Frequently Asked Question - Questions to ask your wedding photographer
Q. How do I choose the right package for my wedding?
Easy, simply pick how long you would like me to photograph your wedding, 3, 6 or 9 hours. If you would like me to photograph the bridal preparations and also the evening and first dance then most probably you would require me for 9 hours, if you only want pictures up to the speeches then possibly 6 hours will be enough, but remember with every package you will get your wedding photographs on DVD. After you have chosen the time, you could then choose an album or other product from my range to create your unique wedding package. If you only want the DVD disc after your wedding then this is fine.
Q. You supply the wedding pictures on DVD, can I print these out myself?
Yes, all of the images on the disc that I supply have no restrictions to stop you printing them. They can easily be printed to a size of A2, sometimes even bigger.
Q. What is your style of wedding photography?
My wedding photography is high quality, creative and contemporary, and I work in a relaxed, informal and non-intrusive way to capture images which will tell the story of your day.
Q. Do you use any other photographers to photograph my wedding?
Absolutely not! I photograph all the weddings, I edit the pictures, and I prepare the discs and create your albums ready for printing. I believe in supplying the best quality service, products and prices so the only way I can ensure everything is finished to my standards is do it myself.
Q. You are recommended by many wedding venues, why is this?
I am very proud that many venues will recommend Chris Freer Photography. This I believe is because I offer a completely professional approach to my work and this includes working with wedding venues to ensure your day runs smoothly, I have never held a meal up yet!
Q. What if you're ill on our wedding day?
I am proud to say that I have never missed a wedding through illness or any other reason. In the extremely unlikely event of not being able to attend on the day, I would do everything possible to arrange an alternative photographer for you through my professional contacts. If I were unable to find an alternative for you, I would give you a full refund.
Q. Are you insured?
Definatly, I have Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance with a leading photography insurance service. (please ensure that whoever photographs your wedding has insurance cover)
Q. I have a friend who has said they will photography my wedding, why should I pay for a professional wedding photographer?
Good question! If you are happy for a friend to take your wedding day photographs then please use them, however, a simple search on the internet will quickly show many Brides and Grooms who have regretted taking this chance with their wedding photography. I know that not everybody’s budget is the same; this is why I offer a range of services and products to tailor to your unique day.
Q. What if I don't like having my photograph taken?
Join the club, neither do I. Not many people really enjoy having their photograph taken but this is why you choose a professional photographer. I work very hard to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera, I would never asked you to do anything you’re not completely comfortable with. Throughout your wedding day I will help build your confidence with simple poses and instruction that will give you great wedding photographs.
Q. Do you do pre-wedding / engagement photo shoot?
Yes, although these shoots are not to everybody’s taste, they are a fantastic way to see how we will work together on your wedding day. They generally make you feel a lot more relaxed on the big day in front of the camera.
Q. How will I know when my wedding photographs are online?
Once your wedding photographs are online I will then send you out an email and text message to let you know. I will also let you have your unique password so you will be the first to view the images.
Q. Can my friends and family see my photos?
Yes, if you would like your friends and family to view your wedding photographs then I will supply small information cards at your wedding which will have details and a password to your online images. You will still be the first to see this online gallery and it will only be viewable to your friends and family once you have approved.
Q. What areas do you cover?
As well as Cumbria, I have photographed weddings in Scotland, Northumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire, Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire. I am more than happy to travel to photograph your wedding; it’s often great to visit a new venue. (There is a travel charge for weddings that are over 75 miles away)
Q. You have many comments from your past clients, are these all genuine?
Defiantly, every comment on this website is from a genuine couple that I have photographed their wedding. Should you wish to speak to my past clients directly then please contact me for details. (Click here for my clients comments page)
Q. Are you a professional photographer or part-time?
This is always a valid question to ask. I am a professional photographer; I make my living from photographing wedding, portraits, event etc. This means during the week if I am not taking pictures then I am concentrating on my client’s relations, editing, creating albums, upkeep and maintenance of my website. This is not something that can be crammed into a weekend if I had another career during the week. Anybody who is part-time may really struggle to supply the level of service that you deserve and pay for.
Q. Can we pay in instalments?
Yes I'm happy to accept payments in instalments either by cheque or bank transfer, as and when you can afford to pay. All I ask is that your balance is paid in full at least 7 days prior to your wedding.
