Wedding FAQ
There is a lot of information on this page, but the first thing I want you to know is you do not have to take time to read this if you don’t want to! I very much enjoy connecting with my clients and do not mind answering questions. So if you prefer a call to reading this (very long) list, let’s do that instead! Reach out and to set up a time.
For those who like to peruse on your own, here are some frequently asked questions from potential clients that may help you in your decision making process.
First things first - why wedding photography?
Because life is a crazy ride and finding someone to stand by your side through all of the twists and turns is something worth celebrating! Oh and for a photographer of people, wedding days are an incredibly relationship-rich environment with lots of creative opportunities. It’s fun!
BEFORE THE WEDDING DAY
Where are you based out of?
Portsmouth, Rhode Island. But most people don’t know where that is (yes, there is another Portsmouth besides NH!), so I just say Newport. Newport, Portsmouth, and Middletown make up Aquidneck island in Rhode Island. It’s a wonderful place to live and work with ocean views everywhere, great people, and so many creative small businesses!
I’m overwhelmed! How do we get started on this process?
Start by filling out a contact form, and then a phone call so we can get to know each other a little better. Most clients feel comfortable booking after online communication and phone calls, but some prefer to meet for their engagement session or even just a meet and greet before signing the contract. I’m happy to treat you to your beverage of choice at one of my favorite local spots here on Aquidneck Island!
Can I see a full gallery?
Absolutely! I do not believe in having one “show” gallery. Instead I show my most recent wedding so you know it’s a real representation of the work I’m currently delivering.
What do I need to reserve a date?
The date is held for your once a contact and retainer are received.
Do you travel?
Yes! I would be happy to accompany you to your perfect wedding location if my schedule allows. Adventure travel or creative elopements earn extra style points in my book (read the About page if you haven't already). Newport, Mystic, Providence, Boston, Worcester and Cape Cod are all easy driving distances for me that do not incur travel fees. Beyond a 2 hour drive each way (from Newport, RI) requires one nights accommodations.
Do you photograph on Block Island, Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket?
Yes! And I’ve done all three. Island weddings including Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Block Island need careful planning with ferry schedules and the overnight must be the night *before* the wedding to ensure travel is available.
Do you also provide video?
My specialty is photography, so I stick with what I know best! I’m happy to work with your favorite videographer or recommend one of mine.
Do you shoot digital or film?
Many weddings I photograph are completely digital. If you are interested in an authentic film look, I have an extensive array of Hasselblad 2 1/4 and 35mm film cameras that I photographed weddings with exclusively until 2007. I am happy to incorporate that timeless look into your wedding day with a few rolls of film for an additional fee.
What is your pricing?
Clients typically invest $6k-9K in wedding photography. There are many Newport photographers who say you need to invest a minimum of 10K to get great photography, and I’m here to say that is just not the case. View more pricing info here. For complete details or to create a custom package, contact the studio.
Do you photograph weddings like my fiancé and I are planning?
Not knowing who you are or who you are marrying I can confidently say yes, I would love to photograph your wedding.
Do you offer discounts for off-season, smaller weddings or last-minute bookings?
Yes. I offer a package for weddings booked less than 5 months in advance, and within 25 miles of Newport. Contact the studio for info.
Do you photograph details?
While my online portfolio focuses on people-oriented images, details are absolutely covered throughout your wedding day. Must-have images like a charm from your grandparent on the bouquet, or a piece of your mom’s wedding gown sewn into your own, are noted before the wedding so we don’t miss anything important. Everything else from flowers, favors, shoes… it’s all covered as we move throughout the day. Details are beautiful and will be captured as a part of your story, but moments and candid images take center stage, always. Details get captured during the quiet moments - check out some favorites!
ON THE WEDDING DAY
Do you work with a shot list?
During our pre-wedding planning meeting I will go over your day in great detail, including what family photographs you wish to capture. You do not need to prepare a separate shot list.
What will you wear?
It sounds silly to add this question to the list, but it is a question potential clients ask and to be honest I think it is an important one. I wear professional dark (black for most formal weddings) clothing. If your wedding has a color scheme you’d like vendors to participate in then I am happy to do that.
Do you have a second photographer?
