Investment

During our initial meeting we will get to know each other and see if we are the right fit. I’ll ask a series of questions to find out what you’re looking for in a wedding photographer and answer any questions you may have.

Once you decide on a package that is right for you, we ask that you sign an agreement with a retainer fee to hold your date. We will schedule a time to meet again prior to your wedding. This could be at an engagement session, venue walk-thru, or both. We will finalize any last minute details and discuss any special photo requests you may have.

When your wedding day arrives, you can relax and enjoy your day while we capture all the important moments and details. We will post a sneak peek on our website within 24-48 hours.  When your photos are completely edited, we’ll set up a time to get together to view proofs and make image selections for your album.

Frequently asked Questions

1) My venue is dark. Is this going to be an issue? 

No. We are equipped with professional external flashes to compensate for dimly lit venues. In addition, our cameras and lenses have low light capabilities to be able to photograph in situations where we may not be allowed to use flash, such as during a Catholic ceremony.

2) Do you touch up all the photos?

We will cull the images and select the “best of”. We’ll include basic touchups such as adjusting for white balance, skin tones and highlights for those selected images that are delivered to you. Images selected for your album will receive extra touch ups. If you have a special request such as removing a bridesmaid’s tattoo, that is considered a custom edit and is quoted separately.

3) How many hours do you suggest that we need?

Our average bride usually books for 6 or 7 hours. If you desire a lot of pre-ceremony photos or if your ceremony and reception are at two different locations we recommend that you book at least 7 or 8 hours. After we learn more details about your wedding day we will be able to give you a more specific recommendation on coverage.

4) How many images do we receive?

Since every wedding is different, we do not guarantee a set amount of images. There are several factors that affect the amount of images shot at your wedding including the amount of hours you have contracted us, activities you have scheduled and the number of people in your party. As a guideline you can expect approx. 30-45 images per hour of service that you contract. If you have two photographers the number increases to approx 50-60 images per hour of service.

5) Can I show you samples of photos that I like?

It is helpful to see samples of images that represent the style you are looking to achieve in your wedding images. You may e-mail some sample images that you like or send us a link to your pinterest planning board. We do our best to replicate images, but do not guarantee specific shots.

6) I have lots of downtime between the ceremony and reception. Will we be charged for that?

Our hours of service are calculated from when we arrive at your ceremony venue to when we leave the reception. Although the schedule may appear to have some wedding downtime there may still be activities going on that you will want documented to help tell the complete story of your day. Oftentimes it’s during the downtime that we are able to catch the most candid moments. It’s a great time to do group photos as well, or to get a photo with that friend or relative who may have missed the pre-ceremony group photo session.

7) What happens if things run late and we need more time? We provide a courtesy 10-15 minute grace period just in case things run a little late and you haven’t got to the cake cut, etc… If you know early on that you are going to need additional coverage it’s best to inform us prior to your wedding day. Any time added on the wedding day is billed at our hourly a la carte pricing, which may be higher than our package rates. So if you think you may need more hours, it’s better to book them ahead of time.

8) What happens if I lose my images?

We keep backup digital files of our images on two servers. In case of an emergency we can send you a downloadable link. The first time is complimentary. You will be charged a fee for any additional retrieval requests. There is a fee for all replacement discs in addition to any shipping costs.

9) Do you include the raw files? 

Your final edited images are delivered in .jpeg format at 8 x12 in at 300 dpi. RAW files and unedited files are not available for purchase and remain property of the studio. 

10) How do payments work?

We require a 10% non-refundable security retainer to hold your wedding date. We require the remaining 90% no less than one month before your wedding date.

11) Do you accept payment plans?

Sure thing! We do require the 10% up front to book and you must be paid in full a month before the wedding. Outside of that, we'd be happy to arrange a payment plan with you. In the past, we've set up monthly payments, or three to four payment installations that occur over time. We are more than willing to work out a unique payment plan with you!

12) Can I just hire you for an engagement session and not a wedding?

Yes, you can! You know we'd love to photograph both, but we're always up for an engagement session. Refer to our pricing packages in this packet for more information on e-session cost and coverage.

13) Do you photograph destination weddings?

Absolutely! We've shot weddings in Mexico, Ireland, Jamaica and all over the United States. From coast to coast, Pacific to Atlantic, we'd love to come to you. Reach out to talk details on destination weddings!

14) How long does it take to get my pictures?

We work diligently to edit your photographs and get them to you in a timely fashion. Our typical delivery rate runs between four weeks during the slower season and up to two months out during our busiest season. We want to make sure every image and product is perfect!

15) How do I book with you?

All you have to do is contact us to request your date. Once you have a date, we request a 10% non-refundable security retainer when we sign the contract. This locks you in for that date and ensures nobody else can book on the same day!

16) Do you provide a wedding album?

Yep! The majority of our wedding packages come with a complimentary wedding album. You can always add an additional album to your package, though.

17) Can I hire an additional photographer to shoot our wedding?

The contract you sign states that Summertime Photography photographers are the only photographers allowed to shoot on your wedding day. This helps promote our creativeness and ensures you get the best photos. We do offer additional shooters depending on the photo package you choose. As long as guests do not infringe upon our space, they can take pictures with their cameras/phones.

18) Do you provide customized packages?

Not all weddings are the same -- we get it! For that reason, we may provide a customized wedding package to suit your needs. These customized packages are for weddings that are far outside the norm (for example, a very short, intimate wedding between only parents and the bride/groom). Talk to us and we'll make it work!

19) I have more questions for you. What's the best way to reach you?

You can give us a ring, shoot us an email at Joe@summertimephotography.pics or via the Contact Me button below or even drop us a note on our Facebook page and we'll get back to you within 24 hours. No question is silly and we're here to help out and make sure you're 100% filled in.