Preparation

Common Questions Answered

& Preparation Guide

Q... When + where is the best time to shoot?

Outdoors, Park
Early morning {Pre-sunrise}
Early Evening {Pre-sunset}

& what if the forecast predicts rain?

I'm a natural light photographer and don't do indoor sessions (other than newborn and weddings), o if there is a significant chance of rain for the day of your shoot we will need to reschedule a day in the near future that works best for clients and photographer.

Q... What should I wear for my session?

Be yourself, & wear something comfortable

Keep location and scenery in mind

Play off of the season

Pick neutral colors like grey, tan, ivory, white, navy as a base, black is slenderizing

Coordinate without matching

Keep pattern and contrast in mind

Try picking a pop of color that compliments your complexion

Wear comfortable shoes, plan on walking:) Or plan on being barefoot!

Plan on sitting on the ground and laying on the ground, don't wear an all white dress that can't get dirty

Professional makeup and hair is encouraged {when you feel your best, you look your best}

For an engagement session, you'll get photos of your ring and hands! (wink;)

No logos on shirts! No sneakers, or high heals that are difficult to walk in, stick with converse, loafers, sandals... It helps to do a last check in the car mirror before you meet at the session, then tell your parter to keep an eye out for flaws (fuzz on the hair, lipstick on the teeth, smudged mascara) This is a funny one... Guys.. check your fly!! Try avoiding outfits that show your insecurities, and we all have them! But that doesn't mean others see them that way. Are you insecure about your arms? Maybe rethink the sleeveless shirt. Are you insecure about your tummy roles? Try an outfit that compliments your figure:) Just remember, you're beautiful! How you feel is important, what you are feeling shows through the photos. Wear something you feel confident and comfortable in! Don't wear a shirt or dress that constantly shoes bra straps. Ladies..not good at makeup?....here's a tip... You can make an appointment before your session at a makeup counter to try out their products, and they may apply your complimentary makeup with the purchase of products, try calling around!

Q... How can I prepare for my photo shoot?

Bring items of sentimental value such as a sign with your wedding date

Bring a small prop or two, Props add personality and character

Plan on possibly getting messy, sitting on the grass, sitting on the ground, laying on the ground, etc..!

Go with the flow! {jumping, sitting, props, posing, laughing, and being creative all make for great shots!}

Interact, joke, do you! Be yourself. Don't worry about the perfect picture or the outcome. I'll give you direction as its needed!

Have fun, Relax, and Play:) When else do adults get to play??

Look at examples on my website!

Plan on interacting, playing, having fun, laughing, joking! I will pose as needed and my photographic work is documentary in nature. I want to capture you in your element. Not all people are naturals at posing, and that is where I come in! My work is a combination of the two. I will guide you along the way. Remember, the relationship between you and your partner, or family, or friend, is what I want to capture! Don't expect the typical prom picture or glamour shot!:) I want you to live in front of me, and I will guide you! I also love trying new and creative things, so bring on the ideas! And if your favorite jam puts you in a good mood, all the better!

It's helpful to plan ahead. Think about how you want your photos to look, and communicate that with me:) Let me know what your personal insecurities are! Try sending me 5-10 images of photos you really like!

Relax and have Fun! Smile! Joke! Laugh! Bring your favorite music jam on Pandora:)

"Hi Lindsey, Congratulations on winning The Knot Best of Weddings 2018!"

Wedding Planning Tips!...

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Wedding Photography TO-DO List:

1) Fill out the Contract with the downpayment to Reserve the Wedding Date
2) Give your photographer all of the location and contact information, #'s, and people
3) Have back-up plans for bad weather, indoor/outdoor locations for photos
4) Review my Site, Wedding Photos, and Prep page so you know what to expect
5) Send example Photos and Communicate your insecurities; what you want and don't want, like or don't like in photos
6) Schedule your Engagement Session
7) Create the Photo Schedule with your Photographer
8) Give copies of the schedule and group shot times to the Family and Bridal Party
9) Designate Round-up people
10) Designate the photographer's meal plate and eating location
11) Finalize all details at least 2-4 weeks before the wedding
12) Pay the Balance at least 1-2 weeks before the wedding

