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 much larger subjects like buildings, landmarks, etc.
If you're considering hiring us for aerial photography, please make sure you have considered location and permitting ahead of time, as many locales have specific rules and processes for booking a shoot.
More Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know I'm getting what I want/need? Can I be involved in the creative process?
Yes, you're the producer, I'm the director.
You (or your coordinator) can be involved in each stage of the process, from pre-production to the photoshoot and into post-production. During the actual shooting/filming, media can be shown on a monitor in real time so we all know we’re going in the right direction.
For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, we can schedule virtual a conference call over Zoom or Google Meet to review art direction, creative, model usage, etc.
How many photos will I get?
As many as you want.
There are many factors that go into a shot count but I generally create 8-12 photographs per day of shooting. This yield depends heavily on the size and complexity of the project considering the styling, staging, lighting, models, permits/access, and other logistical needs.
For example, a mixed-day shoot with a few high value photographs and a package of social media / detail shots would provide more quantity, but overall less quality and vice verse.
When in doubt: Plan out your media needs ahead of time and we will ensure the most important shots are prioritized.
I have a general idea of what I'd like, but want to leave the creative work to the professionals, is that ok?
Yes.
While we always encourage your involvement, we are professionals and with a well thought out and detailed plan we can be left to do what we always do best.
Note: Even when a project is left to our team to make key art direction decisions, we may still request direct feedback from you if we're not 100% sold about a concept we're working on.
I don't understand, what makes commercial photography different from just hiring a photographer for a day?
Quality.
While my aim is to make every final photograph look simple, natural, and effortless — that’s rarely the fact.
A well executed photograph involves balancing many factors such as composition, lighting, styling, blending and retouching, it’s a lot of problem solving that comes with experience.
In addition, commercial photography involves collaboration with clients, art directors, marketing teams, and other professionals to bring their vision to life.
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.
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 corporate photographers, 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?
You, mostly.
Ultimately, it depends on the contract and agreement we make for your specific project.
Typically, you (the client) will have the rights to use the photos for your intended purposes, but we (the photographer) may retain ownership and have the right to use them in their portfolio or for future marketing purposes.
Note: ALL clients get a lifetime unlimited license to use the photos; ownership of the photos is based on client needs and budget.
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.
Just keep in mind, 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.
How much advance notice do I need to book a project?
2-4 weeks, generally.
Commercial photography shoots can take many weeks or months of planning and preparation with very tight running schedules and deadlines. By providing advance notice, it allows me to schedule and prepare for your shoot in a professional and reliable way.
How long does it take to get my photos/videos?
10 days, generally.
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, it's usually the exception to the rule.
Note: More dynamic projects where post-production involves many decisions can take more time to deliver.