How much is the deposit to hold the date and what is the payment process?
$100 non-refundable* deposit to hold the date. Date will only be held tentative for one
week and then will be open to anyone until a deposit is given. After you sign the
contract you may either make payments or pay the day of. The final full balance is due on
the day of. Check, money order or cash accepted. I do not accept credit at this time. If
final balance is not paid after I took the photos, penalty interest will accrue after 6
months after your wedding date and no photos will be given until it is paid in full and
cleared.
What is the process, do I have to meet with you?
I leave it completely up to the couple. It's usually about 50/50. I hear all the time "we did
it because that's what everyone else does". :)
The world is changing everyday with technology and it has become even more accessible
for emailing and phone calls. If we meet it is mainly for your comfort, not necessarily
mine, as I feel confident in my work. I love to meet the couples but in most cases they
are either out-of-state or have such a busy schedule between planning and work
demands that it is very hard to meet. I understand this and try my best to keep my
website up-to-date with all my latest work and information. I also have many examples
out there and am willing to send even more over email. The photos you see online will be
much like the photos you see in person and they print at great quality just as you would
see them in an album.
I do believe in chemistry and it is very important to feel comfortable with your
photographer. So if you prefer to meet, that's OK, and if you don't, that's OK too. Either
way is fine with me. We can do everything over the phone, email or in person, or all of
the above.
For weddings - What do you cover?
Each wedding is different, I work around your event. See Package details
Do you cover the rehearsal?
No.
You seem to have a journalistic approach, do you take traditional formal portraits?
Yes. My strongest is a journalistic candid approach but I do formals as well. I don't make
you pose so much that you become uncomfortable, then it can look painful and show in
photos. I take a more natural approach.
How long do you stay at the reception?
I make sure to get all the main events. I'll work with your DJ or band to know when the
events are occurring. Such as the first dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss, guarder throw
and any other special events. I also get table shots (when I can, sometimes guest are
dancing or socializing, in that case, I try to do couple shots), decor, as well as free-style
dancing and group dances. I usually stay until the point when I covered all photos and I
will touch-base with you before I leave.
Can I upgrade or change to a different package?
Yes. If you signed up with the Daisy package and then decide after you want a slideshow
or album, just let me know and we'll adjust the price and I'll need to get your album cover
choice and/or details about the slideshow music. Past customers and/or family members
are welcome to order an album as well.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. Unless you change your location range to a completely different area over one hour
and thus you will get charged travel charges.
Do you have a limit on how many photos you take?
No limit.
But realize that each wedding/photoshoot is different. It varies depending on
photogenic qualities and comfort, as well as how many events you have planned and how
long your wedding is.
How many photos do I end up with?
For weddings - approx. 2 DVDs or 8-10 CDs, this equals out to be approx. 900-1,200
photos, possibly more.
For family/children/engagement/senior portrait photography - approx 1-2 CDs, this
equals out to be approx 80-200 photos.
Are black & white and artsy versions included? Like the bouquet in color, rest in black &
white style?
Yes, some are and they are included at no extra charge. I use my best creative
judgement to convert the ones I feel would look great in grayscale/b&w/sepia. I take all
photos in color digital and usually keep the original version by doing a "save as" into a
b&w. Same goes for the artsy ones. So you have a choice between them all. If you find
later that I didn't covert one that you'd like to have in black & white, let me know and I
will do so for you. There are many programs and photo labs that can do it for you as well.
What happens with dark churches that don't allow flash photography?
Always ask if your photographer can use flash photography or if the person marrying you
allows it. It sometimes is personal preference or building preference. Then let your
photographer know before you hire them. Whether it be inside a church or not, this can
be a hard task. Sometimes it is just not allowed during the Ceremony but is allowed
while walking down the aisle entering and exiting.
If the answer is a solid no, it might be possible to "stage" a reenactment once the official
ceremony is over. Most are not into this idea or have no time if a Mass is coming in after.
I personally don't prefer this option because you lose the real-ife version and you lose
the emotion of the moment and guest won't be seated anymore.
Some don't allow photography at all and you will have no record of your Ceremony. But
it's better to know this all in advance and agreed upon for all parties involved.
In churches, will my photographer be allowed to approach the altar for close-ups?
