Question 1

How far in advance should we book you for our wedding?

Accepted Answer

Typically, couples book me about 12 months before their wedding date. I encourage you to reach out as soon as possible about my availability, even if you’re planning on a shorter time frame. I am happy to work with short-notice timelines anytime!

Question 2

Do you work with assistants or other photographers?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, I’ll bring one or more assistant photographers depending on the size of your wedding. Don’t worry, this won’t cost you extra.

Question 3

Will you edit all our pictures?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. All final images will be edited for color, saturation, exposure, and sharpness to ensure they look beautiful. I also offer retouching services like blemish removal and teeth whitening for an additional charge.

Question 4

Do you also offer video services?

Accepted Answer

I prefer focusing on photography and aerial footage only, so you can get the best wedding pictures possible. I do have recommendations for videographers that I work with often. Give me a shout and I’ll be happy to recommend a list of partners depending on your needs.

Question 5

How long will it take to see our pictures?

Accepted Answer

My turnaround time varies by season. Typically, you’ll be able to view your photos online about 4-6 weeks after your wedding. Within this time, you can also expect to receive a USB drive with high-resolution image files, so you can share the photos with your loved ones and order prints.

Question 6

How many pictures will we get?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the size and length of your wedding. You can expect about 80 to 100 images per hour of photographing. A typical eight or ten-hour day of wedding coverage usually yields 700-1,000+ polished images. Every image you receive will be processed for color-correction and image retouching. Please take a look at my services to get a better sense of coverage options and I’m happy to customize them to fit your needs.

Question 7

Do you have insurance?

Accepted Answer

I do! Just let me know if your venue requires a certificate of liability, and I’ll send that over to them.

Question 8

What’s your back-up plan if you can’t photograph our wedding as planned?

Accepted Answer

In my 25+ years of experience as a wedding photographer, I’ve never cancelled a booking. In the very rare event that I’m unable to photograph your wedding, I’ll make sure you’re covered by one of my colleagues or my contracted assistant. I’ll also provide you with a list of photographers from the many networking groups I’m in, so you can find the perfect replacement.

Question 9

How do you approach weddings?

Accepted Answer

My goal is to create a seamless, joyful, and easy experience. Depending on your needs, I can provide full photo direction from start to finish, allow your event to unfold without pre-planning, or find a happy medium. I tailor my approach and fine-tune my style to the tone of your event. Rather than force direction or insist on a rhythm or cadence that doesn’t match yours, I focus on you as a couple and set out to capture a sincere representation of your love and connection. You shouldn’t notice me apart from the moments where I may step in to style a shot or to direct family members for posed/pre-planned group formals.

Question 10

How would you describe your style?

Accepted Answer

I balance a natural, photojournalistic approach with handpicked moments of romantic portraiture. I believe there is beauty in a healthy mix of crisp classical poses and elegant candids that radiate with authentic personality. I tailor my coverage during the event to each couple, and always aim to capture your sweet and joyous moments artfully.

Question 11

Why weddings?

Accepted Answer

Love is the reason, love is the answer, and we need more of it in this world. If we’re lucky in this life, we have a few occasions where we can bring our loved ones, the folks who have enriched our lives and supported our growth, into the same space to share a collective experience. A spot where our past, present, and future converge in a joyful celebration of love and intention. Whatever vision you have for your event, please invite more of those slices of anticipation, love, and unforgettable surprise. These are the moments that give way to extraordinary and lasting images.

Question 12

How do you feel about destination weddings/engagement shoots?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please! If you can’t tell from my website…travel and photo adventures are serious passions for me and my family. Picturesque scenery, cityscapes, and the immersive experience of new cultures inspire endless creativity. As an added bonus, destination weddings, elopements, and engagement shoots allow me to capture a larger story. I won’t just be photographing the main event, but can provide coverage for the outings and rehearsal events over the days leading up to the ceremony. For all destination shoots, I am happy to cover any post-wedding celebrations that you have planned (farewell brunch or Sunday picnic, anyone?).

Question 13

Do you do engagement shoots/proposals?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Proposals and engagement shoots are so much fun. Engagement shoots are the best way for us to know one another and rehearse for your big day. At the end of the session, you’ll have stunning photos to include on your save the dates, announcements, and wedding invites. An engagement shoot gives us the chance to work together before the big day so that we have added familiarity and rapport on our side. Once your big day arrives, I’ll know how to make your wedding day shine, you’ll feel more comfortable in front of the camera, and we have tons of fun.

Question 14

What if we're awkward and hate taking photos?

Accepted Answer

If you’re camera shy, you’re not alone. So many of my clients, couples, and friends have shared this same sentiment and, after the shoot, expressed relief that I was able to put them at ease in front of the camera. I take pride in being able to introduce you to a new experience–seamless, joyful, and easy. Let’s do this!

Question 15

Do you have a shot list?

Accepted Answer

I'll have a list in my mind of the photos I’d like to capture for your wedding based on what I know about you as a couple, your unique vision for the day, and the scout of the space. Despite this prep, I remain flexible in my approach and won’t force an idea or direction if it doesn’t match the moment. The number of decisions you must make planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. You can trust me to handle all the shots or we can work together to customize an approach to your specifications. If you have groups or special features in mind (sparkler exits, fireworks, a surprise) let me know and I’ll be poised and ready to make them shine.

Question 16

Do you shoot in RAW format and will I get those?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I will shoot RAW images at your wedding or event. Think of these like the raw ingredients to the story of your day. These files need to be color and exposure corrected. To do this, I use professional-grade software and edit in a way that’s true to life and timeless. I will supply all of the highest quality images that properly tell the story of your day, keeping in mind variety, pace, and flow of the finished gallery. Aligned with the industry standard, I don’t ever provide RAW files. Every photo you receive will be processed to ensure the highest quality standards and retain consistency in composition, brightness, colors, and mood.

Question 17

What's the end product?

Accepted Answer

You will receive: 1) A gallery of beautiful proofs via a gallery-style website – it’s the perfect way to share your images with family and friends 2) All the high-resolution files on a USB drive 3) Prints, photo albums, and proofing gallery options are also available – we can discuss those add-ons if you’re interested

Jonathan Costello Photography

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About Jonathan Costello Photography