Who do you recommend if you’re booked?
I give out referrals based on several factors, but most importantly it is the quality of the person. It breaks my heart to hear about clients having bad experiences with wedding vendors during their planning process. Especially if it’s a photographer. So, I normally refer my industry friends who I think are really nice. I also assess each clients style preferences and budget, then refer accordingly.
You talked a lot during our consult, are you always like that?
Well… yes… and no. I get really excited about all things weddings. When couples meet with me I want to know all about their wedding, so I ask a lot of questions. It’s the best way to figure out whether or not I’m the photographer for them. I love using my experience to help other couples plan, envision, or get excited about their special day. During a wedding, I prefer to be more stealthy and only direct moments during the formal portraits.
Have you ever been married?
No. I only plan on doing it once myself, so why rush it? In the meantime, I’m getting inspiration from all my wonderful clients to create the best wedding day ever!
How many photos do you take at a wedding or session?
This number fluctuates based on several factors: hours of shooting, the number of details, number of people, etc, etc, etc… However, I try my best to narrow this down to a beautiful collection of photos that feel as if I captured every details, without giving you an overwhelming number of repetitive photographs. For a wedding my average would be about 700, for a session it’s typically 100.
Who will be you wedding photographer?
Oh this will be a hard decision! I have toyed with the idea of starting a savings account now, just to land my dream photographer when that day comes. Crazy right? So – I also have a lot of wonderful photography friends who would do an amazing job. I’ll I can say is this, the photographer will be awesome and carefully selected. After all my time spent educating clients on the importance of selecting the right photographer for them, there is no way I can pick just anybody.
Which do you like more, photography or graphic design?
I actually get asked this question quite often. Probably because I continue to do both, and I talk about both with a lot of passion. I truly do love the artistic aspects of each, and this allows me to do both successfully. I also believe with my whole heart that being a graphic designer makes me a better photographer. Back in college, I originally jumped into photography as a means to make my graphic design better, and found out I loved it just as much. Now, the asset to my clients, is more than just getting a few custom designed treats now and again. I understand things like resolution for web vs. print, CMYK vs RGB, how to Photoshop the good way and how all these things can effect your photos. I do not believe Photoshop is the be-all-end-all of design software, and it should not be the only software in a photographers tool kit. I love the words typography and Helvetica. I still receive daily critiques that help me develop my artistic eye. If you tell me you like a photograph, I can analyze it and tell you the design elements that are visually appealing. Then analyze the light and method for shooting it. Photography and graphic design go together like vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. They are good separately, but together they are magical goodness.
Do you shoot out of town?
Yes!!! In fact, only about half my weddings booked every year are local to Bakersfield. If you have a destination wedding don’t hesitate to ask.
What is the best advice for couples planning their wedding day?
Make it personal and unique to the two of you. Ask for recommendations to find vendors you trust.
Do you offer discounts or sales?
The short answer is, no. Sometimes, there will be sales on product through my print lab and I will transfer those sales to my clients. However, I never discount or have sales on creative production. Why? Well, for one reason I have worked very hard establishing my business and my art as a valuable product. I also believe it is unfair for my current clients, who have already seen the value in my services, to pay a higher price. I will never devalue my time or art by arbitrarily discounting what I do just to land a gig. However, if we are getting those feel good vibes from each other, I will do my best to accommodate you by customizing a package. I believe every job has a value. Whether that value is creative, emotional or monetary. All these things are factored into every booking I make. You certainly won’t get treated like Pretty Women on Rodeo Drive, and if any vendor treats you that way – run away! I also feel very passionate about giving back to my community and client base, so I occasionally gift my services.