Do I own the rights to the photos taken by a commercial photographer?
Typically, no.
ALL clients get a lifetime unlimited license to use the photos; ownership of the photos is based on client needs and budget.
Ultimately, it depends on the contract and agreement we make for your specific project.
More likely, you (the client) will have the rights to use the photos for your intended purposes, but we (the photographer) retain ownership and have the right to use them in our portfolio or for marketing purposes.
More Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my photos/videos?
2 weeks, typically.
Your photos and videos are typically delivered within 10 business days of the last shoot day. However, this process can be expedited if needed - don't forget to mention it when you submit your request for an estimate. Just remember... there's an age-old saying about quality, speed, and price... and while we strive to provide all three, there is a harmony to maintain.
Note: More dynamic projects, where the post-production process involves many decisions, may take more time to deliver.
Do you offer services aside from photography?
Yes.
We offer additional services such as photo editing, retouching, graphic design, web design (we built this very website), SEO, social media management and more.
We also offer branding, marketing, and advertising consulting to help you create and maintain a cohesive visual identity.
What sets a “commercial photographer” apart from other photographers?
Experience.
Commercial photography, as with any specialty, requires its own unique set of skills, abilities and experience. From balancing light to working with perspective it takes years of training and practice to perfect all the nuances of commercial photography.
One of the key differences between a commercial photographer and other photographers, such as a real estate photographer, is their ability to capture images that effectively convey a message or tell a story that also matches the voice and tone of an existing brand.
I don't have a big budget, can I still get "big-budget" media? How is the pricing calculated?
Yes.
Smaller businesses pay less. Larger businesses pay more.
The scope of use is a major contributing factor in how creative work is priced; a small startup will have less reach than a global corporation and thus pays less to license the same work.
I price projects based on the creative and production needs, in combination with the specific use of the imagery. In other words, while a small business may not have the marketing or advertising budget to book models, props, and large scale venues, the deliverables I provide will still match the technical quality and expertise of a large big-budget corporate production.
If you have concerns about budgeting, contact me and we'll discuss possibilities.
Why do I need commercial photography?
Time.
Today, people value their time more than ever and are making buying decisions faster then ever. Professional commercial photography can help businesses cut through the noise and effectively showcase their products or services in the best possible light, significantly impacting purchasing decisions.
My business has a "brand/look" that we want to maintain, can your content match what we already have?
Yes.
I can take directive from examples of either (a) your current brand/look or (b) the brand/look you would like to emulate. The more branding and identity you have already established, the clearer our objective as photographers will be, and thus the better the entire project will turn out for you.
Do I own the rights to the photos taken by a commercial photographer?
Typically, no.
ALL clients get a lifetime unlimited license to use the photos; ownership of the photos is based on client needs and budget.
Ultimately, it depends on the contract and agreement we make for your specific project.
More likely, you (the client) will have the rights to use the photos for your intended purposes, but we (the photographer) retain ownership and have the right to use them in our portfolio or for marketing purposes.
I don't understand, what makes commercial photography different from just hiring a photographer for a day?
Quality.
While my aim is to make every final photograph look simple, natural, and effortless — that’s rarely the fact.
A well executed photograph involves balancing many factors such as composition, lighting, styling, blending and retouching, it’s a lot of problem solving that comes with experience.
In addition, commercial photography involves collaboration with clients, art directors, marketing teams, and other professionals to bring their vision to life.
How do you and your team work? What is the process?
One step at a time.
I have a simple 4 stage process, starting right here, based on the details you provide. (1) I’ll create an estimate tailored to your specific needs. (2) We schedule a pre-production meeting and arrange a location scout. (3) Take great photos, shoot awesome videos, and have some fun. Lastly, (4) Select final images/videos, retouch until perfect, and format for your specific use.
This entire process can often be achieved in as little as a fews days upon request but generally are delivered within 2 weeks, depending on the size and scope of the project. However, the only way to ensure a project is completed within a deadline and budget is to assess a full scope of work in as much detail as possible.
Visit my contact page to request a detailed estimate.
What types of businesses typically hire a commercial photographer?
All of them.
Any business that needs high-quality visuals to promote their products or services can benefit from working with a commercial photographer. We work with a wide range of industries, including retail, hospitality, fashion, real estate, and more.