Q. Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes, I offer a range of vouchers for my wedding and portrait photography that can be purchsed online. The wedding vouchers can be used towards the cost of a wedding package, albums, canvases, prints or any other service that I offer. They are a great way to help reduce the cost of the day and are an ideal wedding present from your friends or family. (Click here for details of my wedding vouchers)
Q. How far in advance do we need to book you?
As with any of the popular wedding suppliers, it's best to book as early as possible. I am already getting enquiries for 2013!
Q. How much deposit do you require?
£100 will secure my services for your wedding day; the balance is due no later than 7 days before the wedding. You can of course pay by instalments.
Q. Do you have a booking form and contract?
Defiantly, no wedding photography coverage can be secured without a completed booking form and signed contract. Unlike many wedding photographers I feel that a written contract is vital. It outlines my exact obligations to you, agreed prices etc and gives you peace of mind knowing you have a written document. Please be very wary of any photographer who only sends you a booking confirmation by email and no written document or has no contract at all!
Q. Am I able to buy my wedding photographs directly from you?
Yes, all of my online galleries have a secure online print purchase option. All of the orders are printed by the UK’s number one prolab. You, your family and friends can also purchase other award winning photographic products via my secure online ordering system.
Our wedding photography is high quality, creative and contemporary, and we work in a relaxed and informal style to produce natural and timeless images which will tell the story of your day. Please have a look at our photography portfolio to see whether our style may be what you're looking for.
Can we meet with you to discuss our requirements?
Yes we'd love to meet with you so that you can have a look at some albums and for a chat about your big day. It's important that we get along well with each other, after all we'll be a part of your special day and we want you to feel comfortable having your photographs taken by us. Please get in touch through our contact page to check we're available on your wedding date and to arrange a meeting. If you're unable to meet with us, we're happy to discuss your requirements through email or over the phone.
How do we go about booking you for our wedding?
Once you have decided to go ahead to book us to cover your wedding we'll give you a booking form to complete. You need to return it to us along with a non-refundable deposit of £100 (either by cheque, cash or bank transfer). We will then sign and return the form, along with a confirmation letter and a receipt for your deposit. We'll get in touch a few months before your wedding date to arrange your Pre-Wedding Meeting to go through the final details.
Are we able to upgrade our package if we change our minds?
Yes of course, nothing is set in stone and if you'd like to upgrade just let us know before your wedding day.
What areas of the UK do you cover?
We mainly cover the North East of England and Cumbria, but can travel throughout the UK and abroad if requested. If your wedding is taking place further than 100 miles from Durham we charge mileage at 50p per mile and accommodation if required.
How long will you stay on our wedding day?
All our wedding packages start from the bridal preparations so we can capture all the excitement before the ceremony. We can either stay until the speeches or the first dance depending on which photography package you choose to go for.
Can you photograph our wedding ceremony?
This depends on your vicar / registrar. We have had a few weddings where absolutely no photos were allowed, and some where only certain parts of the ceremony can be photographed. We are very discreet and do not use flash during the ceremony, and will not move around. If it's allowed, Simon will be at the front of the room, with Alison at the far end of the aisle. If it's important to you that the ceremony is photographed, then please speak to your vicar or registrar beforehand as we have to abide by their instructions.
How long do the formal photographs take?
We ask for an hour for the formal photographs - 30 minutes for the group shots and 30 minutes for photographs of the two of you around the grounds of your venue. If you require additional group shots to those listed below please allow extra time and let us know before the big day. We usually start the formal photographs 15 minutes after the end of the ceremony to allow you to have your arrival drinks and for your guests to congratulate you.
What are your standard group shots?
A large group photograph with all of the guests
With all your friends
With all the Bride's relations
With all the Groom's relations
The Bridal Party (Parents, Bridesmaids, Best Man & Ushers)
With your Bridesmaids, Best Man & Ushers
With both sets of parents
With the Bride's parents
With the Groom's parents
What if I don't like having my photograph taken?
