FAQs
Here are a few commonly asked questions. If you have a question
that's not on this page, e-mail me, and I'll answer it for you.
Skip directly to a question:
How much do you charge?
Check out my rates page (click here).
The rates on the rates page are not necessarily "concrete numbers,"
but are intended to give you a rough idea of approximately how much it will cost.
The final price is often less.
Many factors go into my price estimates, including difficulty, time required, and
post-production (printing photos, editing video, etc.)
The best bet is to meet with me before the job, and we'll discuss the
specifics. I'll then quote you a rate once I've got a good idea of
what you need.
Can I have the negatives?
Sorry, I don't shoot with film anymore, so there are no negatives.
I have switched all of my equipment over to digital. I will, for an
additional fee, give you a CD-ROM of full-resolution, print-quality
photos, and a signed copyright release form, if you would like to be
able to print your photos yourself.
Why don't you use film? Are digital prints inferior in quality to film prints?
Two major factors: cost and speed. Film processing is very expensive,
and I don't like having to pass that cost on to my customers. It's also
quite time consuming to deal with hundreds of negatives to find one photo
for a reprint. It is much less expensive to produce prints from digital files than to
process film, and it's much quicker and easier to work digitally.
Digital photo technology has come a long way in just the past few years.
Nowadays, it's almost impossible to tell the difference between a
digital and a film print. I use a Nikon d2h, one of the best profesional
digital SLRs on the market today, and I have never been disappointed
with the quality of the photos that it produces.
Using digital media allows me to get your photos to you a lot quicker than if
I had to process film. If you would like, I can bring my laptop to the job and let you
review your photos on site.
How do I get my photos?
There are several options available:
- Online ordering:
If you choose this option, you will be given a login and password.
You can view your photos here and choose which ones you would like
to have printed by filling out a simple, conveniant order form online.
I am currently working on an upgrade to allow online payment through this Web site.
- Electronic proofs: I will also provide a CD-ROM of proofs at no charge. You can
order prints from this CD-ROM, with an order form that I will provide.
- Printed proofs: I can have proofs printed, and give you an album.
There is an additional charge for printed proofs (approx. 35 cents per print, depending on quantity).
- If you do not have access to a computer: Please let me know, and we can set up a time
when I can bring my laptop and let you view your prints on my computer.
How do I get my video?
I will provide a VHS copy of your video at no charge. DVDs are also
available, for an additional charge. I outsource all DVD copying work,
so I only charge you my actual cost (around $25-$30).
How long until I get my photos/video?
Your proofs will usually available within 5 to 10 business days.
Your print orders will be ready within 5 to 15 business days (depending on the size of the order)
Videos take a little longer because I want to allow myself plenty of
post-production time. Video editing is a lengthy process. It's
definitely not something that you want to rush, as the quality of the
finished product suffers when rushed. I try to make videos available
within 20 to 30 business days.
I'm in a band. What do you require to take photos at one of my
concerts?
Access!! I can't stress enough the importance of good access for concert
photography. I need to have unrestricted access to the stage, backstage,
frontstage, and the crowd, so I can capture the show from all angles.
I would also like, if possible, to have a +1 on your guest list, so I can
bring a friend with me to the show. I realize that this is not always possible, due
to venue regulations or record company red tape.
What's your schedule like? When are you available?
I usually set aside Monday and Thursday evenings for Photography and Videography work.
I usually do work on Web sites (maintaining customer sites, programming, etc) on Tuesday evenings.
I am also available on the weekends, usually, for either Web site or photo/video work.
I have a very flexible schedule, so I can be available, by appointment, at almost any time that's convenient to you.
Why do you charge for an hour of setup time for weddings?
I make sure to show up about an hour early to your wedding. This allows me plenty of time to
set up my equipment, talk with the officiant and wedding planner, choose the best positions to shoot from,
and handle any unexpected issues that arise. Some weddings, especially those in unusual or complicated
settings, may require more setup time. I will discuss this ahead of time with you as you plan your wedding.
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