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Engagement Sessions:
Is the Engagement Session for you? Why should you book an Engagement Session? Here are some reasons why engagement sessions are beneficial;

-Getting to know your photographer
   You’re going to spend your entire wedding day with your photographer, so making sure you feel comfortable with them is very important. Getting to know the person who is shooting your wedding will give you a level of comfort and trust with them, and as a result you’ll feel much more relaxed not only in the lead up to your day but on the day itself. Pre wedding shoots are just as beneficial for your photographer, as they will get to see how you interact with one another and better capture your relationship on the wedding day. You also want the peace of mind that your photographer is on the same page with you stylistically and can creatively capture the chemistry between the two of you.

-Feeling comfortable in front of the camera
It's also a great time to test out any poses or outfits you might have seen or which angles and poses you like the best in front of the camera. Often times this is the first time you've had a professional photographer since prom! Photography has changed a lot since then. You can see which smiles and posture you like and don't like. Grooms usually are more camera-shy, but end up feeling quite comfortable towards the end. And getting dressed up can be a nice break from wedding planning!

-Doing a fun and creative photoshoot (with no pressure!)
  Engagement sessions increase the confidence and comfort level of the couple in front of the camera and allow them to practice having their photo taken in a fun, no-stakes atmosphere. Ultimately, an engagement session will let the couple see why the photographer might tell them to do something funny, and this leads to wedding day comfort and trust in the photographer. The engagement is part of the wedding story and this very special time in your life. Wedding planning takes a lot of energy and can feel overwhelming at times. It's important to take time to appreciate each other and enjoy this part of your life together.”

-The chance to see yourselves in professional photos before the wedding
An engagement session is an ideal trial run for the wedding day in terms of flow. Couples will understand more how long it takes to produce great imagery and how much time they will need for couple’s photos on the wedding day itself. Combine it with your hair and makeup trial!   Not only are engagement photos a great opportunity to get to know your photographer, but if you time it right, it’s the perfect chance to have your hair and makeup trial. Once the photos arrive, you can then determine if you want any major tweaks!

-Having professional photos to share before (and on) your wedding day
There are so many opportunities to use all these amazing professional photos you now have. Framed photos for the soon-to-be in-laws, your wedding website or a wedding day guest book... Save the Date's, announcements, or adding photos to table pieces and wedding decor really personalizes your wedding!

Planning your Engagement Session:
  First, Choose your season. Do you want a summer or fall engagement session? Second, schedule the date or ask your photographer when the best time to schedule would be. Third, look at the preparation tips on what to wear, what to bring, and what scenery you'd like. Engagement sessions may be scheduled at any time, and it is up to the couple when to schedule the session depending on the purpose and needs of your engagement session!
If you have chosen a wedding photography package that includes an Engagement Session, then think about when you want your session and let your photographer know when you prefer to book the engagement session between late April and early November. Contact me at least 6-8 weeks in advance or more during busy season.
If you're ordering save the dates from me, I recommend sending out the Save-the-dates at least 6 months before the wedding date, and scheduling the engagement session at least 8 months or more before the wedding date. If you're just doing the engagement session with me and not ordering save the dates from me (but ordering online or elsewhere), then i recommend scheduling your session at least 7 months prior to your wedding date. If you're not ordering save the dates, but just want the photos for wedding decorations, then I recommend scheduling the session at least 3-4 months prior to your wedding date.
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Wedding Photography Mistakes Couples Make:
Here are some tips for you to think about ahead of time... I've photographed a lot of weddings, and can definitely share some helpful tips when it comes to getting the photos you want!:)

