FAQs

Here’s how we approach work:

Q. Is commercial photography expensive?

A. It depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all budget and no two projects are the same. I view commercial creative services much like skilled labor (plumbing, electrical, etc). A client might have some dream image that doesn’t take a lot of time or effort. Another client might a need for 1 or 2 images that require a ton of prep and post-production work. That’s why I’m always happy to offer a free consultation to understand client needs and communicate as clearly as possible what the real-world implications are.

I’ll ask some qualifying questions like:

“What do you want to happen?”
“What do your ideal images look like to you?”
”Where will these images end up when we’re done?”
”How much time do we have?”

Is it expensive? That word has different meanings to different groups. We invoice according to the scope of work brought to us and with respect to the derived value versus the risk of doing nothing. A price war usually ends with a race to the bottom in terms of quality and customer experience.

If you are using images to create revenue (ie. sell products), why would you not want the highest quality images you can get?

Q. How quickly can you get my images to me?

A. Usually within a week. As above, every project is different. If we have a big production/event and shoot 11,000 photos, that takes time to sort and cull. But every project gets our full and complete attention and we want to get your project stood up as soon as possible. We don’t charge hourly, so we don’t want to keep you waiting.

Q. Who is “we?” How many photographers do you have?

A. I am involved in every single project in some form. Larger assignments might require additional photographers, assistants, or editors. It’s not a way for me to invoice you for more money, rather, it’s what makes the work more efficient. The #1 goal of every project is to get high quality content delivered as quickly as possible. I leverage a team of professional subcontracted creatives when needed. I carry a $2 million general liability insurance policy and any labor I bring on is vetted and insured by me.

Q. Can I have the raw images?

A. Yes - if your project requires that. From years of experience, when I hear this question I typically translate it to actually meaning “Can I have the unedited photos?” Not the out-of-the-camera raw files. Truth is, you’re already getting all of the photos that result from your project. I do not hold back images for any reason - Clients should never have to pay more for an agency holding images hostage.

The process works as follows: We agree on scope of work. We commence production of the project. We transfer content to secure backup drives. I then start culling out duplicate shots, blurred focus, closed eyes, unflattering angles, brand logos covered/incorrect, etc. Then I make a second pass to ensure I didn’t miss anything AND ensure I’ve marked the best photos for your needs. I then apply post-production treatment to all of it.

If I tell you no, it’s because you’re already getting everything that meets deliverable quality that resulted from your project. If you asked for 25 images, you’re probably going to get 75. Nothing gets held back.

If a client requests the actual raw image files, it’s because there is proprietary, confidential, or sensitive intellectual property at stake. This is called a complete buyout and usually results in additional fees for copyright transfer.

Q. How is content delivered?

A. Photo content is delivered via private client gallery for download. If desired, I will purchase a hard drive and mail a physical copy of the project to you in addition to the gallery. A gallery typically stays up for 6 months to 1 year, after which I take it down to make room for other work. It’s imperative that you download your project completely as soon as delivered.

Q. How is invoicing handled?

A. Invoices are delivered immediately upon completion of the project. Payment links are sent through a secure credit card processor that handles ACH and credit card. Checks are also accepted.

Q. When did you realize you wanted to work with a camera?

A. I’ve been interested in photos since I was a child. I could get lost staring at old time photos, journalistic photos of foreign places, images of war, intimate portraits of people, and so on. I don’t typically enjoy hearing the phrase “visual storyteller” but I do love getting absorbed by stories that only great photographs can tell. I began shooting with professional level digital cameras in 2013 and have since studied the work of my peers and industry pioneers to evolve and deepen my understanding of the craft. The most flattering thing for me is when someone feels compelled to hang one of my photos in their home or office.