I get asked these questions all the time and I know they’re from the internet. Bridal forums, blogs, wedding planning sites, they all tell you to ask the same things. So here are the Frequently Asked Questions (plus a few that I added) and my answers:
- What is your photography style? My images are the perfect blend of wedding photojournalism, artistic imagery, and romantic portraiture. Roughly 80% of the day I’m a photojournalist capturing moments as they unfold. During the formal portraits I find any opportunity to create artistic images by use of dynamic composition, finding good light, and incorporating gorgeous background elements. While with the bride and groom I encourage interaction between them to get natural romantic moments.
- Is your portfolio comprised of model shoots or do you use real clients? Since many photographers out there lack experience and rely on shooting models for portfolio, that is a valid concern and the quality of photos from a “model” shoot will definitely be different than from an actual wedding or event (when moments cannot be faked nor controlled). My wedding photography portfolio is my own work from real events with real clients and it shows my consistent performance during real situations.
- Do you shoot color, black and white, or both? I’m 100% digital which means I have the capability of outputting all of the above. The only thing I cannot do is keep the flowers in color while the rest of the image is black and white (that was cool in the 80′s and 90′s and that was a looong time ago!) : )
- How many shots will you take? I shoot anywhere between 1200 – 3000 images over 8 hours of coverage, but after editing the images, I select the best files and present roughly 600 – 1000 pictures. This is for ease in viewing (for you), quality control, and quality control.
- Are you the person who will actually take our pictures? Unless you specifically select the Associate options I am always the principal photographer during my events.
- How long have you been a professional photographer? This is my 6th year as a full time professional wedding photographer but I have over 20 years of photography experience. I also teach wedding photography at the prestigious Cypress College Photography Program.
- What kind of input can we have on the direction of the shots? Can we give you a shot list to work from? I prefer to capture moments as they unfold and keep everything natural rather than focus on an extensive shots list. This way the images look natural, you’ll be more relaxed and your album images will tell your love story. I will certainly accept a small list of important images or include special people that the bride and groom have requested, as long as the list does not take away from the wedding story. If you must have an extensive shots list, hiring a third shooter that’s dedicated to checking off that list would be a great option to consider.
- Table Shots? Many couples feel they need to have “table shots” with all the guests. The reality of it is that nobody keeps pictures of table shots because it is difficult to capture any great images from this type of setting, nor does it contribute to the wedding story. Burning time to do these could potentially take away from the festivities and delay your itinerary. If you feel obligated to do this, I would suggest either taking the pictures candidly as you greet/hug the guests (to save time), or have everyone formally pose with you away from the table (better background = better pictures).
- Is my wedding the only one you will be shooting that day? I limit myself to only one wedding per day, and only a limited amount of weddings throughout the year to ensure the highest level of commitment, quality and service.
- What type of equipment will you be using? Will the lighting be intrusive? My equipment bag consists of super ultra high-end grandmaster uber professional digital camera gear. I always come prepared for any lighting situation and place my equipment so they are never in the way.
- How long does it take to get our proofs and the finished album back? It takes approximately 3-4 weeks for me to meticulously review the images from your wedding to ensure that every single image shown to you are absolutely the best. The wedding pictures will be posted online in your own gallery for your friends and family to view. Once you select your favorite images (you can create your own folder called ‘album’ or ‘favorites’) it will take another 8-10 weeks to design, print, and bind your custom leather album.
- Can we buy the digital negatives from you? Yes they are available on special order (or included in certain packages).
- What time will you arrive and how long will you stay? Is there an overtime fee? Details like these will be included in the simple and easy to read contract. Basically we agree on a certain time to start and stop.
- What will you wear? I usually come in a two piece Italian suit, unless requested otherwise (some weddings are casual by design and if everyone were wearing Bahama shirts I’d hate to be the only one dressed formal!).
- Can I look at complete wedding albums that you have shot? Why yes I’d love to have you come in for a studio visit so you can see complete albums and experience the tangible products that I offer. Nothing compares to experiencing, touching, even smelling the exquisite genuine leather covers or seeing how gorgeous the large canvas wraps and framed prints look on a wall.
- Can you also be our DJ? It would be crazy FUN, for me! But really, you wouldn’t want me anywhere near the DJ equipment. Besides, I’d rather take the pictures and do what I do best.
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