What to expect when we work for you?

We are event photography specialists. Our style allows you to relax, enjoy your event and look your very best. We blend in so that your guests will not feel intimidated or harassed by the photographer. There are no hidden costs or surprises when the photographs are delivered to you. Of course, you keep all the digital negatives on a CD so that you can make as many reprints as you like. Most importantly, you can expect that we will do what we say we are going to do.

Can I pick the photographer I want?

You can always know which photographer will be shooting your event. In some cases our clients have a preference and want a particular photographer. In other cases they leave it up to us to select the photographer. We can recommend one of our photographers based on the information you provide about your preferences and the type of event you are holding. You can certainly select the photographer you would like, as long as they are available for your date! Once you send us a deposit, the photographer's calendar is blocked and they are locked into your event. WE DO NOT SWITCH THE PHOTOGRAPHER AT THE LAST MINUTE.

Can I meet the photographer before I book?

Some clients like to meet the photographer before booking, although this is not necessary we are certainly able to accommodate. Please keep in mind that the purpose of the meeting is to determine if you can get along with the photographer. The photographer's photo samples are on our web site, therefore the photographer will not have sample books to show.  Please note: the photographer will not discuss packages, costs, albums or any commercial arrangements.

What happens if the photographer gets sick or has some other unexpected problem?

The photographer you hire for your wedding or special event is the photographer who will show up. In the unlikely event of sickness or other unforeseen circumstances, Special Event Photography will arrange for either or regular back up photographer or another professional photographer to photograph your event using the same approach and working under the same terms and conditions.

Does the photographer have back up equipment?

Each or our photographers arrives at your event with back up equipment in case of unexpected problems. Generally speaking we have photographed just about every type of wedding. Of course there will always be new situations for us. However, the most important thing to remember is that we take the time to find out what is important to you. If we are not familiar with a particular custom that is practiced in your community, we listen carefully so that we can be prepared the day of the event. We then work hard to exceed your expectations.

How many images will be on the CD?

Each of our photographers has a different style of shooting, some shoot more images than others. You can expect to receive between 175 and 300 images on the CD. Many of these will be variations of a pose. The images will all be colour corrected, light balanced by our digital imaging specialist and are "print ready". You will have the opportunity to select the images to be printed, depending on which option you have purchased. You can either print  additional prints yourself, take them to a photo lab or have us print them for you. The choice is yours!

What does it mean when you say "colour corrected and light balanced prints, not proofs"?

We shoot in digital RAW format which most studios do not like to do since there is more work to store and process these large files (between 8 MB and 14 MB for each file). Once the file comes out of the camera, it goes to a digital imaging  specialist who does colour correction and light balancing. The output is a high resolution print ready JPEG which can  produce prints up to 16"x20". When a studio gives you proofs, they are usually right out of the camera, when printed they can look too light, too dark or the colour may not be just right. You then pay about $8 for a 5x7 and $16 for an 8x10 to get a final "print" which is   colour corrected and light balanced.

How long does it take to receive my prints?

Within two weeks of your event, we will send you an email with a link to an on-line gallery where you can view your  photos. You select the images you want printed. The files are then sent to a professional processing lab to be printed so  that you are assured of very high quality results. Within third weeks of selecting the images you would like printed, your prints will be ready. So, if you select your prints  without too much delay, you can expect to receive them in about Three to six weeks from your wedding or special event.

What type of paper is used used for the prints?

The professional photo lab we use has the most current equipment and trained staff. They use a professional paper that  is used by most professional photography studios.

Should I tip the photographer?

While it is not expected that you will tip the photographer, it is always appreciated, especially if the photographer has gone our of their way to make your day special and has done some extras for you. How much to tip? There are really no rules or guidelines, however, if you decide that you would like to tip then $40 to $75 might be right. (But you really should not feel pressured or obligated.) It is certainly not customary or necessary to tip the owner of the photography  studio if they are also your photographer.

Do you also do video?

Although our company started as a film photography company, things change. We are now totally digital photography. Another change was the addition of video service. We now have three videographers and two professional editors. Our  clients love the results. We are fully digital for video as well.

Can I pay by credit card or cheque?

You can pay by VISA, MasterCard or American Express. Of course, you can also pay by cheque.

Paypal is also and option.

Why do I need a schedule for my special event?

Every event requires a schedule. This is a must regardless of whether it is an association golf day, your wedding or a company seasonal party. You don't have to rigidly stick to the schedule, it is a guide for your event.

Start by listing everything that will take place during your event and do your best estimate how long each item will take. Review the schedule with others to see if you have missed anything. Share the schedule with the banquet hall, your DJ  or band leader, your photographer and videographer and any other staff working for you. (A little secret - every  professional event planner always does a schedule. Do a schedule.)

Do you shoot film or digital?

Although our practice is to shoot digital, all of our photographers also own film cameras. If you prefer 35mm or medium format film, we would be pleased to shoot film for you!