Kim Long Photography: Weddings: Information: FAQ

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 invaluable mentoring by consummate pros. I shot my first wedding in 2005, and was fairly instantly hooked.

My work is informed and enriched by a diverse educational and professional background in communications and the arts. I take pride in the vision, artistry, and technique behind the camera and in the digital darkroom that distinguishes my work.

I know you specialize in documentary coverage, but will you also do some formals?

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

That said, my focus is not on conventional studio-style portraits, and while I'm all about capturing fun moments and organic expressions, I don't encourage wedding party members and guests to mug for the camera at every shutter click. If you favor traditional portrait-oriented, largely posed, camera-aware wedding photography, there are other professionals specializing in that approach who would probably be a better fit for you.

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'm wary of compromising documentary integrity with 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 work solo?

I am a single shooter and do not contract assistant photographers at this time.

Do you ever offer specials or discounted pricing?

Whenever I run a special, it will be posted in my blog (filed under 'news').

Do you do retouching?

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

How many images will I get?

There is no standardized quantity, for weddings are unpredictable and no two events are alike. I always strive to provide my clients with a generous, varied array of images that best tell the story of the day. With the three proof-inclusive plans, clients may expect a minimum of 400 images in the final proof set.

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

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.

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

With the "Prelude to a Kiss" plan, clients will receive the completed album and disks within 4-6 weeks of the event. For the other three proof-inclusive plans, images will be viewable online approximately 4-6 weeks following the event.

Turnaround time for prints and albums varies depending on the order and the season. 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.

What if I only want the digital files? Can't you just subtract the cost of everything else included in the coverage plan and pass along the savings?

It may seem counter-intuitive, but even if I did offer digital-only or "shoot and burn" (which I don't), I would price such a plan at a premium, not a discount.

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. Naturally, I'm very invested in the finished product that is presented to my clients, and it's important to me that all my wedding clients have quality, tangible photographic heirlooms.

Some plans include digital files, but they are not available à la carte*. When clients choose a plan that includes files, they are always accompanied by a limited license detailing the terms of personal usage. Full copyright of printed and digital images is maintained by Kim Long Photography and is not for sale. Raw, unprocessed digital files are not available to clients.

*NEW FOR 2010: Online galleries will now include the option to purchase a JPG disk with any print order, containing the corresponding JPG file at the corresponding size for each print ordered. Digital files of images NOT being purchased as prints will still NOT be available for purchase à la carte.

If I book a plan that does not include an engagement, bridal, or post-wedding fashion session, are those available as add-ons?

Absolutely! Engagement, boudoir, combination engagement-boudoir, bridal... any environmental portrait session not included in your wedding coverage plan may certainly be contracted separately (see lifestyle photography). In fact, I really encourage it, not only because this is such a special time in your lives worthy of beautiful photographic documentation, but any pre-wedding photo session provides a fabulous opportunity to build our rapport working together and getting to know each other all the better!