I recently had the pleasure of shooting the fireworks display for FreedomFest (the Fourth of July celebration) in my hometown of Graysville, TN. Sure it was a couple weeks late, but mother nature had her say in that one. The display was supposed to take place on Saturday, July 6th, but it got postponed due to rain. So on Saturday, July 20th, the fireworks were shot off. I had a blast hanging out with my family, along with watching the beautiful fireworks at Kristopher’s Kingdom!
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.
Happy Independence Day to All!
I hope everyone is enjoying their 4th, no matter the weather conditions. Around here all of our fireworks shows have been cancelled due to rain, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate! Spend time with family and friends and celebrate our freedom!
God Bless America!
When is the best time to book your wedding photographer? The earlier the better!
According to a few popular sites recommendations:
Not sure why it is important to book so early? Take a look below!
The other thing, if you are getting married on a Saturday, chances are you’ll have more trouble finding a photographer closer to your date who’s not already booked. If you are getting married on a weekday though, you’ll have a much better chance at booking later. Since Saturdays and Sundays are usually peak for weddings, your flexibility is very low.
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.
Regina Ann Photography now accepts all major credit cards!
Regina Ann Photography
“Making Memories Last A Lifetime!”
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.
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!
What to Wear:
1. Bring at least one to two additional outfits. You may bring more if you desire. Most senior girls change into three or four outfits during their session. Select a wardrobe that can be coordinated together (for example, pants that look good with two or three different shirts, etc.). Watch out for bra straps that might be hanging out. And of course, be careful not to wear a dark colored bra under light colored shirts or you might be surprised what shows up in the final photographs.
2. Bring at least one formal and one casual outfit. Keep in mind to also bring socks, shoes, etc. to match your outfits due to some shots may be full body.
3. Bring along hats, sunglasses, jackets, and jewelry to accessorize your outfits. It’s always better to carry extra instead of not enough.
4. Bring along makeup and any hair styling products that you use. Make sure to keep your makeup neutral and natural. Please try to stay away from bold colors. Remember you and your family will be enjoying these portraits for years!
What Not to Wear:
1. Stripes or distracting patterns. These types of clothing can make you look heavier in portraits.
2. Trendy, outrageous fashions. These may be great for going out with your friends, but styles change quickly and that will make your senior portraits out of date fast.
3. Don’t wear lip gloss. It can add unwanted white glare on your lips in the portraits.
4. Spaghetti straps. Thin straps on an outfit draw attention away from your face and onto your shoulders and arms.
5. Wrinkled clothing. Please do not roll up or wrinkle your clothes when you bring them with you.
6. Clothes that doesn’t fit. Clothes that are too small can show off to much skin and/or make you uncomfortable, and can give the wrong impression.
Regina Ann Photography 