Some Frequently Asked Questions
What will it cost?
On weekdays I charge $500 for the first hour and $150 for each additional hour. On weekends first hour is $650. I give you the original, edited, high-resolution images. I can post them online, at no additional charge, so you can share the photos with your friends and family. You can also order albums, slideshows, prints, and other products. But most importantly, you will own the images on CD. In order to reserve my services, $200 non-refundable retainer is required and final balance is due on the day of the session. Most sessions last 1-3 hours. I do one other type of engagement photo session called a lifestyle session. I spend the entire day with the couple and we work in several locations including your home, coffee shops, restaurants, wineries, beaches, parks, spicy neighborhoods, ruins and some landmark locations (ex: Legion of Honor). Session ends with beautiful sunset or nightlife photos. During the session you can have multiple wardrobe changes. Lifestyle session is $3000 including 8-10 hours of coverage, two photographers with two hours break (for you to have some rest) and mini 8x8 magazine style album.
What’s a good location?
As a San Francisco-based photographer, I’ve shot photo sessions all over the City and I still discover new places and come up with new ideas. This gorgeous City keeps me inspired. Nearly any background you can imagine can be found in and around the City. Beaches, architecture both modern and historical, parks, quiet as well as busy streets, streetcars and cable cars, marinas, established as well as new neighborhoods. And one-of-a-kind venues like the Palace of Fine Arts, City Hall, the Palace of the Legion of Honor, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
What should we wear?
Your expressions are more important to me than what you choose to wear. Your wardrobe choices are important though. It’s important that you feel good in what you wear and feel comfortable as well. In most situations, I recommend something that suits the location. Casual clothing for a beach, for example.
When is a good time to do the session?
I can shoot anytime, day or night, sunshine, rain or fog. In fact some unique photos I've shot have been taken on dark, rainy days. Still, I'd say late afternoon, about an hour before the sun sets and the light is golden, is the best time. And although we can’t predict the weather, at least starting out on a warm day is a help.
How long does it take?
Most often I spend between one to three hours with a couple. In only a few hours I will take a couple of hundred photos. Plenty to choose from!
Additional information
I am mostly available for engagement sessions on weekdays with few exceptions. Travel is included as long we are shooting in San Francisco and may apply if we travel outside. This package offered a-La-Carte for "non-wedding" clients. If you decide to reserve my services for a wedding later on, you may be partially reimbursed as some wedding packages include engagement session without high resolution images.
Destination Photography
If you planning a destination wedding, please consider me for your wedding as well. I am experienced traveler and shot in many places across the globe. Please take a look at my destination wedding photographer collection. Currently I am interested in Santorini wedding photography and Florence wedding photography. Other destinations welcome.
Save the date video - link
Something new we started to offer. More information and sample here. Basically, during engagement session we create a highlight movie which can be used as a "save the date" announcement on your personal website. It also can be played at your wedding reception. This option cost $500 and includes a ready DVD.
