Below is a list of things I have been asked by clients. Hopefully my answers to these questions will answer any you may have had. If not please feel free to ask your own.
How would you describe your style?
My style is the Rob Ward style. Everyone has their own methods and techniques which develop over time to create a unique style. One client described my style as “Vogue- esque” which I find quite flattering. In reality, my style is a mix of several “styles” - reportage / photojournalism or whatever fancy label you would like to give it. I call it story telling – capturing events of your day as they happen without any direction by me. To this I add a blend of fashion photography in my “couply” bride and groom shots. This comes from my work with a national model agency. These are the shots which give my albums the “wow factor”. Obviously these are posed, but don’t worry, I don’t turn you day into a photoshoot. I work quickly and usually only need about 15 minutes to get some great shots with you. Of course you can have more of these if you want –or none at all if that is not your thing - it’s your day. Because it is my style that makes my photography “mine”, I work alone and never send another photographer to shoot weddings for me.
Do you shoot formal groups?
Absolutely! These are a great tradition and a part of pretty much every wedding I shoot. Often a wedding can be the only time the whole family comes together and it is an ideal opportunity to record this. Again, I tend to work quite quickly and make these groups shots as much fun as possible. I am aware that there is the potential for these groups to become a bit of a chore for guests so suggest that the groups are kept to about 8 – 10. Obviously, the more time I spend shooting the formal groups the less time I have to mingle with guests and record the fun candid moments that make your day special.
Can we come and see some more of your work?
Please do. Most of my clients like to meet me before booking and I encourage this. I feel that it is important that there is a “good fit” between the couple and their photographer as whoever shoots your wedding is going to be spending a big part of your special day with you, so you need to feel comfortable in the company of your photographer. Please come over to my studio, have a coffee and see what I mean. I don’t do “hard sell” but most people who meet me, book me.
Do we get to see you before the wedding?
Yes, where possible I prefer this. I like to feel totally organized at your wedding so I do encourage a get together before the day. Around 6 weeks before is best as, by then most of the wedding plans have come together. I can then make myself lists of who the VIP’s are, how many guests you have coming, what time everything is happening, and where, also what formal groups we are going to achieve – this way I can smoothly record your day without constantly having to ask you what is happening next. Whilst I do not take myself seriously I take my photography and commitment to providing a top class service very seriously
Some of my clients come from out of area and need to book without having met me. This is fine too but I usually encourage the addition of a pre wedding shoot to the package as this is a great opportunity for a “get to know you” session. They give you the chance to get used to being photographed by me so that come the big day it is like having an old friend around plus they are good fun and you get some great shots from the session. Please see my section on lifestyle photography for more information about these sessions.
How do I book?
I only have a limited number of Saturdays in any given year so have to work on a first come first served basis. Whilst I am happy to pencil in dates, perhaps pending a meeting, the date is only “booked” once I am in receipt of a signed contract and retainer of £250. To keep myself fresh and available for other projects I only shoot a maximum of 25 weddings per year so would suggest booking early most of the “prime dates” get booked at least a year in advance.
Do you have insurance?
Most definitely! Who would be crazy enough not to have insurance?
Do you have backups in place?
Certainly! Again, it would be crazy not to have backup systems in place. I am a professional photographer providing a professional service not a guy with a camera who comes out to earn some pocket money on a Saturday! Without getting nerdy over the kit, I have spare everything with me on a shoot and carry a set of studio lighting in case the weather turns into a pig and we need to achieve some professional looking groups indoors. As well as professional insurance I am a qualified member of two professional bodies and network with a small group of local photographers who are of a similar standard to myself so that all eventualities are covered.
Do you travel?
Yes. In the past few years I have shot weddings in Kent, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. The only difference from local weddings is that I ask for my mileage, and where necessary, overnight accommodation to be covered.
You work looks expensive am I going to be able to afford you?
My photography may not be as much as you think. Like most things in life, to an extent, you get what you pay for. There is always going to be someone who will cut corners, reduce quality and service and “ do it a bit cheaper” so if the bottom line is your main concern, I am sure you will find someone who is cheaper and I wish you well on your special day. If, however, you are looking for great service and fantastic images I represent great value. I am happy to create a custom package to suit your own requirements but have ready built packages from £425 [mid week] and £950 weekends.