Not Finalizing the Wedding Day Schedule.... "Talk to your photographer before finalizing the schedule for your wedding day. There's a lot to consider in terms of photographing and natural light. Certain times of day are more photogenic than others (midday sun casts harsh, unflattering shadows on the face while late-day sun casts a beautiful, warm glow on everyone)."
Not Sticking to the Finalized Schedule... "Pay attention and respect the schedule you and your photographer discuss prior to your wedding. Being an hour late can make or break your images. Don't just assume it only takes 10 minutes."
Letting Relatives Get in the Way... "We have a name in the industry for a guest who shows up with pro photo equipment and takes 'unofficial wedding photos'—we call him Uncle Bob. Uncle Bob may think he's doing you a favor by taking more shots for the couple, but usually he just gets in the way and makes us miss our shots. Tell Bob to leave the camera at home and just enjoy his time at the wedding without working."
Not Explaining How You Like to Look in Photos... "Beauty is really very subjective. Photography style is also subjective. Send a photo of yourself before the wedding that you like and one that they don't."
Focusing Too Much on Taking Photos... "A good photojournalist can capture the story of their day and capture some artistic portraits while keeping time away from loved ones to a minimum."
Speeding through the Ceremony... "Walk slowly down the aisle, don't rush the Ceremony process down the aisle. The ceremony kiss.. take your time, make it long, slow down! Don't have multiple things going on during the ceremony, like lighting candles, wait for one thing to finish before the next begins. You can have a sweet and swift ceremony, but it's not a race. The guests want the chance to see all of the components of the ceremony, and your photographer will have a much better chance of capturing all of the moments you want captured if it's not rushed."
Not Getting Help Organizing Your Guests... "Designate someone you trust and knows your family and friends to be in charge of organizing people for portraits. That person can gather the people needed, direct them on what shots they'll be in, and then release them when they're done. It keeps things moving quickly, smoothly and enjoyably."
Trying to Make Things "Perfect" "Just have fun... Whether it's getting a little cake on your face or some detail didn't turn out 100 percent like you'd hoped, go with it, have fun and keep smiling. The photos will be so different if the bride is scowling at her new spouse."
Skipping the "First Look..." "A 'first look' (aka taking your couple photos before the ceremony) is so much better than trying to rush couple portraits after the ceremony—especially if your ceremony runs a bit late, which most do. You end up trying to rush and get to the party. It's okay if staying traditional is a top priority for you on this, but at the same time, you need to weigh the priorities and level of importance of the photos"
Trying to Pose.... "A good photographer gives direction for a reason: to get the best moments and shots from the day. The best thing to do is relax and act naturally. Be in the moment. Be hopelessly in love with each other—the pictures will turn out smashingly!"
Looking at the Camera All the Time... "Some couples want candid photographs, but they always feel like they need to look up at the camera and stop what they're doing. It could be an instinct, but remember—unless the photographer asks you, try to act natural for the best journalistic shots."
Not Providing a List of "Don't Takes..."  "Let the photographer know before the wedding if there are certain photos you don't like. It can be anything from 'I don't like the photos you took of us not smiling' to 'I don't like wide-angle close-ups.' It totally throws off a photographer's creative approach when a bride or groom spills their feelings while you're in the zone."
Falling for Photography and Wedding Trends... "Too many times, to-be-weds fall for something trendy in photography, dress or decor. It's critical your wedding images stand the test of time and are valued for each following generation. Trends are fun but rarely last. Look for a photographer with a classic shooting style."
Forgetting the Details... "Think about spending a few minutes to decide what other elements are important to photograph. Did your sister make special wedding favors? Are you carrying important heirlooms with you? Bring an extra invitation and try to keep those special elements easily accessible for photos."

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Planning your Wedding + Tips for Photos:

Congratulations!! It's finally your wedding day, your'e thrilled (and nervous)!

Weddings are Beautiful, Personal, and often unpredictable. There are a lot of ways a wedding day can go off schedule, and that's normal and expected. No worries! I'm in your corner. We can't control everything, and you will likely only remember the big and important stuff. You've put a lot of time and planning into your special day, there are a lot of details and a lot of people involved! Try to be prepared ahead of time, and on your wedding day, don't sweat the small stuff. Here are a few things to consider ahead of time when it comes to preparing for your wedding photos; The more prepared you are, the more likely we are to stay on schedule for photos.
Review photo examples on my website, and share with me what you like. You can also e-mail me example photos. Share with me your special details about your wedding day. What is your favorite aspect of the venue? What is your favorite aspect of the dress? Are you modest about dressing? Have you thought about where you want your photos around the venue, or do you want to leave that all to me?
Will you have any special Ceremonial or Religious traditions? Are the bride and groom seeing each other before the ceremony? Do you want a "first look", or are you going traditional? Do you have a special gift exchange you want photographed? Who are the important people?
What is your back up plan for Rain....? Is there enough space for me to get around during the ceremony.. if moved inside?
Assign roles to certain people such as the "look out for groom," "dress fluffer," "ring keeper," "bouquet keeper," etc...

