How long will our formal pictures take on the wedding day? When should we do them?
The formal wedding portraits take between 2 – 2.5 hours on the wedding day. Plan for about 30 minutes for family formals (and allow for approximately 3-5 minutes per grouping of people, most couples have between 7-10 family “groups” on their shot list), 45 minutes to 1 hour for the wedding party formals and another 30-45 minutes for your images together as bride and groom. Ideally, I like to do the bridal party and bride/groom images about 1.5 hours before sunset, however I am able to work with your timeline and available light without a problem. I recommend that you plan your ceremony to end no later than 1.5 hours before sunset, which is especially important in the late fall and winter months.
What about the first look? Do you do them?
Yes! And I highly recommend a first look to all of my couples. I will tell you that only about 30% of my clients do a first look, in keeping with wedding traditions. However, you will have SO many more images together and your wedding day will run much more smoothly, especially after the ceremony is over, should you choose to do one. The one moment that you both will definitely remember on your wedding day is seeing each other for the first time, and I promise you will treasure those images the most. It will be a privately organized part of your day, with only the two of you and my assistant and I present.
How do we reserve our wedding date?
The first step is to get in touch with me by using the contact form above. I will then check and see if you date is available and we will set up a time to meet or speak on the phone to go over further details about your wedding, pricing, etc. Your wedding date will be officially booked with a signed contract and a 30% retainer. The retainer will be applied to the total price. Your remaining balance is due in full 2 weeks prior to the wedding date
How would you describe your style?
My style is a balance between photojournalistic and creative portraiture. I do also ensure that I capture the all important formal family images, too. For the most part, I remain in the background throughout your day, only stepping in with direction when necessary.
Do you offer albums?
Yes! I love designing albums for my clients. You can see more information about my album offerings HERE!
Do we get the copyright to our photos?
You will be granted a printing release so that you can print your images yourself! I will hook you up with my preferred consumer print labs that I have had great experiences with in the past. I just ask that you do not enter any images into competitions, submit them for publications (such as wedding blogs) and that you give me proper credit, including web link, for any images placed on social media websites.
What type of camera and equipment do you have? Do you have backup equipment? Do you shoot digital or film?
I shoot with professional grade Nikon digital cameras and lenses. And I do have professional grade backup equipment, just in case.
Can our wedding guests view our photos online and possibly order prints?
Absolutely! Included with any wedding day collection is an online gallery that you can share with your guests, and they may also order prints directly from me at a discounted rate, if desired! The gallery will remain active for 120 days.
What forms of payment to you accept?
Cash, personal checks and credit cards (please inquire).
What is the best way to get in touch with you?
I am most easily accessible via email. Feel free to get in touch with me via the contact form above. I do return all phone calls within 24 hours and all emails typically within 4-6 hours.
How will we know what to expect on the wedding day?
About 4-6 weeks prior to the wedding, I will have you complete my wedding information form. I will then loosely draft a day of timeline based on your responses, and we will work together in finalizing your day. I do work on a schedule on the wedding day and consider myself to be a very organized person. I will keep all of your crazy family members in check, promise! : )
When should we schedule our engagement session?
The best answer here is, it depends! How long is your engagement? How long do we have until your wedding day? What kind of look and feel are you going for with your engagement images? If you are interested in using your images to create save the dates, I recommend that we complete the session about 8 months (or more) prior to the wedding. We will work together to find the perfect time and location for your session!
My venue requires all vendors to have liability insurance. Do you?
Absolutely! This is a very common request, and I am more than happy to provide the proper Certificate of Insurance. Just make sure you get me in touch with the proper contact person at your venue at least 30 days prior to the wedding, and I’ll take care of the rest!
How many weddings do you shoot in a year?
I typically shoot between 15-20 weddings per year so as to ensure that I deliver top-knotch, attentive service to my clients.
How long will it take to see our photos?
Typically, I post my favorite image or two on my blog and facebook page within a few days of your wedding. Within 2-3 weeks of your wedding I post an entry on my blog that showcases the key moments of your wedding day. It will take approximately 6 weeks to receive the link to your full gallery, and you will have the image disc(s) in hand shortly thereafter. I know how excited you are to see your images, and I try and accommodate as best I can!