Frequently Asked Questions
Why you? And the basics...
Why should I use you over say a department store studio?
Generally department store studios are staffed with people who do not know how to take a quality photo. They aren't really professional photographers, they are people trained to push a button, all the thinking is done for them. We position the photo in the most pleasing manner, try different angles and are open to your ideas and input to make your session unique and custom.
Do you shoot digital or film?
We have gone entirely digital. This saves you time having to wait for prints to be processed so that you may view them. We use professional quality digital cameras that create sharp images at large sizes.
Do you shoot black and white or color?
We can shoot both. All of our digital photos are originally done in color but can be changed to black and white, sepia toning and many other specialty colorings at no additional charge.
Why is hiring a photographer so expensive?
Like any specialized job, it takes a lot of learning to do the job right. When you or your loved ones go to a job you expect to be paid for your time and knowledge. As a photographer we have to pay for camera equipment, schooling (photographer has a BS degree and still takes classes to keep on top of technology and new techniques) printing, travel, website costs, new equipment and warranties.
Also, when the photo shoot ends, the work is not done for the photographer.
We have training in photography/writing. We try to keep our fees reasonable, but at the same time we have to pay the bills and the tax man. Please don't ask us to shoot for free or to drop our prices because someone else is cheaper. That isn't fair to us and we wouldn't do that to you or your spouse if you were doing a service (example: plumber, pizza man, etc.) for us.
Booking & Before the Shoot
How do I make an appointment and pay for your services?
Contact us through our web form or call Christy at 904-891-0359.
Do you have a studio or will you come to my house?
We currently do studio and on-location shoots. Our studio is located at 1523 Chaffee Road, Suite #6 on the Westside. (Enter through Brightway Insurance.) We can also bring our equipment to you and do on location work.
Where would you recommend for my on-location portrait?
Some of the most popularly requested locations are: Memorial Park in Riverside, a gazebo and duck pond in Orange Park, across from the Landing, and of course, the beach. Go here, to see some of the locations we regularly shoot at. Or suggest your own. Even your own front room or bedroom, we'll bring the studio lights to you!
When is payment due?
Unless otherwise arranged, a minimum $20 deposit (for portraits) is required when you book your appointment. We accept VISA, Mastercard, Money Order, or cash. If you are paying with a check, your prints will not be released until the check goes through. There is a $35 fee on returned checks. Credit card payments MUST be paid before the shoot, and can be arranged through paypal to deposit@freelance4hire.com
What if I have to cancel? (Portraits only, wedding cancellations are different.)
If you find that you will be unable to come for your photo session, please notify us within 48 hours of the shoot. We will apply your deposit to a new booking in the future. If you do not show up for your appointment, or provide less than 48 hours notice then the deposit will not be refunded.
I missed my shoot, what do I do?
If you missed your session and you gave us less than 48 hours notice, then you must pay a $20 deposit to hold your next session. We are not trying to be mean, however, we have booked that time specifically for you and made arrangements to have the studio open for your session and no one else. (If you hired a makeup artist or hair stylist as well, they may have their own deposit that is non refundable.)
How do refunds work?
You are encouraged to look at the photos on this site carefully to make sure that we are the photographer you are looking for. Every photo studio has their own style of photography, no matter where you go you should look to see what types of photos they have done in the past to see if you would be pleased with that type of photographer's results. (Please note that box chains pull the best photos from ALL over the US to put on the walls, not the best from that location. Our photos are from OUR in house photographer.)
Unless, there is some error on the part of the photographer, refunds will not be given for photo shoots. If you have a problem with a print or item you purchase a duplicate may be printed if there is something wrong with it.
How much is...?
Prices vary depending on the services required. For the most up to date prices, contact us with questions. Or visit our customer gallery (see link at top of page) and click on a gallery to view prices for different items.
Is there tax?
Yes, all shoots inside the state of Florida will be subject to a 7% tax.
Are you insured?
Yes. We carry equipment insurance as well as liability insurance.
Should I tip the photographer?
You do not have to, but it is always appreciated.
How often do you update the photos on your website?
We usually try to add new photos all the time.