If your photographer is restricted to the back of the church, there is obviously a limit in
the types of images capture. Long telephoto lenses can compensate, but there are many
angles that are impossible to get from the rear of the church. Sometimes they allow only
half way up the alter, which is better but not close enough to get what we'd like.
Remember that most your photos will be the back of you in this case. Also remember to
ask before hand if there is a balcony and if your photographer can go up during the
Ceremony. My motto is always be respectful but try to get the images as well.
I have a friend or family member taking photos at the wedding too, is that OK?
I don't mind as long as they DO NOT: jump in front of me, push me aside, make loud
noises, become a distraction or try to take charge. I suggest no more than two others
taking photos with large camera equipment. It's best if they DO NOT stand in the isle.
Most of the time I am trying to get a full photo of the crowd and the whole ceremony, so
it can look awkward from a distance if someone is standing in the center, as well as
when you are walking down the isle. It can also take the attention away from the bride
and groom.
If you decide to have others with camera or video equipment during any event,
remember that they may be in the photos. I will do my best to avoid them and work
around them but it is not always possible. The end result might be that they are directly
in the way, so make the choice and be aware of the end result. See example.
Just as I am a professional, please be sure they act as a professional. I know that I am
usually in the isles, but I am the main photographer and you are paying for the photos I
capture. Have them check with the officiator, priest or paster before hand because
some have restrictions that everyone has to go by including me. Extra flashes do not
bother me or my camera and can actually make for some really creative photos if it does
catch another's flash. I also take turns of letting you look at each camera so that your
eyes are always on me or whom ever is taking the photo. I prefer to get the first shot.
Sometimes, on a limited basis, I will take cameras handed to me by others when they
want to be in the photo but taken on their camera. In the end, the more photos the
better, never know what they can capture!
Do you mind a videographer?
I don't mind and will do my best to work with and/or around them. Remember the smaller
the area the harder it is for me to avoid going in front.
Do you do "table top" albums or "designed" albums?
Currently I do traditional albums. See my album page. But I am working on a custom
designed album as a trial to see how long it takes me and what I would charge for my
time. Because I don't use a template program and prefer a more customized look per
wedding, it takes more effort. Chances are I would offer two different album packages if
I choose to have a designed album choice available in the future. See example of what
I'm working on.
How long does it take to get my photos after my event?
Approx. 8-10 weeks as high resolution images on data storage DVD, with photo release.
CD's are available if requested.
What is the difference between DVDs, CDs, and Slideshows?
DVDs and CDs work alike when they are storage discs. I recommend DVDs rather than CDs
because DVDs last longer and hold more. Most computers in the past 4-5 years or more
are able to read DVDs, so check to see if it reads DVDs first. But I am willing to do CDs if
you prefer. Remember that DVD slideshows are different than DVD storage discs.
Slideshows have low quality photos that look great on tv but not as prints. Slideshows
work just like a movie and are set to music but you can't pull the photos off of them.
DVD storage discs work just like CDs where your files are listed as names when you bring
them up. In some DVD players you can put a storage disc in but I don't recommend it
because they will take a long time to load and not all players can read jpgs.
Are the photos, DVDs, CDs or Slideshows discs Copyright protected?
No. You are free to make copies on your own for yourself or family & friends.
I allow this because no matter what, I am still the original artist and they are legally still
copyright protected to me & my business name. It would be wrong for another
photographer or person to take the credit for my work and in that case I still own & hold
the original artist rights. But as far as the photo disc copies you get - it's your day, not
mine, so I believe you should have full access to them just as I would want.
We offer additional copies at an extra charge per storage disc.
What is a photo release? And do I get a photo release with my photos?
A photo release is a sheet of paper with a statement, with my signature as the
photographer, that you own the photos until eternity. You may have to show this when
you are getting prints of the photos I took. Most online places that you order from won't
request one but if you take the photos to a local store or photo lab for prints, they may
ask to see it as your photos will be considered professional. Not all photographers give a
release or allow you to copy the photos, so if you don't have a release it is considered
illegal to copy them. Think of it in the same way as artwork or a painting.
