Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Weddings FAQ’s
What kind of photographer are you?
A relaxed one. Not in a lie back and let you do the work kind of way, just in
Will you fit in at our wedding?
Yes, if you’re relaxed then I pretty much just feel like one of your crew. I’ve been known to use my hairpin as an emergency cufflink, cry at the speeches and sing along to the first dance. I get stuck in and feel like I was always invited. It’s just the way I work to feel like part of your day so I can really capture it from within.
Is it ok that we hate having our pics done, but really want to have something to remember the day?
Yes. If I’m honest (which I always try to be!) I’m not a fan either; I much prefer my side of the camera. But it’s not about having pictures of you taken. It’s about having a great time, loving each other and enjoying ourselves. When we do that, the best of you comes out, the bits everyone loves you for, and it’ll make these pics about you, and your relationship, not of you.
What do you charge and what do we get?
Me, with you for the day. To capture your whole story, all the details and all the romance, as creatively as possible. Usually, I’m with couples for about 10 hours, starting about 2 hours before the ceremony until the first dance. I’m relaxed about the hours, though. It’s not important to me to have it down exactly. I’m more focused on your day. You’ll get about 500 images along with my favourites as keepsake prints, and you’ll get an online gallery to share.
Can you hold a date for us?
Once I’ve got your paperwork, and retainer then yes, the dates all yours. Before that, however, I can’t hold it. If we’ve chatted about a date then I’ll try to let you know if someone else comes along to nab it, but to be honest it’ll go to the person who pays me first, or maybe they who give me the most chocolates. It’s Lindor in case you need to know.
Are your prices set in stone?
I always think it’s good to ask this question. It never offends me because, you know, we all gotta eat. If it’s a summer Saturday wedding with all the bling going on and your auntie’s neighbours’ best friend’s dog coming along, then the likely answer is going to be no. But if it’s a weekday or in winter then I’m sure we can talk. Most of the time I can shorten the hours to work with you, especially if I feel like we get on and I’d love to shoot your day.
We’re getting married far, far away, can you come?
Yes! I love to shoot weddings anywhere. The more unusual the better. New places give me new energy and enthusiasm for what I do. So be it Nova Scotia, Brighton, Cape Town or your back garden, then let me know.
Do you do albums or prints?
Absolutely. This is the best way to show off your piccies. Your online gallery links straight to
We’re back from honeymoon and when can we see them!
Getting your pics edited just right is really important to me and I take time on each one. I’ll always get some sneak peeks out to you as soon as I can, so you can get them up on social media ASAP! The full set of about 500 images will be ready to view within 6-8 weeks of your wedding.
What does copyright mean?
Copyright is about protecting artists and what we make. So although I took your photos because you paid me to come along, the photos I created belong to me. Sure you can have them and print them all at home in life size. But don’t go entering them in photo competitions with your name on, please! I love to see what you do print though, so please send me a photo of your living room with the pics in! You can use them however you like, as long as you don’t change them, but please credit me!
Will we get large hires photos?
Yes, large enough for a huge wall canvas and to pretty much use how you want!
Do you mind us sharing them on social media?
Not at all, but please upload them as they are and tag me. I love seeing my work as peoples profile pics. I quite often end up friends with my couples so its lovely to see the images being shared and loved by your friends.
Do you do group pics?
Yes, I do. Normally about 5-10 which doesn’t take too much time out of your day. I’ll ask you to go through all the names and details before though so it’s stress-free. You’ll never hear me shout ‘Brides Family’ instead I’ll work with an Usher or Bridesmaid and we can quietly get people over. Using first names is instantly more relaxing, which is key to getting lovely group shots.
What happens if you’re sick?
I used to say this business is my baby, and it still is in some ways, but now I have real ones it feels a little unfair on them! However, I do love this baby, and I will do anything to make sure she survives and has a good rep. I’ll need to have all my limbs blown off to not be there! More importantly, I have a network of photographers who I work with and I will do everything I can to get the best replacement for you. If I need to I’ll give you a full refund, but most likely I’ll be there with someone as a backup, at no extra charge.
Do you give all your images, or edit them? Do you give raws?
After your wedding, I’ll go through everything I took and there will definitely be some that won’t make it to you. The nature of having your picture taken without knowing means there will always be some winks and blinks, as well as some that technically
What happens next?
If you’re keen to chat then great, just let me know. You can use the contact me form or give me a bell on 07833 101855. We can talk about it over the phone or Skype/Facetime. Or if you prefer we can arrange a meeting to go through all the images and your ideas in more detail. Whatever suits you guys. To confirm a date, I ask for a 30% retainer with the rest due 30 days before the wedding. Easy really!
Portraits FAQ’s
What kind of a shoot will this be?
Relaxed, really chilled. Over the past 15 years I’ve worked with so many different types of families, and my own as a complicated patchwork affair, so I know humans (and our relationships) aren’t always straight forward! And that’s what makes us great! This is what will make your pictures your own! We’ll have a good chat beforehand so I’ll get to know you and all of those who are with you and what makes you tick. Then we can just have some fun and enjoy the time; you won’t even know the fab pics that are being taken!
Where can we do it?
I can come to yours, or we can find somewhere local outside. It can be a new place or somewhere you’ve walked the dog many times before. Usually, the more natural surroundings work well with children and make them feel comfortable. If it’s at yours then praps have a think about the natural light available so we can get the best pics, the garden can be great, and I’ll have a good look when I get there too.
