Frequently Asked Questions- Parent Edition (Scroll down for the Junior/Senior edition)
What does being a “Day Maker” mean?
A Day Maker is someone who:
- Builds confidence in themselves and others
- Shows kindness and leadership in their community
- Makes a positive impact in everyday moments
This program is designed to help students grow into that identity during an important season of their lives
What exactly is the Day Maker Collective?
The Day Maker Collective is a portrait experience combined with a structured personal development program designed to help teens grow in confidence, build real life skills, and make a positive impact in their community.
Students don’t just walk away with beautiful images, they leave with stronger self confidence, participate in meaningful experiences, and feel a sense of purpose and belonging.
Who is this program for?
This experience is designed for:
- High school juniors and seniors
- Teens who want to grow in confidence
- Students who enjoy being part of a positive, supportive group
- Families who value both personal growth and high quality portraits of their teen
No prior experience or “modeling” is required.
What makes this different from a typical portrait session?
Most sessions focus only on photos. The Day Maker Collective is intentionally designed to provide:
- A guided, confidence building photography experience
- Life skills workshops (such as financial basics, wellness, and practical skills)
- Opportunities for community involvement
- A supportive peer group
It’s a more meaningful and memorable experience, not just a photoshoot.
Who leads the program?
The program is led by a professional photographer with over 22 years of experience in public education and a Master’s degree in teaching. Workshops will also include trusted guest professionals that will provide expertise in specific areas such as financial literacy, wellness, and practical life skills.
How much time is required?
The program is designed to fit into a busy schedule.
- Approximately 1 event per month for five months. Semester one runs July- November
- A combination of photo sessions, workshops, and community activities lasting between 2-3 hours each
- Dates are shared in advance and are selected by the majority of the groups availability.
Participation is encouraged but flexible.
What if my teen can’t attend every event?
We understand that teens have busy schedules. While we encourage full participation to get the most out of the experience, missed events are not penalized and do not affect participation in the program.
Is this program safe and supervised?
Yes. All events are structured, planned, and supervised. When guest instructors or outside venues are involved, they are carefully selected to ensure a positive and appropriate experience for all participants.
What is the investment?
The Day Maker Collective pilot program includes both the program and photography experience. This investment is only for the pilot program and price will increase second semester (January-May)
- Program Investment: $150
- Session Fee: $100
- Artwork and image collections are purchased separately
Flexible payment plans are available.
Why is the program priced this way?
This is a premium, multi month experience that includes:
- Multiple photography sessions
- Personalized guidance
- Educational workshops
- Coordinated events and activities
- A highly customized, small group environment
The investment reflects both the time involved and the long term value of the experience.
Are photos included?
The session fee covers the photography experience itself. Images and artwork are purchased separately during your ordering appointment, allowing you to choose what best fits your family.
How many students are accepted?
To maintain a high quality and personalized experience, the program is limited to a small group of students each semester. Usually between 8-10 students.
How do students join?
Students fill out an application to be part of the Day Maker Collective. This helps ensure that each participant is a positive fit for the group, contributes to the experience and is committed to building a supportive, encouraging environment.
What if we decide to leave the program early?
Due to the limited nature of the program and reserved spot, all payments are non refundable and payment plans must be completed in full.
Will photos of my teen be used for marketing?
Images and videos may be used for marketing and promotional purposes. If you prefer limited or no usage, you may request that in writing prior to participation.
Where will everything take place?
Most sessions will be held in and around the East Palestine, Oh area. Some workshops and portrait locations may require traveling between 10-15 miles outside of East Palestine.
How do we get started?
You can begin by submitting an application. Once accepted, you’ll receive full details, scheduling information, and next steps to officially reserve your spot.
Frequently Asked Questions- Junior/Senior Edition
“Is this going to feel like school?”
Noooooooo. There are no grades, no tests, and no pressure to perform. This is a guided experience, not a classroom. The goal is to help you grow to become the best version of YOU. Not evaluate you. You’ll be doing real conversations, activities, and reflections….not lectures.
“What if I’m not confident or outgoing?”
You do NOT need to be confident and outgoing to join. Confidence is something we are going to build together through practice, not something you already have. You’ll never be forced to “perform” or be someone you’re not.
“Do I have to talk a lot or be super social?”
Nope! You’ll be invited to participate, but never put on the spot. Some students are talkative. Some are quiet thinkers. Both belong here. You can grow at your own pace.
“What if I don’t know anyone in the group?
Most students won’t know each other at the start. That’s normal. The way the program is designed naturally builds connection over time through small group experiences. No awkward forced introductions or pressure to “fit in.”
“Is this just for certain types of students?”
Not at all. Students who join are usually:
- Kind hearted who love to uplift others
- Are open to growth
- Want to participate in something meaningful
There is no “type” required. If you’re open to learning about yourself, you’ll fit in.
“What do we actually do in the sessions?”
You’ll do a mix of:
- real life skill building (things like communication, confidence, basic life readiness)
- small group activities and discussions
- reflection exercises
- community impact experiences
- and of course, fun group and individual portrait sessions that show your growth over time
Nothing is random. Everything has a purpose.
“Will this help me with college or my future?” Yes, but not in a boring checklist way.
You’ll learn:
- how to communicate better
- how to handle real life situations
- how to feel more confident in yourself
- how to make decisions more clearly
These are skills that matter in college, jobs, and life.
“Do I need to be good at anything to join?”
Heck no! There are no requirements, talents, or skills needed. You don’t need to have good communication skills, be confident, or outgoing. You just need to have a kind heart and be open to trying.
“Will I be judged or compared to other students?”
Absolutely not! This is not a competition, and there are no rankings or comparisons. The focus is on YOUR personal growth, not how you measure up to anyone else.
“Is this just for girls or certain schools?”
No. The program is for all students who are open to the experience. Different personalities, schools, and backgrounds are welcomed.
“What makes this different from other programs?”
Most photographers focus on:
- a photo session
- posing and images
- a single moment
This experience focuses on:
- who you are becoming over time
- confidence in real life
- skills you actually use
- and meaningful experiences with others
The photos are part of the story, not the whole thing.
“What if I’m nervous to start?”
That’s completely normal! Most students feel that way before they begin something new. The first session is designed to be easy, low pressure, and welcoming so you can settle in naturally. You don’t have to show up as anything other than yourself.
Rachel Erin photography 