FAQ
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Do you work alone or use a second photographer?
It’s just me!
How long have you been working as a photographer?
I have been a working photographer now for over 10 years. I have specialised in wedding reportage for the last 5 years.
I currently shoot weddings on a part time basis, as I work full time as a Senior Lecturer and Degree Leader of BA Media Photography at Birmingham City University.
How many weddings do you shoot per year?
I try to keep it down to 1-2 per month. I want to really concentrate on each job I shoot and take my time with the post-processing, I really don’t want this to turn into a production line, this way every job is very particular and special to me.
So what sort of wedding photography do you do?
In the main I shoot wedding reportage – a documentary of all the real moments of your day, but I will also include some contemporary stylised high-fashion portraits. Most importantly, I don’t shoot those traditional starchy formal shots. Wedding photos should communicate the emotions of the moment, they should stir up wonderful memories, they should be fun and classy.
How far are you willing to travel? Do you charge extra for travel?
I love to travel and have shot weddings in Austria, Spain and the Czech Republic. For any weddings that are over 50 miles from Birmingham I charge for travel, and if necessary, accommodation expenses. These are however, nominal – train fare and the Travelodge will do for me!!!
How many proof images will I get?
I will supply about 500 low resolution fully retouched digital proofs on a DVD with an included slideshow.
Can I customise one of your listed packages?
Of course, I positively encourage this, all packages are negotiable – no 2 couples are alike and thus it would be silly to suggest you slot into a pre-designed package.
Do you shoot colour or black & white?
As it’s all shot digitally – both! During post processing I will convert a number of appropriate reportage images to black and white.
How many photos will be shot on the day?
It depends on what’s happening – it’s usually well over 1000 images.
Do you retouch the photos?
All images undergo retouching, this varies from simple colour, tone and contrast adjustments to stylised effects and beauty/fashion retouching.
Can I get the high resolution digital files?
Yes, but this is only available in the high-end package, however these can be added to other packages for a nominal fee.
What if I want to order some more prints in 5 years time, will you still have the images from my wedding?
I’ll keep those images forever. My photography is my art, every job I shoot is my art, I wouldn’t dream of ever disposing of any of my photographs. And all files are backed up at least 3 times.
What if you get ill and are too sick to shoot our wedding?
I would have to be on my deathbed to not attend, and in which case I do know a number of very accomplished photographers who have agreed to help me out in such a very unlikely event.
What happens if we change the wedding date?
Please do let me know immediately so we can hopefully secure that new date.
How far in advance should we book?
As soon as possible, it’s always preferable to secure your photographer as early as you can. A retainer fee is necessary in order to secure the booking.
After booking, what then?
We will meet up to talk, and I can show you further samples of my work and the albums that I design and produce. If we then sign contracts, I require a 25% retainer fee. Between then and the wedding we remain in contact should you have any further questions or creative ideas.
About a month before the wedding day we visit the wedding venues together to get a feel of how to most effectively photograph the day – best locations for portraits etc. I require the balance of payment 2 weeks before the wedding.
After the big day, within 3 weeks I will return the proofs to you in the shape of a DVD slideshow. Sit back and enjoy, and choose the images for the album. I will design the album for you and send you the PDF proofs for your approval before I then send that off for printing and binding, within another 3 weeks you will receive a beautiful album of images and moments to cherish.
I still have more questions?
Please, ask away! Just email me!
