ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING FAQ’S
ENGAGEMENTS:
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK WITH YOU?
As early as 2 to 4 weeks in advance.
I’VE NOT PROPOSED YET, WILL YOU SHOOT THE PROPOSAL?
I would LOVE to do it. Proposals are some of the best photos purely because it's a chance to catch authentic emotions on camera. If you’re in the process of planning the proposal and you’re still figuring everything out, I have a proposal checklist to help you on your way.
I DON’T HAVE A LOCATION IN MIND, DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS?
I have a list of recommended places where we can get some lovely shots and set the scene. If you’re struggling for inspiration just let me know and I can give you some hot spot suggestions.
DO I HAVE TO DO AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT?
Of course, you don’t have to do an engagement shoot, it’s your wedding and photoshoots can be intimidating especially if you’ve never done one before. For that reason, I encourage you to do a shoot with a photographer (specifically the photographer you’re choosing to shoot your wedding day too), so this gives you time to get comfortable with being in front of the camera, and helps you get a taste of your photographer's shooting process.
Also, consider that your photographer is the one that will be hanging out with you the most of your day to make sure there isn’t a moment missed. Having one on one time with your photographer is the perfect way to get to know each other better and get comfortable around them. No one wants a stranger at their wedding all up in their faces with a camera, it’s important to me to build a solid relationship with couples so, over the course of documenting your story, I become someone you consider a friend, I earn your trust and you’re assured that I have your back.
WEDDINGS:
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK?
Six months to a year in advance, however, high season (May-October) fills up fast. If you’re interested in that time frame inquire ASAP.
WILL YOU RESERVE MY WEDDING DATE?
In order to secure a date with me, I require both a deposit and a contract to be signed. This deposit is non-refundable.
WILL YOU TRAVEL TO MY WEDDING DESTINATION?
Availability dependent, I have no problem going where you are going to be! For long-distance weddings (outside of the Birmingham area) and destination weddings, extra charges may well apply to cover essential expenses. To find out more, get in touch and I’ll build a custom package for you.
HOW MANY PHOTOS WILL I GET?
Usually, a full 10 hours of coverage should be the perfect amount of time to provide you with a minimum of 500 photos.
HOW DO YOU DELIVER WEDDING PHOTOS?
I deliver all of my work digitally via a private online gallery. My wedding package also includes a bespoke USB containing all of your images (including your engagement shoot) as well as a photo book that contains wedding highlights.
HOW DOES THE ONLINE GALLERY WORK?
You’ll have access to view, and download all of the photos with the link I give you. This will be private and password-protected, so you can share the link and password with your loved ones. This online gallery will only be accessible for up to 4 weeks, as the galleries are an additional subscription cost for my business.
WHAT IF I LOSE MY WEDDING PHOTOS?
Even after your photos are backed up twice, edited, uploaded into an online gallery, transferred to USB and put in your photo book. I STILL have your images stored and saved in a client hard drive so your photos will never be truly lost, ever.
WILL YOU BE THE ONE TAKING PHOTOS OR WILL SOMEONE ELSE SHOOT OUR WEDDING?
Chelyr Simone Photography is all me and no one else, so I’ll be the one documenting your big day.
ARE YOU FULLY INSURED?
Yes, I have public liability and professional indemnity cover. This helps me cover and protect every aspect of my photography services and business as a whole.
WHAT IF I WANT AN ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER?
Just let me know! A second shooter comes at an additional price, but it’s always great to have more hands on deck to get those magical moments.
DO YOU CRY AT WEDDINGS?
I have a good hold on my emotions, but if you insist on being super duper cute I can’t be held accountable for any tears shed and I will most definitely deny it, haha!
DO I HAVE TO FEED YOU?
By no means are you contractually obligated to provide me with any food. However, if you’re feeling generous, I’m not a picky eater at all but I do have a shellfish allergy. I usually prefer to eat when you are eating (no one likes photos of them chowing down anyway), this gives me time to back up files on the go and to have a look at some of the shots I captured earlier in the day.