Do I have to sign a contract or anything?
Yes. ALL sessions require a contract and/or model release be signed. The contract is a basic contract that protects both you and the photographer.
Is there anything I should know or do before the shoot?
Don't try anything new just before your shoot! Get hair cuts, etc. at least a week prior to the photo shoot. Once you book a session you may stop by our studio for a welcome packet (call first) or we can email it to you. There are tons of great info in it about clothing, etc.
What should we wear?
Have everyone wear similar colors. Blue jeans or khakis with cream or white shirts are recommended for outside portraits. Remember you don't want everyone wearing different colors as this will draw the attention away from the family as a whole in a picture. Also, try to avoid logos on clothing.
Ordering photos...
Where are my photos at?
You may view your photos online in the gallery. If your shoot was more than 3 months ago, they may no longer be available for viewing, please email us if you need to order more prints.
How large can prints be made from the digital images?
As large as you want!
I plan on having my photos published in the newspaper for an engagement announcement, what types of photo do I need?
That will depend on the publication. You should let us know that the photo will be published, as the photo will need some extra tweaking to make it look its best on a newspaper page, as their printing process is different.
My mom (or some other relative/friend) wants prints, but she lives out of town...
Parents and family can now order through our gallery. This will save you the hassle of mailing them yourself, collecting orders and so forth.
Can I get a discount?
If you compare the rates offered you will find our rates are extremely reasonable. The only time we do discounts is if we are having a special, of if we are shooting in bulk (several sessions back to back). Please add our Myspace page to view our specials.
If you plan on ordering a large number of prints from one pose, then you should inquire about getting a bulk discount on prints.
We also offer discounts/specials to people who pass our name along to their friends and family. If you know someone who would like to set up a photo shoot after they saw your photos, let us know. If they set up an appointment and complete the order, we will give you an 8x10 as a thank you for the referral.
Do you do photo retouching? I have a zit and I want my photo to look the best it can.
We do some digital computer retouching while we are editing the pictures, this is done at no cost. If you see something in a photo (before it is printed) that you want touched up we can usually do small fixes (ie: a zit) at no charge. If you have particular issues, such as a double chin, please let us know before hand that you are sensitive to that so that we can pose you appropriately. We will charge $30 an hour for editing (pinch off weight, major scar removal, etc.), if it is a large job or if you want something edited after the order has been sent to the printers. There is a $15 minimum on editing.
What kinds of finishes do you have?
The photos are generally done in a matte finish. The good thing about matte is it doesn't hold fingerprints as badly as glossy.
Glossy prints are shiny and slick. Glossy prints generally show finger prints more. If you are using your photos as an engagement announcement and it will be printed in the newspaper you need to ask for glossy prints. Glossy photos also appear much more sharp because of the smooth surface.
If you have already purchased frames for your photos, you may want to see if the glass is beveled or has its own matte type surface. If the glass is beveled you will likely want a glossy print. But this will need to be done on special request.
Do you do special filters or collages?
Yes we do. Check out the artistic page for examples and some prices on filters. Go to the collage page for samples of collages we can make or request a custom one.
My gallery is accessible by everyone, can I have it password protected?
Yes, just let us know that you would like yours protected and we password protect it. (May take up to 2 business days.)
I ordered an 8x10 (or other size) and my arm (or other appendage) is cropped off.
Photographs are taken in a rectangle shape, however, not all prints are rectangular or the same dimensions as the original. For example, 8x10s are more square in size, therefore cropping will occur.
Weddings
What are your packages?
We have many packages and can also custom create packages to fit your needs. Please call 904-891-0359 to see if we have your wedding date available and to set up a consultation to review our sample wedding albums and explain our packages to you.
How do I reserve my date?
First, contact us and make sure we have your date available. A deposit is required to reserve your date.
How much is the deposit?
Typically wedding deposits are half of the package price, with a minimum of $250. Deposits may be paid by check or money order or may be paid by credit card using paypal (deposit@freelance4hire.com).
Do you have a payment plan?
If you need to set up a payment plan to pay for our services, please let us know during the booking. At our discretion, we will try to work with you. However, all payments must be made by the wedding date.