Yes. You will get a release stating that you own the high quality resolution photos to
make prints, enlargements, projects, albums, manipulate, share, all the things you would
do as if you took the photos yourself (except claim them other than Out of the Ordinary
or Holly Greene as original artist). I still have the right to use them for examples of my
work, display or advertisement purposes online or print.
What if I don't want to be online or used as advertisement on your website or in print?
No problem, just let me know and state it on the contract.
Can I email the photos once I get them?
You could (maybe one or two at a time) but I don't recommend it because they are VERY
high quality, large files, which will bog down your email system. If you want me to make
web-size versions, just note it on your contract and we can do that for you. Then you
will have both the large and a separate folder with the web-size versions. The web-size
versions are for viewing purposes only, not for print because the quality is lowered in
order for them to be small enough for web or email. You can always send the small ones
and friends/family can ask for the large version later to print or for you to print for them.
What cameras do you use and how large are the images?
I have 3 Canon EOS Digital Rebels. The higher the megapixel the better. My main camera
is a Canon EOS Rebel XTi at 10.1 mp. One back-up cameras is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
at 8.0 mp and my emergency back-up camera is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel at 6.3 mp. All
produce great quality images for prints as large or larger than a 30x40 inch poster size.
I'm a professional photographer too, are you comfortable with that?
Yes. I am confident in my work and I have no disposition.
If you are a professional photographer or graphic designer and understand how to use
RAW images and prefer to have them, please ask, otherwise I take them in jpg format
because most do not have the sufficient programs to convert the files properly.
Is wedding photography your only job?
Yes. Although in the winter months when things are slow, I may get a seasonal job.
Do you have a studio?
I do not have an official studio - yet. We just bought our house last September and plan
on finishing a studio by end of 2008. Currently I use many parts of my house and outside
that look professional, see examples. Or I go to the location of your choice. Family
portraits and engagement sessions are often done at your home or a local park. Weddings
are obviously on location. Senior portraits I do at my home.
What are your hours?
I am available basically 7 days a week. I check email every day and try to answer all phone
calls from 9am-8pm, except during photo sessions. I usually work around my husband's
schedule and he does shift work. So if he has a day off mid-week, I will most likely take
that day off. But I at least try to check email.
Do you do engagement or couple photo sessions?
Yes, an engagement photo session may be added to a wedding package of choice at any
time for an additional $150 (within 30 miles from Fort Edward, NY 12828). If you do not
sign up with a wedding package it is separate at $225. It works much like the other
photo sessions, it is an hour long and you will own 80-200 photos on CD with a photo
release. Dates will be agreed upon by all parties and would be best scheduled at least 3
months before the date of your wedding.
Rain date? - No problem, we can reschedule for a better day. Think of creative ideas
inside and outside such as: the place you met or a place that is special to the both of
you, as well as barns, fields, historic areas, parks, fences, steps, gates, benches, or even
your own home. Can't think of a place? My home is open to you as well. See more
examples of photos taken at my home.
Please contact me directly if travel for your engagement session is over 30 miles.
What is your take on someone as young as you? Also compared to someone who has done
tons of weddings vs. you at a lower amount?
At 29 I'm surprised to still get this question but I do look and sound younger than I am.
I believe that the younger you are, the more apt you are to having fresh ideas. Yes,
experience counts, that's very true. But you can't replace that newly made cutting edge
creative feel. Think of it this way, the less weddings, the less redundant and boring
same ol' same ol' shots. I believe in taking traditional photos, but with a creative twist!
Who else will get you up in a tree, haha, only if you want to of course! Plus, wouldn't you
want someone with more energy?
As of Dec. 2007 I've done over 50 weddings but it feels like a whole lot more. Considering
too, I've been doing photography for over 10 years. First as an event photographer and
now doing weddings for about 4 years (with 3 of those years being full-time as weddings).
On your contract it states - "If serious illness, accident or equipment failures of no
control occurs before, during or after, Out of the Ordinary cannot be held liable for
damage or loss in the event the service fails to comply with the terms of this
agreement." - What does this mean?
