One has only to google to find a list of things to ask your potential photographer! I don't mind answering those questions at all (but after being asked the same exact ones daily) I decided to just put them here for your perusal! This particular list of questions came from Here Comes the Guide . Hope this helps answer you questions but don't be shy if you have more! ;)
How far in advance do I need to book with you? I would recommend year or more (we have booked almost 2 years in advance in some cases); but check to see if we are available because sometimes we have openings for one reason or another!
How long have you been in business? We began photographing weddings in 2012. We have shot over 250 weddings!
Have you done many that were similar to mine in size and style? We have done weddings of all shapes and sizes! Intimate backyard affairs to large black tie events and varying venues and styles! We have you covered!
How would you describe your photography style (e.g. traditional, photojournalistic, and creative)? I have a blend of styles that is primarily photojournalist (as you can probably see from my portfolio); however we put our creative spin on it. In true photojournalism the backgrounds are never blurry (Bokeh)… but I like to “shoot wide open” in other words create that dreamy blurred background!
How would you describe your working style? I would say I have a blend of styles. When necessary I blend in as an anonymous observer capturing the day as it unfolds. I’m not afraid to take charge and get the group shots and maybe that one image you’ve dreamed of having. Give me a call and see if our personalities match!
What do you think distinguishes your work from that of other photographers? We’re all different. Like snowflakes no 2 of us are same. I think that my blend of styles sets me apart as well as my willingness to capture your vision. I think a lot of times we (photographers) can get caught up in our art; but I like to work with you to create exactly what you’re looking for while still staying true to me. <3
Do you have a portfolio I can review? Are all of the images yours, and is the work recent? You can view my portfolio HERE. All the images you see on our website are taken by either Scott or myself and edited in house by me! No outsourcing here! You can also request to see a recent wedding from start to finish!
What type of equipment do you use? The latest, greatest, state of the art equipment (I could go into detail but most people get that glassy look in their eyes)… Suffice it to say that it’s not uncle Joe’s point and shoot camera (unless uncle Joe has amazing mirrorless cameras and array of lenses and lighting).
Are you shooting in digital or film format or both? Digital
Do you shoot in color and black & white? I shoot in color but can edit to black and white
Can I give you a list of specific shots we would like? OF COURSE! We encourage it and actually require it! Once you book we will send over the General Information Sheet which will cover all of that!
Can you put together a slideshow of the engagement session (along with other photos the couple provides) and show it during the cocktail hour? What about an “instant” slideshow of the ceremony? Yes and Yes; however the SSDS (same day slideshow) is sort of contingent on time! Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t! If you allow for it in the timeline we can definitely make it happen. ;)
What information do you need from me before the wedding day? A lot… but do not be overwhelmed! We will walk you through it! Our General Information Sheet really helps us rock the day!
May I have a list of references? Definitely! Just ask in an email and I’ll shoot ‘em over to you! Have you checked out our reviews on The Knot?
Are you the photographer who will shoot my wedding? If so, will you have any assistants with you on that day? If not, who will be taking the pictures and can I meet them before my wedding? Scott and I shoot the weddings together. All the images on our site are taken by only us.
Do you have backup equipment? What about a backup plan? We bring a full set of backup equipment! In the unlikely event (we have NEVER missed a wedding) that something should happen we are part of a large network of photographers who would be available to come capture the day!
If my wedding site is out of your area, do you charge a travel fee and what does that cover? The first 50 miles from Fredericksburg is free! Have a destination wedding?! Call and see if we can cover your day! <3
Are you photographing other events on the same day as mine? No, when you book with us we will be reserving the day solely for you.
How will you (and your assistants) be dressed? We will be in professional business attire (if need be we can dress up more i.e. a black-tie event).
Is it okay if other people take photos while you are taking photos? We strongly encourage you have an “unplugged wedding” you are paying us to capture the moment and want you and your guest to enjoy the day! Nothing is worse than uncle Joe taking a picture of the kiss from the aisle with his iPad and blocking the shot we are taking! We also have a “sole photographer” clause in the contract; if you are contracting us we will not work with another photographer. If you are worried about getting all the shots ask about adding a 3rd photographer to your package! Sorry folks we do not want to give up the best angles and spots! :P
Do you plan to check out our venues in advance?! Yes, we can. The engagement session or a final walk through with the coordinator is a great opportunity for this. If those don't work out, we have enough experience and come prepared to photograph in any situation ;)
What time will you arrive at the site and for how long will you shoot? That depends on which package you end up booking and the timeline! Let’s figure out what would be best for you! <3
If my event lasts longer than expected, will you stay? We can definitely stay but there is an additional hourly rate. I strongly recommend having a day of coordinator as they will make sure we stick to the timeline!
Do you include engagement photos in your packages? Yes a session is included. This is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for me to see how you do in front of the camera
Do you provide retouching, color adjustment or other corrective services? Yes, I do a light retouch (don’t want to remember blemishes!) and color correction as well as my own editing.
How long after the wedding will I get the proofs? A sneak peek is usually available the week after your wedding on social media. Your full gallery will be viewable online as soon as possible. We strive for deliver the photos within 6 weeks but depending on our schedule, shorter or longer waits could be expected.
What is the ordering process? You can order online or through whomever you choose to print your pictures through (we highly recommend professional labs though!)
Will you give me the digital images, and is there a fee for that? You will receive all the edited images in your gallery with a print release at no additional cost.
When will I receive a written contract? As soon as you are ready to book and we have determined which package you need, we will send it over! <3
How much of a deposit do you require and when is it due? Do you offer a payment plan? We have a $1,500 retainer fee required at the time of booking your date. We can definitely come up with a payment plan that fits your needs! The remaining balance is due 30 days before the event.
What is your refund/cancellation policy? The retainer in nonrefundable as we have blocked off the day for you (this in order to recoup loss of business); however you may cancel anytime up until 30 days before your wedding.
Do you have liability insurance? Yes. If your venue needs us to provide them with information, let us know.
