Your questions answered
I love your laid back and candid approach but do you photograph formal group shots?
The level of wedding photojournalism on your wedding day can be dictated by you. Most couples go for a balance of 80% candid with 20 % formal balance. I understand however, that everyone's requirements are different and that you may want some more formal photography or none at all. Before your wedding day, I will discuss with you what your likes and dislikes are and the sort of formal/informal balance you would like. I can also be flexible if these requirements change nearer the time or on the day itself.
I've spent lots of time organising the smaller details of the day, will you photograph these?
The wedding day is made of so may components, sometimes it's the details that you spend so much time (not to mention money) that are forgotten. I’m more than happy to take images of these as I know how much effort they can take. If you have less obvious items that you would like photographed, for example something that has a special significance, then mention this to me on the day. To some couples this is important to others its not, its all down to personal preference. I always try and capture your wedding breakfast room before the crowd of hungry guests descend into it. Unless you have specified otherwise, I keep these details shots to a minimum and never take detail shots at the expense of people shots.
Are there any restrictions at all on how I use the images after my wedding?
The High Resolution disc of your final images is restricted by the 1988 Copyright Act, which means that you cannot pass on the images for commercial use such as florists etc without my written consent. However, you will have a license to print from it for private use and you can print these images at any size you choose at any printer of your choice. You will receive a disc of all of the images and you are free to copy this to pass this on to family and friends, provided they adhere to the restrictions listed here.
What if I'm getting married abroad?
I am a Sussex wedding photographer but I've been lucky enough to have photographed a few weddings in other countries and I love nothing better than capturing weddings abroad, please contact me for my destination wedding photography prices.
What if I want something extra?
Perspex Covered Albums, Coffee Table Albums, Canvasses, Bespoke frames, DVD Slide Shows and wedding websites are among a few of the other options available to you.
What if I'm having a weekday wedding? Are there any discounts available for me?
Discounted prices are available for weddings held in the week (Monday to Thursday) so I am happy to provide a bespoke quote for midweek weddings. If you send me a summary of your requirements such as number of hours coverage needed, I will provide you with a package that's just for you.
Help! I've been let down by my photographer and it's really close to my wedding, can you help?
Yes, Please email me (and providing I am not booked), I can provide a discounted price for last minute bookings.
How soon do I need to book your wedding photography services?
There is no simple answer to this but I do tend to book up 12 – 24 months in advance. I’ve just booked a wedding for May 20202 ! This does not mean I am fully booked as not all enquiries turn into bookings ! Please enquire to check my availability.
I'd really like some engagement pictures, can you provide this?
I welcome engagement portrait sessions as they can be quite fun and I’m always up for hearing couples ideas and locations. Contact me for more details.
Why do you have copyright on our wedding pictures?
Because it is copyright law and is a form of legal protection. As soon as a photograph is taken, the copyright is automatically afforded to the photographer. Any kind of reproduction of the images has to be agreed in writing with the photographer, or with whoever owns their rights for 70 years after they’ve died. All my wedding packages include a master DVD of images with full “ license to print” rights given.
Can I/You print my pictures?
As mentioned above, yes you can print from the disc as you have a “ license to print”. I spend around 25 hours working on the digital files to ensure the best print quality. When you hire a professional wedding photographer an important part of their role these days is processing the images after your wedding. It's all very well having a £4000 camera and a £2500 computer with every editing program known to man installed, but if you don't know how to process the images correctly then the technology is wasted! Before becoming a full time professional photographer the early years of my photographic career consisted of professionally editing photographers images for print in national newspapers, magazines and national and international advertising campaigns.
Do you offer a two photographer package?
Yes, I have a few trusted professional wedding photographers that I have worked with for many years to cover weddings with me if you would like a two photographer package. I don’t normally use assistants as I work on my own as I want to be discrete and capture natural images to help tell the story of the day as it unfolds.
What if you are ill on the day?
