FAQ

What happens during a shoot?

The shoots are completely relaxed and fun experiences where you just simply have to be yourselves and interact as you normally would as a couple and get romantic!
I know ideal beautiful locations to shoot in that express the romance of you as a couple and the beauty of the city too. Posing is kept simple and natural and I prefer to capture moments between you both as they happen but I do direct and pose as necessary or to improve what is already there and give guidelines and suggestions.

What happens if it rains?

Rain is not always a bad thing, it can create a different and beautiful atmosphere. However, there are rain proof locations that are possible to shoot in during the showers. If it is a heavy shower we can simply reschedule the shoot for a time that suits you.

What time is the shoot at?

Depending on the time of year and weather dictating the time it starts to get dark, I aim to finish just before sunset to capture some images during the lights "golden hour". Morning also gives beautiful light and has the added advantage of less people around if we can start shortly after sunrise but depending on your schedule we can work the timing around your needs. I have to admit that I do love a nice romantic sunset and that also gives us another few minutes to get some night shots with the Eiffel Tower lit to finish with. I choose the start times carefully so being on time is very important. Make sure to plan your route in advance so you don’t arrive stressed! For sunrise and sunset times please click here.

What should we wear?

The most important thing is to wear something you are comfortable in and is true to yourself and your personalities. Having said that it is a good idea to be co-ordinated, not necessarily matching but complimenting each other, whether you go for a casual or for a more glamorous look.
Details are important, like if the lady is wearing tights it is best if they are not shiny, creases are ironed out and other little general details like that that can be noticeable in your photos. Dress for the weather, it will look more appropriate for the surrounding atmosphere that the photo will have, e.g. an Autumn day shoot and you will feel and therefore look more comfortable. Ladies, if you are wearing heels, it is recommended that you also bring a pair of comfortable flat shoes for any walking that is necessary between nearby locations.
You are also welcome to bring a change of clothes to add variety if you wish, appropriate to the length of the shoot. We can find a quiet corner or area for you to get changed in relative privacy. (You can’t be shy!) Some couples even bring their wedding dress and suit for a post wedding shoot even long after their wedding. If packing or space is an issue and you would like something special companies like Ma Bon Amie (http://www.mabonneamie.com/en) rent beautiful clothes quite reasonably.
If it is raining, a cute or a simple black umbrella can work well as a photo prop too!

Hair and Make-Up:

If you require hair and make up before the shoot I can recommend some excellent artists. This is an extra service and not included in the price, payment is directly to the MUA and Hair Stylist.

Edited file transfer etc:

Your finished edited set of photos (high res jpegs) will be delivered to you via FTP site within 2-4 weeks depending on time of year. They will all be high resolution files which you will have complete access and rights (for personal usage) to to print, Facebook etc.
You will get a mix of both colour and black and white but they will be predominately colour unless you specifically request otherwise. There is no upper limit on the photos delivered as I send all the good ones and delete any unflattering ones, blinkers etc:

Do you retouch using Photoshop:

I work to get everything correct in camera, I individually edit and process files using Adobe Lightroom to maintain and ensure my style is consistent but I rarely use Photoshop. If you want dramatic post production or cosmetic enhancement then I am not the photographer for you. 

Some extra tips!:

*Be sure to check out the blog for engagement sessions and engagement slideshows before the shoot. I’ve also discovered that when the prospective groom views a slideshow in advance, it helps him feel comfortable in front of the camera. Girls are usually more likely to model or what some refer to as “work-it” in front of the camera. Guys, on the other hand, are sometimes not. However, if they see some of my images and poses beforehand, they know that I’m only there to make them look great!

*Don’t hesitate to check out photo shoot locations beforehand. If something else has popped up or you have a cool idea, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I encourage you to find a spot that reflects your love and a place you’ll both feel comfortable. Paris is full of them and sometimes couples have a place that is special to them.

*It’s always fun to bring along props. I view every engagement session like a mainstream shoot - complete with models and props and scenery. I want every engagement shoot to look like it could be in a magazine, so feel free to bring things along that really reflect your personalities. Macarons, balloons, he list is endless! Suggestions: polaroid camera, a favourite journal, magazines you like reading. Anything! :) Don’t hesitate to bring anything that truly reflects you individually or as a couple.

*Some girls will have their practice run regarding hair and makeup for the engagement shoot. This helps them feel a little more ‘done-up’ for the shoot and boosts their confidence. Of course you don't have to, however, what I can say is that in my experience shooting engagement sessions, girls want to feel pretty and confident...and sometimes spending a little extra time getting ready with a professional hair and make up artist achieves just that.