FAQs

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact me and I’ll get back to you as soon as humanly possibly!

Why should I choose you?

1. You love my work. With time, your photographs will become more valuable to you and your family, and will ultimately become a family heirloom passed down through generations.

2. You wouldn’t mind hanging out with me on your wedding day! Before your wedding, I strive to get to know you and your visions for the day. After your wedding, I work hard to deliver final works of art that will be cherished for the rest of your lives.

What is your style?

• I work mostly in a photojournalistic/documentary style for weddings (aside from posed family portraits) and try to be as unobtrusive as possible. I prefer to give a few suggestions or directions and capture the natural interactions between people. I aim to create timeless images that will remind you of what you were feeling during your most important moments.

Do you travel?

• All wedding collections include 100 miles of round-trip travel. After that, it’s $0.75/additional mile plus possible lodging if the trip is too long for me to make it home safely that same night. Clients are also welcome to take care of the lodging.

• Portrait & engagement sessions include 50 miles of round-trip travel within the Triangle area.

Can we meet first?

• Absolutely! It is important that you are comfortable with your photographer so you can feel at ease on your wedding day. If we can be a team and communicate well, creating beautiful photos just becomes fun and easy! If you are unable to meet in person, I’d be happy to “meet” you via Skype or Facetime so we can get to know each other before the wedding.

How far in advance should I book for a wedding?

• This varies depending on your planning schedule. Most couples book within the 6-12-month range. Once you decide on your photographer, I would recommend securing your date as soon as possible. Almost all photographers do not reserve dates without a signed contract and retainer, so someone else may book that date at any time.

Who photographs my wedding?

• Me! I am the main photographer and contact person you will be working with. I am a one-person business and your wedding will not be outsourced to an associate. If a second photographer is included in your package, I will choose another qualified professional photographer who works in the same style that I do. I personally edit all of your photos for consistency in style and quality.

How many photos do you take?

• I take an unlimited number of photos during your wedding or session to ensure I capture all the important moments. I then remove any duplicates, misfires, and test shots. I deliver anywhere from 700-1000 images for a full wedding. I do not have a set amount as it really depends on the length of the event, number of people, size of wedding party, etc. Since I often take several of the “same” shot to ensure focus and good expression, I do not deliver every single photo that I take. (And you wouldn’t want those blinking shots either!)

Do you edit all of the photos?

• Every photo I deliver is edited to the standard you see on this website, not just a select few “bests.” I want every image to be representative of the quality of work that I do.

• All images are delivered in color. I also select and deliver a portion of the images (usually 25-30%) in black & white in addition to the color version.

When do I get my photos?

• Wedding photos are usually posted in a password-protected online gallery within 4-5 weeks, depending on the coverage and number of photos. Your USB drive will be mailed out within a few days after that. If you’re local, you may certainly choose to pick it up in person as well.

• The turnaround for portrait/engagement session photos is usually 2 weeks.

Do I get to print and share my photos?

• All wedding clients receive a custom engraved USB drive of high and low resolution image files with unlimited personal usage rights. Friends & family can purchase additional printing licenses or order prints and canvases from the client’s online gallery.

Do you require a deposit?

• I require a $1000 retainer and signed contract for weddings. No dates are held without both these items. Until they are received, another couple may book your date at any time.

• I require a $100 deposit for portrait sessions.

What’s the typical timeline/schedule for photos?

• Although all weddings are unique, below are the minimum recommended amount of time for each part of an average, full-length wedding. Remember to add some “cushioning” to how long you think something will take, as weddings usually never run according to schedule, and it’s always easier to work with more time than less. The best recommended amount of time is always: as much as you possible! It takes time to set up creative shots and rushing may negatively impact the end result.

• Example of a “typical” timeline:

  • Pre-ceremony/getting ready (60 min)
  • Bridal portraits (30 min)
  • First look + bride & groom session (45-60 min)
  • Ceremony (30-60 min)
  • Formals/family portraits (20-30 min)
  • Wedding party portraits & fun shots (20-30 min)
  • Reception (2-3+ hours)

Should I do a “first look”?

• The “first look” or “reveal” (when the bride & groom see each other for the first time before the ceremony) has been gaining popularity in the past few years. Brides that I’ve talked to said they don’t regret doing it and that it didn’t take away from the special moment of the groom seeing his bride for the first time on their wedding day. The moment just happens in private and was even more personal/emotional since the couple can talk, kiss, laugh, and share a quiet moment before the ceremony. You have more time than just the 60 seconds that you walk down the aisle to really soak in this special moment together. You also have more time and control in choosing the scenery and lighting, as opposed to seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony, where you have no control over lighting and everything else around you. It also takes less time from doing portraits after the ceremony and allows you to get the party started earlier!

• Although I personally love and highly recommend first looks, it is a personal choice, and you should have your wedding go the way you want!

Do you have insurance?

• Yes, I carry liability, equipment & business insurance. Most venues require proof of liability insurance, so make sure your photographer has it before showing up!

What kind of equipment do you use?

• I shoot with all professional digital Canon gear and have at least 2 cameras & multiple lenses with me on all assignments. I am also a member of Canon Professional Services.

Do you have references?

• Please check out the RAVES page for some comments from some wonderful former clients.

OK, I like what I see. Now what?

• Send me a message and let’s chat about your photography needs!