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
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.
What services do you provide?
We make photos and videos.
We create photography and media of architecture spaces, food and beverage, product and retail, lifestyle and editorial and skilled drone/aerial coverage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What types of businesses typically hire a commercial photographer?
All of them.
Any business that needs high-quality visuals to promote their products or services can benefit from working with a commercial photographer. We work with a wide range of industries, including retail, hospitality, fashion, real estate, and more.
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.