Wedding FAQ’s
What style of photography do you do?
Ninja, if that is really a style. My goal is to be as unobtrusive as possible, moving throughout the day without causing any disruption or distraction. There are times that I will pose the two of you and your family for some killer portraits, one: because they look amazing on your wall and two: your parents would be upset if I didn’t. The rest of the day I’m utilizing my ninja skills to capture candids and that expression of that one elusive family member that doesn’t want their picture taken.
Do you offer engagement sessions?
Of course, engagement sessions are a great way for us to get to know each other better and are included with wedding coverage of 8 or more hours. If you do decide to have a session, I recommend that they are at least 6 months prior to your wedding. Each session comes with a 8x10 session book that can be used for your guest book at your wedding.
What do you include in your wedding packages?
All wedding packages include photographic coverage provided by me, high resolution professionally edited digital image files with personal usage rights and an heirloom 4x6 select image box filled with 100 prints of your choosing.
Additional coverage items include a second photographer, photo booth and additional hours of coverage. Other available options are albums, prints, thank you cards, gallery wraps, metal prints and more.
How many hours of coverage do we need?
The average is at least 8 hours. I offer hourly coverage, which is perfect to fit your needs. if you want ceremony and portraits only, I suggest 2- 4 hour coverage. If you want photos of getting ready, details, and reception coverage, then you need to plan for at least 6 to 8 hours of coverage. If you’d like to have the least amount of stress, or if you’ll be changing locations during the day ( such as from hotel to church to reception venue), then you’re going to probably need to bump up to 10 hours. Remember to factor in travel time, buffer time in between major events, and portrait time.
What if we want more coverage on the day of the wedding?
No problem, we can talk about that on the day of the wedding. I’ll bill you for the extra time the week after the wedding.
How many pictures do you deliver? Can we have all of them?
The number of images I deliver can vary because every wedding is unique. There are many factors that contribute to the final number: hours of coverage, events occurring during the day, number of guests. On average I capture about 2-3k images per wedding. I edit those down to an average of 400 to 800 to be delivered to the two of you via online gallery.
How quickly can we see our pictures?
After your amazing weekend, I’ll go through your wedding the next day and post some killer images to share with you. After that I go through all the images to complete the editing process and post them in your private online gallery within six weeks of your wedding day. Your gallery can also be shared with family and friends, and allows everyone to purchase prints and files for their own use, saving you the work of sharing them. Then I’ll print 100 select images to put in your 4x6 image box that are delivered within 8 weeks. Albums drafts are created within 12 weeks and are shared with you in your private gallery. Life gets busy after the wedding so there is no rush. We will schedule an album and print review meeting when and if you are ready to order.
Do you use a second photographer?
Most of the time I’m going solo, but sometimes coverage requires additional assistance. I recommend a second photographer if there are events in different locations at the same time, or if you have a large wedding with over 200 guests. A second photographer can be a great asset in achieving images from multiple vantage points.
How long have you been a professional photographer?
I started in 2008 by assisting and second shooting weddings with some amazing professional wedding photographers. In 2010 I shot my first wedding on my own and haven’t stopped since. When I’m not booked with my own weddings I still second shoot, because idle hands cause trouble.
What kind of equipment do you use?
My toolbox includes an array of professional level Nikon cameras, lenses and off camera lighting. I believe in being prepared for any situation, that is why I have backup cameras and lights. I bring light stands for off camera lighting during the reception as well as your formal portraits. Back at the office I have onsite and offsite backup of your images, which get downloaded and backed up immediately after your wedding day.
Do you have insurance?
Yes, I do.
What if something happens to you, who will photograph our wedding?
If I get taken out by a bus, which I hope doesn’t happen, I have a plan in place that alerts a trusted group of photographers that will help out and cover your wedding day. Other than that there is nothing that will make me miss your wedding!
We are on a budget, so are you flexible with cost?
Each wedding is so unique, so flexible pricing is important. In our initial meeting we go over the timeline for the day, discuss what you would like covered. From there we can determine what the total cost will be and outline a payment plan that fits your budget. I offer multiple plans: monthly, 3 installments and full payment options. There are discounts for full cash/check payment of 5%. Discounts of 10% are available for first responders and military members. I’ll send you invoices at least 4 weeks prior to when payments are due so you don’t have to remember, you have plenty of other items on your plate. Full payment is due before the wedding. Payment for upgrades to services beyond wedding contract are due post-wedding.
Do we need to feed you that day?
You don’t have to, but it would be awesome if you did. When shooting weddings that are 8 hours or longer I request a break or meal break. All vendors need food to keep fueled up so we can have the energy to stay mobile and alert. The best time to provide a meal is when you eat. I try not to make it a habit of taking pictures of your guests when they are eating, so it’s the best time for meal / recharge break.
How do we book you for our wedding day?
A booking/retainer fee is 20% of the total cost of your wedding and is due at contract signing. If in an unfortunate event that your wedding needs to be cancelled, retainer fees are nonrefundable. Once I receive your retainer, I block off the entire weekend for your wedding. Two weddings in a weekend are definitely not ideal and allows me to focus on your special day.
Why should we hire you for our wedding?
Because I will take care of you as if you were a member of my family. I’ll work with you closely on your timeline and details for the day and keep it as stress free as possible. My job is to be aware of the weather, the lighting, and the timing of events so no detail is missed or moment. Flexibility and the ability to adapt are the skills that I bring to the table to ensure that the two of you get great pictures from the day.