You're not alone - the vast majority of people feel a little awkward in front of the camera, including us! We keep the photography relaxed and fun and will work as quickly as possible. The main thing is to try and relax in front of the camera and to be yourselves. We're not going to ask you to do anything silly such as peeping around trees, running or jumping (which we have heard happens with some photographers!) - it'll just be a few simple poses and some shots of you walking and relaxing around your venue. If the photography is something you're nervous about, why not book a pre-wedding shoot with us so that you can get used to how we'll work on the day. Shoots are included with the Platinum & Diamond Packages and can also be purchased as an extra.
Do we need to supply a meal for you?
If you'd like to provide a bar snack or sandwiches for us on the day it would be gratefully accepted, however this isn't something we expect from you. We don't tend to take photographs of you and your guests while you're eating, as they're often not the most flattering shots! We use this time to check over the images we've taken so far and to have a break before the rest of the celebrations begin. If you would like to supply a meal for us, please let us know before the big day so that we don't make alternative arrangements.
Will you allow our guests to take photos?
Yes of course, we're more than happy for your guests to take photographs during the day. The only time we ask to be on our own with you is after the group photographs when we'll take some portrait shots of the two of you around the grounds. This means that we'll have your full attention and it'll be easier for you to relax.
How long after the wedding will our photographs be ready?
The editing process takes around two weeks for us to complete, so you can expect your photographs to be ready on your return from honeymoon (in peak wedding season it may take slightly longer as we'll be very busy, but it would no more than four weeks after your wedding day). We'll send you an email when your photos are ready, and once you let us know that you're home we'll upload the images and post your CDs - it's important to us that you're the first to view your wedding photographs.
How many photographs will we receive on our CDs?
From a full day wedding you can expect to receive between 250 - 350 fully edited images. We don't put a limit on how many photos we give you, so if we have more good photos from your wedding, these will also be fully edited and included for you.
Can we print our own photos from the CDs?
Yes of course - we provide you with a certificate of reproduction rights which allows you to make your own prints and to order other photographic products. The photographs on the CDs are full resolution and are not watermarked. We also offer a print and product service through your gallery, should you or any of your guests wish to order professional quality products from us.
Can we buy an album after our wedding?
Yes of course. We do offer two album packages, but understand that budget restraints might mean you can't afford an album until after the big day. There's no obligation to purchase an album from us, but if you decide you would like one then please get in touch - there's no time limit on this either, whether it's 2 months or 2 years after your wedding we'll be happy to design an album for you. Full information on our albums and prices are listed here.
How does the album design process work?
We like our clients to be involved with the album design process, after all it's a lasting memento from your day and we want you to be completely happy with the finished product. We ask you to choose your 30 must have photographs, and then we select other images to complement those you have chosen. We will also ask you to choose your cover finish and photograph. The first draft will be ready for you to review between 2-4 weeks after we receive your album options form. You can request any changes you'd like, whether that be swapping photos or changing the layouts. We will then re-design the album for you and repeat the process until you're ready to approve the design. Albums generally take 3-4 weeks to come back from our suppliers.
What equipment do you use?
We both use professional Canon digital SLR cameras and we also carry back-up equipment. Our equipment is serviced regularly to keep everything in great working condition.
How do you deal with low light and bad weather conditions?
Our cameras are excellent in low light conditions, and we are able work without flash whenever possible. The weather is something we unfortunately can't guarantee for your wedding day, but if it does rain we'll have a back up plan. Most venues will have an area indoors we can use for the group photos. We also carry some large ivory golf umbrellas, so if you'd still like to get outside for some photos we're happy to do this - both we and our cameras are waterproof!
What if you're ill on our wedding day?
We've proud to say that we have never missed a wedding through illness or any other reason. In the extremely unlikely event of neither of us being able to attend on the day, we would do everything possible to arrange an alternative photographer for you through our professional contacts. If we were unable to find an alternative for you, we would give you a full refund.
Are you a member of a professional photography body?
Yes we are members of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP).
What insurance do you have?
We have Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance. All our equipment is also covered against accidental damage.
Can we pay in instalments?
Yes we're happy to accept payments in instalments either by cheque or bank transfer, as and when you can afford to pay. All we ask is that your balance is paid in full 7 days prior to your wedding.
Do you only photograph weddings?
We also run Durham Portraits, specialising in contemporary studio and outdoor lifestyle portrait photography. Other commissions we have undertaken include award events, sports photography and work for schools.
