Q. What is wedding photojournalism?
A. You know the photography you've seen that strictly controls everything? The in-your-face, everything posed style? It's pretty much the exact opposite! With a focus on the spontaneous moments, we don't direct, interrupt, or choreograph the wedding.
Q. What if I want some photojournalism, and some formal?
A. That's the beauty of our set up! One of us is able to work on photojournalistic style photography, and the other at more formal photography... it's up to you how you'd like to make use of us!
Q. What is the standard length of time for photography coverage?
A. That is entirely up to you, and your schedule for the day. We recommend starting your photography coverage with your hair&makeup appointments/getting ready, and end after all of the reception events (cake cutting, flower toss, etc) are done.
Q. What do we receive after the wedding?
A. You will receive a cd of web sized images yours to keep. This will act as a proof book, and contains all the images. Depending on your coverage, the amount of images it contains is usually around 500 or more. Additionally, your photos will be uploaded to a web album for you to share with friends and family. They will even be able to order their favorite photos from that album! Of course, you are able to purchase a proof book, if so desired.
Q. Do you offer Wedding Albums?
A. Absolutely. We are able to design and produce top quality bound albums in a multitude of styles.
Q. How far in advance do you recommend we book your services?
A. Generally, photographers are booked 9 to 12 months prior to the wedding date. However, do not hesitate to call about an event that is just around the corner as we may have some last-minute availability.
Q. How do we reserve the date?
A. Please contact us and we will send a contract out to you. Dates are reserved with a signed contract and retainer.
Q. Will we meet with you before the wedding?
A. Of course! Please call the studio and schedule an appointment with one of our photographers. If distance is an issue, we can also meet by phone or email.
Q. Who keeps the wedding negatives and copyright?
A. As a digital photography company, there are no "negatives", per se. All clients are able to purchase full-sized image files of their favorite images, complete with reprint rights... just as they would purchase a printed photo!
Q. How many wedding photographers come with your packages?
A. All Happenstance Photography weddings are provided with 2 photographers. With all of the action at a wedding, there is no need to worry about not being able to be in two places at once!
Q. When will I receive my wedding proofs?
A. All wedding proof CDs are sent to the Bride and Groom's / Wedding Couple's address within 30 days of wedding date. The online proofing images should be up long before then (usually within a week!), depending on scheduling.
Q. How long does it take for the wedding photos and enlargements to be processed and returned?
A. Happenstance Photography will process all wedding photos - enlargements in 30 days from receipt of delivery.
Q. I want a combination of both color and black/white for my wedding … is that possible with Happenstance Photography?
A. Absolutely! When you view your proofs, let us know which images you would like in B/W, and we will edit them, free of charge. If you're not sure which would look great in b/w, feel free to ask for our opinion!
Q. Will the wedding proofs be printed in Matte or Gloss?
A. Happenstance Photography can print the proofs in either format - matte or gloss - to be determined by the Bride and Groom prior to the wedding date.
Q. Are the wedding proofs marked, stamped or do they have the copyright logo on the wedding photos?
A. Your digital proofs are absoultely free of any such markings. Should you opt to purchase printed proofs, they will also be free of marks and stamps.
Q. How long should we plan for the posed, formal shots?
A. Between 1 - 2 hours is a plan that works for most wedding parties.
Q. Should I make a list of my desired photos for the wedding photographer?
A. Happenstance Photography requests a list of photos of family combinations and desired Bride and Groom shots to insure all photos are to be taken. If you see a photo you love in a magazine, feel free to cut it out and give it to us!
Q. What are your retainer / deposit fees for your wedding photography packages?
A. Happenstance Photography will reserve the date when a retainer amount of 50% is received to secure our services.
Q. When do we pay the final balance?
A. The contract balance is required 2 weeks prior to the wedding.
Q. What happens if my wedding photographer gets sick, or is injured?
A. Happenstance Photography provides our clients with two options, refund your retainer or have us find you a replacement photographer. Our membership in various professional photography associations allows us access to "emergency" services, which is great insurance to you!
Q. What professional associations are you a member of?
A. We are proud to be members of Minnesota Professional Photographers Association, Wedding and Portrait Photographers International, and Professional Photographers of America
Q. I have received my proofs from my wedding … and I need assistance in selecting the enlargements … is there help available?
A. Happenstance Photography is available to assist all wedding clients with their enlargement selections. Call or email us!