I am very lucky that, due to my position within the industry, I have a close circle of friends who are professional photographers and have a similar approach. So far, this has never happened, but if it did, I would call upon these and other resources.
Will you take pictures of me getting ready?
For many brides the bridal preparations are an important part of the day and they want it to be included in the pictures. The level of undress is entirely down to you and I will be entirely respectful of your wishes. If there are any moments you don’t want to be photographed, just ask me to leave the room and they won’t be! Grooms also appreciate the pictures of the bridal preparations, because they get a little glimpse of what happened when they weren’t there and visa versa when covering the grooms preparations, although this normally comprises of taking pictures of them looking rather nervous at the church or local pub!
Do I need feed you?
NO ! As a rule I do not expect to be fed by you, weddings venues generally charge you the same cost for my food as your guests. I think you are paying enough for me to be there for the day and as such I normally bring my own food. Sometimes though I can be at a venue for more than 12 hours, so when you come to sit down for your wedding breakfast something hot is very much appreciated. A sandwich and a potion of hot chips would be most welcome, especially at winter weddings!
Can our friends take pictures at the wedding?
I have no problem with this and it some cases this can lead to more photographic opportunities for me. Weddings tend to bring out keen amateur photographers, just as long as they don’t stand in front of you or me all day long.
Can I choose black and white, or colour for any shot?
I shoot everything in colour but copies of your wedding pictures can be converted to black and white from the colour original. If you would like this, please let me know.
Do you supply parent albums?
Parent albums are a popular choice and can either be a smaller copy of the main wedding album or one specifically designed just for them. I provide various options – just ask. I also offer a discount for a copy of your album.
What happens if it rains on my wedding day?
I’m very happy to continue shooting in the rain as long as its light, if you’re happy to go out in it! Realistically, it’s worth considering a plan B as to where to take the photographs if we can’t go outside. This can be discussed nearer the time of your wedding day and I'm more than happy to suggest where this would work best.
How long do you keep our images?
I try to never delete my images and multiple backups are stored indefinitely. I do however encourage all clients to backup their own images to discs and drives.
What will you do if your camera breaks on the day?
Quite simply use another one! A professional photographer should have least two cameras, back up lenses and other backup equipment on the day. In fact it happened to me last year where my NEW £3000 camera broke down during the wedding ceremony, I just reached into my bag and pulled out another and the couple never knew a thing!
How long does it take to get our pictures back after the wedding?
Usually around two weeks, although sometimes less.
Can our wedding pictures be viewed on the internet?
I upload a selection of about 100 images from the day into a password protected page with in my site. This password can be given to family and friends.
How many wedding photos do I receive from the day?
There is no limitation to the amount of pictures I take on the day and there is no limitation to the amount of images you receive. I edit them and remove some images (e.g if people's eyes are closed) and you receive the rest. The amount of images taken on the day depends on many variables such as weather, time I’m there for on the day, number of locations, number of guests, number of requested pictures etc. A rough average would be between 400-700, but as mentioned it really depends on the wedding.
I've seen a picture I’d like to recreate. Is this possible?
With the digital media available, bride and grooms have so much access to photographer's websites, wedding blogs, magazines etc. I’m more than happy to hear your ideas and suggestions, if I don’t think the image will work then I will tell you first, but I'm more than happy to try it anyway.
Do we get to choose the images that go in our wedding album?
YES! I firmly believe that it is your day and your wedding album - it is your choice of what goes in it and your choice about how the final album looks. However, I do also offer a service where I choose the images for you and then you can approve it or swap images around. It is up to you which option you take.
Will you visit the wedding venue before the day?
I am often asked this, As I travel throughout the country covering weddings this is not always possible. Month to month the light changes, the venue can be redecorated and in some cases rebuilt or redesigned since my last visit, therefore don't worry if I have not covered your venue before. You are hiring a professional wedding photographer to make judgements on the day itself, it can be an added stress for you to arrive at the venue having planned where you are going to have your pictures taken, only to find that it is no longer possible to do so !
Phew !!! I hope this section has helped? If not please do contact me and I will happily answer any questions you may have.
