the f.a.q.
I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions (per se) that I’ve received throughout my time. Hopefully this gives you a slightly better idea as to what I do and what you can expect- and you can always contact me if you have any more questions! :)
How many images do you normally provide?
I guarantee at least 10. I promise.
No two weddings are the same, but generally there can be 300-400 images provided. My goal is to provide you with the best collection of images to tell the story to its fullest. For portrait sessions, I will average more around 30-50 images.
When is the best time to do portraits?
The best time is when I’m around.
For most photographers, their favorite time to shoot portraits (or pretty much any sort of outdoor images) is just before sunset, or anytime on an overcast day. The toughest time is either in complete darkness (obviously), or at high-noon…then you just have everyone squinting and sweating…nobody likes that.
What kind of gear do you use?
I use cameras.
There are many people who get caught up with brands and specifications of cameras and such. But ultimately, when you are showing the images to you friends and family, you are not saying ‘This is image was shot with a Canon 1Ds Mark II and an 85 1.2!’ (…unless you’re a photographer). Now, the higher end cameras do provide greater ease, flexibility and performance in the hands of a trained photographer, but the true test: look at their portfolio. Are they consistent? Do you like the style? Does it speak to you? This is what you should base your decision on, not on whether its a D300 or an XTi.
[for the record, I use multiple Canon bodies, Canon lenses, Sandisk CF cards, and Apple/Adobe products for my digital darkroom.]
I found a photographer who is willing to shoot the entire wedding and rehearsal, and provide a full set of printed proofs, an album for us and also two parent albums for $300. Can you match it?
Hmmmm…I don’t think I’m the right photographer for you.
Many photographers who do not have a great grasp on the financial aspect of the business or as simply trying to build a portfolio are willing to give away anything and everything for experience. But this is not something that can (or should) be expected of the majority. In all seriousness, I would not be able to even break even by providing one album at that cost.
A general view of the wedding photography industry is “$10,000 for 8 hours of work? If you just do 10 weddings a year, you’re making $100,000 a year!” What many people do not see is the amount of hours a photographer puts in outside of the actual event. With consultations and editing, most photographers actually log more than the average 40 hour work week. In addition, there are many additional costs that we must incur: equipment, insurance, backup equipment, advertising, and other overhead. In addition, there are the raw cost of goods such as prints, albums, shipping, and packaging.
My rates are based on what I believe the whole experience is worth to both of us. I desire to work with couples who value my photography and value my creativity. My portrait sessions start at $400, and wedding coverage begins at $3250 (most couples average around $4500). Send me a message to get more details on my rates and availability.
Can I give you a list of the 80 things you definitely need to take (and another list of the 40 formal portraits we need)?
Ummm… you can give it to me…but I can’t promise I can do much with it.
Personally, I don’t like to use shot lists, as it goes a bit against my approach of documenting a day as it occurs. It would force me to step outside of vision, in a sense, and simply seek or pose situations. My couples hire me because they like my style and character, and trust my vision. Now, if there are some special ceremonial/traditional circumstances, or important people present, by all means keep me aware. But I cannot promise that I will follow a given list point by point through our time together.
…and about the 40 formals with families…if you really want it, we’ll discuss it further :) .