Like all contracts both parties should be protected. Obviously this is an extreme
statement but we are also humans. If something bad does occur, this ensures you of
getting a complete refund of anything paid up until that point including the deposit.* I
will do my absolute best in any way, shape, or form to be there. The only thing stopping
me is a tragedy. I will do my best to find coverage but just like life, there are no
guarantees. As far as equipment failures I always have updated equipment and 2 backup
cameras. I purposely use smaller storage flash cards and this ensures that I switch them
out regularly so I have a constant flow. This way, in the extreme case of a corrupted
card, at least I'll have the majority of the day on all the other cards.
Why do you wait to sign the contract until after the bride & groom fills it out?
If I haven't received a deposit to hold the date, a contract alone is not a holding record
for that date. If I am sending a contract in the mail without a deposit, there is a
possibility of confusion with details and holding a date.
One time I had two contracts back for the same date with a miscommunication, one
person changed their mind on a date and if I had signed ahead of time, there is too much
liability and only one date I can hold. I prefer to review all details before signing the
contract but a $100 deposit does hold the date you originally stated.
Why do you not have a full contact address on your website?
Spam. You would be surprised at how many emails and contacts I get that are fake.
Please contact me directly for my full address.
The awkward food conversation:
Where do I seat the vendors? Do I supply them a meal? If so, when?
This question is frequently asked, but not by the bride & groom or the vendors.
Oddly enough, it doesn't come about until the last minute. Almost every wedding I hear
the same comments from all vendors: DJ's, bands, videographers and photographers.
Most of the time it's, "I wish they would have seated me near where I needed to be."
And then I hear, "And they should have fed us sooner because we need to get going on
what we were hired to do."
Now this all depends on how big your wedding is & may not apply if you have a small
wedding.
But the real question is, why isn't this mentioned up-front and why has this always been
a mystery on all parties involved? I guess it's because we, as vendors, don't want you to
feel obligated in any certain way. We realize this is your day, not ours. Yet, the
conversation arises every time. So I'm going to be blunt & honest, as I always am, and tell
my opinion...
If you are suppling us a meal - thank you! We are ever-so grateful because we are usually
starving by the time we get to the reception. Some vendors require a meal and state it
up-front, but I'm not so sure that's the polite way or not. If you are not suppling us a
meal, then let us know ahead of time so we can bring an energy bar & water. There is no
time to stop in between. Either way, we are human too and need to have energy for the
rest of the night. As well as a place to sit down & put our equipment/bags.
I know it may not seem right at first, but it makes better sense to seat the vendors
where they need to be. It's good to seat all of us together if you can and I'd recommend
seating us beside the DJ's set-up area, always, if possible.
DJ's need to be by their music. They need to make sure all is going smoothly and may
need to jump in at any moment to make corrections. This is less a problem if there are
two DJ's, as they can rotate positions. With bands I have less experience with because
they usually never eat, if they do, it's after the gig. It also depends on if you have filler
dinner music or they play during dinner. But once again, I'd say seat them near their
equipment if they are eating.
Photographers & videopgraphers should be near the dance floor or near the DJ area. Or
at least have easy access to the dance floor at all times. We need to reach all areas - but
the dance floor is most important. Most events, random or planned, happen there. Even
though we are standing the majority of the time, it's during dinner that it's very hard for
us to get through crowds and chairs to get to these important happenings in time.
Especially if the guests suddenly all stand.
I've also had experiences where I was seated in another room or on the other side of the
building with the DJ. We couldn't hear a thing of what was going on. Needless to say,
both of us ate two minutes worth of a meal and went back hungry just to not miss
anything.
Meal time. We know that the guest, rightfully so, should be fed first. But most of the
time, we get fed after everyone is done eating the main course. This makes no sense at
all, because this is the time when we need to get back to work. So in most cases, we
have to leave the meals and go back & forth, hoping that the staff doesn't take it. If you
are suppling a meal in another room for us, you can feed us sooner than the guests
because it will not be noticed and we can get back to work sooner.
Remember, we know we are there to do our job first, no question. But if you can make
things easier for us, we can do the job even better without the guilt of grabbing a quick
bite to eat.
Got a question? Or one you think I should post?
Email me: holly@outoftheordinary.biz
*Some exceptions may apply, please contact me for further details. Everything is
analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If there are travel cost, a larger deposit may be needed
up front due to booking a hotel ahead of time, etc.
