Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Gallery SW3 offer?

We’re a hands-on team, united by our love of fashion and photography. We use some of the most talented creative staff in the industry to bring anyone and everyone exquisite imagery and a truly unique and memorable experience.


Where are you located?

Set in the heart of Chelsea on The Kings Road, London’s chicest centre for fashion, art and style. Our closest tube station is either South Kensington (running on the Circle and District line as well as the Piccadilly line) or Sloane Square tube station (running on the District or Circle Line) and our studio is approximately a 10-15 minute walk.


Why do I have to pay a refundable booking deposit?

This is a sign of good faith that you intend to keep any appointments you make with The Gallery SW3. We allocate between 6 hours of studio time and work with some of the most talented creative staff in the industry to bring you a truly unforgettable experience with stunning results. As you can imagine they are extremely busy so we organise their schedule in advance based on the appointments in our diary. You may use your deposit towards images or request a refund should you decide not to purchase any during your viewing.


What age ranges does The Gallery SW3 cater for?

Absolutely all ages, but under 21-year-olds MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Our photographers have experience in dealing with all age groups and will make you feel comfortable whatever your age. Is this just for young girls who want to be models? No, not at all. The majority of our clients are everyday people much like yourself who have always wanted to look and feel as good as they can through professional photography. We have had clients from as young as 9 weeks to as mature as 88 years old.


How long will my appointment last?

Please allow for a minimum of 6 hours. In most cases, it will be less than this however delays can occur.


I normally don’t like having my picture taken, what can I do about this?

Don’t worry about feeling a little nervous about having your photograph taken. You will soon relax once you are in the studio. Our professional team know how to get the best out of you, so we ask you to put your trust in our specialised hands. Relax and enjoy, you will be amazed by the results.


I’d love to have my pictures taken, but I don’t like my figure.

You are not alone there are so many people out there who feel exactly the same. All photos are retouched as soon as you come off set and during viewing. More specific changes to the image – such as removing a tattoo or slimming a tummy – can also be done by our in-house professionals if required. Supermodels and celebrities are regularly retouched in photographs, and we provide exactly the same service to give you that perfect look.


Will you be cutting my hair?

No, we do not cut or colour hair. We will style it for you.


Do you photograph groups of people or just a maximum of two?

Our team is committed to providing you with a photo shoot which delivers exactly what you want. We welcome double bookings, where you and a special friend or partner share the day, experiencing our fantastic studio session together. We only cater for a maximum of two adults per appointment. In case of groups of more than two adults, the deposit is applied towards additional imagery or one of our popular packages.


Can I bring a friend to keep me company?

Appointments are only allocated to clients who are in possession of an exclusive invitation. However, in the case of your scheduled appointment date being reasonably quieter than usual, we would welcome you to bring a friend along as your guest for the day to enjoy the experience with you. Just let us know at the time of booking.


What clothing should I bring in with me?

Your photo shoot is about your individual style and tastes. It will include a minimum of four different outfit changes, but you don’t have to stop there, we encourage you to bring a maximum of six! You can always make your final selection once in the studio, and of course, we’re here to help.

Examples include casual, evening, smart dress, a little black dress, lingerie, swimwear, accessories ideally whatever you feel most comfortable in. The more variety of outfits you bring, the more fun we can have creating unique styles and the better your photo shoot will turn out.


Can I bring a selection of imagery/ideas to the photo shoot?

Yes. It’s a great idea, and we love it when clients do. It gives us a great opportunity to talk you through any ideas and styles you may be wishing to emulate. Just show them to your stylist and photographer before beginning the shoot so we can ensure you leave with a set of images that were exactly what you wanted to achieve.


Can I wear Fake Tan prior to the photo shoot?

Yes, you can, but while some fake tans can look great, we recommend against applying any specifically for your photo shoot. Remember, we can retouch away any streaks or blotchy skin, but it’s much easier to add a glow to even skin than it is to remove it.


I have special requirements – will The Gallery SW3 be able to meet these?

We sure can. We can assist with almost all requirements. Let our team know at the time of placing your appointment.


How do I book?

Simply call the number on your invitation and one of our booking agents will gladly help you.

Our bookings office hours are open:

Monday – Friday 10 am – 6 pm

We have appointments every day of the month from 9.30am – 3.30pm

Please note to make an appointment the studio requires a fully refundable booking deposit from £50pp to secure your appointment. This can either be used towards images on the day of your appointment or refunded if you decide not to purchase any images after your viewing.


I’ve won a photo shoot what does my prize include?

Your prize entitles you to a fantastic day at our studio. You’re going to spend a day with some of the most talented people in the industry: we’ll make you look stunning, and we’ll make you feel fabulous, getting unbelievable photographs, is all we want to do!

You’ll be welcomed to our studio by your host for a full Consultation, to create a detailed Wish List unique to you.

Then it’s over to Hair & Make-up where industry experts will give you the professional make-over of your life.

After that, it’s into the studio set itself, where an expert fashion photographer will take around 100 beautiful and individual shots in up to five different outfit changes.

Then it’s time for The Reveal looking at all your photos just after they’re taken. We’ll touch up any that need a tweak. Photographs are not included. Most people fall in love with their shots and order a collection, however, there is no obligation, it’s entirely up to you on the day.


I’ve booked my appointment, is it possible to change my appointment date?

Yes, we are happy to rearrange your appointment free of charge providing you give the studio at least 7 business days notice.


How many times can I change my appointment?

You will be entitled to reschedule your appointment once free of charge; all other reschedules will be subject to a rebooking deposit.


If I need to pay an extra booking deposit what happens with my original deposit?

Your original deposit will be carried over to your new appointment and will be used as credit towards images. This way it is not lost, and you can redeem it towards the cost of images.


I’ve just purchased a CD of all my images, what can I use them for?

Keeping your images on CD is the most popular option for keeping your shots. With the CD, you have lifelong rights to use the images for whatever you want, from profile pages to professional use – it really is up to you! You can take the CD into any shop which offers a photo printing service and can purchase as many copies as you please.


I have ordered retouching and prints, how long will it take for them to arrive?

We offer a premium order service whereby orders can be fast-tracked to a waiting period of just 2 weeks. We aim to deliver all prints and post-production orders between 4-6 weeks. From time to time we may experience delays in production, but if this happens, we will do our best to keep you informed of the progress of your order.


How do I confirm my appointment?

A few days before your appointment we will send you a reminder text from 07515859308 with a break down of your start time and what to bring along with you on the day. Once your appointment is confirmed you will receive a helpful email with a map of how to locate our studio.


Do I have to buy the pictures?

No, of course not. There is no obligation to purchase. We work with some of the best creatives in the industry to create beautiful photos for everyday people at affordable prices, and we hope you will fall in love with your photographs and purchase a collection, however, there is absolutely no obligation to do so.


I did not use my booking deposit towards my order. When will it be refunded to me?

If you did not use your deposit towards an order, providing you meet our terms and conditions, your deposit will be paid back onto the card you used to make your appointment.


I had a fantastic day at The Gallery SW3 and I think my friends will love it too!

We do our best to bring you the most enjoyable experience and thank you for recommending us to your family and friends. You can refer many of your friends and family on the day through our referral scheme but if you’ve left someone out don’t worry because you can refer more of your friends online by simply sending us a email through to info@sw3.studio