Why should we hire you?
I understand hiring Aunt Karen (or your friend Kevin who just got his first camera) for a bargain may sound appealing at first, but a once-in-a-lifetime day deserves big consideration. That’s why you’re here, right?
If you’ve made it this far, you already know I capture great memories. What you can’t see is how hard I work to take the complication out of your important day. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but things can go wrong at weddings – a lot of things. I’m able to react quickly to any issue that may arise, and improvise when necessary to ensure the best results. Think this: stress-free photography and another set of eyes helping your day run smoothly. I didn’t gain this experience when I purchased a camera; it took years of making mistakes, learning from them and overcoming adversity to know what to do at the right time.
Not only will I come with the right gear for every situation, but I also come packing energy, enthusiasm, and an experience you just won’t get with Aunt Karen (besides, let her enjoy your wedding as a guest). I’m the photographer that leaves with your guests saying “I wish I could take him everywhere!” and I’ve been told I have a great ability to bring out the best in people and you’ll see it through my work. Contact me today for a coffee/brunch/axe throwing (literally whatever you want) meet & greet to see if I’m the right fit for you!
Please note: Due to limited availability, booking is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Only a signed contract and retainer will lock your date.
How far in advance should I book you for my wedding?
To ensure I have your date open, please reach out to me as soon as possible. Since my following year gets filled in advance, I strongly recommend at least 12-16 months before the wedding to secure your date. If you opt for an engagement session (you want this session, trust me i’m a photographer), an early booking will give us time to plan, shoot and edit so the images are ready for your use (think social media, invites, albums, etc).
How do I reserve you for my wedding day?
Your special date is only reserved once the contract is signed and retainer is paid. Contact me as soon as possible so I can guarantee my services!
Do you have liability insurance?
Yes, absolutely. Most venues require the photographer to carry liability insurance and I personally wouldn’t hire someone without it. Please let me know if you need a certificate of proof at least 1-2 months prior to the event. And before booking Aunt Karen, make sure she’s covered!
What are your rates?
Commissions for weddings depend on location and availability. Coverage starts at $2,495. Contact Us for more information.
What camera gear do you use? Do you have back-ups?
I use Nikon’s professional line of cameras (D800 series), a mix of Nikon and Sigma Art lenses, and Godox flashes (all pro series). I will have extra camera bodies, lenses and lights available at my disposal as well. In the unlikely event that all my backup gear were to break, I will call a predetermined friend to bring replacements. Rest assured as I take meticulous care of all my gear and test every piece of equipment prior to use.
Do you shoot destination weddings?
While I am based out of Chicago, IL, I happily serve clients all around the world. My wedding destination package includes cost of travel and reasonable accommodations. If your destination wedding is on my bucket list, you could be looking at a free shoot! Contact me about it today!
What measures do you take to ensure your business is environmentally friendly?
You might be wondering why a photographer should have to worry about this, but I believe it’s everyone’s responsibility to help promote a clean future for the next generation. Thankfully the digital age eliminated the need for film and chemicals, but this does not mean we’re in the clear. Owning my own business means I have total control over my green efforts, and it would be a waste (pun intended) if I turned a blind eye.
I opted for a home office not only for the convenience, but so I could reduce the carbon footprint my business leaves behind. In my home office I use: LED bulbs, energy efficient monitors, outlet timers for equipment, rechargeable batteries in all my gear, refillable ink cartridges, recycled toilet and printer paper, heating and cooling timers, and much more. I typically stay home for lunches instead of carryout or delivery. My fair trade coffee goes in a washable mug and my plant-based lunches go on washable plates (the coffee grounds even get composted!).
While recycling is great, reducing our consumption makes a much bigger impact. For this reason, I have chosen to deliver images digitally instead of via a thumb drive (unless requested). I am also partnering with eco-conscious businesses for prints, albums and more. Even my camera straps are vegan leather. While some of my efforts may seems over the top, this is how I approach all things I care about in life.
So whether it’s for the earth or your special day, I promise to keep going above and beyond.