Hey there! Thanks for stopping by my blog. Below you'll find answers to commonly asked questions. Read through them, and if you would like further information use the contact form to get in touch, or give me a call at 570-419-8636.
How long have you been a photographer?
My interest in photography began many years ago while I was still a student in high school. I made up my mind then that I would do whatever it took to follow my dream of becoming a professional photographer. After getting married and having children, my love for the art only grew. I took years to learn the art and science of photography before opening my own business two years ago. I also gained valuable experience shooting alongside other professionals.
What sets you apart from other photographers?
I decided early in my career that I wanted to offer a very personalized, boutique experience for my brides; therefore I book a very limited number of weddings per year. This is why it is important to contact me as soon as you know your wedding date as my schedule can quickly fill up. I make it a priority to get to know each of my brides before the wedding so on the wedding day it’s like I’m just “one of the girls” . I also have a natural ability to even make the groom feel comfortable in front of the camera, which makes for relaxed, beautiful portraits that truly showcase who you are as a couple.
How would you describe your style?
Well, I hope my style defines itself. But if I had to put it into words, I would use these three terms: editorial, fashion, photojournalism (even though that term has been severely overused!). So I guess my style would be Fashion meets Photojournalism in an Editorial manner! Sounds good to me......
Do you have an assistant with you?
Absolutely! I will bring an assistant with me, usually another photographer, on the day of your wedding allowing me to provide the most comprehensive coverage possible.
Is it ok if my best friend/cousin/Uncle Bob takes pictures along with you?
I have no problems with guest taking pictures throughout the day, however there are certain times when I ask that no one else takes pictures. One time is during the portrait session after the ceremony. This is for your benefit. I've found that if other people are taking pictures at the same time, it takes a lot longer to get through family photos. It also is very distracting for those who are in the group shots, as everyone is looking at a different camera. I offer very reasonably priced prints and digital files in an online gallery that your guests will have access to should they want a copy of a group photo.
Do you offer engagement sessions?
I love shooting engagement sessions and include them in all my wedding collections. They are important not only to capture this time in your relationship, but also to get you comfortable in front of the camera. They allow us to get to know each other a little better before your wedding as well. I can even design a guest album using the images from your engagement session. I design them with plenty of room for your family and friends to leave their words of wisdom for you and your groom instead of just signing their names on a boring old line!
Do we get our digital images with our package?
Yes! On your wedding day I shoot a lot of images, and they won't all fit into your custom designed album. Offering digital files ensures you'll have plenty of images from your wedding day. In select collections, I provide digital files on a customized flash drive. The files come with a personal print release enabling you to make reprints at home or in stores.
Some Information on Copyright
While we're on the subject of digital files, I thought I would offer some information on copyright since it is so widely misunderstood. When a photographer creates an image, they have the sole copyright to that image. It is illegal to scan, copy, or reproduce these images in any way without explicit written permission. I value each image I create. I put a lot of time, thought, and even emotion into every photograph you see. It takes years of experience and a lot of equipment (which means a lot of $$$$$) to produce professional results, so true professionals can't just give their work away for next to nothing (or we'd be out of business!). I appreciate the fact that my clients respect me and my work and therefore I've never had an issue with someone abusing the copyright on their images and I never expect to because, well, I work with the BEST CLIENTS EVER!
What other products do you offer?
I offer a wide variety of albums and art pieces that will enhance your home. From luxurious custom designed albums to beautiful canvases and wall galleries, I offer something for even the most discriminating brides.
Do you travel?
I am currently available throughout Central PA, down to northern Maryland and Virginia. I'm available for weddings in NYC, Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh as well. If you live outside of these areas, please call to check my availability. I am able to take on up to two destination weddings per year.
Will you get a picture of every person at our wedding?
While I do my best to get a picture of every person at a wedding, it just isn’t usually possible. My job as your photographer is to capture the overall essence of your wedding day. If I took the time to get a picture of each guest, this would detract from the time I’m able to capture all of the action and detail shots that make up the moments every bride wants to remember.
When will our gallery be online?
Approximately 3 weeks after the wedding.
Do you take color and b&w images?
Your gallery will consist of both color and black and white images depending on my artistic vision and interpretation of the event being captured.
Do you take payment plans?
Definitely. When you sign the contract, a $500 non-refundable retainer is required to hold the date. Then we'll set up a payment plan that works for you to pay the balance. I'm pretty flexible, but I do require the balance to be paid in full 4 weeks before your wedding. I even offer a bridal registry!
How do we know you're the right photographer for us?
Great question! Everyone is unique, and I know I'm not the photographer for every couple out there, and every couple isn't the right fit for me. That may sound odd coming from me because, well, I'm the one being hired and some of you may expect me to say I'd be great for everyone. But this just isn't the case. Maybe you don't like my style, or my personality, or my camera (canon girl all the way- YEAH BABY!!) But seriously, you won't truly know if I'm "the one" until we get to meet and interview each other. As your photographer, I'm around you all day, so you definitely want to make sure that we "click". I know that it isn't always possible for out of town couples to meet with me before making the decision to hire me, but we'll at least have a conversation or two over the phone before you decide. I've had to do this before and it always works out well. (Guess I'm just super like-able...hehe)
This sounds like everything we want! What next?
Contact me and we'll set up a complimentary consultation. I'll call you first to go through a few basic questions, then we'll set up a date to meet. I'll have album samples for you to look through, and you can hit me up with all of your questions. There is no pressure to make an on-the-spot decision, although I can not hold dates for anyone without a signed contract and retainer. My contact form is on the right side of the menu on this website, or you can look me up on facebook or just give me a call at 570-419-8636.
Rachel and Jimmy Part 2 || Wedding at the Holiday Inn Grantville, PA
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Posted in Recent Work
    We didn’t have much time for portraits outside, and it was FREEZING and windy outside, but I did manage to take a few at a field next to Hollywood Casino.
Rachel makes the BEST faces (and still looks beautiful while making them!)
« Wedding at The Hershey/Harrisburg Holiday Inn Grantville, PA | Rachel and Jimmy New Year’s Eve Wedding Reception » |
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by SConfair
4 comments
Love these! Thank you, Shannon! MY FACES… hahaha!
Your faces are the best
Beautiful pictures…beautiful people!
Rachel! These are gorgeous! Good work, Shannon, and way to be beautiful, Rachel and Jimmy. Love the outside ones (especially the fur coat!).