Between choosing the exact shade of periwinkle and tasting everything from Merlot to Escargot, you've got your hands full! Meeting caterers, florists, and musicians is tough enough, never mind negotiating the photographer scene. Believe me, I'm married. I know. That's why I keep everything simple. My rates are all-inclusive, and there are no ad on's or hidden fees. Your negatives and all of your prints arrive on your doorstep about a month after the wedding.
In response to your questions, my rates are $400 per hour, and that's it. You get every single image I shoot developed to a 4x6, custom, show quality print - not just a proof. Remember, you also get to keep all of your negatives. Like I said. I keep it simple.
We begin by going over the timeframe you are thinking about, and together we decide what is necessary for you to book. If you happen to be running later than anticipated on the day of the wedding, I can stay overtime if you like. Any time that is not contracted for (when we make your booking) is considered overtime. I only book one event per day for that very reason. However, each additional hour you request me to stay late is charged at time and a half. For example, if we contract for six hours, and you decide not to cut your cake till later. Then, only the extra hour you ask me to stay is overtime. I do have a three hour minimum per event.
Travel fees are only applicable to weddings with one hour (or more) drive time to reach the site - beginning in Breckenridge. Obviously, for Summit County weddings there is no travel charge unless I have to ride the Gondola up a mountain, or hike to some remote vista. Incidentally, I do not shoot weddings outside of Summit or Eagle counties.
I have been photographing in Colorado for over ten years, and am a member of the Professional Photographers of America. My equipment is all Nikon and I shoot 35mm Fuji film. I do not do digital photography, but I do offer the entire wedding to be burned to CD as an additional item if you wish. They are Pro-quality, super high resolution discs. The charge for that is $25 per roll, and we determine the cost when we know how many rolls we are dealing with - post wedding. I shoot as much film as I can in the time you book for, and believe me, it's a lot.
Lists of preferred shots are fine. Actually I ask you to write me three lists; first, a list of all the family members on each side, second, a list of "unusual" shots such as college groupings or something artistic you would like to try, and third, a timeline.
As far as my "style" goes, well you tell me. I do a wedding each weekend, and if I photographed every wedding in exactly the same manner - well that would be pretty boring after a while. I prefer to really get to know my couple's personality. I keep it as natural as possible, and use a zoom lens much of the time. I've been told by some couples who requested Photojournalism, that they didn't even know I was there until after the ceremony!
Candids are by far my favorite part of wedding photography. I love capturing a moment that you may not have even realized I was watching. I tend to hang back, watch, and wait. For me, a wedding is a natural event that should be photographed with as little interference as possible. I want to capture your true radiance and the groom's nervousness. I want to snap the photograph of you leaning into your husband's shoulder while you twirl your first steps as a married couple. Posed photographs will always be incorporated, but the little stolen moments are the ones I think you'll truly cherish, and I strive to record your day with as many of those as I can catch.
When it comes to portraits I also prefer a more laid back, natural, approach. Rather than using tons of posing objects, toys, flowers, painted backdrops, and so forth, I want to capture the essence of the individual I am photographing. That radiant smile, the warmth in the eyes, the soul. You and your loved ones are individuals, and my goal is to create the portrait that defines you.
Shooting a wedding in a photojournalistic style involves seeing everything, but not being seen. I personally photograph each wedding, and only accept one wedding per day to ensure a high level of creative energy. My love and passion for my work shows not only in my results, but also in the relaxed and disarming way I interact with people. I am fast, unobtrusive and let every moment naturally happen around you. It is important to capture quickly changing emotions.
The personality of your photographer will determine if the picture-taking is exciting and fun or merely a chore. Weddings can be hectic, but the right photographer can help make your day run more smoothly. As a woman, I know how important those little details are. I always take time out to get to know my couples and to find out the things that are most important to THEM. I find that being a female wedding photographer is a distinct advantage, allowing me to empathize with the bride and the styles of pictures she would like.
I interview brides mainly on weekdays, (as I shoot weddings every weekend) but can probably work something out if that poses a problem. I do keep unorthodox hours, so an evening meeting would be fine. Please email me or call 970-470-1391 and let me know when a convenient time is for you.
Be sure to check out the samples!
-Robin
- Letter to the Bride
- Contract