WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY FAQ's

 

 

Q: How do I choose the right photographer?

A: First off, have a look at complete weddings, not a few good images from lots of different weddings, this gives you an example of what you might expect from that photographer on your wedding day. When you find a photographer whose images evoke emotions without even knowing the couple in those images, then you have found a good one. Personality is also very important and be sure to include a phone conversation with your photographer before you hire them. If your personalities clash it will not only cause undue stress and trouble on your wedding day, but your images will suffer as well.

Q: What is your photographic style?

A: I am a fine art documentary photographer, but more importantly, I’m your story teller. Artistically approaching those stories together will create beautiful images that evoke emotion. I want to freeze those perfect moments, leaving you with timeless photographs you will cherish forever.

Q: How much coverage do I need?

A: The classic collection is usually 8 to 10  hours but we can customize to fit your needs. Coverage typically begins 3 hours before the ceremony and lasts until the final reception event. .

Q: Are you insured?

A: This is one of the most important questions you can ask your Wedding Photographer. Business Liability insurance is very important as it protects me, you and all your guests from accidents. Also many of the higher-end venues will not allow a Photographer (or any vendor) to work on the premises without Liability Insurance. I carry full Business Liability Insurance.

Q: What does typical wedding coverage include?

A: Wedding coverage includes what you want it to include. It is YOUR day! Most packages are custom built to meet the needs of my bride and groom. Most brides like, pre-wedding day bridal sessions, “getting ready” images, pre-wedding formals, ceremony, family formals, romance session and reception coverage.

Q: How many photographers do I get?

A: Most of  my packages include 2 photographers. For weddings of over 300 guests, I recommend a 3rd photographer. Weddings are frenetic, crazy, joyful events where important things often happen simultaneously. We are not going to miss a second of that joy!

Q: What are the pros of a First Look?

A: I love First Looks and they are becoming more common. Whether a First Look is appropriate is something you and your Beloved will have to discuss. PROS

• Privacy…The First Look gives you and your Beloved the chance to share a private and intimate moment, which is often less restrained.
• Nerves…If walking down the aisle causes you anxiety, an early moment with your Beloved can make this trip a little easier.
• Intimacy…Due to logistical and/or church restrictions during a ceremony, the images of a First Look are more intimate than they can ever be during the ceremony.
• Efficiency…Finishing the formals before the ceremony allows you and your Beloved to have more time for the Romance Session OR immediately start the party at the cocktail hour!
• Privacy…Everyone wants to talk to you on your wedding day. You are the star of the show, after all! A First Look gives you and your Beloved a few moments of well-deserved privacy.

Q: How does a First Look change the timeline?

A: It depends on how many formals you would like to do. Typically, a First Look begins one hour before the ceremony with the formals immediately following and you should add at least one hour to your original timeline.

Q: Is there a way to calculate how long formals will take?

A: Each formal grouping averages 4½ - 5 minutes per shot. I will send you a questionnaire prior to the wedding in order to organize the shots (and people involved in each!) and ensure that things run efficiently

Q: I'm in love with detail shots. Do you photograph details?

A: Absolutely! I adore photographing the details that you have spent precious time planning and selecting. I like to photograph details that abound in the getting ready rooms as well as during the cocktail hour. If the formals are going to take a lot of time, we will send someone over to photograph the reception site. If the cocktail hour is at the reception site, this does affect our ability to extensively photograph  the details.

Q: What is a Romance Session?

A: Romance Sessions are one of my favorite parts of the wedding day. It’s a short photo session, usually following the formals, where I photograph you and your Beloved sharing a few quiet moments. If the mood is right, I will also pull you away occasionally from your reception and then for one final dramatic portrait at the end of the evening! These are relaxed, intimate and often my clients’ favorite images from their day.

Q: Do you work off of a shot list?

A: Everyone loves Pinterest. It is a great source of inspiration and you can always request shots or show me images you love. My goal is to understand your story and what you want and then exceed your expectations. My team is very experienced, so just relax. We've got this!

Q: Should we feed you and your assistant?

A: Yes, please! Weddings are marathons and we need fuel! Tell your caterer to plan us a quick plate when you get yours. This ensures that we stay energized and won’t miss any of the action.

Q: Can my family and friends photograph at my wedding?

A: Of course. All I ask is that I am the only professional on site and that your guests do not slow us down. Please tell your vendors we will happily share images with them as well. We want you to feel at ease on your big day and having a barrage of people with cameras can be quite daunting. Just leave all the photography to us.

Q: How long will we have to wait for our wedding photos?

A: Because I personally edit every image you receive to perfection, normal turnaround time for weddings is 4-8 weeks.

Q: Can we ask you to stay longer on the wedding day?

A: Absolutely! We are willing to be with you as long as you need us.

Q: Where are you based and are you available for travel?

A: I am based in Woodstock, VT and yes, I love to travel. Give me a ring and we can chat about travel rates and terms.

Q: Do you photograph other events?

A: Yes, I love to photograph anything and everything. Portraits, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, and corporate events. It’s pretty cool when I get to continue telling someone’s story beyond their wedding day.

Q: Can you hold a date for me?

A: Once I have a signed contract and a retainer, the date will be yours.

Q: What happens if I have to change my wedding date?

A: As long as your new wedding date is available, I’m yours. If I am already booked on your new date, no further funds are required.

Q: What is your payment schedule?

A: Payments are due in two installments:

• 1/3 on the date the contract is signed,
• The balance is due 7 days prior to the wedding day