How much do you charge?
I price according to the brief and requirements. I do this because photographic work can vary so much. If a set needs to be built and extensive retouching work required this will be more expensive than a simple head and shoulders portrait for a business. Consequently, I don't believe that it's fair either to me or to you if I have a pricing structure that is rigid and doesn't take actual needs into account.
All pricing is upfront and will clearly state an overall price without hidden extras. Rest assured that I deliver excellent value considering the quality and will take budget into consideration.
Do you take on all types of photographic work, like weddings and events?
Yes. The wedding industry has undergone an exciting transformation
over the last few years and the modern couple want modern stylish
imagery. This has made this type of work far more exciting and I am
happy to offer a dedicated service at www.vivamemento.com
Please do get in contact what ever your photographic needs are. I want you to get great images.
The first question is why do you need a model portfolio? Most reputable models agencies will not require you to have a portfolio and will only need a simple snapshot of you to determine if you have the potential to become a model. Please bear in mind that for fashion work agencies require females to be at least 5' 8" and for males to be a minimum of 6'. Different types of modelling work such as glamour or promotions may allow shorter heights. Always, always research an agent prior to seeing them and never hand over any money.
Therefore, I don't offer model portfolios and strongly discourage potential models from handing over money for them. In the model industry portfolios come over time from test shoots and from actual jobs. A portfolio made in one day will be obvious to the trained eye and will count against you.
To find a reputable model agency contact AMA (Association of Model Agents) and they will send you a list of current members that have solid, professional reputations.
Do you work overseas? Yes. A vast amount of my work has been overseas in the last few years. Overseas work requires logistical planning that can only come from experience. I am based in the UK, but very happy to undertake international projects.
Do you do location work? Yes. I am mainly set up for location work and have a full portable studio lighting kit that can be set up anywhere. Up a mountain. Not a problem!
Do you do retouching? I do my own basic retouching, but when needs must use a handful of brilliant professional retouchers and am happy to put you in contact if you need the services of a recommended retoucher.
When do I need to pay?
New clients will be issued a proforma invoice which means that full payment is required upfront. The second time will be a 50% proforma invoice with the balance payable after 30 days from the date of invoice. The third and subsequent time will be 30 days from the date of invoice. Please note, that all terms and conditions are provided prior to booking on request.
How long does it take to get our pictures?
This is dependent on the level of post production required. Sometimes, I have supplied images an hour or two after a shoot. This may have a premium though.
Generally images are supplied within five working days, but you will be advised at the time.
How do we get our images? All images are supplied electronically and sent via ftp or can be downloaded from the client section of this website. At additional charge images can be supplied on CD or DVD. Please note that files transferred via ftp are included once within the cost and additional transfers may incurred extra charges.
How long do you retain the files?
Images are considered live for the duration of one month after dispatch. This means that if you require additional downloads from this website, you are free to do so for one month.
After a month images are moved to archive and a charge will be made for retrieval or new ftp transfer. This is due to the time taken in retrieving images.
Can we have prints? Yes. I supply prints in all sizes on Hanemuhle fine art paper. All types of photographic presentationmethods can be supplied from billboards to canvas mounted. P.O.A
We need our images as CMYK files? Please say this at the time of booking or quotation. CMYK conversion needs to be outsourced to guarentee perfect colour matching and this will need to be accounted for in the budget.
Do we receive a contract at the time of booking? Yes. All terms and conditions are clearly stated and a clear, plain English contract provided, so we both know how we stand.
I can take my own pictures, why do I need to hire a photographer? If you can take perfect images then you should take your own pictures. Remember though that if you are reliant on images for your business, and most businesses are, then you need to make the maximum impact. In the present economic climate you need to bring as much attention to yourself and portray the best image you can.
We need help coming up with ideas to promote our company? I love being involved with the creative concept from the onset and welcome the opportunity to help develop your ideas.
Do we own the copyright of our pictures? Legally, copyright belongs to the photographer. This means that unless specified that images are provided to you on a licensed basis. This of course is discussed at the time of booking and is flexible.
What does a 'license' mean? A license is a contract that specifies the terms of usage for an image or images. This may be for an indefinite period or less. This is discussed at the time of booking.
We have no budget for photography, but it is a 'great opportunity' for you to help us for free.
With the greatest respect, are you working for free or are the images to help promote you or for you to make money from? Photography is not free and requires expensive equipment, costly experience and a lot of time. If you need good photography then it is of value to you and no one should work for free and not be expected to either.
Saying that, I am happy to support genuine charities and have given my time and support voluntarily.
How do I become a photographer?
My best advice is to keep taking pictures! Sound obvious, but it's
true. I recently read an interview by Jurgen Teller that offered the
advice that you should always be aware of why you're taking a
photograph prior to taking it. If you can't find a reason, don't take
it.
There is the traditional route of assisting a professional
photographer or the route of going to university to and getting a
degree. The educational route is great because it allows you to perfect
your art free of commercial restraints. Saying that, real life
experience can be great and assisting will give you that.
Do you take on assistants?
I use freelance assistants and am happy to take peoples details for future use.
Do you do test shoots?
Yes. I am constantly testing and am happy to hear from models, stylists, make up artists and hair stylists who are interested in collaboration. Please, don't be offended if I don't want to test with you at that time. I have ideas and looks that I am interested in and sometimes a project in mind. If your look or style doesn't fit in right now, it doesn't mean that there is anything wrong with you and I may get in touch in time when I more fitting project is being undertaken.
Do you take on work placements?
Unfortunately not. Due to having to travel so much, it's not possible to offer work placements or experience. I am more than happy though to offer help or advice via phone or email. Also, I am happy to look at students work. Just send me an email attaching a small file and I will take and look and offer opinions.
If there are any questions that you have that I haven't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact me via the link in the menu. I'm only to pleased to help.