Frequently Asked Questions

What photographic style do you use?
I use a variety of styles depending on the situation. Mostly it’s a photojournalist style. I am quiet and observant by nature, so I tend to stay in the background or wander amongst the guests taking photos of people as they are. I drop out of people’s radar pretty quickly. I also do a little prompting to get photos that I think would be interesting. Then there’s the stand together and smile photos of the wedding party and family that are always necessary.

What about formal shots of the wedding party and family?
Of course, these are an important part of the photographic coverage. Most times this happens right after the ceremony but some of it can be done before if there is time. I respect the wishes of the bride and groom if they don’t want to be seen before the ceremony. I also realize there is a time crunch and try to take the photos quickly while at the same time making it fun for everybody. Some times working from a list of combinations works well and other times I depend on the couple to tell me who they want photos of.

What kind of equipment do you use?
I use professional model digital cameras, the Canon EOS-1D Mark IIN, and the Canon 20D. "Fast" zoom lenses allow for quickly changing situations and lighting conditions. Plus, there is no film so I can get many high resolution images on a card, so, I can take lots of pictures. These images can be made into color, B&W, sepia tone, or a combination of color and B&W.

What do you use, film or digital?
I have been photographing digitally for over four years and can achieve everything film can and even more. The technology has come a long way in a short period of time. I use a professional processing lab where the digital images are placed on archival photographic paper. I used to teach computer classes as part of university continuing education programs and am very familiar with photoshop.

Do you work out of a studio or your home?
I work out of my home which has a small studio space if needed. I prefer on-location photography to use the environment that is familiar to the wedding couple.

How long have you been in business?
I have been a professional photographer since 1996 and started my photography business in Tucson, Arizona. I have concentrated on weddings because I enjoy them so much. I also photograph events, products, PR photos, and executive head shots for numerous corporate clients as well as high school seniors, families, babies, children, reunions, etc. My experience as a photographer goes way back, however. I've had a camera since I was nine years old and have taken thousands of photographs associated with the several jobs in my previous career as a director of community education programs. My "15 minutes" claim to fame is the cover photograph of Andrew Weil on his book “8 Weeks to Optimum Health.”

What lab do you use?
I use Centric Photo Processing, a professional lab in Tucson, Arizona, which I used when I lived in Tucson. They have always provided quality service in a timely manner and stand behind their work. They have up-to-date digital processing equipment. They also provide a web service that allows me to send them photos via the internet and images can be posted on a web storefront where people can view and purchase photos. As I become familiar with the labs in this area, I will probably switch over.

Are you a member of any professional associations?
Yes, I am a member of Wedding and Portrait Photographers International and attend their convention each year to become inspired and to learn about the latest equipment and photographic techniques. I also belong to Professional Photographers of America, National Association of Photoshop Professionals and the Western Michigan Wedding Association.

What brand of albums do you offer?
I use an album company in Chicago called Zookbinders and I have visited their factory to see how they produce their albums. Their albums are designed for the digital photographer and are hand crafted. They also have matted albums which look more traditional. To see what they have available go to the Zookbinders website at www.zookbinders.com/products2.html. I also have access to less expensive albums made for digital photographers. In other words, I can provide you whatever you want.

How many pictures do you take?
Since I don't use film, I tend to take lots more images. Much depends on the size of the wedding, length of time, how much fun people are having, etc. I select what I feel are the better photos and put them in an image book (proof book which you keep) for your review. It seems to be around 200 to 300 for a small wedding and 400 to 600 for larger weddings.

Do you provide a contract?
I prefer to call it a "Letter of Understanding." After we decide on all the particulars, I put it in writing so we both have the same expectations. You to sign one copy to confirm I am doing what you expect and return it to me keeping one copy for yourself.

What else should I know?
Well, my belief is that it is “your” wedding and you should get what you want. I’m not here to sell you something, I’m here to give you the service you want. There are many wonderful photographers to choose from and for some the deciding factor is who they would like to spend the day with. I try to be inclusive in my service and not to “nickel and dime” you.