How long does it take to get my photos/videos?
2 weeks, typically.
Your photos and videos are typically delivered within 10 business days of the last shoot day. However, this process can be expedited if needed - don't forget to mention it when you submit your request for an estimate. Just remember... there's an age-old saying about quality, speed, and price... and while we strive to provide all three, there is a harmony to maintain.
Note: More dynamic projects, where the post-production process involves many decisions, may take more time to deliver.
More Frequently Asked Questions
I have never hired a photographer before, where do I start?
Plan ahead.
Before inquiring, you should have a good idea of (a) how soon will you need the project done (b) whereabouts will the work take place and (c) what are some examples of what you want to achieve. It is also helpful to know who on your team will be the key decision maker/tie breaker, who will be the primary point of contact before, during, and after the shoot, and how much staff you have available to assist with the production process.
For the more detail oriented, feel free to review the AIA Best Practices Guide. Once you have a good idea of what your project might look like, give me a call at or shoot me an email to continue the planning process.
Why do I need commercial photography?
Time.
Today, people value their time more than ever and are making buying decisions faster then ever. Professional commercial photography can help businesses cut through the noise and effectively showcase their products or services in the best possible light, significantly impacting purchasing decisions.
Can you do aerial/drone projects? Are you licensed and insured?
Yes and yes.
I am licensed with the FAA, follow all airspace regulations, and carry full liability coverage for all commercial drone flights.
I also have experience with traditional helicopter-aerial projects for more specialized imagery or if we need to shoot from higher altitudes that are unavailable to drone based services.
Can I share the cost of a photoshoot with my partners?
Yes.
If your project is a collaboration between multiple companies or organizations, you can split the hard costs of a production and pay usage/licensing fees just for the specific needs of your company.
This is a great way to divide expenses and get the highest photography production for a fraction of the price.
Let me know if you'd like to discuss Cost Sharing or if your project involves any government agencies, NGOs, political affiliations etc.
How much advance notice do I need to book a project?
2-4 weeks, ideally.
Commercial photography shoots can often take weeks of planning and preparation with very tight running schedules and deadlines. By providing as much advance notice as possible, we are better able to schedule and prepare for your shoot in a professional and reliable way.
My business has a "brand/look" that we want to maintain, can your content match what we already have?
Yes.
I can take directive from examples of either (a) your current brand/look or (b) the brand/look you would like to emulate. The more branding and identity you have already established, the clearer our objective as photographers will be, and thus the better the entire project will turn out for you.
I don't have a big budget, can I still get "big-budget" media? How is the pricing calculated?
Yes.
Smaller businesses pay less. Larger businesses pay more.
The scope of use is a major contributing factor in how creative work is priced; a small startup will have less reach than a global corporation and thus pays less to license the same work.
I price projects based on the creative and production needs, in combination with the specific use of the imagery. In other words, while a small business may not have the marketing or advertising budget to book models, props, and large scale venues, the deliverables I provide will still match the technical quality and expertise of a large big-budget corporate production.
If you have concerns about budgeting, contact me and we'll discuss possibilities.
Do you offer services aside from photography?
Yes.
We offer additional services such as photo editing, retouching, graphic design, web design (we built this very website), SEO, social media management and more.
We also offer branding, marketing, and advertising consulting to help you create and maintain a cohesive visual identity.
What sets a “commercial photographer” apart from other photographers?
Experience.
Commercial photography, as with any specialty, requires its own unique set of skills, abilities and experience. From balancing light to working with perspective it takes years of training and practice to perfect all the nuances of commercial photography.
One of the key differences between a commercial photographer and other photographers, such as a real estate photographer, is their ability to capture images that effectively convey a message or tell a story that also matches the voice and tone of an existing brand.
Do I own the rights to the photos taken by a commercial photographer?
Typically, no.
ALL clients get a lifetime unlimited license to use the photos; ownership of the photos is based on client needs and budget.
Ultimately, it depends on the contract and agreement we make for your specific project.
More likely, you (the client) will have the rights to use the photos for your intended purposes, but we (the photographer) retain ownership and have the right to use them in our portfolio or for marketing purposes.