Welcome To STEVE PAYNE PORTRAITS where classic and timeless portraits of you and your loved ones come to life. I have been privileged to be doing this work for over twenty years, and remain committed to creating the finest in photographic portraiture that I can provide for you, my friends and clients. These portrait heirlooms are the "Heart and Soul" of Steve Payne Photography.
When I began in photography over 20 years ago, this was the type of work that I wanted to do. In fact, before I became a photographer, I was drawing portraits in school. Art was always my favorite class, and I’m forever been fascinated by people’s faces, gestures and movements. I’m always watching people. It's taken a long time to realize this dream, but I'm very thankful for it.
So, let us bring some joy into your life with fine portraits of your loved ones today.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Here's What Some of Our Clients Have To Say...
"My husband LOVES the portraits. What's amazing though is that each child likes his or her portrait. That's never happened!" - Meredith Cornell
“Steve has the gift for capturing the personality of his subjects like no one else I know” -Callen McJunkin
“I’ve got thousands of pictures of my children, but only Steve’s portraits truly capture them. I’m thrilled!” - Chuck Rhodes
“My mother cried when she saw my children’s wall portrait. I didn’t know it was art, she said.” -Marjorie Cooke
“I thought I was setting myself up for disappointment, because I had such high expectations, but Steve’s portraits went beyond my expectations... we all cried.” - Kathleen Walker
100% Guarantee - You'll Be Thrilled With Your Portraits Or You Owe Nothing!
Sessions, What To Wear, Policies & Directions To The Studio
We encourage a pre-portrait planning session at our studio as an important part of the portrait process. The proper clothing and hairstyle can make or break a portrait. Your goals for the portrait are critical to achieving the desired final result. Where you are going to display your portraits is also an important consideration. Please spend time to think about these matters and consult with us.
Our goal is to make a unique and artful portrait that captures the subject's character and individuality. We believe portrait sessions should be fun and easy and we do everything in our power to make them that way. So, just relax, have fun and it will show in the results. We guarantee your satisfaction. If you're not happy, we're not happy, period.
Please schedule early, as it can often take several weeks to receive the day and time that you require. All sessions are by appointment only, so that we can give each client the personal service that they deserve and that is necessary to produce our high quality art. Because of the limited number of portrait sessions that we have available, session fees are prepaid and serve to reserve your time and day. Originals remain the property of the studio and prints are priced separately.
To aid you in the selection of your portraits, you will see your portrait previews projected. Please be sure that all decision makers are available for this preview session, as it allows the process to go smoothly and your portraits to be completed in a timely fashion.
Timely ordering of your portraits is important both in regard to your satisfaction and in maintaining the efficiency of the studio.
We can advise you about framing your portraits for the finest presentation. Ask us and we'll be happy to help.
The Sessions
The Basic Session is just that. A short studio session, usually less than thirty minutes, of one subject with no clothing changes. Though the session is basic, the photographs will still meet the highest of standards. These sessions are good for professional head shots, updating a child's portrait or when you just don't need a full blown session.
The Classic Session offers unlimited flexibility. This is the studio session where you call the shots. We'll photograph whatever combination of poses, groupings and clothing changes that you desire. These sessions usually last between forty-five and ninety minutes. The result will be a wide variety of portraits from which to choose.
The Location Session includes up to two hours at a location of your choice. Due to the fact that location sessions require scouting and transportation of photo gear, there is an increased session cost and deposit. If the session is canceled due to weather there is a cancellation fee. Prior to scouting a non-refundable deposit is due. Additional charges for travel time and expenses will be added when necessary for out of town sessions.
What To Wear
Beautiful and memorable portraits don't just happen, they are carefully planned. Our goal is to photograph you in an artistic and flattering way that will create a timeless portrait. We can not accomplish this, however, without your help. Please take a few moments to look over the following suggestions to see how you may participate in the planning of your portrait. We are here to help. Feel free to discuss any questions or ideas you have in advance of your session.
Looking your best takes a bit of time. We've seen clients arrive with a change of clothes in a duffel bag and unbrushed hair . . .not the best starting point. Your clothes should be wrinkle-free. Take some time with your hair, and try to be rested and relaxed. You need to help us help you look your best.
Remember...
-Simplicity is the keynote.
-Solid colors and textures are best.
-Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors.
-Long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommended for everyone, except for infants and small children.
-Coordinate your attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and stockings.
-Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size.
-Necklines are important. A v or scoop neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.
-Dress everyone in the same style of clothing. Do not mix very light and dark values.
-Wearing a starched shirt without a jacket is not a good idea; every wrinkle shows.
-To assure a successful portrait, it is best to bring along several clothing choices, follow our guidelines closely, and discuss your choices with us before your session.
Our Policies
All sessions are by appointment only, so that we can give each client the personal service that they deserve and that is necessary to produce our high quality art. Because of the limited number of portrait sessions that we have available, session fees are prepaid and serve to reserve your time and day. Originals remain the property of the studio and prints are priced separately. Complete portrait packages from $350.00.
Due to the custom nature of our work, we ask that you be prepared to pay for your print order at the time the order is placed. If other arrangements are needed, we will do our best to accommodate you. We do not carry open accounts, but we do accept VISA and Master card.
Steve Payne Photography reserves copyright and ownership of all original images. This extends to the use of said images in promotion and displays. If you do not wish us to use your images, simply let us know prior to your session.
We will replace any print due to fading or defect at no charge for five years from the date of purchase. After the warranty period, Steve Payne Photography will replace any print for 20% of the current price. Said prints must be returned to us before we can replace them.
Thank You for selecting Steve Payne Photography to create your very special portraits. Be assured that our dedication to personal service and fine art are your guarantee for satisfaction.
Remember, If You're Not Happy We're Not Happy, Period
Directions To The Studio
Steve Payne Photography is located in Boulevard Tower, at the corner of Kanawha Boulevard and Leon Sullivan Way, in downtown Charleston.
Exit I-64 at Leon Sullivan Way and proceed until you reach Kanawha Boulevard. The first parking space at the corner is a handicapped space. The one directly beside it is your space and it's right by the front door. We are in Suite 201 on the second floor.
Our Telephone: 304-343-7254