I hate having my picture taken, I have one child that’s super shy and one who should be on stage he’s so dramatic, and a dog who wees everywhere. Can you cope with us?
Yep. I can. You name it I’ve dealt with it before. I worked as a family photographer for a long time before I became a parent and I think it prepared me a little! I’ve been sicked on by cute babies, and crazy cats, cleaned up after all sorts of mess, and still got some great images. The benefit of being at home or out and about means we can choose a place that works for you guys. The most important thing to me is that you be yourselves, however, batty that may be, and even if you can’t see it yet, there will be some great images in that. I promise.
What do you charge and what do we get?
An hour’s shoot is £125 and includes a print of your favourite image, and an online gallery to choose from. I’m happy to come to you or meet you out and about somewhere local.
How do we book?
If you give me a shout via the contact me button, we can get a date booked in. I know families are always busy with swimming lessons, karate class, working shifts, doing the homework and not to mention the washing! But I’m sure we’ll find a date we can both do! I take a 20% booking fee with the rest due on the shoot day.
Do you do prints?
Absolutely. This is the best way to show of your piccies. Your online gallery links straight to a printers which offers fab choices for sizes and framing, so your Mum and Grandma can order their faves to come right to their door. Or you can surprise them and get those Birthday presents sorted easy… Your welcome. ?
What does copyright mean?
Copyright is about protecting artists and what we make. So although I took your photos because you paid me to come along, the photos I created belong to me. Sure you can have them and print them all at home in life size. But don’t go entering them in photo competitions with your name on, please! I love to see what you do print though, so please send me a photo of your living room with the pics in! You can use them however you like, as long as you don’t change them, but please credit me!
Do you mind us sharing them on social media?
Not at all, but please upload them as they are and tag me. I love seeing my work as peoples profile pics. I quite often end up friends with my couples so its lovely to see the images being shared and loved by your friends.
Commercial FAQ’s
Do you offer retouching?
something sorted, I can do this. It would be an additional service from £30 per half hour.
How do you deliver the images?
Failing the existence of the Storks delivery service, I use a password protected online gallery, with downloadable options ?
How quick is your turnaround?
I can work my magic with the images and get them to you within 48 hours. Where possible I can also deliver them on the same day if you really need it, but we would need to agree on this in advance.
Where can we use the pics?
Before we work together, we will confirm reproduction rights for a specific use and time length. I’m happy with most things though so just get in touch and we can talk about what you need. We’ll pop it all down in writing before we start so its all agreed. This is the best way to protect the copyright of the images I create.
Studio or on location?
That’s up to you! If you need some help to find a suitable place, I might be able to offer some options or studios. I’m happy with
How does booking work?
If you get in touch, we can confirm a date, which I take 20% retainer fee to hold. I’ll take no other work for this time and date, so if you need to cancel there will be a cancellation fee, % depending on when this happens. It’ll all be written in our terms before the shoot.
Training FAQ’s
Do I need a DSLR/posh camera?
No! To take the most amazing pro pics then yep, maybe a DSLR is what you need, but to learn about photography, absolutely not! You can do great things with a camera phone and being a good photographer has far more to do with using the right light than the right kit. (If you do want a good camera and haven’t taken the plunge before, then consider second hand or hiring… at least till you find out what you want.)
What sort of experience should I have, if any?
I have worked with all sorts of people so don’t worry! I’ve trained professionals and complete beginners. We can work it to suit you or your group so no matter where you’re at I’ll be able to help.
Where can you do the training?
As long as we have somewhere warm and dry to go over any important stuff, and hopefully a good cuppa
Can you teach me about something specific? I really need help with ….
Over the last 15 plus years as a photographer I’ve worked in all sorts of places and picked up all sorts of tips along the way. So as long as I know about it, I’ll be happy to share any knowledge I have! Though I am no encyclopaedia and there’s always more to learn. Give me a shout and we can talk it through.
Is the Instagram course for business users only?
No, not at all. The Instagram course is about getting the most out of Insta and making your images work for you. It’s about lighting, and angles, and the tricks to help make your posts stand out, as well as understanding what the app offers you. We can tailor it to your needs so just get in touch and tell me what your trying to achieve!
Is the Instagram course for business users only?
No, not at all. The Instagram course is about getting the most out of Insta and making your images work for you. It’s about lighting, and
How long have you been teaching for?
I had my first teaching job as a photographer in 2005, as head photographer of a portrait studio, and have continued ever since then, working with all different levels of people. I’ve trained professional second shooters for my wedding business, and also people with their very first camera. My Mum, Dad, Sister and various other relatives are all teachers…. I thought I’d got away from it by going into photography, but it turns out it’s in my blood!
Can we arrange a course for a group of us together?
Absolutely. Group courses are a bit less intense from a learning prospective and also can be less intimidating if you’re not sure (though I’m not scary!). You get the benefit of learning what the others know, and it can be fun too! Also, it’s cheaper per person! Win win!
How does booking work?
If you get in touch, we can confirm a date, which I take 20% retainer fee to hold. I’ll take no other work for this time and date, so if you need to cancel there will be a cancellation fee, % depending on when this happens, and if we can reschedule. It’ll all be written in our terms before the training begins.