What is your photographic style?
I describe my style as creative and very natural. My main aim is to present the real story of your wedding, to show the genuine emotions and moments that occur. I will mostly photograph your day in a reportage style, capturing what is actually happening and providing a record of the real elements of the day. I will also include some portraits of you as a couple, which will involve more direction, and I am happy to carry out some formal groups as necessary. I enjoy working with people and getting to know your guests, am happy shouting instructions to organise your entire wedding group shot, and will blend seamlessly into the background with my camera for the rest of the time!
How do we choose the right photographer for us?
Please take time to make sure you get this decision right – start looking early and avoid making a last minute panic booking. Photographers get booked up very far in advance, so make sure you leave yourselves plenty of time. Look at lots of photographers, make sure you see full weddings from start to finish, and go with the one who really wows you with their images but also feels right for you. Talk to your chosen photographer and make sure that you feel comfortable with them, as this is so important on the day.
Our wedding is a long way from your area, can you cover it?
I am happy to travel to different locations for weddings. I really enjoy the opportunity to photograph different places, and incorporate this into the photography of your day. I charge travel costs outside of a 50 mile radius of Exeter, and sometimes overnight accommodation will also be necessary. If you get in touch then I can give you more details.
Our wedding is abroad, can you cover it?
Yes please! I am more than happy to cover destination weddings, see here for an example. Please contact me for a detailed quote for your wedding.
What happens after we book?
I will usually arrange to meet up with you both and have a chat through your photography requirements and wedding details – I love to hear about everything you are planning! If you live a long way away it may be more convenient to do this via Skype or FaceTime, or we can do this over the phone if you'd prefer. This is a really good opportunity to talk about what you would like to include in your photography, and any particular requests you may have. We will then also schedule your engagement photo session. I sometimes meet up with couples several times before the wedding day, sometimes once or twice is enough. It just depends what you are comfortable with, and I am happy to discuss your photography in whatever way suits you. I am always happy to answer queries, and I will always get in touch during the week before your wedding, just to have a final chat before the big day.
What is the engagement photo session all about?
This is part of all my wedding packages apart from the most basic, and it’s a really helpful experience for all of us. It gives me the chance to get to know you both better, and you get the chance to ‘practice’ being photographed before your wedding. You also get some lovely photos of you as a couple – you can choose your favourite as a free print.
I hate being photographed, how do you deal with that?
Many people have said to me that they hate being in front of the camera, and I really sympathise – I’m not mad keen on it myself. You would be surprised how quickly you get used to and forget about the photographer on your wedding day. I have a lot of experience at putting people at ease in front of the camera, and approach your photography in a relaxed and friendly way. But mostly I just slot into the background of your day and get on with it. If I’m doing my job well, you will hardly give the photographs a second thought until you’re enjoying looking at them after the wedding.
Do you photograph formal groups?
Yes, if you would like them. Most people are still very keen to have some family group shots as part of their wedding photos, and it’s always nice to get a large group shot with all your guests in. I normally recommend that you try and keep the number of group shots to less than 10, as they do take time to organise and photograph properly. But I am very happy to work with you to get the photos that you would like.
What if we have bad weather on our wedding day?
No problem at all. I will always discuss bad weather plans with you before the wedding, so that we all know what plan B is! But I also enjoy working with the weather, and if you don’t mind being a little adventurous, the light just after the rain can look really stunning! Even sheltering in a torrential downpour has tremendous romantic potential. I carry white and ivory wedding umbrellas, old throws to cover muddy ground and protect your dress, a range of professional lighting options, and basically refuse to be beaten by the British weather!
How many photos will there be?
For a full day package, I usually provide you with approximately 300 to 400 images to tell the story of your wedding. It really does depend on the nature of your day and the photography that you require, so I don't like to limit things with an exact number.
Do we get a disk with the photos for printing?
Yes, all of my wedding packages include a disk with the high resolution files of your photos. The copyright of the photos will always remain with me, but you are free to print your own photos for friends and family as much as you like, and I am happy to recommend printing options.
Can you design wedding albums for us?
Yes, I offer both luxury leather wedding albums and contemporary photo books, and you can also order smaller parent copies of these. I also have a range of other professionally printed options, including bespoke thank you cards, acrylic wall displays, canvas wraps, classic framed prints and more. Please ask if you would like to see my full catalogue.
Do you have photographic insurance?
I am fully insured with professional photographic insurance, which covers my equipment, public liability and professional indemnity.
Do you carry back up equipment?
Yes, yes and absolutely yes. It is every photographer’s nightmare to have sudden equipment failure just as the bride walks up the aisle, so I do not put myself in a position where that could happen. I use two professional cameras, with an additional spare back up body in reserve. I have a range of professional lenses, with back ups covering different focal lengths if necessary. I also have multiple memory cards, batteries, spare lighting equipment and a whole lot more. I have several large camera bags to transport all this. I also have backache ;)
Are there any hidden costs that we should expect?
No, none. I am very open about what you get in my wedding packages, and there will be no surprises at a later date.
I have more questions!
I am happy to meet up with couples before booking to chat through your options and make sure you are completely sure before you make your decision. You can have a look through my sample albums at some complete weddings, and ask me any other questions that you might have. Please do send me an email, fill out the contact form or give me a call on 07967 395901.