The level of wedding photojournalism on your wedding day can be dictated by you. Most couples go for a balance of 80% candid with 20 % formal balance. I understand however, that everyone's requirements are different and that you may want some more formal photography or none at all. Before your wedding day, I will discuss with you what your likes and dislikes are and the sort of formal/informal balance you would like. I can also be flexible if these requirements change nearer the time or on the day itself.
I've spent lots of time organising the smaller details of the day, will you photograph these?
The wedding day is made of so may components, sometimes it's the details that you spend so much time (not to mention money) that are forgotten. I’m more than happy to take images of these as I know how much effort they can take. If you have less obvious items that you would like photographed, for example something that has a special significance, then mention this to me on the day. To some couples this is important to others its not, its all down to personal preference. I always try and capture your wedding breakfast room before the crowd of hungry guests descend into it. Unless you have specified otherwise, I keep these details shots to a minimum and never take detail shots at the expense of people shots.
Are there any restrictions at all on how I use the images after my wedding?
The High Resolution disc of your final images is restricted by the 1988 Copyright Act, which means that you cannot pass on the images for commercial use such as florists etc without my written consent. However, you will have a license to print from it for private use and you can print these images at any size you choose at any printer of your choice. You will receive a disc of all of the images and you are free to copy this to pass this on to family and friends, provided they adhere to the restrictions listed here.
What if I'm getting married abroad?
I am a Sussex wedding photographer but I've been lucky enough to have photographed a few weddings in other countries and I love nothing better than capturing weddings abroad, please contact me for my destination wedding photography prices.
What if I want something extra?
Perspex Covered Albums, Coffee Table Albums, Canvasses, Bespoke frames, DVD Slide Shows and wedding websites are among a few of the other options available to you.
What if I'm having a weekday wedding? Are there any discounts available for me?
Discounted prices are available for weddings held in the week (Monday to Thursday) so I am happy to provide a bespoke quote for midweek weddings. If you send me a summary of your requirements such as number of hours coverage needed, I will provide you with a package that's just for you.
Help! I've been let down by my photographer and it's really close to my wedding, can you help?
Yes, Please email me (and providing I am not booked), I can provide a discounted price for last minute bookings.
How soon do I need to book your wedding photography services?
There is no simple answer to this but I do tend to book up 12 – 24 months in advance. I’ve just booked a wedding for May 20202 ! This does not mean I am fully booked as not all enquiries turn into bookings ! Please enquire to check my availability.
I'd really like some engagement pictures, can you provide this?
I welcome engagement portrait sessions as they can be quite fun and I’m always up for hearing couples ideas and locations. Contact me for more details.
Why do you have copyright on our wedding pictures?
Because it is copyright law and is a form of legal protection. As soon as a photograph is taken, the copyright is automatically afforded to the photographer. Any kind of reproduction of the images has to be agreed in writing with the photographer, or with whoever owns their rights for 70 years after they’ve died. All my wedding packages include a master DVD of images with full “ license to print” rights given.
Can I/You print my pictures?
As mentioned above, yes you can print from the disc as you have a “ license to print”. I spend around 25 hours working on the digital files to ensure the best print quality. When you hire a professional wedding photographer an important part of their role these days is processing the images after your wedding. It's all very well having a £4000 camera and a £2500 computer with every editing program known to man installed, but if you don't know how to process the images correctly then the technology is wasted! Before becoming a full time professional photographer the early years of my photographic career consisted of professionally editing photographers images for print in national newspapers, magazines and national and international advertising campaigns.
Do you offer a two photographer package?
Yes, I have a few trusted professional wedding photographers that I have worked with for many years to cover weddings with me if you would like a two photographer package. I don’t normally use assistants as I work on my own as I want to be discrete and capture natural images to help tell the story of the day as it unfolds.
What if you are ill on the day?
I am very lucky that, due to my position within the industry, I have a close circle of friends who are professional photographers and have a similar approach. So far, this has never happened, but if it did, I would call upon these and other resources.
