FAQ

Wedding FAQ 

I want to meet with Sevda, and see some of her photographs.

      E-mail (sevdaphotography@gmail.com) to see if I have your wedding date available.  We can schedule a meeting so you can look at my photographs in person, and we can discuss your wedding.


I don't know where to start.  Can you help me?

Send me e-mail. I like to keep everything in file and that is the best way to record. I'll review your needs and tell you what your options are.  A job may seem overwhelming until you have the right experts helping you out.  I can put things in perspective and offer solutions that you may not have even considered.

When should we book Sevda?

     All dates are considered available until I receive the retainer and we've signed the contract.  I cannot save a date without a signed contract and the retainer.  I book some weddings up to 18 months in advance, and others only a few weeks before the wedding.  If you want me to photograph your wedding I recommend booking me as soon as possible after you know the wedding date.  I cannot predict whether a date I have available today will still be available in two weeks or months.   Making an inquery or scheduling a meeting with me does not save the date.  Only when I have received the retainer and we have both signed the contract is a wedding date reserved.  

Does Sevda take credit cards?

     I can take credit cards through Pay Pal for an additional 3% fee (that's what Pay Pal charges are).

Does Sevda travel?

     I will travel and photograph almost anywhere in the world.  Let me know where your wedding is taking place, and I'll quote you a travel fee. 

Does Sevda have an assistant?

     I do have an assistant who helps me with organizing the formal shots and help with the shoot flow so we have everything done on time.

What is Sevda's  education and background?

     I've been interested in the visual arts all of my life, and have been studying and practicing Fine Arts, Visual Arts and Photography for a decade.  I've completed college courses in photography and art.

    Photography and art are my passion, and I avidly continue to learn and explore.

Who should sign the contract?

     I would prefer that the contract be signed by the Bride and/or Groom.  I understand that parents are very often involved in the wedding planning, hiring, and payment of wedding day vendors and services.   Occasionally there are differences in opinion between the Bride, the Mother of the Bride, and/or the Mother of the Groom as to how the wedding photography is carried out.  My goal is to do my very best to make everyone happy, but ultimately I am responsible to the person who has signed the wedding photography contract.  Also all materials such as high resolution files and prints will be delivered to the person signing the contract.

When will we get together to plan the wedding photography in more detail?

     We can get together to discuss your wedding photography in more detail whenever is convenient for you.  I like to discuss the plan and details on the first consultation. I also meet with people between four and eight weeks before the wedding to refresh the ideas and add the new ones if you have any. 

What information does Sevda need?

     If you decide to hire me to photograph your wedding I will need to know:

•      The contact information of the bride and groom, and anyone else involved in hiring me or planning the wedding (such as parents of the bride and groom, or the wedding coordinator).

•      A simple schedule of the wedding day, and what parts of the day you are interested in having me cover.  A brief description of your ceremony and reception would also be helpful.  Be sure to mention any special details, people, events, etc...

•      Pre-ceremony, ceremony, and reception location addresses, phone numbers, etc...

•      Are there any photography rules or restrictions from the officiator or ceremony site.  Please ask, often there are.  

•      Whether the ceremony and reception are indoors or outdoors.  Alternate plans in case of bad weather.

•      Can the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony?

•      A list of the groups of people for the family portrait session (see the sample list below).  Please include first names and their relation to the Bride and Groom.  We can vary from, or add to the list at any time, including during the portrait session itself, but you'll have a lot on your mind on your wedding day, and it's good to have a list of the portraits you want.

•      Please let me know any of your ideas about your wedding photography.

Does Sevda offer Wedding Photography Packages with less than 6 hours?

     I would be happy to discuss the possibility of less hourly coverage for your non-Saturday wedding.  What you see in my wedding photography galleries is representative of 6+ hours of wedding day coverage.  The big day tends to be busy, schedules get off track, and a few hours can go by very, very quickly.  My number one concern is that the Bride and Groom will be happy with the photographs I create, so I think it's very important for me to understand exactly what you want, and assess whether I can realistically deliver that in the scheduled amount of time.      
  

How much coverage do we need?

     If you want me to cover some of getting ready, the ceremony, posed portraits, and the important parts of the reception I have found it usually requires eight hours of wedding photography coverage, but everyone's wedding day is different.  Some ceremonies last 15 minutes, and others an hour and a half.  Portrait sessions for large families may take longer than small families.  Some people would like to spend more time with the posed portraits at different locations, others would like to keep the portraits as short and sweet as possible.  The number of guests, reception activities, and whether or not the Bride and Groom can see each other before the ceremony will all affect how much coverage you need.  We'll discuss what you want from the wedding photography coverage and put together a plan.  Since I only book one wedding a day it's not vital that we know exactly what you need when you reserve the date.   People usually don't have everything figured out when I am hired.  