Who will photograph my wedding?
Our main photographer, Christy, will photograph your wedding, unless she makes specific arrangements with you before hand. Her work is the work that is featured on this site. Should something happen like illness, she will do her best to get a photographer with the same skill to photograph your wedding.
Do you provide a contract?
Yes.
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes. Please see wedding contract for specific details.
I want two photographers at my wedding.
Not a problem, let us know and we will give you our rates for two photographers.
Does an assistant accompany you?
We sometimes have an assistant with us, it just varies on the wedding and day. For example a quick elopement type wedding will likely mean I will be by myself.
Are we required to feed you/your assistant?
If a wedding is longer than 6 hours, a meal break is required, by law. We can either leave your location and return in an hour or you can provide the meal. The photographer and the assistant will also need bathroom and drink breaks as the need arrives. Most wedding vendors, including photographers eat when the bride and groom eats. We will always let you know where we are and what we are doing so as not to miss any important moments of your big day.
How long do I need for my wedding day?
Always overestimate. Typically people run late. Plus it takes a lot of the stress out of the wedding day and you don't feel as rushed to get all those important moments in.
Are you insured?
Yes. We carry equipment insurance as well as liability insurance.
What is a proof or basic album?
We have several albums to choose from, set up a consultation to come in and see the sizes and differences.
Viewing your order...
The pictures look to dark/light on the screen.
Different monitors can show pictures differently. If the photos look to dark on one screen, try a different computer or adjust your monitor's settings. Viewing the images on a laptop is not recommended.
How long will my proofs be available online?
That depends. Usually a minimum of a month. However, they may stay on there for up to a year. If for some reason you want them pulled early, let us know.
How long will it take to get my photos after I order them?
After you select the photos you would like printed and pay for them it will usually take aprx. 2-3 weeks. Aprx. a month for albums.
Who do you use to have prints made?
It varies. We have several different vendors and we use the one that meets our needs the best for each individual order.
Why can't I save the pictures to my computer?
Photographs are the copyright of the photographer and cannot be saved or printed without his/her permission. If you would like photos for your Myspace page, please add us as a friend.
After you receive your order...
I received the wrong print.
Please contact us and let us know of the mistake immediately. We will fix the problem at no cost if the mistake was made on our part. However, if you ordered the wrong picture number, you will have to reorder the print you desire.
How do I reorder in the future?
Simply email us with your name and the date in which your photo was taken (month and year are helpful) so that we can pull up your order and let us know which images you would like. If you do not know your image numbers or no longer have the link to your images, email us for it.
I bought an 11x14 and my photo has some pixelation.
Pictures taken with film have grain that show through when the picture is enlarged, digital pictures have pixelation. This is normal. You will most likely not see any pixelation unless there is a lot of cropping or if the photo is enlarged bigger than an 8x10 or an 11x14. And even than, most people won't be able to see it. The larger the picture is made the more likely you are to see it. Often times, this is only really noticeable if you are right in front of the picture, and not noticeable from a distance--where most people would be viewing a photo from.
Other questions...
I run a modeling/talent agency and need to get photos done for a large number of clients, do you offer a discount?
We may be able to offer you a studio bulk rate, depending on how many clients you need us to photograph.
I need a make up artist and my hair styled, do you know of someone who could do that?
We can make recommendations for you and even book them for you. Please note however that they are NOT employed by Freelance 4 Hire.
Do you do band photography?
Yes. We can photograph your band in a number of different types of shots that can be used on album covers and on promotional pieces. Go to the band services page for more info.
Do you do photo albums?
Yes we can provide a photo album of your prints. Please contact us about pricing and specifics.
Who owns the copyright to my photos? And can I have the photos duplicated at the store?
The person who took the photographs owns the copyrights to the photos, that is the law. The photos may be of you, but you do not own the copyright. Reproducing the photos without consent from the photographer is against the law. And you could be sued for illegally copying pictures.
We realize that you may need copies for your family and friends and we encourage you to send them to your gallery. They can order them directly through us and receive them in the mail.
