Portraits Under the Stars

How do I book a session? Simply click the Check Availability button on the Portraits Under the Stars page to see available dates and complete your booking online. If you have any questions before booking, feel free to contact me directly.

How far in advance should I book? I recommend booking as early as possible, particularly during peak season. Portrait sessions are limited in number to ensure each client receives my full attention, and popular dates fill quickly.

Full payment of A$1,500 is required at the time of booking. This ensures your portrait session date is exclusively reserved for you.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellations by the Client All cancellation requests must be sent by email.

• More than 30 days prior to your session — full refund minus a A$150 administration fee.
• Between 15 and 30 days prior to your session — 50% refund of the total session fee.
• Less than 15 days prior to your session — no refund will be issued.

Weather Cancellations The safety and experience of my clients is my highest priority. If conditions are deemed unsuitable for the shoot, I will contact you as early as possible — ideally the day before — to discuss your options. In the event of a weather cancellation you may:

• Reschedule to another available date at no additional cost, or
• Receive a full refund of all monies paid.

Cancellations by Hugh Brown Photography In the unlikely event that I need to cancel your session for reasons other than weather, you will receive a full refund of all monies paid. I will make every effort to offer you an alternative date if that is your preference.

Rescheduling One complimentary reschedule is available if requested more than 15 days prior to your session. Rescheduling requests made within 15 days of the session will be treated as a cancellation and the above policy will apply. This reflects the challenge of attracting new bookings so close to the date.

If you need any further clarification please refer to the Bookings Terms & Weather Policy for more information.

Where exactly does the shoot take place? The shoot takes place at one of a number of carefully chosen locations outside of Broome. The exact location will be revealed closer to your session date after we have spoken and I have gotten a good understanding of what you would most like. The location will then be selected specifically for its breathtaking landscape and exceptionally dark skies, away from the light pollution of town.

How long does the evening take? The full experience typically takes a couple of hours depending on the time of year and your preference. You are welcome to return to town after the portrait shoot at dusk if you prefer a shorter evening, or stay to stay for the full night sky experience. My time on location will generally range between three and five hours and then I will have around three to four hours at home in the studio after the shoot as finished.

What time does the shoot start? Your session begins approximately one hour before sunset to allow us time to travel to the location, settle in and enjoy some wine and nibblies before we begin shooting. I will confirm the exact pickup time with you closer to your session date as sunset times and star constellation times vary throughout the year.

Do I need any photography experience? None at all — in fact no experience is better. My job is to make you feel completely relaxed and natural in front of the camera. I will guide you through everything and the wine and nibblies help too!

Can children participate? Yes, children are welcome and often make for wonderful portraits. However please keep in mind that the full evening can be long and the location is remote. If you have any doubts or questions please contact me beforehand and we can talk through what you are wanting from the shoot and how best we can accommodate those needs.

How many people can join a session? Portrait sessions are designed for individuals, couples, and small family groups of up to six people. For larger groups please contact me directly to discuss options.

What should I wear? Comfort is important as we will be outdoors for several hours. I recommend wearing layers as the temperature can drop significantly after sunset, even in the Broome dry season. Closed toe shoes are also recommended as we may be walking on uneven ground.

What colours work best for night sky portraits? This is something we will discuss in detail before your session. As a general guide, solid colours work better than busy patterns, and mid-tones tend to photograph better than very bright whites or very dark blacks. Earth tones, deep blues and greens work particularly beautifully against the night sky. I will provide you with personalised guidance based on your skin tone and the look you are hoping to achieve.

Nothing at all other than a warm jumper in case it gets cool — I take care of everything. Wine, nibblies and all the photography equipment are provided. Just bring yourself, wear comfortable clothing and come ready to enjoy a magical evening.

Basic levels of fitness are all that will be required, although there may be walking over rock and uneven ground depending on which location we select.

What size is the printed portrait? Your portrait is printed as a large format 90cm x 60cm fine art archival print. This generous size ensures your portrait makes a genuine statement on your wall, with every detail of the night sky and landscape rendered beautifully.

An acrylic face mount option is also available as an alternative print medium for those seeking a more contemporary and dramatic presentation. With this option the image is bonded directly behind a sheet of high quality acrylic, making the stars truly pop in a way that has to be seen to be believed. Please note that both options are supplied as unframed prints — framing is at the client's discretion and allows you to choose a style that perfectly suits your home.

How long until I receive my portrait? Your portrait will be delivered within three weeks of your session. I take great care in the selection and post-processing of your image to ensure it meets my exacting standards before it goes to print. Every portrait is personally reviewed and approved by me before it leaves for printing.

Can I get digital files as well? Absolutely! A high resolution digital file is included with every portrait session. This allows you to make additional prints in the future or to share your portrait digitally with family and friends.

Do you offer different print sizes or framing options? Yes — alternative print sizes are available ranging from 60cm x 40cm through to a statement 150cm x 100cm for larger spaces. Framing options are also available on request. Please contact me after your session to discuss what will work best for your portrait and your space.

Where do you collect me/us from? I will contact you prior to your session to confirm your pickup location and arrangements. I am happy to collect you from your accommodation or another convenient location within Broome.

Is the location far from Broome town centre? All locations are within approximately 30 minutes drive from Broome town centre. I will take care of all transport to and from the location so you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

The Kimberley outdoors is beautiful but it does have its share of insects, particularly at dusk. Not to worry though — I provide insect repellent for all clients. I recommend wearing long sleeves and long trousers for added comfort, which also happens to work beautifully for portrait photography.

All guests are strongly encouraged to bring the following:

1. Sturdy shoes.
2. A warm pull-over (just in case) - At nights it can get quite cool during the Dry season.
3. A head torch (if you have one) - this will make life much easier.
4. A hat.
5. A water bottle.
6. Camping chair.