Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the booking process?
Once you contact me with your dates, I’ll usually get in touch within 24 hours to let you know if I’m available. We’ll talk about the right package for you, and then fix the date by signing a contract. Initially, I take a 30% deposit to secure the date. Once this has been paid, the date is fixed and we’ll meet up soon after to discuss your day!
Can we meet before the wedding?
100% yes! I'll meet you before the big day, either on Skype or for coffee (cake can be involved!) prior to the big day in order to get to know you and talk about your wishes.
How many images will we get?
Each package offers a set number of images, which is outlined in the agreement. However, weddings are usually full of SO many little moments, it’s heart-wrenching for me to cut any of them out. You can expect everything to be covered fully, so you can relive your own memories and see what your guests were up to as well!
What’s your turnaround time?
You will receive the link to your online gallery within 4 weeks of the wedding. This might be shorter than some photographers, and longer than some others, but I’ve found this is the amount of time I need to make sure I’m happy with the final outcome of the images.
The online gallery stays up for one year from the date you receive the link. You can share this link and also purchase high-quality prints directly within the gallery.
Can you photoshop us?
Having spent time as a retoucher, I am quite aware of the effects that Photoshop has had on our generation and the teenagers of today. While I will always remove things that aren’t normally there (spots, scratches, bruises and so on), we won’t need to change the shape of your body or face. Why? Because you’re beautiful! If you’re especially self-conscious about something, then let me know, and we’ll work together to pose you in the most flattering way.
Do you travel?
Yes, I do! I travel very often for work, and have shot weddings and lifestyle shoots across Europe and Asia.
Do we need to cover travel expenses?
I’m based in Helsinki, Finland, and all shoots within the Helsinki region are covered under the cost of the package. For shoots outside of this, I ask that reasonable travel costs are covered. I’m happy to take a lift there and back with family/friends heading to the location if in Finland. For shoots abroad, I will book flights and accommodation and confirm all the details with you prior to booking.
What languages can you speak?
I was born in London to a British father and Finnish mother - so my English is pretty good, and I can just about get by in Finnish. I also speak good Mandarin Chinese and some Tibetan. Oh, et un peu de français aussi!
What's your style?
I have a degree in photojournalism and documentary photography, plus I’ve dabbled in plenty of artsy stuff, so let’s say my style is at the crossroads of documentary art. I don’t want you to smile for every picture or worry about what you look like - I’ll be there but capturing the real moments, the real you.
Can we get an album?
Yes! I can help you to make a beautiful album, a physical holder of your most cherished memories of the day. But I can’t do it alone - it would be impossible for me to decide who or what to include. I’ll ask you to choose images and then will work on the design - once you approve it, the album will be ready within about 6 weeks.
Who owns the copyright?
As the photographer, I always retain the copyright to the images, but the contract gives you personal, non-commercial lifetime usage. If you have concerns about privacy, just let me know.
I don’t look good in front of the camera!
Honestly most people, including many professional models, feel awkward having their photo taken. I am very good at making you feel comfortable so we can break that horrible barrier (also known as the camera) between me and you, the couple.
How much time do we need on the wedding day for our portraits?
It’s your big day - the last thing you want to do is spend all your time away from your family and friends. So it depends on you. I generally say that if we can take 30 minutes of the day, then it’s good. If I can get an hour throughout the day, even better. And if you give me 90 minutes, I will love you forever!
An hour to 90 minutes will allow us to get pictures at different times of day, so we can get the full power of the sun, and the romantic glow of sunset.