How long have you been a photographer?
I shot my first wedding in 1981. I have been shooting weddings, portraits, band promo shots and events since the days of film and darkrooms.(back to top)
Where did you get your training?
I have a BA in Journalism from the University of Maine. During my time at Orono, I took every photography course offered. This included studies in photojournalism, art and the printmaking process. After I left Orono, I then studied color photography, lighting and color printmaking through the University of Southern Maine art program. The onsite training was very valuable. (back to top)
Why is professional photography so expensive?
The hours you see me shooting are just the beginning of the process. After a quality image is captured, I will then spend up to two hours per image removing blemishes and stray hairs, whitening teeth and applying filters. I use Photoshop CS5 to make adjustments and correct color before they go to the lab. Expenses of Nikon equipment, lenses and lighting all add up. In the end, you get what you pay for. For example, if you were having cosmetic surgery, would you rather get the discount of a new doctor who got his degree online or pay a bit more for the doctor who went to med school and has performed lots of successful surgeries? How important are your memories to you?(back to top)
I know someone who has a nice camera. Why shouldn't I just let him do it?
A nice car does not make you a NASCAR driver. I hear so many horror stories from disappointed people. It's sad. Does you friend have backup equipment if something goes wrong with his camera? Does he understand aperture and its impact on shutter speed and depth of field? Does he have experience posing people? What lab does he use for prints? Is it a pro lab? What products can he offer? What does he use for editing? Just be careful and don't say I didn't warn you if your friend doesn't give you the results you want.(back to top)
Do you travel?
Yes. But the prices quoted on my website are for services within 30 miles of Portland. Beyond that I require 50 cents per mile. If distance requires other expenses such as meals and lodging, those costs will be added to your package. Destination weddings can be discussed further.(back to top)
Can I buy just the unedited, raw digital images on disk so I can print them myself?
Usually not. Unedited digital images do not include all the retouching work that I do. Most good photographers want to make sure that everyone you show your images to is equally impressed by our work. Individually printed, color balanced images on quality photo paper will look much better than shots you have printed at Walmart or on your color laserjet printer. If you just print images with no retouching, color adjustments or softening filters, your images won't look nearly as good as if I do the editing and provide the prints through the professional lab I use. (Millers Professional Imaging) If you have to have a photographer who will just shoot and provide you with the unedited images so that you can edit and print whatever you want, we can discuss it. I recommend this option only for those who have advanced skills in computer graphics and photo editing. Why spend hundreds on a photographer if you are planning to have Rite Aid spit out machine prints at 29 cents each? (back to top)
How long will I have to wait for my prints?
It depends on the season and my workload. I will have an online directory up for you within two weeks. If you have me handle all your prints and albums it may take as long as two months to get into your hands. Most clients that choose to have me take care of all order fulfillment have their prints within a month of selecting their final poses. Rush processing is available for an additional fee. The longest holdup normally is clients who can't make final decision on their favorites.(back to top)
What if your camera breaks?
I always shoot with at least two camera bodies ready to go. I use a Nikon D700 and Nikon D300. If I need additional equipment because mine is being serviced, I rent the same equipment so that I am familiar with it.(back to top)
Will we need to meet before you shoot our wedding?
Normally, yes. We will want to sit down to go through a list of formal poses and group shots that you will want me to take in addition to capturing the rest of your day. Plus, you want to get to know me a bit so you can relax. And, I'll want to get a feel for your style and personalities. I work best with bridal parties that like to have fun because I love to joke around and lighten the mood. As long as you are not Bridezilla, we're going to have a great time together. (back to top)
Can't Photoshop fix everything?
While Photoshop is a fantastic program and very powerful, you need to be careful with it. Numerous photographers use it to alter pictures in big ways. The key is to start off with a good image and make it better. Unfortunately it is often used to try to make weak photographs acceptable. I use Photoshop for color balancing, touch-ups and whitening but I won't go overboard with the gimmicks it offers. For a laugh, try to spot the problems in "The 52 Worst Photoshop Mistakes in Magazines."
What else should I know?
I like to enjoy life and laugh a lot. I'm a perfectionist and a planner. I like to be early and well-prepared. My goal is to tell your story with quality images that you will love to show others. I want you to enjoy our time together. Because of my training I refer to my style as "artistic photojournalism with attention to classic photography."
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