From time to time I get asked questions about what I shoot, how I shoot etc.
So I thought having a place where I can answer these questions would be a nice thing to have for you to read, and find out a little about how I do things and what I do.
Since quite a few of these are related to my wedding photography that is where I will start.
What is the difference between proofs and finished images ?
Traditionally photographers would shoot your event and then provide proofs, these images are sort of unfinished images, and only had a slight adjustment for exposure. I still do this but only for head shot and portrait clients buying a la carte images.
Today I offer all my wedding clients finished images, these images are 8×12 in size and have retouching, color adjustment, funky effects, or are converted to black and white. I do all of these myself, and I usually try and create images that will stand the test of time as much as I can, I also like to apply effects to some images that I feel benefit from them, I also like the black and white aesthetic and will do some images in BW.
I normally like to break it down to 80% natural and the other 20% in black and white or with some kind of funky effect.
This way your images are only dated by your hairstyle and not a particular trendy effect.
How long will you be photographing on our wedding day ?
For me, the day starts with photos of the bride’s preparation and the exact time depends on the bride’s arrangements for the day. I’m usually there for the last dance, but it can vary, depending on the wedding reception itself. Sometimes the day’s coverage is less than 10 hours, sometimes more. I’d rather not have the hours fixed and be there tapping my wristwatch to indicate that time is up, or whine about going overtime. I’m there to photograph your wedding day, and I want to help your day being an enjoyable one.
Do You Include an Engagement Session ?
I include an engagement session as it is a good opportunity to get to know the couple in advance of the wedding and to see how they photograph, in addition to their simply getting nice pictures. You will also see how I work, and get a clear idea of what to expect of your portrait session on the wedding day. Doing the engagement session before hand actually makes my job easier and the pictures better on the wedding day. So while a couple may choose not to have their session I don’t discount or substitute anything for it for this reason.
The engagement shoot usually takes place in a local park or an urban setting, a few weeks or months before the date. I shoot all engagement sessions on location. Areas outside of the Region of Waterloo will incur a travel fee, unless you and your wedding are in another town.
The high res files of the engagement session will be released within 7 – 10 days after the shoot on DVD. Signing books (using the images from the shoot), can be ordered, as can cards for Save the Dates etc. As well all images will have Facebook sized files on the DVD as well.
Do you shoot formal family group shots ?
I’m very comfortable with posed photographs. Indoors, I use portable lights with umbrellas that give me studio quality lighting anywhere. Therefore, the formal shots are well lit, and not just done merely with flash on camera when done indoors. Outdoors I try to use available light, with some flash on or off camera for a more natural look. Because the day is for the Bride and Groom I try and not make the family group portion long or a whole shoot unto themselves, I prefer a more candid approach to my wedding photography. But I also want to ensure everyone that is important is photographed well.
Do you shoot table shots ?
Yes, and No. What I try and do is get the head table photographed. Due to timeliness, nature of receptions, doing table shots can be a logistical nightmare. Often times the only time everyone is seated is during the meal, and that does not make for a flattering image. Since by nature I am there to document the events and happenings I do like to take a more as it happens approach. If i see something worth documenting and they are at a table then of course I photograph that. Guests often times do not like the table shots as well.
Do you offer albums, proof prints, and thank you cards ?
Although these are not included in the base price they are optional upgrades, I offer Coffee-Table flush mount albums from 2 different companies at varying prices. Starting at $500.00 these books showcase your images in a style that fits who you are. Each album has it’s own unique quality and offer a variety of covers.
Other options like thank you cards, and proofs can be discussed during the consultation and a quote can be given for items outside of what my current price list includes.
Every wedding includes a proof book. This book is soft covered and has all the images with there numbers for reference. This aids in image selection for albums, and of course for enlargements, and canvas gallery wrap prints.
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