Larry Allen Studios

What is the difference between the Fall and Spring individual/group pictures?

Fall individual pictures, not only for your enjoyment, also go into the school's yearbook and are made for I.D. badges for other school levels. Children grow and change so quickly. We offer Spring portraits (ES only) with a special background to commemorate spring with an option to purchase.

The original photograph is good (no smile), but what if I don't like the retake photograph and decide I would prefer the original photograph?

Sorry, the original package is no longer available. You may still request a refund on the second package.

Will the original photograph or the retake be in the yearbook?

Generally, the yearbook staff in the high school and middle school level will use the second photo, but there is no guarantee. (It is up to the yearbook staff in your school.) The Elementary level is mostly done through the digital process and the second photo over writes the first.

Can additional packages be added when my child returns for a retake?

Absolutely, just add the difference in money and be sure it is clearly marked.

I forgot my package; can I still retake my picture?

Sorry, returning your portrait package is just like returning a broken screwdriver. It cannot be replaced without the original.

My youngest child attends elementary school and needs to have his picture retaken. However my oldest child whose picture is fine and attends a middle school is having their makeup day tomorrow. Can my youngest child have their picture retaken at the middle school?

Not normal policy because the elementary child will end up in the middle school records. Administrators have too much to worry about. Please call the studio in Hagerstown, Maryland for this isolated case.

Do you have combs?

Yes, all photographers are required to bring a supply of disposable combs.

Can we (the students) keep their combs?

No, it is against the health code and all combs must be discarded after one time use.

Our schedule says that you're starting at 9:30. Why are you here at 8:00?

It takes approximately one hour to set up our portable studio.

Why do we need more than one photographer?

We try our best to produce a quality portrait for all students and faculty. Larry Allen Studios limits the amount a photographer can photograph in a single day.

How much space do you need to set up your equipment?

Approximately an 10' x 15' area.

Our space is limited. Can you take down your equipment (for lunch or another activity) and set it back up again to finish?

No, time usually discourages this and in addition we need consistent results. It is best to stay in one place.

When will the pictures come in?

Approximately four weeks from the time they are taken.

What is Star Appeal?

Star Appeal is a softening filter that goes over the lens when the portrait is taken. It produces the Hollywood glamour effect that we have become used to. It does soften facial lines, blemishes, shadows, and highlights.

. Do you do family portraits?

Yes, by appointment only.

I don't want all those photographs, why can't I just purchase a bonus package?

Bonus packages are add-ons. School portrait pricing is based on quantity of portraits ordered.

Can I write one check for all my children (in different grade levels)?

Not recommended. Each child brings his/her payment to the photographer individually on portrait day. There is a good chance one the siblings will not be found before they are photographed.

The flyer my child brought home only says "cash or credit". Can I still write a check and who do I make it out to? Why doesn't it say "Make Checks Payable To"?

If by some chance you received a flyer that does not indicate payable by check, YES, you can still write a check payable to LARRY ALLEN & COMPANY.

If you take more than one picture, why can't I choose the one I want?

There are experienced editors looking at the negatives choosing the best portrait.

Why can't I wear a hat?

Yearbooks are made to be consistent in content, therefore hats are not permitted unless for religious or medical reasons.

Can I take my picture today and send the money to the school later?

Sorry, the pre-pay system records information directly on the negative at the time of photography, and then an automated process takes over to print the photograph. Therefore, once the negative is exposed it cannot not be added.

How long will you (the photographer) be here today?

Until each class is photographed in the school building. There is no set time other than a schedule made by school officials and approved by Larry Allen & Company.

This student came in late, can you take his picture?

(Backdrop is down, film cut) Yes, however, it may take time to re-set and calibrate lights and exposures. (Not recommended, for subject has a chance of being separated from rest of students.)

Can siblings have their picture taken together? Do I have to buy two packages?

Yes we can photograph up to three on the in school background and only one package needs to be purchased. However, this must be approved through school officials because of logistical reasons.

Can a non-student sibling purchase a package and be photographed separately?

Yes, before school and approved by school officials. They are the ones who will need to distribute the package back to the sibling.

It's my picture, why can't I pose, wear my hat, or use a prop?

Yearbooks must be made consistent for quality and content. This is not permitted in most yearbooks.

Teacher: "I don't want to be in the yearbook, do I have to have my picture taken?"

There is no obligation for anyone to be photographed, however, students will always look for the memory of their mentor. Why not complete their memories?

How do I obtain a copyright release to place my school portraits on a mug and tee shirt?

You may purchase a copyright release on school portraits for $10.00.

How long will it take to get my pictures back?

HOW TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR YOUR PERSONAL STUDENT PORTRAIT

QUESTIONS REGARDING THE INITIAL UNDERCLASS PORTRAIT DAY