When are the portraits taken?

     We'll figure out when the best time will be for you, your family, and your wedding day.  People tend to be fresher before the ceremony, and it can be nice to finish as much of the posed portrait photography as possible early, but I'll gladly respect your wishes as to when the portraits are taken.   

     If the Bride and Groom are not seeing each other before the ceremony we might be able to get the photos that include just the Bride or Groom done before, and the photos that include both the Bride and Groom after.  Together we'll figure out the best way to get it done.

How long do the portraits take?

     I try to make the portrait sessions as quick as possible so that people don’t get hot, uncomfortable, bored, etc...  I know it’s a very busy day for everyone involved with the wedding, but setting up, gathering the people, and creating a nice variety of portraits does take some time.  It is important to schedule enough time for the portraits you want, and to make sure the portrait sessions start on time.  My experience is that when things start running behind on the wedding day that it’s the photography time that gets cut short.

     I've found that most couples want a mix of photojournalism style photography coverage and an assortment of posed portraits of themselves, the wedding party, and their family.   If you would prefer to keep posed portraits to a minimum, and the emphasis on the candids just let me know.  

     A typical list of portraits usually includes assorted photos of the Bride, the Bride and her attendants, the Bride and her family, the Groom, the Groom and his attendants, the Groom and his family, the Bride & Groom together, the Bride & Groom with the wedding party, and the Bride & Groom with their families.   How much time to schedule for the portrait sessions depends on what you want, how many people and locations that are involved, etc...  Most weddings require a minimum of 2 hours scheduled for portraits.  This breaks down to 30 min with the Bride and her attendants, 30 min with the Groom and his attendants and family, 30 min for the Bride and Groom together and with the wedding party, and 30 min for the Bride and Groom with their families.  More time allows for a greater variety of photos, a less rushed pace, multiple locations, and there's time to work with if we get behind (all couples tell me they will be on time for the photography, but many run late).

     Getting as much of the posed photography finished as possible before the ceremony is the way to go if you want to minimize how long the photography takes between the ceremony and reception.  I will gladly respect your wishes if you don't want to see each other before the ceremony, but we need to schedule enough time to get the photos you want.  Some couples arrange a "first sight" where the Bride and Groom see each other in their wedding finery for the first time before the ceremony.  This can be very romantic, makes for great wedding day photos, and allows us to get much of the posed portraits finished early keeping the break between the ceremony and reception to a minimum.

     I usually do several short (10 - 15 min) sessions with the Bride and Groom throughout the day and reception to take advantage of different locations, lighting, sunset, etc....   I want to hear your ideas. 

     

     A short list of immediate family group portraits like the one below can be photographed as quickly as 20 minutes if everyone is on time, and ready to go, but in my experience that's rarely the case, and it's safer to schedule at least 30 minutes.  Longer lists will take more time.  In general estimate 2 or 3 min per group/pose.

• Bride with her Parents
• Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents
• Bride with her Parents, Grandparents, and Siblings
• Bride and Groom with Bride’s Parents, Grandparents, and Siblings
• Groom with his Parents
• Bride and Groom with Groom's Parents
• Groom with his Parents, Grandparents, and Siblings
• Bride and Groom with Groom's Parents, Grandparents, and Siblings
• Bride and/or Groom with siblings, other family and friends

     Please let me know of any health or mobility issues your relatives might have.  I usually try to plan photos involving the very young or elderly when it is convenient for them.  I don't want to make them show up early if it will make the day too long for them.  We can schedule those photos when ever it's most convenient.

     Everyone's families are different, and a simple list like the one above may not suit your needs.  Please make your own list of family and wedding party portraits, and I can give you an estimate as to how long it will require.  Including first names and the relationship to the Bride and Groom helps organize the plan to keep things moving along on the wedding day.  When making your list consider that there will be time for impromptu portraits and group shots during the reception.  Anytime you want a photo of someone or something during the wedding day just ask. 

How many photos does Sevda take?

How many photos are taken depends on how long I am hired for, what parts of the day I'll be covering, how the action unfolds, etc....   I take a lot of photos on my own, and feel free to request any photos you or your friends and family want on the wedding day.  I don't have a guaranteed minimum quantity, but I will probably  deliver 300+ photographs with 6-8 hours of wedding photography coverage and 400+ photographs with 10-12 hours of wedding photography coverage.

