Frequently Asked Questions about Wedding + Elopement Photography
I know couples have lots of questions about the wedding + elopement photography process, so that’s why I wanted to provide you with this handy FAQ to review.
If you do send an inquiry about wedding photography, I will be happy to send you a copy of my FAQ along with the pricing information you requested.
Please touch base if there is a question you have that isn’t addressed. I’ll be happy to answer it for you!
My email is dsmithimages@gmail.com and I’d love to hear from you!
Questions + Answers
How long have you photographed weddings and elopements?
I’ve had the pleasure of photographing weddings and elopements since 2010.
Where are you located?
I’m proud to call the Birmingham, Alabama area home!
What are your coverage area and travel fees?
My coverage area is anywhere in the United States. I’ll be happy to go anywhere you’re located! My packages are structured so you don’t have to worry about being charged travel fees.
How many images will we receive?
Because all celebrations are different and I never want to hold any images back, I never put a cap or limit on the number of photos you’ll receive. I promise you’ll get LOTS AND LOTS of great photos of your special day.
What is your turnaround time for delivering the final photos?
I know you will be anxious to see your images so I will begin work immediately after the wedding. Because of the way I work, I guarantee you’ll have all your photos ready and delivered within a week of your wedding date.
Can we get the unedited RAW files right out of the camera?
I do not deliver unedited RAW files as I feel these are unfinished images.
Do you have a particular photography style?
Each wedding + elopement is different, and I like to mold my style to meet what each couple likes. I prefer to call my style “dreamy and cinematic”, but I don’t pigeonhole myself in a “dark and moody” or “light and bright” aesthetic.
Do you use Photoshop?
I don’t use Photoshop to edit the photos and make you look like something you aren’t. Unless there is something distracting in the background, I like to present the images as is. When I do edit the photos in Lightroom, I edit for color, mood, exposure, cropping, and atmosphere.
How do we book a consultation?
After sending you the initial information about your wedding photography coverage, I’ll follow up about setting up a consultation. That will get the ball rolling, and we’ll get all the details taken care of from there. If you can’t meet face to face, I’m happy to do a consultation over the phone, Zoom, or whatever app you prefer!
How do we book our date with you?
As soon as you get in touch, I’ll be happy to put a temporary hold on your date. To make everything official, we’ll both sign an agreement and you’ll put down a non-refundable retainer payment of 1/4 of the package price. The 2nd and 3rd payments would be due 120 days and 60 days before the wedding. The final would be due the day of the wedding. This schedule can be modified based on your wedding date.
What is your cancellation policy?
My cancellation policy is detailed in my standard agreement form, which you can request if you’d like to review it. Do note that the retainer payment is non-refundable.
How long is your coverage for on our wedding day?
All couples receive a full day’s coverage. I’m there at a time you give me, and I leave when everything is over. I don’t believe in time limits.
Do you work alone or with a partner?
I typically work alone. The option to have a 2nd photographer, though, is always available for an additional fee.
What is the level of contact we will have between the time of booking and the time of the actual wedding?
Communication is key to any relationship, and I want to have as much communication as possible. I’ll touch base with you frequently to get your design ideas, creative input, coordination information, and all sorts of other important details. This will continue right up to the wedding day as I’ll be working with you and any other vendors to make sure everything is taken care of so you don’t have to worry about anything!
Should we send you a shot list?
The only shot list I’ll need is a list of family photos you’d like done. I do not work with any other type of shot list.
You have covered a lot in this section, but what if I have any other questions?
My phone number is (205) 586-9723 and my email is dsmithimages@gmail.com. I want to make sure you have as much information as possible, so please reach out to me if you have any other questions that might help you make your decision.
Additional Resources
If you still need some additional information to help you make this important decision, I fully understand!
I’d love for you to take a moment and read about my creative style + approach to photographing weddings + elopements. This will hopefully answer a lot of questions and give you a great idea of how I will work with you on your special day.
Do also take a moment to check out the galleries from celebrations I’ve had the pleasure of photographing. This will also help you get a great visualization of what I can do for you + your special someone!
Most importantly, though, check out my pricing + booking information page to get specifics on what is included with wedding + elopement photography coverage and to send an inquiry for a fully personalized quote!
I even have an advice section if you want some detailed info on wedding + elopement photography specifics!