GET YOUR ANSWERS HERE
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
WHERE IS THE STUDIO LOCATED?
We’re nestled in historic Point Richmond (off Hwy 580 near the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge). After your session, grab lunch, dinner or a local brew, browse the art gallery, or stroll the waterfront—this little gem is full of surprises.
You can learn more about what this hidden gem has to offer HERE.
Our address is 125 Park Place, Suite 122, Point Richmond
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A PORTRAIT SESSION?
Every session comes with:
An optional pre-shoot chat (we plan location, wardrobe, props—anything to make it feel like you)
A 45–60 minute shoot (in-studio or on-location)
Full post-processing (color correction, retouching, artistic edits)
Your final images delivered your way (digital files, prints, wall art—you choose!)
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK?
We’re usually 3–6 weeks out, but cancellations pop up—reach out anytime, and we’ll see what we’ve got.
WHAT IF MY PET, KIDS (OR HUBBY) GET DISTRACTED?
No worries! I’m patient and playful—if we need a quick break or a game of fetch, we’ll roll with whatever keeps them happy and relaxed.
CAN I BRING OTHER PEOPLE?
Absolutely! We encourage all guests to bring anyone special to them. We don't charge anything extra to bring one or two other family members!
DO YOU CHARGE A SESSION/CREATIVE FEE?
Yes. Our standard session/sitting fee is $500 for up to 60 minutes in our studio or on-location, within 10 miles of Richmond. The fee includes a $200 credit to apply toward your purchase.
DO YOU REQUIRE A DEPOSIT?
A booking retainer is required to secure your session. It will be applied toward your session fee or, if the session fee is waived, toward your product purchase.
I LOVE THEM ALL. HOW WILL I CHOOSE?
Many times clients are genuinely surprised by how moved they are by their portraits (yes, tears of joy are a frequent experience). Our virtual in person ordering and selection process helps clients decide and order with confidence--even those who are more visual and who need to see something first before choosing it. At your selection and ordering appointment, you'll be able to see your portraits, as we guide you through this fun and poignant meeting. And, for those that do fall in love and need assistance with purchasing, interest-free payment plans are available.
DO I HAVE TO PLACE MY ORDER WHEN I SEE MY PROOFS?
Yes, this is the time we set aside to advise you on getting the best from your photographs. All of the decision makers should be present. When you purchase a print product from Chickpea Photography, we take the time to perfect the crop and colors of the photograph to produce the best possible result, and we guarantee the quality of that product. From smaller intimate pieces to more grand custom artwork shared above a fireplace or behind a sofa, we do it all. We have spent years curating our product range to suit modern tastes, lifestyles, and budgets. You can choose from fine art prints, metal and canvas wall pieces, and stunning acrylic portraits, in addition to digital image files.
I HATE PICTURES OF MYSELF. HELP!
You aren't alone in feeling this way and you are in for a treat!
The portraits that you select and order receive our highest level of artistry, including complimentary additional modifications at your request to make your portraits even more beautiful and striking. Past requests have included softening lines, stray hair removal, whitening teeth, filling in missing or crooked teeth, braces removal, "slenderizing" waists and arms, reduction of double chins, and adjusting clothing, etc. Perhaps most important to keep in mind is that creating a portrait like this is a true gift for your family, friends and children.
Parents tend to see themselves critically while children simply love seeing the family together. Family portraits are a powerful nonverbal way of showing our children how much they are loved and valued. If you are the parent who is always behind the camera, or if you dislike yourself in most pictures, please know that this will be a unique experience for you. We will use our expertise in posing and lighting to create flattering portraits that also feel very "you."
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