Is the shot list guaranteed?

     Shot lists help me get the photos that are important to you, and I try my best to do so, but the shot list is not guaranteed.   The wedding day tends to be busier than people expect even with planning.  It's easy to forget important photos in the excitement of the day so make sure you let me know about the photos and portraits you want before the wedding, and I will put them into our plan.

     Tips for getting all the photos you want:

• Tell me about photos you want, and ideas you have before the wedding if possible, and during the wedding as they occur to you.

• Make sure everyone in the portrait sessions knows where and when they need to be ready to be photographed.  Ready to be photographed means everything is in place:  hair, flowers, make-up, clothes, etc....

• Don't try to do too much on your wedding day.  It's probably going to be busy.  Schedule plenty of time to get the things done that need to get done.  Leave some room in case things get behind.  Make sure you schedule some breaks.  Everyone needs a break here and there to relax for a few minutes.  

• During the wedding if you find yourself with someone you want a photo with let me know and we'll take a photo.  It's easy and quick. 

• Appoint someone to be the "photo wrangler".  The wrangler(s) knows most of your friends and family and can help me get portraits of the right people.  

• Let your friends and family know that they can request photos and portraits from me during the reception or whenever it's convenient.          

What about black and white and sepia toned photographs? 

     I will create a mix of color and BW photographs at your wedding.  I feel that BW often looks better in high contrast lighting situations, and it can be pushed farther in low light.  Black and white also takes care of unflattering colors that can occur with some kinds of artificial lighting.  

     Most people like a mix of color and BW, and that's what I normally create, but if you really love BW or would prefer mostly color please let me know.

Can family and friends take photos while Sevda is photographing?

   

     These days everyone has a camera, and I know how much fun photography is.  I have no problem with your guests taking lot's of photos, although I would prefer that guests and family refrain from photographing during the posed portrait sessions.  Extra cameras and people tend to be a distraction that can really slow the session down, and may affect how the portraits turn out.  Even when I tell everyone in the photo to look at my camera, someone is always looking off to the side at someone else taking photos.

What if we want Sevda to stay later or arrive earlier than originally scheduled?

     No problem.  The sooner you can let me know the better, but I understand that things come up and plans change.  I don't schedule anything else but your wedding for the day so I can be flexible at a moment's notice. There will be additional charge.


Impromptu portraits

     The Bride and Groom, and their family and friends should feel free to request portraits at any time.  Before the ceremony, at the reception, or whenever you find yourself with someone who you want to have your photo taken with, just let me know.  Don't put it off; the wedding day will be very busy, and the opportunity may not arise again.  It really only takes a few seconds to get a nice, quick portrait of you and your guests.

     I've noticed that the Moms of the Bride and Groom are often more concerned with family portraits than the Bride and Groom are.  As long as there is enough time at the reception, and people are willing, I'm very happy to take formal and/or impromptu family portraits as directed by a Mom or Aunt.  

When will the prints and files be ready?

     I try to have them ready for you as soon as possible.  I know you are excited to see them.  My wedding photography contract says I will have the finished, high resolution, ready to print image files and set of 4"x6" prints ready for you within 1 month of the wedding day, but it's usually much sooner.  

Does Sevda sell wedding albums?

     Yes I do make Designs of Albums, Books, Mounted Prints or Canvasses. I value my work and it is important how it is presented. We will discuss what exactly you want and I will give you a quote.  The options and styles available are almost limitless.  From Coffee table books to Leather bound Albums, Soft cover, Hard cover, Linen, or Picture print cover; different sizes and colors.  I can help you pick the one you like the most and will be glad to create it for you.  

Can we share the photos and files with our family and friends?

     I would like to make any additional prints if you need for your friends and family. I will upload all the pictures in Pictage Print Sop where all your friends and family can purchase anything they desire-from prints, to books and many other products. It is very easy and convenient. Pictage have a great quality and I am sure everyone will be happy!

Can we post the photos online, Facebook, MySpace, etc...?

     Absolutely!  I want you to spread your photos around as much as possible.  Show the world!  And then tell them Sevda was your photographer!  :)

What uses of the photos require Sevda's permission?

     You can do anything you want with the photos for personal use and enjoyment of yourself.  Any use for commercial, business, or advertising requires Sevda's permission.  Any sale or use of the photos for profit requires Sevda's permission.

Does Sevda provide an online gallery of the photos?