Getting Ready ..
   Do you have a special decorative bridal hanger? I'll be taking photos of your dress, rings, and bouquet first, so have them ready! Assign a bridesmaid ring duty before the ceremony. Remove the dress tags and have your dress steamed ahead of time. Have you tried dancing, walking around and sitting in your wedding dress? How does the dress look with your heels after it's been himed? Have you worn in your shoes? Don't wait until the day of the wedding to finish hemming or sewing your dress, it could take longer than expected.  Do you have bridal/dress tape, bandages, safety pins, bobby pins?
Consider the timing for your hair and makeup... I see these appointments go over schedule all of the time. 7/10 times they tend to take longer than expected. Do a trial run a week before the wedding if possible. Did you allow time for a second re-do of hair or makeup? It happens. If these go past schedule, it will cut into your photo time.
**Do the guys know how to pin the boutonnieres, and are the pins ready? I see bridal parties get hung up on this a lot! Have them watch a youtube video on how to pin the** boutonnieres before. It's also a good idea for the guys to carry a handkerchief (if your wedding is on a hot summer day... when it's 95 degrees outside and guys are in full suits, they will sweat on their faces and will want a small towel on hand). No sunglasses in photos. No-no.

Getting the Shots!...
   It's best to trust your photographer. Being a photographer, I believe the photography is one of the most important and essential components of the day. The photographs are forever:) I try to be pretty quick and accommodating with my photos, I try to cease the best circumstances for your photos in the quickest amount of time. There is a lot going on during your wedding day, guests you need to talk to from across the country, etc... I get it! I listen to what you want from your wedding photography, but will give my advice for the best outcome. I like to designate a special time for bride and groom photos and/or bride and groom photos outside around sunset. (Golden hour is the best time for shooting! It's the hour before sunset...)
  Some brides want their first look to be when the walk down the isle. If you decide to do the "first look" before the ceremony, you will have more time/flexibility for group photos and portraits... Just a thought!:)
Forget about how things "should be", and just "be." I remember being a bride, you found the PERFECT dress, it's YOUR special day, and that dress was expensive!!! But, no one notices the small hiccups of the dress, so try not to get too hung up on the dress. I get it. I was a bride 7 years ago and have been to many weddings, and photographed many, many more... The gorgeous dress is worn the day of the wedding, then dry cleaned, and then put into a box in the closet. The photographs are on the wall and looked at over and over, for generations. You're going to want the photographs, and to be flexible with the photographs.
  Go with the flow. Just like the engagement session, in order to get the shots, you're going to need to do just that, get the shots! You'll be walking (so feel free to take your shoes off, no one notices that in the picture, and you'll be more comfortable)... You'll be sitting, and moving around! We will need to find the best locations. The ground might be a little dirty or wet.... Just think, all those gorgeous pinterest wedding photos... they too we're "getting the shot." Yep, they were sitting on the ground, walking through the grass, and moving around! I had spent 8 months looking for my perfect ($1400) Wedding Gown. My husband and I were married on the southwest Florida beach, barefoot, running in the ocean! Yep, IN the ocean! And I LOVE the photos! I can't imagine not having those photos. The bottom of my dress was sandy and no one noticed, it doesn't show in any of our gorgeous wedding photos, and my dress was dry cleaned (perfectly white again), which now sits in a box on the top shelf of my closet;)
  Communication! Photographer's are there to take amazing wedding photos and document your special day, they're not there as wedding planners or traffic guards, ha ha. Always communicate with your wedding party and guests what your expectations are from them and your photo timeline. (For example, a groomsmen wants to start cocktail hour, duh, but the bridal party doesn't want to wait an extra 15 minutes to locate Bob, who can't be found, or, does great grandma Mary know when she's needed for photos and will she need help walking in the grass?)
