Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are your rates?

    This will depend on what type of imagery you need, where you want to use it, and your budget. Aside from my clearly defined packages, each project will have unique deliverables, scope, licensing, and therefore, rates.

    Email me with your project requirements and I’ll send a preliminary quote.

  • Will you photograph on-site?

    I am happy to photograph on-site! Bar and restaurant photography is often the most fun and authentic when shot in your physical location so I can capture your brand’s personality and ambience.

    It does require a little more planning than a studio shoot though. For example, flat-lay photographs of prepared dishes generally take less time and space to capture than dynamic cocktail bartenders in action.

    Reach out to me and we can discuss what will work best for you!

  • Do you have a studio?

    Yes! I maintain a small studio in North County San Diego, which is where I do most of my editorial and product work, plus my social media and cocktail glamour shoots.

    The space is easily customizable to suite your brand’s needs, plus I have access to several beautifully curated, private garden spaces for controlled outdoor sessions. The plant life and natural backdrops range from arid desert to semi-tropical, with a focus on water-wise natives

  • Why Should I hire you?

    I’ve worked in the magazine/marketing space for over a decade covering food, drinks, travel, and lifestyle. Communication and storytelling are my strong suits. Together, we will design a photoshoot that delivers exceptional, on-brand imagery you’ll be stoked to share.

    I use a Sony A7r4 full-frame camera with a variety of lenses and professional-grade studio lighting, most of which can travel with me on site. I edit using CaptureOne, Lightroom, and occasionally Photoshop if I absolutely need to. I always deliver crisp, well-composed photos.

    I get along well with industry employees because I recognize they're often too busy to pose for pictures when they have better stuff to do (like cleaning up after whoever closed). My goal is to make shoots fun, creative, and effective. You’ll love working with me, I swear!

  • Why do you charge for "Usage & Licensing?"

    Every photo I take is my intellectual property and by contracting with me, I’m agreeing to let you use those photos with specific permissions.

    Think of it like renting a car: You can drive the car, but you don’t own the car. The further you drive it and the longer it’s in your possession, the more you’ll be charged by the rental company.

    The more “mileage” you get from my photos (like advertising revenue, new customers, increased marketing exposure) the higher the licensing fees.

    I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about it, but each agreement is customized for you and based on project scope, your business’ size, and is calculated using current industry standards.

  • Do I need to sign a contract?

    Yes. I require every client to sign a contract with Maya Seaman Creative prior to starting work. Contracts are for everyone’s benefit and protection because it holds all parties accountable for deliverables, payment, licensing and usage, project scope, timelines, and anything else discussed during our negotiations.

    If you’d like to learn more about my process and how I work, click here.

  • Do you require a deposit?

    Yes. First-time clients are required to pay 50% up front upon booking, with the remainder to be paid upon delivery of the final images. Repeat clients are required to pay 25% up front.

  • Do you shoot video?

    A little. I’m currently honing my video and video editing skills, so I don’t offer much beyond talking head edits or short-form POV shot on my iPhone. These CAN be very useful for Reels and BTS content though. If you have something specific in mind, contact me and I’ll be honest about whether it’s currently over my head.

  • Do you work on retainer?

    I do! I find this option works best for businesses looking to create consistent social media content, bars and restaurants with seasonally rotating menus, or brands that want to feature their products in action, like how to use them in recipes or for holiday-focused content.

  • Will you trade pictures for product?

    Generally speaking, no. Product and exposure don’t pay the bills. If you would like to send me promotional materials or products to try, I’m happy to write an unbiased review or film an unboxing for my social media—but that doesn’t constitute a work agreement between us.

  • Do you offer packages or local deals?

    Yes. Depending on what you need and the size of your business, I can offer up to 15% off my packaged services for small businesses in the North County San Diego area.

    I also offer discounts for repeat clients who book multiple sessions with me up to 6 months in advance. Shoot me an email and we can discuss available options that best fit your budget.

  • How do you deliver final images?

    I use a hosting service called PixieSet. From there, you’ll be able to view all the edited images in a gallery format where you can choose and download your favorites from the set. I like to show my clients a range of photo options so they can feel confident with their selection, or request to purchase additional photos from the set.