F.A.Q.

How would you describe your style?

My style is both classic and a bit edgy at the same time. I am drawn to sunset photos and pictures that I like to describe to my brides and grooms as “epic.” I don’t utilize any filters during my editing process. I am known for my use of lighting. I take pride in trying to get as much right in the camera as possible. I don’t rely on editing gimmicks. Because of this, I am comfortable shooting in any situation including evenings and dark reception venues. It is also why my images look different than most photographers. I still utilize a lot of natural light during the proper conditions. I only deliver color and black and white images to ensure that they stand the test of time. Could you imagine if you got an entire album of sepia images 10 years ago?

Is this your full-time job?

Yes and I couldn’t be happier about it! I do 30-40 weddings per year. I love being a part of one of the happiest days of someone’s life. There is something magical about each and every wedding we are a part of. Have we made mistakes in the past and worked hard to fix them? Absolutely. That’s why it’s important to hire someone that does this full-time and isn’t new to the industry. This is not an easy job and it requires a lot of repetition to perfect it. I heard somewhere that it takes at least 60 weddings to feel like you’ve seen it all. I agree and I am confident that we can overcome any obstacles that might prevent us from delivering the wedding of your dreams.

How many pictures will I receive from my wedding day?

That depends on how long your coverage is and how much travel between locations there is. I typically deliver between 500 and 800 post-processed images.

Do you use a back-up photographer?

Yes, I have several professional photographers that I know and trust. I have worked with each of them numerous times.

Do you shoot a lot of candid photos?

Of course! Outside of posing the bride and groom, bridal party and family photos I prefer for everything to be done via photojournalism. We do help to place people for certain photos and then let things unfold naturally. An example of this is a bride getting dressed or a bride opening a bottle of champagne. We have found that our clients prefer to be surrounded by their friends and family. This just ensures it happens. Think of these kinds of photos as assisted photojournalism.

What is the “Online gallery” you mention on your “Investment” page?

The online gallery is a private web page where all of your post-processed wedding day images and engagement photos will be displayed. It allows for free downloading of all delivered images in my Premium and Legacy packages. It is also tied to my printers for quick delivery of any printed products in the online store at my cost with no additional markup.

What can I expect from my engagement session?

Engagement sessions are a great way for us to get to know one another. They also allow me to teach you some basic posing that you will eventually make your own. Don’t worry, I will get plenty of candids! The whole point of an engagement session is to get you comfortable in front of a camera. After the session you will be relaxed and ready for pictures on your wedding day. I recommend two outfits and two locations. One outfit relaxed and the other a bit dressier, like what you might wear going out to dinner. Engagement pictures are the informal version of you versus the formal version you will get on your wedding day. My sessions last 2 – 2 1/2 hours and are done during the last couple of hours of daylight at the end of the day, also called the “magic hour.” This is when the sun is lowest in the sky and the most flattering. I typically deliver 35-60 post-processed images. Please visit my Pinterest board for clothing inspiration, https://www.pinterest.com/sdewitt7/photo-shoot-clothing/

Can I get RAW file versions of my pictures?

No, unfortunately not. A raw image has more information in it than a jpg. That is why photographers shoot in RAW. It allows you to pull more out of the shadows and highlights. The files also lose all of the sharpening and color information that is used in the camera during a shoot once transferred to a computer. Each photo must be individually worked on to get them to their finished version. Me delivering RAW images to someone is similar to me giving you the groceries and expecting you to cook a gourmet meal just because you have the ingredients.

Do you have a studio or meeting space?

Yes, I have both in my house in Richmond’s West End. I have a dedicated space with sample wall art, albums and slideshows.