  Give the family and bridal party a copy of the shot list. Keep them informed by keeping an e-mail chain for designated photo times and group photo times. Print out copies for them. Especially with large parties. Communicate the family or group shots you want in addition or in place of my list, especially if blended families are involved. Group photos may take place prior to and/or directly after the ceremony based on given circumstances and location of photos depend on given circumstances. Often, it's an on the spot decision based on variables (lighting, sun, clouds, wind, scenery, space, etc).
Timing and daylight is crucial. If you're having an outdoor wedding, have a back up plan for rain and plan accordingly. The photo timeline varies -in general- expect to do family and additional bridal party photos, and bride & groom photos directly following the ceremony. Don't get too hung up on the order of the people, what hand is in what pocket, or about buttons, or the train. The photographer knows how the shot should look. I won't always pose you or need you to smile at the camera, but will or will tell you when I need to. If it doesn't look right, I will let you know!:) I will do a combination of posed and documentary photography.
ROUND UP PERSON; It REALLY helps to designate one person on each family side to be the "round-up" person for group photos (they know who's who, and Names). They are in charge of finding missing family members or party members and assuring they are ready and available for group photos. We want to get the group shots done, so that the wedding party can move on to cocktail hour reception, and start the fun like they want to! Trust your photographer.
Get Close; Closer...Closer... Yes, It probably feels like you're closer to people than you need to be for the photo, get tight, get close, scrunch in! You like these people!
Be Yourself; Just be you! This seems obvious, but sometimes it’s tough to really commit to it. I want your dynamic to set the tone and mood of the shoot, not what you think a session should look like. Are you goofballs? Are you introverted? I want to experience all those little moments you might otherwise consider the “outtakes”. Don’t act like you think you should, I want to capture you as you are. The truest emotion is in the outtakes!
  Expose your Emotions; Honesty is mandatory. Vulnerability is encouraged. I can only capture your true dynamic if you allow me into your space. Remember how you interact when you’re alone, and don’t hide it. Embrace both the goofy laughter and the quiet vulnerable moments. I will, of course, guide you through all this as we shoot, but I need you to meet me halfway and allow me into your intimacy.

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YOUR PHOTO SCHEDULE

My Example Group Photos List:  Applicable to timeline

Pre-Ceremony:
Bride with Bridesmaids getting ready (Details and Documentary)
Bride putting on dress, jewelry, and touching up makeup
(Someone special can button the dress and put on your necklace.. mom?)

Bride alone Portraits

Bride with parents
Bride with mom
Bride with dad
Bride with mom, dad, and siblings
Bride with siblings

Groom with parents
Groom with mom
Groom with dad
Groom with mom, dad, and siblings
Groom with siblings

Bridal Party Photos: (10-15 minutes each)
Bride with Bridesmaids together
Bride with each Bridesmaid
Groom with Groomsmen together
Groom with each Groomsmen

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Optional... First Look (15 minutes)
Bride and Groom first look
Entire bridal party together, Bride, Groom, bridesmaids and groomsmen (and/or flower girl/ring bearer)
Bride and Groom with Maid of Honor & Best Man
Bride and Groom with Flower girl and Ring Bearer
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Ceremony (Usually 15-30 minutes)

Optional.. B & G with officiant and/or signing marriage paperwork

Family and Group Photos (after ceremony during cocktail hour. Family photos won't take longer than 20-30 minutes):

(FYI; It's your family and your photos, there's no rules on who is in or out of the photo.. Here is my predetermined list but if you want to add or remove group shots, no problemo'! Only you know your family dynamics (step parents, step siblings, the usher that's really the 9th groomsmen, etc.); There's no right or wrong way!:)

Brides Immediate Family (10 minutes)