Will you take pictures of me getting ready?
For many brides the bridal preparations are an important part of the day and they want it to be included in the pictures. The level of undress is entirely down to you and I will be entirely respectful of your wishes. If there are any moments you don’t want to be photographed, just ask me to leave the room and they won’t be! Grooms also appreciate the pictures of the bridal preparations, because they get a little glimpse of what happened when they weren’t there and visa versa when covering the grooms preparations, although this normally comprises of taking pictures of them looking rather nervous at the church or local pub!
Do I need feed you?
NO ! As a rule I do not expect to be fed by you, weddings venues generally charge you the same cost for my food as your guests. I think you are paying enough for me to be there for the day and as such I normally bring my own food. Sometimes though I can be at a venue for more than 12 hours, so when you come to sit down for your wedding breakfast something hot is very much appreciated. A sandwich and a potion of hot chips would be most welcome, especially at winter weddings!
Can our friends take pictures at the wedding?
I have no problem with this and it some cases this can lead to more photographic opportunities for me. Weddings tend to bring out keen amateur photographers, just as long as they don’t stand in front of you or me all day long.
Can I choose black and white, or colour for any shot?
I shoot everything in colour but copies of your wedding pictures can be converted to black and white from the colour original. If you would like this, please let me know.
Do you supply parent albums?
Parent albums are a popular choice and can either be a smaller copy of the main wedding album or one specifically designed just for them. I provide various options – just ask. I also offer a discount for a copy of your album.
What happens if it rains on my wedding day?
I’m very happy to continue shooting in the rain as long as its light, if you’re happy to go out in it! Realistically, it’s worth considering a plan B as to where to take the photographs if we can’t go outside. This can be discussed nearer the time of your wedding day and I'm more than happy to suggest where this would work best.
How long do you keep our images?
I try to never delete my images and multiple backups are stored indefinitely. I do however encourage all clients to backup their own images to discs and drives.
What will you do if your camera breaks on the day?
Quite simply use another one! A professional photographer should have least two cameras, back up lenses and other backup equipment on the day. In fact it happened to me last year where my NEW £3000 camera broke down during the wedding ceremony, I just reached into my bag and pulled out another and the couple never knew a thing!
How long does it take to get our pictures back after the wedding?
Usually around two weeks, although sometimes less.
Can our wedding pictures be viewed on the internet?
I upload a selection of about 100 images from the day into a password protected page with in my site. This password can be given to family and friends.
How many wedding photos do I receive from the day?
There is no limitation to the amount of pictures I take on the day and there is no limitation to the amount of images you receive. I edit them and remove some images (e.g if people's eyes are closed) and you receive the rest. The amount of images taken on the day depends on many variables such as weather, time I’m there for on the day, number of locations, number of guests, number of requested pictures etc. A rough average would be between 400-700, but as mentioned it really depends on the wedding.
I've seen a picture I’d like to recreate. Is this possible?
With the digital media available, bride and grooms have so much access to photographer's websites, wedding blogs, magazines etc. I’m more than happy to hear your ideas and suggestions, if I don’t think the image will work then I will tell you first, but I'm more than happy to try it anyway.
Do we get to choose the images that go in our wedding album?
YES! I firmly believe that it is your day and your wedding album - it is your choice of what goes in it and your choice about how the final album looks. However, I do also offer a service where I choose the images for you and then you can approve it or swap images around. It is up to you which option you take.
Will you visit the wedding venue before the day?
I am often asked this, As I travel throughout the country covering weddings this is not always possible. Month to month the light changes, the venue can be redecorated and in some cases rebuilt or redesigned since my last visit, therefore don't worry if I have not covered your venue before. You are hiring a professional wedding photographer to make judgements on the day itself, it can be an added stress for you to arrive at the venue having planned where you are going to have your pictures taken, only to find that it is no longer possible to do so !
Phew !!! I hope this section has helped? If not please do contact me and I will happily answer any questions you may have.