WHY SHOULD WE PICK YOU AS OUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
I’m passionate about making time stand still.
I want you to look back at these photos in your older years and be taken back to a specific moment or feeling. It may seem silly because a picture is a picture, but they’re what we are left with when time goes on and the memories fade and the people have gone. It never changes despite change happening as the years go by. I want your photos to bring you back to a place where love was reflected around you and you were surrounded by those you championed you. I want your photos to bring you joy, make you feel warm inside and brighten your day. Not just from the images of you, but those sweet sentimental moments of the ones you love the most too.
It takes seconds to take a picture but they tell a story for the rest of time. They are more than pixels on a page, it’s the story of you. My endeavour is to always make time stand still for you.
DO YOU CONVERT OUR PHOTOS TO BLACK AND WHITE?
Some images just look amazing in classic black and white, so I do hand pick the ones that look the best this way. This way you get different variations in your galleries.
ARE YOU A ‘NATURAL-LIGHT’ PHOTOGRAPHER?
I am. If there’s natural light that I can utilise in the best way, I’m gonna use it. Personally, I think it makes for a more pleasing looking photo that is flattering to the eye. However when it gets dark and I need to use artificial lighting or a flash, I will.
CAN YOU EDIT MY PHOTOS IN A DIFFERENT WAY?
If you’re not in love with my editing style then I may not be the photographer for you. I work with natural light and like to add warmer finishes to my photos. This style is the one you see reflected in my portfolio.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU CAN’T PHOTOGRAPH OUR WEDDING?
On the very unlikely chance that I am unable to shoot your wedding, I will provide you with a photographer that is at the same level or superior to me. This has never happened, however, so I can assure you, you are in safe hands.
DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH LGBTQIA+ WEDDINGS?
I absolutely photograph LGBTQIA+ weddings and I’m your ally. I’d be honoured to capture your special day.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE ON HOW TO LOOK MY BEST?
I know this is easier said than done because your wedding day is a big deal, but take time to breathe and really relish in your day. This is one day vs the rest of your life, the day will happen even if there are blips and things don't happen down to every last detail that you planned prior. Either way by the end of the day you’ll be happily married and everything that was supposed to happen, will have happened and it’ll be perfect for you. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself days prior, ticking everything off of your lists (so you’re not too worried about it), and getting whatever needs doing done. If you’re stressed, it’ll show. Remember to take time for YOU, slow down and enjoy it.
ANY ADVICE FOR MY WEDDING GUESTS?
My main pointers for guests are:
Never wear something that will upstage the bride and groom. Natural, flattering, and neutral tones are more complimentary than bold statement looks.
No phones/cameras during the ceremony especially. I can’t stress this enough. There’s nothing worse than trying to capture the sweetest moments of a wedding and looking back at photos with people holding phones high, blocking shots, and getting in the way of me doing my job. Let your guests know that they will absolutely be okay with not capturing this moment for you, that’s what you’re paying me for! A way to help get this across is usually getting your officiant to make a little announcement before the ceremony starts to make sure everyone puts their devices away.
CAN I HAVE THE RAW UNEDITED FILES?
This is a massive question. My RAW files aren't available for viewing or purchase. All images that are given in the final delivery meet my quality mark and reflect my editing style.
WILL YOU POST MY PICTURES ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
I post every shoot, it’s how I get my work out there and add to my portfolio. If you’re wanting some privacy let me know before or at your shoot that you’d like to opt out of social media postings as this is a part of my contractual agreement.
DO YOU DO POSED/FORMAL FAMILY SHOTS?
I do! I know there are some special people to highlight too. These are usually stylized. Within your wedding welcome pack, I provide you with a few forms to fill out that will help me out on the day. There’s a formal photo list in there too for you to fill out and give to me.
DO YOU USE PHOTOSHOP TO EDIT?
I like to capture real authentic moments and people so for this reason I rarely like to change anything about you specifically. At your shoot, I’ll always pose you in ways that are flattering to get you at your best. If you express any concerns to me, I can find ways to make sure your images are presented in a way that doesn't affect the way you feel about the final product.
