How would you describe your style?
“Fine Art Photojournalism” is probably the best label for my work. I am first and foremost a wedding photographer, and as such, I have to work fast, adapt to my subject matter, and find the compositions that are truly worth hanging on the wall.
Do you travel and will that cost more? What about destination weddings?
I love to travel! Stateside, I am willing to drive up to 100 miles round trip on my own dime, and any additional mileage incurs a travel surcharge of .535/mile (2017 IRS business mileage rate). As a rule, I ask for overnight lodging ($300/night) if the drive from your event to Grand Rapids, MI takes me past midnight.
Destination weddings are often more affordable than people think. I am fully insured, and usually ask for flight, rental car, and lodging. Depending on the specifics of your wedding and location this can range in additional cost from $700-$2500. If you have a destination wedding in mind, contact me with the details and we can discuss those fabulous plans!
Click here to see one of my destination weddings.
What equipment do you use?
Canon 5D Mark IV
35mm f/1.4L II
50mm f/1.2L
85mm f/1.2L
135mm f/2.0L
70-200mm f/2.8L II
Canon Speedlite 600Ex-RT
Do you schedule a time in the day for family and bridal party portraits?
Certainly! Prior to your wedding date, I will send out a questionnaire (asking all the important information that I need to know) & request a family/bridal party portrait list. Having this list takes the pressure off the two of you, so you can fully enjoy your wedding day and not worry about who you may have left out.
Do you ask for a wedding day/details shot list? Can I give you Pintrest ideas?
The only list I ask for is the family/bridal party portrait list. Other than that, I do not go by a list. If there is something particularly important to you, there is a line on my questionnaire for you to indicate that request, and as always I will do my best to honor those moments/ideas. However, if I am focused on checking off bulleted items, then I will undoubtably miss the authentic moments from your day. While I would love to check out your Pintrest ideas, I don’t like to replicate other people’s photographs. It is important to find a photographer that you really connect with, someone whose photographs speak to you, someone you trust to create original art with. Also, as a photographer, I always encourage clients to go unplugged during their wedding ceremony.
How many photographs will we get?
Approximately 400 – 500 photos (based upon the specifics of your day). I focus on quality over quantity. As with many art forms, photography follows the old adage that “less is more”. I prefer to focus on a fewer number of photographs and give them more attention in the post-processing /digital darkroom. Good art takes time. I edit each and every image individually, without batch edits or hiring an outside firm.
How long will it take to receive our photographs?
In my busy season (May through October) 6-8 weeks.
Do you offer wedding albums? Can I buy prints?
We have partnered with PQ Blackwell Publishing to create absolutely stunning photo books for our clients. Simply put, they are the best product available anywhere. You can order your own custom Milk Photo Book from my storefront. I also love to help with custom framing for those special prints that you want to showcase.
All my clients have “personal use license” which means that you can print and share your photographs for non-commercial use.
I always encourage clients to utilize my online print lab. If I took the digital still, I want you to be able to truly appreciate it. All images are professionally printed on Fuji-film crystal archival paper, delivering rich, stunning colors that will last a lifetime. You will receive them, un-matted and unframed, in sturdy, moisture-resistant packaging usually within a couple business days. I love my print lab and the check out process is a cakewalk.
How does an engagement session work?
Engagement sessions are a great way to get to know each other before your wedding day. My complimentary, 30-minute session takes place in the Grand Rapids area. This session is included in the basic wedding package. Clients have the option to download high-resolution photographs via online proofing (there is a nominal fee per digital download). If you are interested in a more extended engagement session with a USB and rights to print, please contact me for additional pricing.
How many weddings do you photograph per year?
25-35 weddings. I am full-time. This is all I do.
Can we meet in person?
Yes! I would love to sit down and chat over tea or a glass of wine. Alternately, I am available to talk via Facetime/Google Chat or over the phone if meeting in person is not an option for you.
How do we book you?
To reserve your date, I require a signed contract and a non-refundable deposit of $1,499. The remaining balance is due no later then 2 weeks before your wedding date.