Everyone has a different level of understanding when it comes to photography. I get asked all sorts of great questions. And so in order to make your experience of working with me as simple and as enjoyable as possible, I have created this list of Frequently Asked Questions.
General questions:
What do I get?
I’ve created a simple and affordable package to get my clients started – The Essential Starter Pack. It covers the cost of my expert time in the studio and editing time. And to make sure you can get stuck into marketing straight away, it also gives you a mixture of print and online use images. I have also providing an option for ‘Add-Ons’ too. It might be that you love more photographs than what your Essential Starter Pack offers, so I have created a flexible price list to purchase additional time or extra photographs for your needs.
I’m unsure what I want – but I know I need some professional photographs for promoting my items… How will you know what I want/need?
Through conversations and a questionnaire, together we will be able to identify your photography needs for your small business. You’ll show me who’s work inspires you in your industry, we’ll talk likes, dislikes, branding and more. Together we will create a mood board {usually on Pinterest} so that we can make sure we are on the same page with expectations.
Styling – who does this?
Using all of the information that we have gathered together, I style your shoot. Using images that we’ve collected, and with a thorough understanding of your photography needs and brand awareness, I find that we can be really creative with how to present your products. Or you might prefer to choose a professional stylist to do this. Or, of course, you may want to style it yourself, which is also an option.
Who do you work with?
I love to work with small businesses and creative individuals. Both local in Lincolnshire, and from around the country. With the service I offer, and with fabulous postal/delivery couriers, I am not restricted to working with only nearby businesses. We are so fortunate now to be able to collaborate from afar using different means of online platforms, and I keep my clients in the loop with the whole process of working on their photography project.
Practical Questions:
How does it work?
After an initial chat, I will send over some information and a questionnaire so that I can find out more about your business, your products, target audience and photography needs. Once you return the questionnaire, I’ll create a proposed mood board, proposed shot list and suggestions of prop items to send me, together with your products. We’ll work collaboratively with ideas and once we are ready, then I’ll head into the studio to photograph your beautiful products. And if you won’t be by my side during the shoot – I’ll send you a test shot or two – to double check that our vision is on the same page – before jumping in and shooting your product session.
With the current COVID-19 Pandemic – how does it work?
We do most of our communications over the phone or via email. You’ll post me your items, I’ll shoot your session, upload your gallery, check off that you are happy with the outcome and then return your items in the post.
How long does it take?
The process varies but can be quite a speedy, depending on your needs. Your session can be done and complete with a full turnaround to deliver you your edited photographs within 2 weeks. Some projects might take longer but I prefer to work to a 2 week timeframe.
Do I get to see any shots whilst you take them?
I’ll let you know the day/date that I am likely to shoot your session and if you are available online, then I will send you over some test shots. This will reinforce that I am on the right tracks with styling etc.
How will I view all the photos?
You will receive an online gallery where you will be wowed by just how amazing your items photograph! You’ll select the photographs that you plan to purchase using a favourites button.
How do you edit the photographs?
I use Lightroom to edit your photographs, and sometimes Photoshop. I prefer to get as much of the shot ‘right’ in camera so editing is minimal. However, I do hand edit each photograph myself, rather than outsource my editing.
How long will it be before I get to use my chosen photographs?
Often, once you have chosen the photographs for me to edit, you will have your photographs within a few days. I’ll create a download folder for you to access and then you can save all of your photographs, ready to use straightaway.
Typically, how many photographs will be in my gallery?
This really will depend on the size of the project, how many items/products there are to photograph and what style of photography you choose. I like to offer a choice of shots for each product, so typically there might be 5 or more to each item/product. But like I say, this can vary for each project.
Do you edit EVERY photograph?
Then I will edit these, and only these. This way, we reduce the cost of time and focus on just what you want and need. Once edited, I’ll send you a download link and vwa-lah! You’ll be ready to use your perfect product shots in just the way you planned. So all of this can be done via post, telephone, email or online. It couldn’t be easier!
Where will the shoot take place?
The shoot will take place in my studio. I have lots of beautiful natural light to work with, and on the darker British days I have studio flash lights that I can use. It’s a simple white walled space that I can use as a backdrop to work any shoot. I have a selection of backdrops and props too, to create a perfect styled area. It might be that your items/products will work better being photographed outdoors, in which case, we will discuss based on the needs for your particular shoot.
A little technical:
What is a ‘low resolution’ photograph/image?
A low resolution (sometimes referred to as low res) is an image that is perfect for online usage. They are sized to still be crisp and clear, non-pixelated but do not take up lots of online space, so they load fast too.
What is a ‘high resolution’ photograph/image?
A high resolution (sometimes referred to as high res) is an image that is perfect for printing. Whether this is for flyers and leaflets, brochures or roller banners.
What is the difference between a low and high resolution photograph?
A low resolution image contains less digital information – pixels – than a high resolution image. Digital screens, laptops and phones do not need as much digital information and in fact perform much quicker without! There are specific sizes that both platforms of marketing work to, so it’s often good to consider where you intend to use your photographs.
