FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is documentary photography?
Documentary photography means real life storytelling. I do not fake moments. On any given wedding day, about 90-95% of my coverage is candid. The other 5-10% consists of posed family and couple portraits, and I prefer to use suggestion to create the "posing" that I’m looking for in those images. You want to look at your wedding album and remember all the emotions and the people around you — not being directed in an all-day photoshoot.
Wedding? what’s a wedding?
Gooooood question. I’m here to explore that with you. I think a wedding can be anything you want it to be — a refined dinner party; a non-stop rager; a careful blending of communities and customs; a backyard hootenanny; an elopement in a magical secret location. Forget those 300 item checklists. Nothing in particular is required. Just people in love.
what cameras do you use? do you shoot film?
Yes, I’m a hybrid photographer, which means I can document your wedding with my digital cameras (Sony A9s) or my assortment of film cameras (both 35mm and medium format). Starting in 2025, I’m offering hybrid photo packages to all new couples inquiring with me. If analog film speaks to you, sweet. I love it. It speaks to me, too.
Do you travel for weddings?
Yep! I travel domestically and internationally to photograph weddings. My travel fee is simple: just a reimbursement for gas or airfare* + the cost of one night of accommodations. For international travel, I ask that you cover RT airfare + 2 nights of accommodations.
what’s up with engagement sessions?
An engagement session is a wonderful way for us to build a relationship, allowing you to get comfortable with my presence and the big metal contraption in front of my face. You can use the photos for your website, social media, invitations, guest book, wedding decorations… or you can lock them away so they never see the light of day. Doesn’t matter! I offer engagement sessions for free for every couple who books a wedding with me, because it will make everything go so much smoother on the actual wedding day. You can see a selection of previous engagement sessions here.
what if we live far away from you?
I still want to get to know you! My attention is just as focused on you and your story. We’ll do video chats, emails, and a thorough questionnaire. Even if we can’t do a months-ahead engagement session, we could still do a “day before” or “day after” couples portrait session, which are both excellent opportunities to capture you at your most relaxed, every-day selves.
When can we expect to see our photos?
For weddings, you’ll get a preview of my favorite photos within a week. Your full wedding gallery will be delivered within 4-8 weeks after your wedding date. Engagement sessions are delivered 2-4 weeks after your session date, and I often do a preview for those, too.
How many photos should we expect to receive?
Smaller wedding galleries are in the range of 300-400 photos, and larger weddings are usually around 500-700 photos. I shoot and cull for the best possible narrative to your day — no weird faces, no missed focus — only the good stuff.
how do we get our photos?
Weddings are delivered with an online downloadable gallery, which can be forwarded to your family and friends. You get personal printing rights with full access to hi-res files, as well as smaller photos that have been optimized for social media.
Can we get prints and/or an album?
Of course! I have a print shop service and process my photos through a professional lab that makes beautiful archival prints with a wide range of sizes. I also like to make custom albums for my clients, and I can send you a proof of your album shortly after your wedding day. Make sure to check your mail for a little stack of 4x6 prints after your wedding — gratis. :)
Can you shoot the rehearsal dinner / poprawiny / full week of celebrations and ceremonies?
Sure, if I’m available! I love to capture as much as I possibly can for my clients. Since every one of these requests is different, I can provide a custom quote for extra coverage outside of your wedding day.
can you do videography?
Personally, I prefer not to. I like to be 100% focused on documentary photography so I’m not missing any real-life moments, instead of fiddling with microphones and gimbals. If it’s something you’re interested in, we can do a simple add-on with a videographer. If you’re looking for the ease of an all-in-one package, let’s figure out what you need and go from there.
can you shoot my wedding with film cameras?
I do occasionally offer film photography as an add-on. If film makes your heart sing, let me know and we can make it happen!
can we get all our photos unedited / raw?
Nope. My post-production process is half the magic.
how do you deal with covid-19?
I am fully vaccinated and boosted. I will test or wear a mask on request.
what if we have to reschedule due to [XYZ]?
So far, I have simply worked with each couple to figure out a day that works for everyone, and then we all move the date, no problem.
How does the payment schedule work?
A $1000 non-refundable retainer is due with a signed contract. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the wedding. You can pay all at once or in payments. I’m flexible.
We want to book you as our wedding photographer!
Let's do it! I love to find couples who share the same philosophies about community and marriage as I do. The moment you book me, I’m all yours. I’m always down to share advice, wedding planning tips, and vendor recommendations.
Note: I cannot hold dates without a signed contract and non-refundable retainer. So if you’re considering hiring me but you’re on the fence, it’s best to get in touch anyway, just so I can mark your date and start crafting your quote.