The following questions came from The Knot, a bridal website. I decided to take 10 of their questions and supply my answers for you. I may do a follow-up blog post, in the future, to answer more of their questions.
Question 1: Are the photos retouched and color balanced? Is that done before I see the proofs?
Yes, all photos I deliver to you as proofs will undergo my basic retouching process. I believe that the practice of delivering unedited images is unprofessional and can do real damage to a photographer's reputations. Also, I shoot Camera Raw, which demands me to process in the "digital darkroom." The basic process includes cropping, color balance, exposure adjustment. Photos you select for portraits undergoes an advanced retouching process.
Question 2: What exactly is included in your package?
I have put together packages (Standard and Signature) that use a menu type pricing system. All of the packages include an engagement shoot with a gift print, 8 hours of wedding coverage, USB drive containing wedding images both High Resolution printable to 8 x 12 and standard resolution, printable to 4 x 6, plus web quality images with personal print release, social media release, professional editing! I have several other add on services like a second photographer, additional wedding coverage, albums, rehearsal, & other coverage, or a photo booth.
Question 3: How many hours of coverage do I get? What is the charge for overtime?
Our Signature and Standard Packages were built around my most popular coverage 8 Hours. Also, I offer custom coverage for weddings when requested. The charge for overtime is $350 per hour, so it is more advantageous to book any extra hours you may need prior to your wedding date at my best rates!
Question 4: Will you be my actual photographer, or will it be one of your associates?
I will be your actual photographer unless something happens out of my control, on your wedding day. If that happens I will do everything, in my power, to find a replacement for you but I will still edit the images and deliver them to you.
Question 5: Will there be a second shooter or any assistance? Is there an additional charge for each?
My Signature Package has an assistant included in the price. My Standard Package does not include an assistant. A second shooter is available for you at an additional charge.
Question 6: How long after the wedding do we get to see the photos?
We do our best to deliver your images within three months of your wedding. We can provide you with a small taste of our favorite Images within 48 hours. Rush delivery is available at an additional charge!
Question 7: How many weddings do you do on a weekend?
We will only shoot a maximum of two weddings for a weekend. Nevermore than one on the same day, if you are a package client. I may schedule two or more for my wedding options which only provide one or two hours of coverage.
Question 8: Have you ever shot at my venue before?
I have shot at various locations and venues. But if I have not shot at your venue, I will contact them before the wedding to do a walk-through to see what my lighting conditions are and to get some light reading for camera settings. The Boy Scout's motto is "Be Prepared," I abide by it when it comes to my business.
Question 9: What are the restrictions for sharing photos online or for publications? Do you own the copyright to these photos?
You will receive a release to post your web quality images to your social media. You may also use an image for the wedding announcement. You have the right to print high-quality digital images for your personal use. I do retain ownership of the copyrights to all photos. You may not alter any image before publishing them, printing or posting them on your social media. I ask that you give me credit for the image where ever they appear.
Question 10: How many weddings have your shot and how many do you do in a year? Also, what's your favorite part of the wedding day and time of year to shoot?
Although we have spent over 15 years doing photography, it has only been the last five years that we have branched into the wedding photography market. Also, my photography business went from part-time to full-time in the middle of 2015. I have shot many weddings, plus numerous black-tie charity gala events. These events have similar demands as weddings. We have averaged around 10 weddings over the last few years but I am looking to increase that number going forward. Having done extensive work with portrait photography, which has given me the much-needed experience to shoot high-quality portraits at weddings. I have also trained in lighting design so I can achieve any looks you require. Finally, I have shot images in some of the most demanding lighting situations, musical theater and the direct sunlight of golf courses.
My favorite part of weddings, if I have to pick one, would be when the couple sees each other for the first time just before the ceremony begins. My favorite time of year to shoot is in the fall, the colors are just amazing for portraits on location! If I may add my favorite time of day to shoot, it is at sunset with wonderful golden colors and a brilliant fiery sky.
This concludes today's Blog post, I hope you found it enlightening.