What is your style?
The question most photographers (me included) have a really hard time with! Trying to narrow it all down into a couple of words is really difficult. But, I know the verbiage is important so here goes. The three words I focus on are connection + emotion + beauty. Connections are everywhere and the reason I love my job so much. A good choke up during a toast, a big belly laugh, a nostalgic moment - all fantastic emotional memories to hold onto. And beauty just abounds around here…the scenery, decor, YOU, it’s all gorgeous and I’m going to show it off in my images. I offer a mix of candid & posed and operate as “fly on the wall” as possible. I’m more photojournalistic than traditional and more authentic than editorial.
Why do you photograph weddings?
This is the question I’ll be asking the potential photographers for my kids weddings. I do it because weddings are a day full of all the good parts of life - love, relationships, laughter, beauty, joy, thoughtfulness, and don't forget the food (seriously love that part)! Everyone is focused on making this celebration extremely special for these two people in love and it brings out the best qualities in all. I go home on a high of good vibes and can't wait until the next one!
Photography allows me to freeze time and show the world what I see. To share the beauty that I see with others. It's my way of celebrating moments that are quickly lost. It's how I make sure these moments & these people will exist forever, in images.
What’s included in your packages?
Packages are custom-tailored for you and vary accordingly. They all include coverage by me and the high resolution, edited digital files. Average coverage is 8 hrs. Second photographers are available, as needed. Custom, heirloom-quality albums are highly encourage. Engagement sessions (mini & full) are a super fun way to get to know each other. And, prints are available to order with your online gallery. I also offer elopement & proposal coverage. Pricing starts at $4500 for full weddings, $1000 for elopements.
Where do you live and how far will you travel?
I’m lucky enough to be in the gorgeous Sonoma area (Sebastopol, to be exact). I cover all venues in Sonoma & Napa Counties without travel fees. I’ll travel as far as you’d like me to (let’s go to Italy!!) and will custom quote the travel fees. They typically include all costs incurred for the travel and compensation for the additional time involved.
How long does it take to get our images?
My contract says 6-8 weeks but, for the past two years, I’ve been delivering in 1-2 weeks!! I know how excited you all are and I want to get them out as soon as possible. Some times of the year are more difficult than others (September is a blur!) so I can’t guarantee the crazy fast delivery.
How many pictures will we get?
So many variables here but you can generally count on about 40-50 per hour of coverage…basically, one keeper per minute.
Will you photograph our rehearsal dinner?
I’d love to! But, I can’t commit until about a month prior. Because Fri - Sun are busy wedding days, I may have a wedding the day before yours. If I can’t be there, I have a few very trusted associates who will cover it for me.
How many weddings do you take?
No more than 20 per year. It’s important to me that I’m rested and still inspired for your big day!
How do you deliver our images?
I try to be as green as possible so your images will be delivered digitally.
Do you have insurance? Take credit cards?
Yep, I have and do all the official real business stuff (including collecting sales tax, when needed). This is my full time gig. It supports my family and I take it very seriously.
How do you handle family portraits?
Very efficiently! A few weeks ahead of time, I’ll send you an online questionnaire where you’ll list each portrait grouping and who you want in that picture. I’ll organize the list in the most efficient way and we’ll flow smoothly through that potentially stressful time. If any guests want to make suggestions of who should be in what picture, I’ll politely point to the list and tell them we’ll take requests at the end…then I’ll look at you two and play the bad guy if you slyly shake your head “no” or happily add a few more requested portraits if you’re all good with it.
Do you keep our image files forever?
Officially, no - it’s up to you to properly store and archive your image files. Unofficially, yes, for now. But, I’ll probably retire one day and may not want to pay for the storage. Plus, there’s an un-archiving fee if you need me to pull them from storage. My advice - take good care of your files & don’t count on me to store them but definitely reach out if something drastic happens.
How does the album design process work?
You’ll pick out your favorites in your online gallery (or I will, if you want me to do the selecting) and I’ll custom design a gorgeous, curated way to relive your wedding day over and over again. I’ll post my designs and you’ll be able to request changes online. You’ll get two rounds of revisions and any changes beyond that may incur a fee.
How do we book you?
If you’re ready to reserve your date, I’ll ask you to sign a contract and remit a non-refundable retainer of 50% of your package price. The balance is due 14 days prior to your wedding. Unfortunately, I can’t hold dates without a retainer and signed agreement.