welcome!
You’re BOOKED! Thank you for trusting me as your photographer. It's a great honor, and I can't wait to
Create Artwork You Will LOVE Like Family!
This client hub has been built to provide you with everything you need to know about having a photo shoot here at Barbara Neely Designs. It gives you a full overview of what to expect, how to prepare, and the ever-asked question, “What to Wear?”
So, grab a refreshing drink and take a leisurely scroll around. If you find yourself with any questions or having a hard time locating specific information, please don't hesitate to reach out and give me a call. I would be delighted to have a chat with you.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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My home studio is located at 202 S Mill in Marionville, MO. I'm open by appointment only.
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Contact me with any questions or concerns!
Barbara NeelyPhone: 417-844-4966
Email: barb@barbaraneelydesigns.com
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If for any reason you need to reschedule please notify me as soon as possible. 7 days is preferred so I can fill your time slot.
Photography Sessions can be rescheduled one (1) time for illness at no cost. Additional reschedules are charged at $75 per date change.
Rescheduling due to weather will not incur charges.
What if my child has a bruise? It can most likely be Photoshopped. Just send me a photo and I'll let you know if I can retouch it or if we need to reschedule.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
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Appointment reminders and will be coming to your inbox.
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Let me know your backdrop preference and then choose what to wear. See the what to wear guide below and let me know if you need help deciding!
We also need to plan the artwork we are shooting for before the session. Are we shooting for an album, one large wall portrait or a smaller series of wall portraits? Please see the artwork options (found via yellow navigation titles at the top of this page) and schedule a consultation if you aren’t sure.
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Our photoshoots are relaxed and fun sessions where we will play and laugh and get natural expressions. Every shoot is paced for the individual so some take longer than others.
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Images from your session will be edited to proof stage and ready for you to see within a day or two. The big reveal will be made in person at my studio or via Zoom within 7 days following your session. At this appointment, I’ll help you select the best images and design the perfect artwork and finishes to complement your images and home.
When you schedule please make sure all decision-makers can be present as your order will be finalized on this day.
Please take time to review instructions and options available via the yellow navigation at the top of this page. -
Your artwork will be printed by the best photo labs in the U.S. and quality inspected by me, personally. I’ll let you know as soon as it’s ready to be picked up and loved forever.
preparing for your session
WE ARE CAPTURING REAL PERSONALITIES. NOT FAKE SMILES.
My sessions are designed to be more than just a series of posed photos; they are about illustrating who you are right now with honesty. Whether it's the playful laughter or the quiet moments of connection, I aim to document the personalities that are real and true. To help you make the most of your session, I’ve compiled some tips to ensure it's a fun and relaxed experience.
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Newborns typically require a little more patience and a slower pace. We will take our time to make sure your newborn is calm and settled, this might mean we need to pause for feedings and diaper changes. Newborns are best photographed within the first two weeks of age after which they are a little more alert and less posable.
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Talk to your kids about the session being a fun adventure. Don't make it out to be something they have to be good and "behave" for. Instead, talk about how they'll be playing and having a great time with me, and that I'll capture those joyful moments. This helps set a positive tone and reduces pressure.
Schedule the session at a time when your children are usually happy and well-rested. Avoid times when they might be hungry or tired to help ensure a smoother experience.
If your child has a favourite toy or blanket, bring it along. These items can provide comfort and can also be a cute addition to the photos. After all these favorite things often become an heirloom as they get older.
Children can be unpredictable. Stay calm and patient, and let me handle any mood changes. Sometimes the best shots come from those unexpected, candid moments.
Bring along some non-messy snacks and water. A quick snack break can work wonders if kids start to get restless or need a little boost.
Let your children have a say in the session and be themselves. Maybe they can help choose their outfit or accessories. When they feel involved, they’re more likely to be engaged and excited.
Relax and Enjoy the Moment! Trust in my experience and ability to capture beautiful moments, even if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Your confidence can make a big difference in how relaxed everyone feels.
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Help your dog arrive happy and relaxed.
If possible, give them a little exercise earlier in the day. A short walk or play session can take the edge off that extra excitement, especially for those high energy ball-loving types.Bring their favorites.
A special toy, blanket, or even their beloved squeaky thing can help them feel secure. These little pieces of “their world” often make the sweetest additions to portraits and become part of their story years from now.Bribes are welcome.
I do offer treats but if they have a favorite feel free to bring what they like.Arrive a few minutes early.
This gives your dog a chance to sniff around, potty, settle in, and feel comfortable in the space before we begin.Trust the process.
Dogs do not need to “perform.” I work with their personality, not against it. Sometimes the magic happens when we least expect it.Most of all, relax. They take their cues from you. When you’re calm, they are too.
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If you’re here because someone you love said, “It’ll be fun,” I promise they are right.
You do not have to know what to do with your hands.
You do not have to love having your picture taken.
You do not have to be “on.”Your only job is to show up and love your people.
The best shots happen when you are having a good time so just enjoy your family. I’ll handle the rest.
location options
Below are a list of the most popular options available in a one hour essential session
nathanael greene park - springfield
This one is the most popular with the most landscape features.
Features: prairies, numerous botanical gardens, a Japanese stroll garden, flowers, an old barn, bridges, walkways, a lake, a pond, and a stream.
Grand falls - joplin
One word: WOW.