Sometimes, but mostly no. After photographing hundreds of weddings, I find that I prefer photographing most weddings solo. It provides a unique connection to the people and event, and I am extremely comfortable covering all angles of a wedding. For 7-9 hours of coverage at one to three locations, this is usually ideal. If your wedding logistics call for while we are in the planning phase, I will absolutely recommend a second photographer or assistant. I have worked with teams as large as three photographers plus assistants to cover very elaborate, multi-day events.
Do you take breaks?
Though wedding days are long, I am used to the pace and enjoy the energy of the day. I will sneak a moment if possible when guests are eating but do not ask for nor require breaks throughout the day.
Do we need to count you in for the meal?
It would be most appreciated, thank you! Your planner, coordinator, or caterer will tell you how they prefer to work this. I am not picky and just happy to be a part of your day!
What about gratuity?
Tipping a wedding photographer is so kind and appreciated, however it is in no way necessary or expected (really, it's not). I will do everything to go above and beyond for your wedding day experience and image delivery regardless.
IMAGE DETAILS
What about black and white photos?
You may have noticed that I absolutely love the feel of black and white images! I love that they convey emotion without distraction, and really accentuate gorgeous light and moments. I have delivered weddings in 100% black and white, in 100% color, and everything in between. It’s a conversation I have with every couple and ultimately deliver what YOU love. In every wedding, there are images that work well in both, and in those cases they are delivered in both black & white and color.
How many images will I receive from my wedding day?
This is highly dependent on if you have travel time or down time in your day, and how big your families and bridal party are. On average, you can expect 80-90 images delivered per hour of wedding day coverage.
How long before we see our images?
Your wedding contract states full gallery image delivery within 6 weeks of your wedding date.
What is a RAW file?
A RAW file is the camera's data capture without any processing. Each image I take is captured in RAW format, edited individually, and converted to a print-ready JPEG file. RAW files do not leave the studio.
What kinds of images do I receive?
Your collection of hi-resolution digital jpeg files are included in every package.
Are all of the photographs edited?
Every image selected for your final gallery is edited in-house, using mostly Adobe software.
How long do you keep the photos?
Two years of archival backup at the studio is included in your wedding contract. I keep backups of everything I’ve ever photographed, and just (re)delivered a wedding from 2013! There is an un-archive fee for weddings older than two years, and image retrieval after that time is not guaranteed.
What is a print release?
A print release is written permission for you to share and print your photographs. The only limitation is "for personal use". You cannot re-sell or use/give away the images for marketing or other purposes.
How are our images delivered?
Your images are delivered in high-resolution jpeg format via digital download.
Are the files watermarked?
The final images delivered to you are not watermarked in any way. There is a copyright note in the internal metadata of the image.
Can we and our guests order prints?
Yes, you and your guests can order prints through the online gallery. Simply give your guests the password I send you after the wedding day.
What about an album?
Albums are all designed in-studio using your favorites from the gallery. The designs themselves are simple and clean. I love the print quality and hand-crafted details in my album vendor Vision Art. If an album is not included in your wedding package, you can add one at any time before or after the wedding. These albums have a true fine-art feel to them. Cover choices are vast, and can be customized to fit your personality and wedding style.
TECHNICAL & STUDIO QUESTIONS
What kind of cameras do you use?
I use a wide range of professional Nikon bodies, powerful zoom lenses and fast, prime lenses with multiple back-ups. in 2021 I added a full lineup of mirrorless Sony gear to my collection and use whatever brand is most appropriate for the situation - they all have their strengths! I love to chat about equipment (I taught darkroom photography for several semesters) so feel free to ask away!
Though truly, all of the major brands do a great job. Once a photographer has mastered working with professional gear, it’s the artist the client is investing in not the brand of camera.
How long have you been in business?
I have very proudly been an entrepreneur and professional photographer for 20 years. Photographing for a commercial film studio was my very first job!
Why is the retainer non-refundable?
As soon as you sign your wedding photography contract the wheels start turning to create a wedding photography experience for you. The “work” starts well before your wedding day.
What is the payment schedule?
First payment is due upon contract signing, the remainder due 10 days before the wedding date.
ONE LAST QUESTION.....
Aren’t you bored of weddings after photographing so many?
No way! Believe it or not, I still enjoy the energy and flow of photographing weddings. And as much as you can draw similarities in tradition and style between some weddings, every one is truly unique. It keeps the job interesting!