGES COST?

Packages start at £60 for 5 digital images, and a wide variety of packages are available, including print/digital combinations. You also have the option to purchase prints via your online gallery at a later date if you need a gift print for family, or have a bare space on the wall to fill!

YAY, I GOT ONE, WHAT NOW?

Once all the slots are filled, I will send you an email to thank you for booking and confirm when I’ll next be in touch. Note down your session time when you book and mark it off in your calendar/diary/phone, and then you can start the fun of outfit planning! I’ve now set up a Facebook group for NCT Aberdeen mini session clients, so you will also be sent the link to join the group.

BOO, I MISSED IT, WHAT CAN I DO?

If you missed the slot release, or couldn’t grab one in time, then please message me on my Facebook page, or the NCT Aberdeen page to be added to the waiting list. Understandably with small children, sometimes slots have to be cancelled due to illness etc, which means I can then offer them to those on the waitlist.

I’M A BIT WORRIED MY CHILD WON’T COOPERATE….

This is often a concern, but please don’t worry. Well timed naps, their favourite toy and having all the snacks available can definitely help, but I’ve worked with hundreds of families and have a large repertoire of funny noises, songs, and general entertainment to encourage reluctant little ones (and sometimes the big ones too!).

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?

It could happen….this is Aberdeen after all! I will be keeping alternative dates free in case we need to reschedule, and will have other dates to offer as alternatives should we need them! The weather is so changeable that a poor morning can often turn in to a good afternoon (and vice versa) so I will let you know in our pre session communication what the bad weather plan is in advance.

WHAT DO WE WEAR?

I have a board of inspiration for anyone who is feeling a bit stuck about what to wear - it can be really helpful to actually see how colours look together, although I take no responsibility if you lose a whole evening perusing Pinterest! I am more than happy to provide ideas and guidance, and will include some tips in our pre session communication

What about covid-19?

These mini sessions take place outdoors where social distancing can be easily maintained, and correct hygiene measures will be maintained. Full information on covid-19 safety will be provided prior to your session.

I STILL HAVE A QUESTION OR TWO….

No problem, just pop me a message on hello@vivienneelizabethphotography.co.uk, here, or on my Facebook page and I’ll be delighted to chat to you