Privacy Policy
Effective October 19, 2026
Who we are
Black Forest Photography is operated by Black Forest Media Group LLC, a photography studio based in Spokane, Washington. This policy explains what personal information we collect through blackforest-photography.com, how we use it, and the choices you have.
Information we collect
Information you give us: when you send an inquiry, schedule a consultation, book a session, or join The Grove, we collect details such as your name, email, phone number, session type, preferred dates, and any notes you choose to share.
Information collected automatically: like most websites, we collect basic usage data such as pages visited, approximate location, device and browser type, and referring site, using cookies and similar technologies.
Photographs: images we create during your session are personal to you. We treat them with care and never sell them.
How we use your information
To respond to inquiries, schedule and deliver sessions, process payments, manage memberships, send galleries, provide customer service, improve our website, and meet legal and tax obligations. We only email you about your session or membership unless you ask to hear from us otherwise.
Services we work with
We share information only with trusted providers who help us run the studio, including: HoneyBook (inquiries, scheduling, contracts, invoices), Google Analytics (website traffic statistics), Google Business Profile (displaying public reviews), and payment providers such as Klarna, Sezzle, and Affirm when you choose them. Each provider handles your data under its own privacy policy.
We do not sell your personal information, and we do not share it for targeted advertising.
Cookies
We use cookies to understand how visitors use the site (Google Analytics) and to remember when you've unlocked a password-protected page. You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings; the site will still work, though some features may not. You can also opt out of Google Analytics at tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout.
Use of your images
We will only share photos from your session in our portfolio, website, or social media with your permission, as set out in your session contract. Boudoir images are never shared publicly without your explicit written consent. You may withdraw permission at any time by contacting us.
Health data (Washington My Health My Data Act)
We do not intentionally collect consumer health data. If you voluntarily share health-related details (for example, a pregnancy for a maternity session, or accessibility needs), we use it only to plan your session, with your consent, and never sell or share it with third parties for any other purpose. You may ask us to access or delete that information at any time, and we will respond within 45 days.
Your rights
You may ask us to confirm what personal information we hold about you, get a copy of it, correct it, or delete it, and to withdraw any consent you've given. We will respond within 45 days and will not treat you differently for exercising these rights. If we decline a request, you may appeal by replying to our response, and you may contact the Washington State Attorney General's Office if you have concerns.
Data security and breaches
We use reasonable safeguards to protect your information, including secure, reputable service providers. If a data breach affects your personal information, we will notify you as required by Washington law (RCW 19.255), within 30 days of discovery.
How long we keep information
We keep client records and images for as long as needed to deliver your services and meet business, tax, and legal requirements, then securely delete them.
Children
Our website is not directed at children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect their personal information online. Information about minors (such as senior portrait clients) is provided by and managed with a parent or guardian.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy from time to time. The latest version will always be posted on this page with its effective date.
Contact us
For any privacy question or request, email photos@blackforestmediagroup.com. Black Forest Photography, Spokane, Washington.