Kim Long Photography: Experience: Weddings

All pricing is subject to 6.5% sales tax.

How did you get started in photography, and how long have you been covering weddings?

I began as an enthusiastic hobbyist and gradually developed as a professional through intensive study of the craft on my own, lots of practice, and the invaluable mentoring by consummate pros. My first wedding as solo primary photographer was in 2005 and I was fairly instantly hooked.

My work is informed and enriched by a diverse educational and professional background in communications and the arts. From my first taste of the Manhattan cabaret scene in the chanteuse role, to my professional theatre work, to my days working in graphic design and even paper doll illustration, I've enjoyed a colorful array of opportunities and experiences that have all shaped my approach to photography today. I take pride in my personal vision, artistry, and technique behind the camera and in the digital darkroom, which distinguishes my work in a way that my clients recognize and appreciate.

I know you specialize in documentary coverage, but will you also do some formal posed portraits?

I normally set aside a limited amount of time for posed portraits and will certainly accommodate group shots of pertinent individuals within reason. These details are worked out during the pre-wedding consultation.

That said, if you desire an extensive number of traditional posed portraits of myriad combinations of individuals and/or many camera-aware "grip and grin" shots, I am not the right photographer for you. Clients hiring me are not contracting a comprehensive formal portrait series of similar shots with people substituted and moved around here and there. And while I enjoy and eagerly capture fun, crazy moments and organic expressions, I do not encourage wedding party members and guests to mug for the camera at every click of the shutter. I can provide recommendations for other quality professionals who specialize in a more "old school" style of wedding photography.

My primary goal is to cover the day as it unfolds. I have no qualms artistically directing shots as they fit in with the vibe of the couple and the event, but I don't want to interrupt the flow of the day or compromise the documentary coverage with tedious amounts of repetitive poses or manufactured moments that contribute nothing to the storytelling.

Do you shoot film, digital, or a particular combination of both?

I am strictly digital, and use top quality, professional grade primary and backup cameras, lenses, and equipment.

Do you ever offer specials or discounted pricing?

Whenever I am running a special promotion, it will be posted on my website.

Do you do retouching?

Yes. In fact, every image in the complete final edited set is painstakingly finished. Not only have all the photos my clients see undergone basic processing such as color correction, toning and contrast tweaks, but, at my discretion, many images are intricately retouched and artistically enhanced.

How many proofs will I get?

There is no standardized quantity, for no two events are exactly alike. I always strive to provide my clients with a generous, varied array of images in the final edited proof set that best tells the story of the day. As a general guide, clients may expect approximately 50-100 images per hour of coverage.

Is every image available in multiple options like color, B&W, sepia, etc.?

My post processes are a very important and inextricable element of my photography. During the pre-wedding consultation, I discuss with my clients any preferences they have regarding the inclusion and dispersion of B&W, color, alternative toning, texturing and/or other artistic processes. On the basis of these indications, I make final determinations while shooting and processing per my own discretion and expertise.

How soon will I see my proofs? What is the turnaround on print orders?

Proofs are viewable online approximately three-four weeks following the event. Physical proofs are delivered within approximately six weeks of the event.

Turnaround time for print and album orders varies depending on the order and the season during which the order is placed. Most standard print orders are fulfilled within six weeks or less. Specialty prints, albums and certain press-printed items may take longer.

Is there a time limit to order prints from my event? How long do you keep the images on file?

Online wedding and event proof galleries expire ninety days from their initial upload. A $75 fee is charged to renew the gallery for an additional ninety days. Image files for weddings and events are kept on file for three years following the event date, and reprints may be ordered during that period at whatever pricing is current.

Do I get my digital negatives?

Clients invest in my photography because of the distinctive quality of my work. The manner in which this work is presented and shared directly reflects my professional image and brand identity, therefore I place a premium on digital files. The labs and vendors I work with for professional prints, canvases, press products and albums meet my high standards and represent my photography appropriately..

High resolution digital files of the finished images from the final edited proof set are made available to clients three months after their event, printable at the client's choice of 4x6 or 5x7. Ultimate and Premier coverage plans include the complete final edited proof set in digital format, which is not available à la carte. Clients contracting Essential and Classic plans may purchase individual files at a rate of $100 per image. Digital files are always accompanied by a limited license detailing the terms of personal usage. Full copyright of printed and digital images is maintained by me and is not for sale. Raw, unprocessed digital files are not available to clients.