$100 non-refundable* deposit to hold the date. Date will only be held tentative for one
week and then will be open to anyone until a deposit is given. After you sign the
contract you may either make payments or pay the day of. The final full balance is due on
the day of. Check, money order or cash accepted. I do not accept credit at this time. If
final balance is not paid after I took the photos, penalty interest will accrue after 6
months after your wedding date and no photos will be given until it is paid in full and
cleared.
What is the process, do I have to meet with you?
I leave it completely up to the couple. It's usually about 50/50. I hear all the time "we did
it because that's what everyone else does". :)
The world is changing everyday with technology and it has become even more accessible
for emailing and phone calls. If we meet it is mainly for your comfort, not necessarily
mine, as I feel confident in my work. I love to meet the couples but in most cases they
are either out-of-state or have such a busy schedule between planning and work
demands that it is very hard to meet. I understand this and try my best to keep my
website up-to-date with all my latest work and information. I also have many examples
out there and am willing to send even more over email. The photos you see online will be
much like the photos you see in person and they print at great quality just as you would
see them in an album.
I do believe in chemistry and it is very important to feel comfortable with your
photographer. So if you prefer to meet, that's OK, and if you don't, that's OK too. Either
way is fine with me. We can do everything over the phone, email or in person, or all of
the above.
For weddings - What do you cover?
Each wedding is different, I work around your event. See Package details
Do you cover the rehearsal?
No.
You seem to have a journalistic approach, do you take traditional formal portraits?
Yes. My strongest is a journalistic candid approach but I do formals as well. I don't make
you pose so much that you become uncomfortable, then it can look painful and show in
photos. I take a more natural approach.
How long do you stay at the reception?
I make sure to get all the main events. I'll work with your DJ or band to know when the
events are occurring. Such as the first dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss, guarder throw
and any other special events. I also get table shots (when I can, sometimes guest are
dancing or socializing, in that case, I try to do couple shots), decor, as well as free-style
dancing and group dances. I usually stay until the point when I covered all photos and I
will touch-base with you before I leave.
Can I upgrade or change to a different package?
Yes. If you signed up with the Daisy package and then decide after you want a slideshow
or album, just let me know and we'll adjust the price and I'll need to get your album cover
choice and/or details about the slideshow music. Past customers and/or family members
are welcome to order an album as well.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. Unless you change your location range to a completely different area over one hour
and thus you will get charged travel charges.
Do you have a limit on how many photos you take?
No limit.
But realize that each wedding/photoshoot is different. It varies depending on
photogenic qualities and comfort, as well as how many events you have planned and how
long your wedding is.
How many photos do I end up with?
For weddings - approx. 2 DVDs or 8-10 CDs, this equals out to be approx. 900-1,200
photos, possibly more.
For family/children/engagement/senior portrait photography - approx 1-2 CDs, this
equals out to be approx 80-200 photos.
Are black & white and artsy versions included? Like the bouquet in color, rest in black &
white style?
Yes, some are and they are included at no extra charge. I use my best creative
judgement to convert the ones I feel would look great in grayscale/b&w/sepia. I take all
photos in color digital and usually keep the original version by doing a "save as" into a
b&w. Same goes for the artsy ones. So you have a choice between them all. If you find
later that I didn't covert one that you'd like to have in black & white, let me know and I
will do so for you. There are many programs and photo labs that can do it for you as well.
What happens with dark churches that don't allow flash photography?
Always ask if your photographer can use flash photography or if the person marrying you
allows it. It sometimes is personal preference or building preference. Then let your
photographer know before you hire them. Whether it be inside a church or not, this can
be a hard task. Sometimes it is just not allowed during the Ceremony but is allowed
while walking down the aisle entering and exiting.
If the answer is a solid no, it might be possible to "stage" a reenactment once the official
ceremony is over. Most are not into this idea or have no time if a Mass is coming in after.
I personally don't prefer this option because you lose the real-ife version and you lose
the emotion of the moment and guest won't be seated anymore.
Some don't allow photography at all and you will have no record of your Ceremony. But
it's better to know this all in advance and agreed upon for all parties involved.
In churches, will my photographer be allowed to approach the altar for close-ups?
