I don't usually do stand alone sessions that aren't part of a wedding day photography package. However, I have a couple that is getting married abroad (they already have a photographer there, darn!) and they want me to do their sessions (bridal and after session) locally.
I am wondering what % you all ask for as a deposit for sessions. Or do you ask for one at all? Do they just pay you on the day of the session?
For non-weddings, I'm almost always working with people I already know as I only advertise my weddings. I collect the entire session fee when they sign their contract.