Bride and Groom and Bride's Parents
Bride and Groom and Bride's Parents and Siblings
Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents, Siblings + Spouses + Children
Bride and Groom with Bride's parents, Bride's Siblings + their Spouses + Children, & Brides 2 sets of Grandparents, and Great-Grands (wow!)
Bride and Groom and Brides Entire Family (parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins..)
Bride and Groom with each set of Bride's Grandparents

Grooms Immediate Family (10 minutes)

Bride and Groom and Groom's Parents
Bride and Groom and Groom's Parents + Siblings
Bride and Groom with Groom's Parents, Siblings and their Spouses + Children
Bride, Groom, and Groom's Parents, Siblings and their Spouses + Children, & Groom's 2 sets of Grandparents, and Great-Grands
Bride and Groom with Groom's Entire Family (parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins..)
Bride and Groom with each set of Groom's Grandparents

Optional.. bride and groom with both sets of parents together

Entire Bridal Party together, Bride & Groom, Bridesmaids + Groomsmen + flower girl/ring-bearer
Bride & Groom with Bridesmaids + Groomsmen together
Bride and Groom with Maid of Honor and Best Man
Bride and Groom with Flower Girl and Ring Bearer

Optional.. Bride with Groomsmen + Groom with Bridesmaids

Bride and Groom Portraits; (before ceremony or during cocktail hour, before sunset)

Reception

Reception Entrance;
Speeches
First Dances
Cake Cutting
Dancing, tosses, exit, etc...
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When should I plan to have the photographer eat you ask? Immediately right when/before the first lines start. Why? This is the best time to get a plate. People do not want to be photographed while they are eating and there's little to nothing happening. It doesn't make sense to use your paid time for me to wait in a buffet line. Have the spot and plate arranged with the caterer ahead of time so that it doesn't cut into your photographs.   I want to eat as quick as possible to get hydration and energy to get back to photographing!:)

Wedding day photo timelines are predetermined but moldable the day of the wedding. Why is the timeline moldable? There are always variables that keep the timeline moldable (couldn't find grandpa Jo, ring bearer not getting dressed because it's his 2:00 nap time, hair took an extra 45 minutes, it rained or was extra windy out during scheduled photos, ceremony started late, etc, etc...)

Below is a generic shot list and a sample timeline. This shot list isn't set in stone, but gives good indication for what to expect. This sample demonstrates the ideal situation for the best outcome!

Best of Luck!!:)

Q.... What's your Photography Approach?

I've been doing this photo thing a long time, over 20 years!

I play off scenery, composition, emotion, and Art! I love capturing the sacred and timeless real life moments. I enjoy the classic beauty in moments and details and my sessions are genuine:)

I'm also an artist and natural light photographer! I studied Fine Art Photography, and my work is a stylized and artistic approach to Fine Art Photography:) I really love to play off emotion, scenery, composition, and sound aesthetics within my sessions. I don't believe it's about physical perfection or the perfect pose, it's about real life, your story, your love, and capturing the unique moment that's encompassed into a beautiful composition. I'd love to document your unique story!

Q... When and where is the best time to do a Newborn Session?

The best time for a newborn session is within the first 14 days. The first couple days the newborn may have some bruising or misshaping, and within the first two weeks is when the infant sleeps the most. The best time to schedule your newborn session is during your pregnancy and have a time frame in mind. Newborn sessions can be done in a home with a lot of natural light (or outside if the weather permits). A living space with large open windows, sitting area, and hardwood floors, the parents bedroom, and nursery are all great areas to shoot. The house needs to be heated warm enough for the infant to be wearing only a diaper, and it is best to feed, burp, and change baby right before i arrive (or when I arrive as it will take me a few minutes to unload and set-up). Mom and dad should wear something comfortable, preferably black. Short sleeved or sleeveless tops (skin on skin) often look best for design purposes. Newborn sessions require a lot of patience as we might need to wait through a feeding and changing, and it very common for accidents to occur. Actually, plan on it!:) The more relaxed mom and dad are, the more relaxed baby is. The session lasts about an hour, give or take. Newborn sessions can have a longer turn around time.

