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.
More Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Do you only work with large companies/resorts?
No.
We love working with businesses of all sizes and budgets. We understand the importance for EVERY business to have impactful visuals to help them attract customers. We even offer specialized packages for startups or entrepreneurs on a budget.
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 your feedback.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How many photos will I get?
As many as you want.
There are many factors that go into the shot count and the 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 (shot list) ahead of time and we will ensure the most important shots are prioritized.
Can you service ongoing/recurring clients?
Yes.
We have a talented team of individuals that assist with ongoing marketing, advertising, design, social media, web and other adjacent services.
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.