FAQs
Easier than asking your dad (See Below)
General FAQ's
Are the photos edited? Photo editing vs retouching
Yes, all the photos you receive will be edited. That being said, it is important to understand the difference between photo editing vs photo retouching. Editing makes adjustments to the photo so that it is the best possible version without making any changes to reality. Editing covers global things like color, crop and exposure. Retouching on the other hand alters reality. From environmental items like removing something from a background or replacing a sky, to the more requested personal improvement items like teeth whitening, removing or softening wrinkles, removing skin blemishes, fixing clothing or hair and body or face slimming. Retouching takes time and artistry and is done on a per image basis that does involve additional cost. Most people select a few images to be retouched, especially those that will be printed large.
Do I own the files? Copyright vs reproduction rights
Copyright vs reproduction rights
Everything has a price and copyright is no different. The standard pricing shown in the “Get Quote” section will include “use rights” as well as letting you select what kind of “reproduction rights” you would like. Use rights let you do things like post on social media or your company website, reproduction rights allow you to print photos for your own use (up to the size contracted). So what can’t you do with the photos? Sell them as stock photography or any other product that is intended for profit. Those uses would require a special use contract. For those clients that need to own the copyright as well, please call or email for a quote.
Can I have pets in a portrait session?
Yes, if the session is at your location.
Usually yes, if it is an outdoor public location (depends on the pet and location).
Sometimes yes, if it is a studio session (call or email for more info).
If you are bringing a pet, it is always good to bring a person not needed in the photos so they can help wrangle the pet when the pet is not being photographed. Be a good pet parent and bring what that pet might need on a outing, including water, toys and poop collection supplies. If you have additional questions about your specific pet please contact us.
Do you offer A.I. headshots?
Not specifically, I make actual real images of you. You are likely going to have to put on clothes, maybe even shower and then see people, IRL. I know, scary stuff, it’s like in the olden days. That being said, there may be A.I. elements involved in the camera and editing software because like high-fructose corn syrup, A.I. is in everything. But you want that flawless look… yes, you can also order retouching. We can change all that stuff you don’t like about yourself*.
*Unfortunately retouching only works on your appearance, it will not make you smarter, funnier, or more popu-ler… lar
Just kidding, of course we’re gonna make you pop-you-lar!
What to wear for photos?
Unless you dress daily using Garanimals, you probably don’t need me telling you what to wear for photos. That being said, here are some things to think about when planning your outfits.
1. Darker colors are slimming
2. Avoid busy patterns and big logos
3. Select clothes that are appropriate for the images you want to make
4. Avoid fluorescent colors
5. For groups, try to stay in complementary colors like “all in fall colors” or “all in blues”. If you decide on matching outfits, everyone needs to be on board, one person in the wrong color will really stand out.
What is your cancellation policy?
Wedding photography generally requires a contract and that will spell out specifics on cancellations. Generally speaking, a cancellation resulting from military service or declaration of an emergency by local, state or federal government would allow for deposits to be reapplied to the new event date (so long as that date is available). If you cancel your wedding because you are no longer in love so suddenly don’t believe in the concept of marriage, the deposit is not refunded, but depending on the amount of advance notice, may be applied to other types of photo sessions.
Do you offer albums?
Yes, we create beautiful albums from simple coffee table books to elaborate heirloom books with an extensive selection of cover options that range from silk and leathers to metal. These custom designed albums are a great way to save the memories from your day.
Can we customize a package?
Absolutely, that is the only way we do it. Click on Get a quote and “I want to see the options” to see the most accurate pricing and discounts that might apply.
Can we request specific shots?
Yes, but more importantly than a “shot list” is knowing what makes something is important to you. For example, telling me your brother spent two days baking the wedding cake is better than “I need a shot of the cake”. Additionally, if there is something emotionally significant that I should be looking for like “the bible used in the ceremony belonged to your father, who had recently passed away” or that your grandmother’s locket is tied into your bouquet, gives me the knowledge to make the memorable images you will cherish.
How do we book your services?
- Submit the “get a quote” or “book now” form and verify your date is available
- Review the provided estimate and if everything looks great, let me know you would like to proceed
- Review the contract, sign and return
- Submit payment for the reservation fee
We may have one or more conversations via phone, text and or email during this process
How many photos will we receive?
Because every session / event is different, there is no minimum or maximum number of images quoted. You will receive all the images that meet my quality standards. Typically an event generates 60-100 images per hour of coverage. That being said, the more active and animated you or your event is, the more photos get created. Not saying you should shotgun a Redbull… but not saying you shouldn’t have a little extra pep in your step on photo day.
Do you travel for weddings?
Yes, in my 20+ years of photography, I have photographed weddings from coast to coast. From the Redwood forest of California to the blue brick in the streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico and from the white sand beaches of Hawaii to the covered bridges of Connecticut, like Johnny Cash… I’ve been everywhere man.
Do you offer engagement sessions?
Yes, engagement sessions are offered and encouraged. Engagement sessions are often included at no cost on wedding packages (generally those packages of 6hrs or more). Having an engagement session gives me a chance to photograph you before the wedding day. It gives me an opportunity to see you through the lens and get to know how you interact as a couple.
How long until we receive the photos?
Typical delivery time is 10-14 days, but for those clients that are friends on social media and want an early look, you may start seeing sneak peak photos posted as soon as the next day. If you failed the Stanford marshmallow experiment and need your photos faster, expedited delivery may be available at an additional cost.
How much do you charge for a wedding?
Weddings can be small events like just a few people at the courthouse or giant multi-day events with hundreds of people and the pricing is reflective of these possibilities. Luckily you can build a package and see those costs before moving to the next steps.