I come to you! I bring all of my equipment and props to your home. The last thing you want to do after just having a baby is spend two hours loading up your car with newborn items. You can stay in the comfort of your home. Don't stress about a clean house, you just had a baby (Trust me, i was there, and I was very overwhelmed)! I definitely don't care if dishes are piled up in the kitchen! Just toss the clutter (in the rooms we will use) in a closet. Open all of the blinds and window treatments to allow for a TON of natural light. Lay out any props or outfits you may want for the session. Pump an extra bottle ahead of time and have it ready. The goal is to have a sleeping baby!

Q... Do I need to fill out a contract or make a downpayment?

Wedding Dates are secured upon Signed Contract and $350.00 or 50% Deposit. All photo photo sessions require a contract and non-refundable downpayment of $100.00 to secure your date- due at booking, the remainder is due 24 hours prior to the session. If the remainder isn't paid prior to midnight on the day before the scheduled session, then the session will be rescheduled. I really try to be very accommodating and flexible to the best of my abilities. I understand we all live busy lives, especially with little ones! Rescheduling a session shouldn't be a problem.

Q. Is there a Travel Fee?

Travel Fee is .5/mile outside of 50 miles round trip of home base.

Q... What is the turn around time for sessions?

Photo sessions vary depending on the type of shoot from 2 to 6 weeks including delivery. Weddings can take longer, typically between 6 to 8 weeks or up to 12 during busy/holiday season. Photo books may take longer. (Special accommodations may be possible).

Q.... How is the best way to contact you?

The best way to contact me is E-mail @ [email protected]. You may also text me your e-mail address and question for a quicker response, but i prefer to continue conversation through e-mail as it is more helpful to remember details. I'm not in the office every day or during regular business hours, so it may take me up to a couple of days to respond, however, I always do my best to respond as soon as possible and promptly! I really pride myself in timely correspondence and dedication to my clients.

What's the client-Photographer Agreement for Assignments?

The deposit is intended to save the wedding date and is nonrefundable and non-transferable. The wedding date is secured once the deposit amount clears. Payments may be in form of Cash, Check, electronic transfer, or Money Order. The Remaining balance is due in full 2 weeks prior to the scheduled event date unless specified by photographer. Client must pay the retainer or final payment described before Photographer has any obligation to perform the Assignment. In the event of a canceled or rescheduled wedding, Photographer requires notification in writing signed by the contracted party sent by mail/email, 30 days prior to the wedding date. This is the method of cancellation agreed upon by all signing parties and the only method of cancellation that will be accepted. In the event of a cancellation or postponement within 30 days of the event, the total remainder amount of the contract is due as scheduled and is nonrefundable. The agreed photographer is subject to verified detention by sickness, accidents, riots, strikes, epidemics, acts of God or any other event or circumstances beyond their control. In the event that the contracted personnel listed are unable to shoot, the client will be refunded all payments made.

Model Release: Client(s) understand that any photographic images may be used for website, advertising, and business purposes of Lindsey Neal Photography. Any and all digital files remain the property of Lindsey Neal Photography. Lindsey Neal Photography warrants being the legal copyright owner in all photographic work and client(s) are prohibited to use any imagery for commercial reproduction, sales, or advertising purposes.

Meals: Client(s) understand photographer will need brief water and/or restroom breaks throughout the day. If Photographer works more than 4 hours, client must provide a meal and a 20 minute break to eat at location site. Clients are responsible for notifying the reception hall for designated vendor meal and location. Photographer will determine the optimal timing with minimal activity (when bridal party/guests are eating, there is downtime and people do not like their picture taken as they are eating!) Photographer is not responsible for missed shots during these time frames.

Dangerous Conditions: Client(s) understand photographer is not expected to shoot or expose valuable photography equipment in damaging situations or locations, including excessive rain, lightening, storms, and harmful weather. Client(s) understand photographer is not required to shoot, drive, or perform in any dangerous circumstances that may cause harm to the photographer or equipment.

