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Frequently Asked Questions

General
 

Do I need modeling experience?

Not at all. Most clients are not professional models. You will be guided throughout the session with calm, clear direction so you feel confident, comfortable, and fully in the moment.
 

Who do you photograph?

I work with individuals, couples, performers, and creatives across fetish, alternative, intimate portraiture, and dark editorial styles. Every session is tailored to the person in front of the lens.
 

Where are you based?

I am Sydney-based and shoot across selected studios, private locations, and approved concept spaces depending on your vision and requirements.
 

What styles do you shoot?

My work spans fetish-inspired portraiture, alternative editorial, intimate fine-art, shibari-informed concepts, music portraiture, and cinematic personal branding imagery.
 

Booking & Consultation
 

How do I book?

You can either book directly through the booking page or submit an Expression of Interest for a custom concept. If you are unsure which option suits you, start with a private consultation.
 

What happens before the shoot?

Pre-shoot includes a private consultation, mood and inspiration board development, concept planning, location discussion/scouting, and clear boundary setting so expectations are aligned.
 

Do you offer custom concepts?

Yes. Custom concepts are a core part of my work. If you want a fully tailored creative direction, submit an EOI and we will build the shoot around your vision, mood, and comfort level.
 

Is a deposit required?

Yes, a booking retainer/deposit is required to secure your date. Final payment terms are provided during booking.
 

Do you offer TFP?

My work is commissioned and professionally priced. Select creative collaborations may be considered at my discretion when aligned with specific project goals.
 

Consent, Boundaries & Safety
 

How do you handle boundaries?

Boundaries are discussed and agreed before shoot day, then respected throughout the session. Consent is active and ongoing, not a one-time checkbox.
 

Can I stop or pause during the shoot?

Yes, always. You can pause, reset, or stop at any point. Clear communication is part of the process, and your comfort is non-negotiable.
 

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes, you are welcome and encouraged to bring trusted support, such as a partner or friend, if it helps you feel grounded and confident.
 

Do you work in a judgment-free environment?

Absolutely. This is a professional, respectful, and inclusive space for honest self-expression.
 

Privacy & Discretion
 

Will my images be kept private?

Yes, unless you explicitly grant permission for sharing. Privacy preferences are discussed before the shoot and honored throughout delivery and archiving.
 

Will my face or identifying details be hidden if requested?

Yes. Anonymous framing and selective cropping/editing options can be discussed based on your comfort and intended use.
 

How are my images delivered?

Final images are delivered through a private gallery. Access is secure and shared only with approved recipients.
 

Do you share client images online?

Only with clear client approval. You remain in control of what is public, restricted, or completely private.
 

Shoot Day Experience
 

What should I bring?

Bring your selected outfits, accessories, and any key props discussed during planning. You will receive preparation guidance before the session.
 

Do you help with posing and direction?

Yes. Direction is calm, precise, and adaptive, giving you structure without taking away your individuality.
 

How long is a session?

Session duration depends on the package or concept scope. Timing is confirmed during booking so you know exactly what to expect.
 

Can we shoot multiple looks?

Yes, depending on your package and timeline. Multi-look concepts can be planned in pre-production.
 

Styling, Locations & Creative Direction
 

Do you provide styling advice?

Yes. Styling guidance is part of pre-production and can include wardrobe suggestions tied to your concept and mood board.
 

Do you provide hair and makeup?

Hair and makeup can be arranged via trusted collaborators when requested. Availability and fees vary by project.
 

Where can we shoot?

Options include studios, private indoor spaces, and approved locations aligned to your concept, privacy needs, and visual direction. Added charges may apply.
 

Can you help with mood boards?

Yes. Mood and inspiration boards are part of the process to align tone, aesthetic, and storytelling before shoot day.
 

Post-Production & Delivery
 

How many images will I receive?

The number of final edited images depends on your selected package. Full details are provided before booking confirmation.
 

How long does editing take?

Turnaround time varies by project scope. Estimated delivery windows are shared clearly during booking and reconfirmed after the shoot.
 

What does retouching include?

All final images are professionally curated and refined in my cinematic style while preserving authenticity and character.
 

Can I request extra edits?

Yes. Additional retouching can be requested and quoted separately where needed.
 

Do you deliver RAW files?

RAW files are not included. Final curated and edited images are delivered as the finished professional product.
 

Usage, Rights & Publication
 

Can I post my images on social media?

Yes, unless otherwise agreed. Guidance on crediting and platform-safe cropping can be provided if needed.
 

Can I use images for commercial/promotional use?

Commercial usage must be agreed in advance and licensed accordingly. Let me know intended usage during planning so the correct terms are applied.
 

Can images be published in your portfolio or exhibitions?

Only with your explicit permission and within the agreed release terms.
 

Pricing & Value
 

Why should I invest in a professional fetish/alternative photographer?

Because the right photographer gives you more than photos: you get concept direction, safety-conscious process, technical mastery, and a final body of work that feels powerful, intentional, and timeless.
 

Do you offer cheaper mini sessions?

Selected offers may be available seasonally. For bespoke, high-art concepts, custom sessions are the best fit.
 

Still have questions?
 

If you are unsure where to start, book a private consultation and we will map out the right approach for your vision, comfort level, and goals.

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© 2025 Matt Bartolo
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Email : info@mattbartolo.com                    Phone :  +61 414 859 877

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