GENERAL
What is Documentary / Reportage Photography / Photojournalism?
Roughly, all these terms refer to same thing: an observational approach where the photographer does not direct or pose people. It requires patient observation, knowing where the best pictures are likely to happen in advance, fast instinct, knowing people and gauging situations. Read more About My Style here.
How much experience do you have?
After studying at Grays School of Art in Aberdeen, I began assisting a wedding photographer in 2008, shooting my first wedding alone in 2010. Since then I’ve been hooked on weddings! And settled into my own way of doing things.
Do you have insurance?
Yes, I have full Public Liability and equipment cover.
Do you have an eco policy?
Glad you asked! Yes, in brief: I’m very keen to keep my business and processes as sustainable and kind to the environment as possible, so I use local/British suppliers and am a member of a carshare scheme instead of owning a car. View the full ECO POLICY here.
ON THE DAY
How many group photos do we need?
I generally advise having just a few family group photos to keep older relatives happy – around five or six should cover all bases. I can help you plan which you need.
Can you fit into the timing of our day?
It’s best to discuss the schedule with me as early as possible to make sure there is time for me to get between different venues etc. I prefer to be at the ceremony venue ½ hour before the start and at the reception venue ½ hour before you sit down to eat. Ideally, set aside 30 minutes at some point for some couple portraits and 15-20 minutes for group photos.
Can we provide you with a meal?
Yes, please! It’s really helpful to be fed at the same time as the other guests. No one wants to be photographed eating, so this is the best time for me to have a bit of a break, and then be up and ready for the speeches/after dinner entertainment. There’s no need to seat me with your guests however, as I’ll find a quiet spot away from the party to check through the images captured through the day to that point.
AFTER THE WEDDING
When will my photographs be ready?
I aim to put a sneak preview on my website and facebook within a week of your wedding. Within six weeks, I will edit all your photographs and send you the digital images and set up your online gallery. From there, we can discuss the album layout if you are ordering one.
Do you supply black & white as well as colour?
Some images work better in colour, some in black & white. For portraits and group shots, I try to include both to give you as much flexibility for those popular images, but the rest will be a mixture.
How much Photoshop / retouching work do you do?
I aim to take a great picture in camera, therefore my post-processing work is minimal. I personally colour correct, straighten, crop and hand retouch any glaring distractions that detract from the picture. However, I’m a big fan of real, natural beauty, so I don’t generally airbrush skin or change anyone’s shape.
Who owns the copyright?
There is some confusion over what is meant by copyright. I give my clients the printing rights to the images and high resolution digital files so they can print unlimited copies for personal use. However, I maintain copyright ownership. For full terms and conditions, please contact me.
THE BOOKING PROCESS
I’m having a small/midweek/unusual wedding – how flexible are you?
I understand that weddings come in all different shapes and sizes. I’d love to hear about your plans and am very happy to discuss how I might be able to fit into those. Just let me know what you need and we can try and work something out!
When and how will I need to pay?
A non-refundable booking fee of £400 is required on booking. The remaining balance is due four weeks prior to the wedding date. You can pay by cheque, paypal or bank transfer. Albums can be ordered anytime up to and after the wedding, payable on ordering.
What now?
Hopefully you’ve had a good look through my website and decided you like my style, so get in touch to check that I’m available for your wedding date. We can then arrange to meet up for a chat, and when you’re ready to book, fill in a booking form. Once I receive that with the booking fee, your date will be reserved!