Uncontrollable Circumstances: Client(s) understand photographer is not responsible for lost photo opportunities or inability to perform due to uncontrollable circumstances including but not limited to; natural disasters, house fires, weather conditions, traffic, road restrictions and/or vehicle accidents and or conditions, riots, acts of God, injury, illness, death or severe illness in the family, bereavement, transportation cancelations, interferences, or malfunctions, equipment malfunction, venue lighting conditions and restrictions, additional and/or outside party camera flash, lateness of clients, bridal party or other important personnel, or scheduling delays or conflicts, or inability to contact client(s). Client(s) understand that if photographer is very ill/injured and unable to perform, then photographer will do their best to find a replacement but it is not a guarantee. The full deposit will be refunded to the Client If the photographer is too ill to preform the day of the assignment if the assignment is not rescheduled. Not being able to perform due to severe illness, acts of God, family illness/death, severe traffic or weather conditions, natural disasters or any other uncontrollable circumstances shall not be a breach of contract.

Interferences: Client(s) understand photographer is the sole professional photographer allowed to photograph the event. Amateur photographers may take photos during the event if they do not interfere with the contracted photographer, and only after the contracted photographer has finished taking the contracted or posed photographs. If interference happens the contracted photographer will notify the designated family representative on site to handle the situation. If flash photography is not allowed, client(s) understand that this may interfere with the quality of the images.

Specific Images: Photographer and Client further agree that that the Photographer shall not be held responsible for any specific image(s) that may not be delivered. Client understands that Photographer uses a stylized and photojournalistic approach to the Assignment, with few prearranged or posed shots. The client must communicate any/all desired specific and group shots prior to the event date. Any failure by the photographer to deliver any specific image shall not be a breach of this agreement. The client(s) and their party are responsible for the timing of the events throughout the day, and the photographer will give their professional input on optimal locations, scheduling and timing of specific images and group shots based on experience, weather, sunlight, opportunity, and other variables. Photographer is not responsible for missing specific shots, and is not responsible if the wedding day timeline is altered or delayed. Photographer is not responsible for unexpected malfunctions or accidents. The associated photographer(s) will perform to the best of their ability to satisfy the client with the photographs and other contracted products of the wedding and/or event/session. However, client realizes that there is no official guarantee of satisfaction.

Investments: The event date is not reserved until the downpayment is paid and the contract is hand-signed by client and photographer. The downpayment is intended to reserve the event date and is non-refundable and non-transferable. The downpayment is deducted from the total payment. In the event that the sole photographer experiences uncontrollable circumstances such as but not limited to; natural disasters, bereavement, severe sickness or injury in the immediate weeks, days or hours prior to scheduled event, and is unable to perform, then said photographer will refund all payments made to client(s) and obligations to perform are dismissed. The Payment Remainder is due one week prior to wedding/event date. Photographer is not expected to preform at a given wedding/event without receiving payment in full. The associated photographer(s) will perform to the best of their ability to satisfy the client with the photographs and other contracted products of the wedding and/or event/session. However, client(s) realize that there is no official guarantee of satisfaction. Turn around time may take 6-8 weeks, or up to 10-12 weeks during busy/holiday season. Fall and winter wedding season may not be guaranteed delivery before the Holidays. Once the Wedding/Event and/or Session has been delivered and received to the contracted client(s) via website/digital-download/or media/etc; photographer is no longer responsible for client(s) Files or any replacements of files. The Wedding Gallery download registration pin is delivered to the specified contracted client. Guests and uncontracted persons may purchase prints and downloads through the Website. The photo sharing website is intended for client-registered downloads, viewing, sharing, and purchases. Client(s) understand photographer is not liable to stay past the agreed upon hours of service without applying the additional hourly rate of $250.00/hour or current rates at time of service. Photographer must consider traveling time and expenses, equipment usage and investments, product costs, shooting hours and post production editing investments. Client(s) understand the travel limit is 1.5 hours outside of Indianapolis for non-overnight rates; additional overnight rates may apply. The Clients are responsible for any parking fees, tolls, or unspecified charges. If applicable, Client(s) understand there may be a travel fee of .5/mile round-trip outside of home-base; and additional rates are subject to apply.

Remember... The date is not reserved without a cleared deposit, and the wedding needs to be paid in full (and cleared) before the wedding!

Golden Hour... Best Lighting