FAQs

Should we have an engagement session?

About half of our couples opt for engagement sessions.  They’re certainly not necessary, but they are a great way for us to get to know one another and for you to feel comfortable with us and in front of the camera.  Plus, you get a great set of images that document such a special time in your life.

What should we wear for our engagement session?

We love it when our couples dress up!  I’ve always loved dressing up because it makes me feel just a little more special and confident, which definitely shows in the photos.  However, you also want to dress appropriately for the location so stilettos may not be the best choice for hiking in the redwoods.  You can also check out our blog post on dressing for engagement sessions.

Why are there always two photographers?

Adm and I photograph every wedding and engagement session together.  We think that we bring different yet complementary styles to each shoot so you can have a great variety of pictures.  We also work much better together than separately because with both of us, you get more coverage, which makes the overall quality of the pictures better.  If you’re still not convinced, please check out this blog post on the benefits of having two photographers.

What’s your demeanor on our wedding day?

We completely understand and appreciate that our couples are letting us into one of their most intimate and important days of their lives, and we don’t take that lightly.  We feel so privileged to be a part of our clients’ weddings, and so we try to be as discreet and unobtrusive as possible.  This day is all about you celebrating with your family and friends!  We also know that weddings can be stressful and nerve-wracking so we try to be a source of calm and relaxation.

Will you scout with us?

If it’s possible, of course!  We always try to scout (ideally with you) about 1-2 weeks before your wedding and roughly at the same time so we can get a sense for what the light will be like.  We like going into each wedding with a clear vision for where we want to do portraits and have an idea of the scenery, light, and other little details, plus, we love hearing your ideas!  We believe creating beautiful wedding photos is a collaboration between us and our couples.  We also want to make sure your portrait sessions move as efficiently as possible so you can spend more time partying and less time taking pictures, which means it helps to have pre-planned ideas.

Should we hire a coordinator?

Yes, yes and yes!  An experienced and detail-oriented coordinator can make your day so much more enjoyable for you and your family and friends.  You don’t want to know that the shuttle with all of your guests is lost or that the cake hasn’t arrived thirty minutes before your reception.  If budget is an issue, a good coordinator can actually help you save money by knowing where to get deals and having relationships with other wedding professionals.

How long do you need for the portrait session?

Each portrait session (with the couple) varies with each wedding.  Some of our couples opt for an extended session before their ceremony so that we can take pictures at multiple locations.  Others want to do portraits during the last half hour of cocktails at their venue.  We are happy to help you map out your wedding day so that there is plenty of time for portraits at the time of day when the light will be gorgeous and flattering.  Our couples often love the portrait sessions because they’re usually the only time of day they get to spend with each other (almost) alone.  We love capturing that intimacy and make sure to keep things light and fun.

Do you do group photos?

Of course!  Just because we don’t show the group pictures in our portfolio doesn’t mean we don’t do them at every wedding.  We understand that weddings are special once-in-a-lifetime events that bring people from all over to one spot and it’s important to photograph everyone together.  For a detailed description of how we manage the group portraits, please check my blog here.

Where are you based?

We live in Oakland, California and will happily travel anywhere.

What kind of equipment do you use?

We use professional Canon cameras with a full-range of Canon lenses.

Do you bring back-up equipment?

Yes.  And we bring back-up for the back-up.

Do you have insurance?

Yes.  Please ask us for a certificate of insurance if you need it or the venue requests it.

Do we get the high resolution image files?

Of course!  We provide all edited and processed high-res files on a disc for you after the event.  There is no watermark, and we include a reproduction release so you can make multiple prints at any size at the lab of your choice.  Of course, we think some labs are better than others so if you’d like a printing lab recommendation, please don’t hesitate to ask!

How long does it take to view our pictures?

We’ll send you a link to a full online gallery of edited photos 4-6 weeks after your event.

How do we retain your services?

We are yours for your date once we receive a signed contract and a retainer for 30% of your contracted amount.  You can do all of this online so contact us for details.