branding & Professional

Sarah DiCicco Photography

Lifestyle PHOTOGRAPHY

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions about family, portrait, and lifestyle sessions. Planning a wedding instead? Visit our Wedding FAQs.

General questions
Newborn sessions
FAMILY PORTRAITS
PROPOSALS & ENGAGEMENTS

coastal PORTRAITS

General questions

Where do the studio sessions take place?

Your session will take place in my private studio cottage in Wayne, Pennsylvania. We've thoughtfully prepared every detail so you can simply arrive and enjoy the experience. From refreshments, snacks, and toiletries to a warm, welcoming atmosphere, everything is designed to help you feel comfortable, relaxed, and completely at home.

What happens after our session that makes your experience different?

Unlike most photographers, we invite you back to our studio for a private Reveal Appointment. Instead of simply viewing a digital gallery, you'll hold your photographs in your hands for the very first time. As you turn through fine art prints and explore handcrafted albums, your memories become tangible, something to touch, experience, and truly appreciate.

Together, we'll select the artwork that will become part of your home because we believe photographs are meant to be held, displayed, and enjoyed every day, not forgotten on a hard drive.

What is the turnaround on my images?

You will receive your images around a month after your session date.

How do you help people who hate having their photograph taken?

I hear this all the time. More often than not, it's a reflection of insecurity rather than reality. My role isn't to dismiss those feelings but to create a safe, encouraging space where you can relax, take a deep breath, and begin to see yourself differently. Confidence doesn't come before the session—it often grows because of it.

Newborn sessions

My baby is already born, am I too late to schedule a newborn session?

If I have an opening in my calendar I am happy to accommodate. Most often, however, I am booked out months in advance. With that being said, anytime you can capture your portraits is the perfect time.

How long will my newborn photography session take?

Your session will take between 30 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of session you book. Pausing to allow time for feeding and changing. The atmosphere is very relaxed and comfortable and the pace of our session will be determined by the baby.

Who supplies all the cute hats/headbands for the baby?

It is a combination of props I carry and ones you decide to bring.

Family portraits

What makes your family sessions different?

Our sessions are intentionally relaxed and unhurried. Rather than asking children to perform, we create space for them to laugh, explore, and simply be themselves. We'll always create the timeless family portrait, but it's often the in-between moments that become the most treasured.

What do you hope parents feel when they see their photographs?

I hope they pause. I hope they see just how beautiful this season of life truly was. My greatest hope is that these photographs become daily reminders of the love, joy, and connection that filled their home, bringing tears of happiness for years to come.

What would you say to a parent who's waiting until life "calms down?"

Don't wait. Life rarely slows down, and that's exactly why these photographs matter. There will never be a perfect time, only the beautiful season you're living right now.

Proposals + engagements

Why is an engagement session important?

An engagement session is about much more than beautiful photographs. It's an opportunity for us to build trust, get to know one another, and help you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera. By the time your celebration arrives, you'll know exactly what to expect, allowing you to relax and simply enjoy every moment.

Why should someone hire a photographer for a proposal?

The proposal happens once. Having it professionally photographed allows you to stay fully present while preserving every genuine reaction, joyful tear, and unforgettable moment you'll relive for the rest of your lives.

What makes engagement photographs timeless instead of trendy?

We focus on genuine connection rather than passing trends. By emphasizing natural light, authentic emotion, beautiful locations, and gentle guidance, your photographs will feel just as meaningful decades from now as they do today.

How involved are you in planning the surprise?

As involved as you'd like me to be. Whether you simply need someone there to document the moment or want help planning every detail, I'm happy to guide you through the entire experience.

What happens after the proposal?

You'll receive a curated preview the very same day so you can begin sharing your exciting news with family and friends while I carefully prepare the complete gallery.

Coastal portraits

What makes beach portraits different from a traditional family session?

Beach sessions are naturally more relaxed. Shoes come off, children run freely, and families simply enjoy being together. The shore creates an effortless atmosphere where genuine moments unfold naturally.

Why do you love photographing families at the shore?

The Jersey Shore has always been part of our family's story. My clients create lifelong traditions there, and so does my husband's family. I know the beaches, the hidden paths, the favorite restaurants, and the places that make summers at the shore so memorable.

What time of day do you recommend?

The most beautiful light happens shortly after sunrise or in the final hours before sunset, creating the soft, timeless glow our work is known for.

What should we wear?

I always recommend starting with Pinterest to gather inspiration. Search "beach family outfits" and you'll quickly discover whether you're drawn to soft, neutral palettes or brighter, more colorful combinations. From there, we'll help refine your wardrobe so it feels natural and timeless.

What are your favorite moments to photograph?

After we've created the classic family portrait, my favorite moments begin: the children digging in the sand, chasing waves, collecting shells, sandy feet, salty hugs, and little footprints across Dad's shirt. Those are the moments families remember.

What emotions do you hope these photographs capture?

Every summer passes more quickly than we expect. I hope these photographs preserve not only what your family looked like, but what it felt like to spend those carefree days together by the sea.

Branding + professional portraits

Why is a professional portrait important today?

Your portrait is often someone's first impression of you and your business. A thoughtful portrait communicates confidence, authenticity, and professionalism while reminding you to step into your work with courage and purpose.

What makes your branding sessions different from traditional headshots?

We create more than a headshot. Together we'll tell the story of who you are, how you work, and what makes your brand unique through a collection of authentic, editorial-inspired portraits.

Do you help with clothing and styling?

Absolutely. I collaborate with an incredibly talented professional hair and makeup artist, and together we'll help you select wardrobe and styling that reflects your personality, complements your brand, and photographs beautifully.

What kinds of images should every business owner have?

Every branding session includes a thoughtful variety of portraits, including classic headshots, lifestyle imagery, environmental portraits, detail photographs, and natural interactions that can be used across your website, social media, publications, and marketing materials.

Ready to chat?

Let's preserve your story together

If you didn't find what you were looking for, we'd love to hear from you.

Inquire now