If your photographer is restricted to the back of the church, there is obviously a limit in
the types of images capture. Long telephoto lenses can compensate, but there are many
angles that are impossible to get from the rear of the church. Sometimes they allow only
half way up the alter, which is better but not close enough to get what we'd like.
Remember that most your photos will be the back of you in this case. Also remember to
ask before hand if there is a balcony and if your photographer can go up during the
Ceremony. My motto is always be respectful but try to get the images as well.
I have a friend or family member taking photos at the wedding too, is that OK?
I don't mind as long as they DO NOT: jump in front of me, push me aside, make loud
noises, become a distraction or try to take charge. I suggest no more than two others
taking photos with large camera equipment. It's best if they DO NOT stand in the isle.
Most of the time I am trying to get a full photo of the crowd and the whole ceremony, so
it can look awkward from a distance if someone is standing in the center, as well as
when you are walking down the isle. It can also take the attention away from the bride
and groom.
If you decide to have others with camera or video equipment during any event,
remember that they may be in the photos. I will do my best to avoid them and work
around them but it is not always possible. The end result might be that they are directly
in the way, so make the choice and be aware of the end result. See example.
Just as I am a professional, please be sure they act as a professional. I know that I am
usually in the isles, but I am the main photographer and you are paying for the photos I
capture. Have them check with the officiator, priest or paster before hand because
some have restrictions that everyone has to go by including me. Extra flashes do not
bother me or my camera and can actually make for some really creative photos if it does
catch another's flash. I also take turns of letting you look at each camera so that your
eyes are always on me or whom ever is taking the photo. I prefer to get the first shot.
Sometimes, on a limited basis, I will take cameras handed to me by others when they
want to be in the photo but taken on their camera. In the end, the more photos the
better, never know what they can capture!
Do you mind a videographer?
I don't mind and will do my best to work with and/or around them. Remember the smaller
the area the harder it is for me to avoid going in front.
Do you do "table top" albums or "designed" albums?
Currently I do traditional albums. See my album page. But I am working on a custom
designed album as a trial to see how long it takes me and what I would charge for my
time. Because I don't use a template program and prefer a more customized look per
wedding, it takes more effort. Chances are I would offer two different album packages if
I choose to have a designed album choice available in the future. See example of what
I'm working on.
How long does it take to get my photos after my event?
Approx. 8-10 weeks as high resolution images on data storage DVD, with photo release.
CD's are available if requested.
What is the difference between DVDs, CDs, and Slideshows?
DVDs and CDs work alike when they are storage discs. I recommend DVDs rather than CDs
because DVDs last longer and hold more. Most computers in the past 4-5 years or more
are able to read DVDs, so check to see if it reads DVDs first. But I am willing to do CDs if
you prefer. Remember that DVD slideshows are different than DVD storage discs.
Slideshows have low quality photos that look great on tv but not as prints. Slideshows
work just like a movie and are set to music but you can't pull the photos off of them.
DVD storage discs work just like CDs where your files are listed as names when you bring
them up. In some DVD players you can put a storage disc in but I don't recommend it
because they will take a long time to load and not all players can read jpgs.
Are the photos, DVDs, CDs or Slideshows discs Copyright protected?
No. You are free to make copies on your own for yourself or family & friends.
I allow this because no matter what, I am still the original artist and they are legally still
copyright protected to me & my business name. It would be wrong for another
photographer or person to take the credit for my work and in that case I still own & hold
the original artist rights. But as far as the photo disc copies you get - it's your day, not
mine, so I believe you should have full access to them just as I would want.
We offer additional copies at an extra charge per storage disc.
What is a photo release? And do I get a photo release with my photos?
A photo release is a sheet of paper with a statement, with my signature as the
photographer, that you own the photos until eternity. You may have to show this when
you are getting prints of the photos I took. Most online places that you order from won't
request one but if you take the photos to a local store or photo lab for prints, they may
ask to see it as your photos will be considered professional. Not all photographers give a
release or allow you to copy the photos, so if you don't have a release it is considered
illegal to copy them. Think of it in the same way as artwork or a painting.
Yes. You will get a release stating that you own the high quality resolution photos to
make prints, enlargements, projects, albums, manipulate, share, all the things you would
do as if you took the photos yourself (except claim them other than Out of the Ordinary
or Holly Greene as original artist). I still have the right to use them for examples of my
work, display or advertisement purposes online or print.
