Frequently Asked Questions


General Questions

What equipment do you use?

I shoot with a Canon 5D mark iii, a Canon 6D and switch between several lenses depending on the circumstances. My favorites lenses are my 35mm Sigma ART 1.4, Canon 85mm 1.8, Tamron 70-200mm 2.8 and my macro lens, 100mm 2.8. I also have OCF equipment.

How will I receive my images?

I will send you a link where you can view, share or download your images. Basic professional printing options are also available at a low price. You will also get your very own customized page on www.sarahgoniaphotography.com. This will allow you to access your photos anywhere, anytime. See Example.

Do you deliver every image you shoot?

No, I select the images that are most flattering and tell the story of your session. I shoot several photos in each pose specifically so I can pick through and find just the right one!

 Can we get our images in B+W and color?

I edit each photo to fit the moment. Color is fun and lively and nothing lets the emotion of the moment shine through like B+W! If you have specific requests please let me know before your session.

Are our digital images watermarked?

No, the images I provide you will not be watermarked. If you prefer to have watermarked images for social media sharing please let me know (you'll get a high five from me too!)

Do you shoot in JPEG, Small Raw, or Large Raw?

RAW! It allows for the most creative editing.

What location should we choose for our portrait session? Will you help us decide?

Yes I will! Depending on where you live I can provide suggestions that are urban, forest, mountain or beach for you to choose from. From there it just depends on your style and the purpose of the photos. See Location Ideas.

Does your studio do Studio Newborn Portrait Sessions?

No. But I know some fabulous photographers that specialize in shooting newborn babes. Let me know if you need a referral! I do however do lifestyle newborn and family sessions.

What is your philosophy regarding photography?

Photography is about visual storytelling for me. I always try to capture the real you and the emotions of the day. I believe the little moments between the posed smiles, the ones that capture who you are and what you are feeling, are by far the most important.

What is your photography style?

Mix of documentary, traditional and artistic. LOVE black and white images!! Variety is good!

What rights do I have to the digital prints?

You can share, post or print your photos as you wish but please don't alter, crop or add a filter to the images. This jeopardizes the integrity of the photo and makes Sarah sad.

What if I lose my images?

Return to your personal client gallery page and download or share them again! You gallery will be available for 10 years on this link!

Do you backup our images? How can we ensure that our images won’t be lost?

Yes! I do backup my images on an external hard drive. I also leave the RAW files on my SD/CF card until the images are fully edited and delivered to you!

Do you have Liability Insurance?

Yes

Do you charge a travel fee?

A small travel fee is charged for event locations outside of a 30 mile radius of Olympia, WA.

Why do you charge travel fees?

I charge travel fees to adequately compensate my team for the time and expenses of the travel.

How do I set up an appointment to meet you in person and see some of your work?

Click HERE to message me and let's pick a date! 

If we cancel the wedding will we receive our deposit back?

Unfortunately, no. When you book your date and pay your retainer, that money holds that date specifically for you and no other events can be booked. If you need to book a different date a new retainer will be required to hold that date.

Is there an additional fee if we pay via credit card?

No, that's silly.

If I pay for my package in cash will we be able to avoid paying sales tax or receive a discount?

Unfortunately no, we still have to pay taxes no matter what form of payment has been accepted.


Wedding

When can we expect to see the photos from our wedding?

Standard turn around time is 4-6 weeks. Don't worry, I won't keep you waiting - I'll send sneak peeks!

Does your studio provide videography services?

At this time, no, but I have worked with some fabulous videographers so let me know if you need a recommendation!

Do you do destination weddings?

 Yes! Oh goodness, so much yes! I love a good adventure and I love a good love story.... count me in!

Have you shot at my venue before?

This is a great question to ask me! Just know, if I haven't shot there yet I will be scouting your venue BEFORE your wedding day to find the best locations and learn the lighting patterns.

Do you provide partial day coverage?

Absolutely! Each couple and each wedding is unique. I try to be flexible to best meet your needs.

How do I get my wedding published on other wedding blogs or magazines?

If you are interested in publishing your wedding, let's chat and figure out a great place to submit!

How many hours do you suggest we set aside for wedding day photos?

Depending on the size of your family, plan on setting aside 30-60 minutes for family photos, 30 minutes for wedding party photos and 30 minutes for photos of the two of you. Of course this time can vary.... please keep in mind that my team and I will be working hard to get through the photos quickly so you can enjoy time with your guests.

I have downtime between events on my wedding day. Will I be charged for that downtime?

You will be charged for overall time, not by individual events or how busy we are. During the time frame we have established I will be on site to help you as needed, no strings attached.

What happens if we go over the contracted amount of time?

I have an hourly rate ($350/hr) which you will be invoiced for after the wedding.

Why do we need to charge for additional coverage?

Adding extra time to your day means more photos to edit and more time away from my family. I am more than happy to stay longer to capture your special moments but my family misses me too!

Do you provide the RAW files from my engagement session and wedding day?

No. Part of the magic and storytelling aspect of your images comes from my editing and creative selection. Trust me! I got you covered boo!

Do you offer any discounts on weekday weddings, Sunday weddings, or weddings during the offseason?

No. The rates for shooting a wedding, including paying an assistant or second shooter, do not change depending on the day or season so the amount we charge to cover a wedding does not change either.

If we change our wedding to a different date will we be able to use our deposit towards a future date?

Typically no, but I evaluate on a case by case basis. The reason for canceling and our availability is also a part of the decision. Please note that if rates change from your original date to your new date, the new rates will apply.

If we cancel the wedding will we receive our deposit back?

Unfortunately, no. When you book your date and pay your retainer, that money holds that date specifically for you and no other events can be booked. If you need to book a different date a new retainer will be required to hold that date.


Couples/Engagement

When should we do our engagement session?

We recommend doing your engagement session as soon as possible but at least 12 weeks before your wedding. You'll need time to pick, print and send save the dates and your guests will need time to put in vacation requests and make travel preparations.

Can we schedule our engagement session for the weekend?

Yes, as long as I have the date available you can schedule your session. Please keep in mind that weekdays are a GREAT option because locations tend to be less crowded during the week.

How many images do you typically deliver from and engagement session? From a wedding?

For an engagement I deliver 20-25 from a Traditional session and 50-100 for a Storytelling or Adventure Package. For weddings you can expect approximately 80 per hour of coverage.

I’d like you to Photoshop our name and date into the save-the-dates, is that included in the package pricing?

This service is complimentary with the booking of a wedding package.