Frequently Asked Question For Your Wedding Photographer

You asked for it so here it is! Here are some Q & A all in one place!

What makes you different from other local photographers? Why should someone hire you?
Photography is my passion, therefore, I strive to make every photo turn out wonderful for you. I go above and beyond to get the perfect shots. I want to make your memories last a lifetime!

How quickly will I receive my prints?
You will receive a proof disc within 2 weeks. From the date you order the prints, you will usually receive them within 2 weeks. If a memory book is involved, it may take up to 4 weeks to receive it due to processing time.

How many pictures do you take? Can I provide a list of posed photos for you to take?
With an average 5 hours of coverage, I usually take between 750-1000 photos. Yes, you may provide a list of posed photos that you wish to be taken.

How would you describe your photographic style? What does this mean?
I would say I have a more contemporary style. Contemporary photography is a blend of photojournalistic and traditional styles, kind of the best of both worlds. Contemporary photographers are said to be more artistic and creative in that they are often thinking in terms of design and beautiful compositioned backgrounds.

How far are you willing to travel? Is there a travel charge?
I travel within a 50 mile radius free of charge. Anything over 50 miles, a travel charge is added.

Can we request both that both color and black & white photography be used at the wedding?
Yes, that is perfectly fine.

Do you bring an assistant to the wedding to help coordinate portraits?
Usually I do not have an assistant. It is a very rare occasion that I do.

Can I keep the negatives? the proofs? Is there an extra charge for this service? How much?
Yes, you keep the proof disc for yourself, so when you need to reorder any prints, you may bring the disc back in, or share with family and friends for them to order. There is no additional charge for keeping the disc.

What kind of equipment will you bring with you? Do you bring backup equipment?
I bring my Sony A57 as my main, along with a 18-55mm lens and a 75-300mm lens. I also carry a backup Sony A200 and a backup 18-70mm lens.
What new ideas have you implemented in the last couple years? Are you current with latest trends?

Will you be taking digital photographs? Is there an extra charge for this service?
I only do digital photographs. So, there is no additional charge for digital.

Can guests view and order shots on-line? How soon will the photos be put on-line?
I currently do not have the full ability for online viewing. I can do a few photos for online, but not the entire shoot.

What is included in your basic wedding packages?
In basic packages, I include less coverage time and a set print credit per package price.

What is your event cancellation policy?
The deposit is non-refundable.

What are your standard payment terms? How much is the deposit?
The deposit (retainer) is 30% of your package price and is non-refundable. Standard payment terms are 30% deposit and the rest due at the time of the wedding.

Who exactly will be taking pictures at my wedding? Do you use subcontractors?
I will be taking all photographs. I do not work with subcontractors.

How many months in advance do I need to reserve your services for my wedding date?
Typically to ensue I am available for your date, the sooner the better. I recommend no less than 6 months, but prefer 9+ months in advance.

Tennessee Life

For those of you who didn’t know, I was born and raised in Tennessee, in a small little town in Rhea County. After I got married though, my husband and I had to move to Alabama. We moved down in January 2010 and was there through March 2013. In March we moved back to Tennessee, and now live in Cleveland, just 45 minutes from where I grew up.

During the time of being in Alabama, I expanded my business to the new client base, which included Northeast and Central Alabama. I have never stopped serving Tennessee, but due to being so far away, limited the time I had available for all my Tennessee clients. I am proud to be back for all of them, and I look forward to expanding even larger.

6 Helpful Tips and Tricks for Family Portraits

Input
1. Have an input with how you want your pictures to turn out. Discuss your style, location, any props, and posing ideas with your photographer ahead of time. Rely on your photographer for suggestions, and value their opinion.

Location
2. Pick a location that matches your family’s personality. Ask yourself a question about the location, “Would our family really spend time here?”

Before getting too attached to a location though, run it by your photographer. They will have a better idea of any possible issues, such as needing a required permit, or difficult lighting.

 

Props
3. Props can be fun! If you want to highlight your family’s hobbies, such as biking – why not throw in a bike or two?

But your child wants to bring his/her favorite toy or blanket? No problem! That will not only capture a special memory in the photo, but will also help keep your child happy and more cooperative.

Props such as chalkboards, signs, wooden letters, or scrabble tiles can help you spell out and convey a specific message.

When choosing props, consider the color of your clothing and location background as well. You may want to choose neutral props that will go with anything, or props with a pop of color for added interest.

Posing
4. Now, on to posing… Don’t be afraid to get in close! Maybe laying down on your back while looking up, or laying on your stomach propped up on your elbows would work better.

Be silly! Silly is a lot more fun than serious. And another great idea, act natural! Let your family shine for who they are!

Clothing
5. Clothing – Coordinate the style and color of yours and your family’s clothing together. Try to keep your location in mind when doing this too.

Also, try to avoid clothing that is limited to very seasonal times, unless you are planning on using them only for that season, ie. red & green scarfs for Christmas.

Avoid the really hot trendy clothing that will be just a fad, going with classic style tends to make your pictures stand out more.

 

Children
6. Do you have trouble getting your kids to cooperate? When you first inform them about the picture plans – act excited like it’s going to be super fun! Often your attitude is contagious!

Involve your kids with the process of choosing clothing to props, etc. When they feel included they are more likely going to cooperate better.

Give the kids breaks in between shots to stretch, run, and play. Even better- let them play during the pictures! You’ll get great candid shots and capture your little ones the way they really are. Play peek-a-boo, tickle, and throw the baby into the air for real, genuine smiles. Another great idea, bring water and snacks to avoid mid-shoot meltdowns.

My First DIY Backdrop

I had seen posts on making your own backdrop, and I got curious along with my creativity being set into motion. So off I go to a local fabric shop to buy my muslin fabric. I chose to use RIT Evening Blue to dye it with.

I did not tie mine with any type of twine or string, as I have seen others do. I just bunched it up and put it in a 5 gallon bucket. After letting the fabric set for a good 45 minutes to an hour, I decided it was time to take it out. I was very pleased with the results.

Although after drying, the backdrop did turn out lighter. I have been truly enjoying it. Knowing you made it yourself seems to be more rewarding. I truly love my new backdrop better than any I have bought due to the work and creativity that I myself put into it. Definitely will be making more, and experimenting with multiple dyes on the same one.

My daughter is always a camera hog. She has to be first to try Mommy’s new props and backdrops out! Always a fun subject!