Wedding Photography Frequently Asked Questions:

How long have you been a wedding photographer? Is this your full time job?

I went "full time" as a Wedding and Lifestyle photographer in 2015. This is my full time business and not a side job or hobby! I love what I do and look forward to continuing to photograph happy couples for many more years to come!

How many weddings do you schedule in a weekend?

I will only shot a max of one a day but depending on the weekend I can be very busy during prime wedding season with multiple during any given weekend.

How would you describe your photography style, and what makes your work distinct?

I am a photo-journalistic photographer that loves to capture emotion in moments. Sometimes I help a little with a cheesy joke to break the tension but when I’m on duty I’m constantly scanning for great shots as they happen in real time! I also love detail and perspective shots (example a proud father in the foreground with the bride in focus or vice-versa)

How would you describe your work style and how will you make us feel relaxed and photogenic?

I’m professional but relaxed and I can be a little goofy at times but very much friendly and calming. I'll do my best to make the photography a memorable and fun part of your day.

Do you help with the timeline?

I love to be involved with the timeline; it makes sure that we have adequate time to capture all the pictures you want.

Do you shoot natural light or artificial light? Or both?

Short answer is both. Great photographers use all available lighting options to create wonderful images. The goal is for you to love the images you receive and you shouldn’t be able to really tell what tools I used, just that they produce fantastic keepsakes from your special day. I do have multiple light stands and speedlights (flashes) that I bring and use if the situation requires.

What is your favorite time of day to shoot?

I have shot at all times of day and all conditions. There are a lot of tools in a pro photographer’s tool belt to get great shots in many different conditions but sunset and sunrise are always my favorite! If the weather or conditions don't seem to be accommodating your vision I can use creative technics and lighting to pull together something incredible.

How many pictures can I expect you to take? Do you limit the amount of images edited?

I will take unlimited pictures while I’m on duty. The specific amount can vary; usually around 150 images per hour is a good rule of thumb. Every picture I take will receive professional editing on the color and exposure. I also do additional premium edits on all printed proofs.

Do you shoot digital and film?

I have a huge respect for film but I do shoot 100% digital at this time.

Do you provide printed proofs?

Yes I do! I also provide premium edits on all printed proofs and depending on the package you will receive at least 30. Additionally I provide both an online gallery for easy viewing and sharing of images and all the images in high res/print quality on a USB drive.

How long will it take to receive my finished collection?

I strive to deliver the full wedding collection as quickly as possible as I know how excited you are to see everything. If you agree, I always try to get a sneak peek out within a day or two of your wedding so you have something to enjoy while you wait. During peak wedding season it can take up to 6 weeks for delivery.

Will we receive high resolution images?

I deliver all my wedding packages on a USB drive with the full collection of images in high res/print quality. We also provide an online gallery that is optimized for online viewing and sharing, but keep in mind these images are not print ready files.

Do you provide backups of our image files?

I highly recommend to my clients to back up their USB drive and treat it like gold! I do retain all my images for my own portfolio but I cannot guarantee replacement in the case of loss. If the worst happens I do encourage my clients to reach out to me. I just can’t promise or guarantee to be able to replace lost images.

Is there any restriction for sharing photos online or printing? Do you own the copyright?

There is no restriction on sharing or printing. My packages do include print rights and I do provide professional lab services as well. I can quote any specific custom prints you are interested in. Keep in mind print quality images are only provided via the USB drive delivered directly to my clients. Online gallery images are web optimized and not ideal for printing. I do retain the copyright which simply means you cannot sell, commercialize, or profit from the images but you have full print and sharing rights for all images.

Do you have a flat hourly rate? Can I book for just a 2 or 3 hour wedding photo shoot?

Yes I will book intimate or hourly weddings for dates I have available within 90 days or less. I also have Associate Photographers available to accommodate these types of requests.

Is there a retainer required to hold my wedding date, and when is the balance due?

30% of the package total is required to lock in your date. The remaining balance is due in full, on or any time prior to the event date.

What payment methods do you accept?

I accept cash, check, credit card and PayPal.

Do you have an assistant or second photographer? Is this an extra charge?

The advertised prices indicate if the package includes one or two photographers. I do occasionally bring along an assistant or student photographer for no additional charge.

Do you have your own shot list or can I provide a list of shots that I want?

I don’t have a “shot list” per se. There are common shots that I get at every wedding, but no two weddings are the same. I like to incorporate my couples personalities and ideas into the overall feel for their wedding shoot. I always welcome a list of shots, especially if you would like to ensure certain meaningful images are captured, but it is usually not required. We will work together during the shoot to make sure you get amazing images and everything is covered in a fun and hopefully relaxing way.

Will you be the actual photographer, or will you assign an associate?

I am the lead photographer for W7 Studio and will be the lead photographer for your special day unless there is an extremely rare circumstance that would prevent me from attending or you specifically purchased an associate package.

What would happen in case of an emergency on your end that you wouldn't be able to make it?

I have multiple professional photographers I work with closely and we support each other in case of emergencies. They are all professional photographers and I am comfortable with them taking good care of my clients in an emergency.

What type of camera/lens do you use?

What lens /camera I use will depend on the image I am wanting to create. I carry two professional quality full frame cameras with me at all times and have an additional camera as a backup on hand just in case. My favorite combination these days is a 24-70mm 2.8 on my right and a 70-200mm 2.8 on my left during the ceremony. I will change up and use my other prime lenses for stunning portraits, details, and getting ready shots throughout your wedding day.

What if you haven't shot at my venue before?

I have been fortunate to shot at many beautiful locations and would love to capture beautiful memories for you at your venue of choice. If at all possible I will tour a venue in advance if I haven’t shot at it previously.

Are you insured?

I am a full time professional wedding photographer and yes I am insured. I can provide a certificate if it is required by your venue.

Do you have travel fees?

I do not have travel fees within the Phoenix Metro or North Idaho/Spokane WA areas but there are very minimal fees for destinations beyond that radius. Arrangements for destination weddings are accomidated case by case.