Features the largest continuously flowing waterfall in Missouri and big open fields.
Does require a little bit of agility.
wilson’s creek
More wild and less manicured than a park. This location offers wide open fields, wild flowers, historic cabin and a of course Wilson’s Creek.
Jolly Mill Park - South of Monett
This location features an old flour mill, a waterfall, a big red barn, and an old white schoolhouse.
doling park - north springfield
Many features make this park a great location for portraits; a large lake, many rock structures, some flowers and landscaping, bridges and trees.
downtown springfield
This one is for the urban crawlers however some nice botanical features exist as well.
Studio - marionville
Classic and timeless, no worries about the weather, too much walking. The focus is squarely on your loved ones.
what to wear
classic, timeless, authentic
MY TOP CLOTHING TIPS
Wear what makes you feel amazing. Dress like you’re going on a date night, but comfortable enough that you can sit and move freely.
KISS (Keep it simple!) Avoid logos and distracting patterns. These will date your images and draw attention away from where it should be. Clean and simple is best.
Coordinate group outfits by choosing all light tones or dark tones for a cohesive look. Whoever is wearing a contrasting color will stand out. It’s not a bad idea for the dog or the kids to stand out, but otherwise, keep color tones balanced.
What are the prominent colors of your home? If these portraits will hang in your home, choose tones that will complement. Neutral colors like black, white, beige, and denim are classic and safe choices.
Do: coordinate colors. Don’t: wear the exact same shirts. This can look a little too forced.
Cover it if you don’t love it. Don’t love your arms? Then don’t wear short sleeves.
When in doubt, you are always welcome to shoot me a text or email if you need further help!
outfit Inspiration for location sessions
INSPIRATION FOR STUDIO SESSIONS
Monochromatic tends to feel more classic, while high contrast or pops of color have a very modern and sometimes playful feel.
The choice is yours.
What to Expect at
Your Design and Ordering Appointment
This is where everything comes together.
We’ll start with a slideshow of the best images from your session, along with a few pre-designed album and wall art options so you can easily see what’s possible.
From there, we’ll customize the artwork you love so it fits your style, your home, and your budget. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’ll guide you through every step. There’s no pressure to buy anything you don’t love.
Your design and ordering appointment is the one time you’ll view your images and place your order, so I ask that all decision-makers are present and that you come prepared to finalize your selections.
Payment in full for your selections is due at your design and ordering appointment. Interest-free financing is available through Affirm and Klarna for those who qualify.
My goal is simple: to help you leave knowing your artwork is chosen, finished, and on its way to becoming part of your home.
Visualizing Your Artwork
A quick cell phone photo of your wall is all I need to create custom previews so you can see exactly how your portraits will look in your space.
the Photo You Send Me
the options We Create Together
Different sizes and arrangements help us find the perfect fit for your home.
How to Photograph Your Wall
Quick Photo Checklist
Before sending your wall photos, please make sure it:
✔ Has one sheet of paper taped to the wall
✔ Is taken in landscape (horizontal)
✔ Is taken straight on, not from an angle
✔ Includes nearby furniture and a little floor and ceiling
✔ Include all walls that are options
You can email or text me the photo(s). Please send it at least 24 hours before your ordering appointment so I have time to prepare your designs.
Schedule Your Ordering Appointment
Your ordering appointment should be held no later than one week following our session. If you don’t find a time that works for you, please let me know.
Your order will be finalized at your ordering appointment; therefore, all decision makers must be present.
Be sure you have reviewed artwork pricing before your appointment.
A Note from CarolAnn
"These treasures have now completely transformed our living space inside our little nest‼️ I cannot begin to express how truly grateful I am to Barbara & her extreme professionalism. Not only does this sweet friend take PHENOMENAL pictures but she also has an interior design eye, as well! Usually, the woman of the home takes into great consideration & observes the minutest of details in her decor … well, the man of OUR house was blown away with how much it has changed the look … and he cannot stop staring at it ALL … he loves it, as much as me‼️Thank you, Thank you, Thank you … from the bottom of my ♥️!"
Artwork Investment
Portrait sessions are designed to create finished artwork for your home.
Some families choose a single portrait for the wall, while others create gallery walls or heirloom albums to tell their whole story.
Investment varies, and every order is custom. During your ordering appointment, I will help you explore sizes, arrangements, and finishes so you can choose what feels right for you.
Wall Portraits
Unframed portraits begin at $290
Ready-to-hang artwork begins at $390
Heirloom Albums
Begin at $995
Keepsake Portrait Boxes
Begin at $1200
Digital Files
Each printed portrait includes a screen-resolution digital copy delivered via an online gallery for sharing with family and friends.
Payment Options
Portrait artwork is an investment, and I want the process to feel comfortable and manageable.
Cash
All major credit cards
Interest-free financing is available through Affirm for those who qualify.
View the Complete Artwork Catalog
If you would like to explore all available sizes, finishes, and options, you can view the full artwork catalog below.
click here for the artwork catalog
Your Ordering Appointment
Your ordering appointment is where we will design and finalize your portrait artwork.
During this appointment, we will:
• View your proof images
• Preview them on the walls of your home and in an album layout
• Compare sizes and arrangements
• Design artwork that fits beautifully in your space
• Finalize and place your artwork order
Your order will be finalized at your ordering appointment; therefore, all decision makers must be present.