What if I don't want to be online or used as advertisement on your website or in print?
No problem, just let me know and state it on the contract.
Can I email the photos once I get them?
You could (maybe one or two at a time) but I don't recommend it because they are VERY
high quality, large files, which will bog down your email system. If you want me to make
web-size versions, just note it on your contract and we can do that for you. Then you
will have both the large and a separate folder with the web-size versions. The web-size
versions are for viewing purposes only, not for print because the quality is lowered in
order for them to be small enough for web or email. You can always send the small ones
and friends/family can ask for the large version later to print or for you to print for them.
What cameras do you use and how large are the images?
I have 3 Canon EOS Digital Rebels. The higher the megapixel the better. My main camera
is a Canon EOS Rebel XTi at 10.1 mp. One back-up cameras is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
at 8.0 mp and my emergency back-up camera is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel at 6.3 mp. All
produce great quality images for prints as large or larger than a 30x40 inch poster size.
I'm a professional photographer too, are you comfortable with that?
Yes. I am confident in my work and I have no disposition.
If you are a professional photographer or graphic designer and understand how to use
RAW images and prefer to have them, please ask, otherwise I take them in jpg format
because most do not have the sufficient programs to convert the files properly.
Is wedding photography your only job?
Yes. Although in the winter months when things are slow, I may get a seasonal job.
Do you have a studio?
I do not have an official studio - yet. We just bought our house last September and plan
on finishing a studio by end of 2008. Currently I use many parts of my house and outside
that look professional, see examples. Or I go to the location of your choice. Family
portraits and engagement sessions are often done at your home or a local park. Weddings
are obviously on location. Senior portraits I do at my home.
What are your hours?
I am available basically 7 days a week. I check email every day and try to answer all phone
calls from 9am-8pm, except during photo sessions. I usually work around my husband's
schedule and he does shift work. So if he has a day off mid-week, I will most likely take
that day off. But I at least try to check email.
Do you do engagement or couple photo sessions?
Yes, an engagement photo session may be added to a wedding package of choice at any
time for an additional $150 (within 30 miles from Fort Edward, NY 12828). If you do not
sign up with a wedding package it is separate at $225. It works much like the other
photo sessions, it is an hour long and you will own 80-200 photos on CD with a photo
release. Dates will be agreed upon by all parties and would be best scheduled at least 3
months before the date of your wedding.
Rain date? - No problem, we can reschedule for a better day. Think of creative ideas
inside and outside such as: the place you met or a place that is special to the both of
you, as well as barns, fields, historic areas, parks, fences, steps, gates, benches, or even
your own home. Can't think of a place? My home is open to you as well. See more
examples of photos taken at my home.
Please contact me directly if travel for your engagement session is over 30 miles.
What is your take on someone as young as you? Also compared to someone who has done
tons of weddings vs. you at a lower amount?
At 29 I'm surprised to still get this question but I do look and sound younger than I am.
I believe that the younger you are, the more apt you are to having fresh ideas. Yes,
experience counts, that's very true. But you can't replace that newly made cutting edge
creative feel. Think of it this way, the less weddings, the less redundant and boring
same ol' same ol' shots. I believe in taking traditional photos, but with a creative twist!
Who else will get you up in a tree, haha, only if you want to of course! Plus, wouldn't you
want someone with more energy?
As of Dec. 2007 I've done over 50 weddings but it feels like a whole lot more. Considering
too, I've been doing photography for over 10 years. First as an event photographer and
now doing weddings for about 4 years (with 3 of those years being full-time as weddings).
On your contract it states - "If serious illness, accident or equipment failures of no
control occurs before, during or after, Out of the Ordinary cannot be held liable for
damage or loss in the event the service fails to comply with the terms of this
agreement." - What does this mean?
Like all contracts both parties should be protected. Obviously this is an extreme
statement but we are also humans. If something bad does occur, this ensures you of
getting a complete refund of anything paid up until that point including the deposit.* I
will do my absolute best in any way, shape, or form to be there. The only thing stopping
me is a tragedy. I will do my best to find coverage but just like life, there are no
guarantees. As far as equipment failures I always have updated equipment and 2 backup
cameras. I purposely use smaller storage flash cards and this ensures that I switch them
out regularly so I have a constant flow. This way, in the extreme case of a corrupted
card, at least I'll have the majority of the day on all the other cards.
Why do you wait to sign the contract until after the bride & groom fills it out?
If I haven't received a deposit to hold the date, a contract alone is not a holding record
for that date. If I am sending a contract in the mail without a deposit, there is a
possibility of confusion with details and holding a date.
One time I had two contracts back for the same date with a miscommunication, one
person changed their mind on a date and if I had signed ahead of time, there is too much
liability and only one date I can hold. I prefer to review all details before signing the
contract but a $100 deposit does hold the date you originally stated.
Why do you not have a full contact address on your website?
Spam. You would be surprised at how many emails and contacts I get that are fake.
Please contact me directly for my full address.
The awkward food conversation:
Where do I seat the vendors? Do I supply them a meal? If so, when?
This question is frequently asked, but not by the bride & groom or the vendors.
Oddly enough, it doesn't come about until the last minute. Almost every wedding I hear
the same comments from all vendors: DJ's, bands, videographers and photographers.
Most of the time it's, "I wish they would have seated me near where I needed to be."
And then I hear, "And they should have fed us sooner because we need to get going on
what we were hired to do."
Now this all depends on how big your wedding is & may not apply if you have a small
wedding.
But the real question is, why isn't this mentioned up-front and why has this always been
a mystery on all parties involved? I guess it's because we, as vendors, don't want you to
feel obligated in any certain way. We realize this is your day, not ours. Yet, the
conversation arises every time. So I'm going to be blunt & honest, as I always am, and tell
my opinion...
If you are suppling us a meal - thank you! We are ever-so grateful because we are usually
starving by the time we get to the reception. Some vendors require a meal and state it
up-front, but I'm not so sure that's the polite way or not. If you are not suppling us a
meal, then let us know ahead of time so we can bring an energy bar & water. There is no
time to stop in between. Either way, we are human too and need to have energy for the
rest of the night. As well as a place to sit down & put our equipment/bags.
I know it may not seem right at first, but it makes better sense to seat the vendors
where they need to be. It's good to seat all of us together if you can and I'd recommend
seating us beside the DJ's set-up area, always, if possible.
DJ's need to be by their music. They need to make sure all is going smoothly and may
need to jump in at any moment to make corrections. This is less a problem if there are
two DJ's, as they can rotate positions. With bands I have less experience with because
they usually never eat, if they do, it's after the gig. It also depends on if you have filler
dinner music or they play during dinner. But once again, I'd say seat them near their
equipment if they are eating.
Photographers & videopgraphers should be near the dance floor or near the DJ area. Or
at least have easy access to the dance floor at all times. We need to reach all areas - but
the dance floor is most important. Most events, random or planned, happen there. Even
though we are standing the majority of the time, it's during dinner that it's very hard for
us to get through crowds and chairs to get to these important happenings in time.
Especially if the guests suddenly all stand.
I've also had experiences where I was seated in another room or on the other side of the
building with the DJ. We couldn't hear a thing of what was going on. Needless to say,
both of us ate two minutes worth of a meal and went back hungry just to not miss
anything.
Meal time. We know that the guest, rightfully so, should be fed first. But most of the
time, we get fed after everyone is done eating the main course. This makes no sense at
all, because this is the time when we need to get back to work. So in most cases, we
have to leave the meals and go back & forth, hoping that the staff doesn't take it. If you
are suppling a meal in another room for us, you can feed us sooner than the guests
because it will not be noticed and we can get back to work sooner.
Remember, we know we are there to do our job first, no question. But if you can make
things easier for us, we can do the job even better without the guilt of grabbing a quick
bite to eat.
Got a question? Or one you think I should post?
Email me: holly@outoftheordinary.biz
*Some exceptions may apply, please contact me for further details. Everything is
analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If there are travel cost, a larger deposit may be needed
up front due to booking a hotel ahead of time, etc.
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Got a question? Or one you
think I should post?
Email me:
holly@outoftheordinary.biz
think I should post?
Email me:
holly@outoftheordinary.biz