  Yes, all the photographs will be uploaded in Pictage and an on-line slideshow will be created for you to share with everyone.

Does Sevda keep back-ups of the image files?

     I'm very proud of my work, and it is my intention to keep every photograph I've ever taken.   If your files are lost or destroyed there shouldn't be a problem getting copies, but this is no excuse to avoid properly archiving your wedding photography when it's so easy and inexpensive to burn extra DVDs.  I'll do my best, but I cannot guarantee that I will have copies of your wedding photographs forever.

Who owns the copyright to the photographs?

     Sevda Karanikolova owns the copyright to all of the photographs.  You have my permission to use the photographs for your personal enjoyment.  Written permission must be obtained prior to any commercial use.  Please read my wedding photography contract for more information.

     I am willing to negotiate for wedding photography packages that include exclusive copyright to all the photographs for the Bride and Groom.

     Please email or phone with any questions.

Sharing your photos

     An easy way to share photos is to use a free online gallery at a photo lab service web site.  You can upload your image files to a private gallery and control who can view the photos.  There are many sites that offer these services.  I use Pictage.com. They offer great products you can choose from.
     Again, if you want me to make an online slideshow or gallery, I will be more than glad to do it for you!          

The photos look funny on my computer

     I process the photos in Adobe Photoshop using a monitor that is calibrated every two weeks.  If you are viewing the photos on an uncalibrated monitor color, contrast, and/or exposure can look off.  Different viewing software also may alter the way the photos actually look, especially when viewed at 100% magnification.  For instance I've noticed the standard Windows photo viewing software seems to substantially increase the appearance of sharpening and noise.  When I view the photos in Adobe software at 100% it's not there.  

     If you think there is something wrong with a photo don't hesitate to contact me, but unless you are using a calibrated monitor and professional viewing software it's best to judge image quality from actual prints.  I process the files to print optimally.  

File information

     The photographs are taken in raw file format.  They are converted to 16 bit, ProPhotoRGB tiff files for editing, and normally delivered to you as 8 bit, RGB jpegs.  This is the preferred file format for professional and full service photo labs.  Raw files are not available.  

Spesial Event/Portrats FAQ

What is the plan in case of bad weather?

    In the event of bad weather I would be glad to continue the shoot by moving indoors if a suitable location is available, or the portrait session can be rescheduled.   

What happens if you are ill, or have some other emergency? 

    As much advance notice as possible would be greatly appreciated if you need to cancel a scheduled portrait session, but I understand that things come up.  I'd be happy to reschedule for a more convenient time.

How many photographs will SevdaPhotography deliver?

     It depends on what we are doing, but I usually deliver 25+ finished photos from most portrait sessions.  Often it's more than that.  Posed and lit photos take more set-up time , and result in fewer photos than available light candids or action shots.  My portrait sessions are often a mix of both styles.  Multiple locations and outfits may also influence how much time we spend shooting.  I want to hear your ideas, and what you need from your portrait session.  The portrait session price is for up to 2 hours.  

Are the photos color or BW?

     I would normally deliver a mix of both, but if you would prefer all color or all BW I can do that.  If you've seen a style or effect you like in my galleries or elsewhere just let me know. 

What size are the photographs?

     You are probably used to 4"x6", 5"x7", and 8"x10" as standard print sizes, but  5"x7" and 8"x10" have to have some of the photo cropped. The prints are normally 4"x6",6"x9", 8"x12", 10"x15", 12"x18", 16"x24", 20"x30", etc...   Unless you specify otherwise, I will compose most of your portraits with this aspect ratio in mind.  All full service photo labs offer reprints and enlargements in these sizes.   

     Other aspect ratios are available upon request, but I need to know before I compose the portraits.   4:5 ratio makes prints sized 4"x5", 8"x10", and 16"x20".  1:1 makes square prints sized 5"x5", 8"x8", 10"x10", etc...   5"x7" and 11"x14" are each different and unique aspect ratios.   Often it will be possible to crop  a 2:3 ratio photograph into a 5"x7", 8"x10", or 11"x14" without problems, but if you need your photographs to have an aspect ratio other than 2:3 it is best if you tell me ahead of time.  If you would be interested in a few square or panoramic photographs let me know.  

  

   

Where are we going to shoot?

    I do my portrait photography "on location" rather than in a studio setting.  One of my favorite types of portrait is the environmental portrait:  a portrait that shows the living or working environment and lifestyle of the subject,  and tells the viewer something about them. 

    There are many beautiful locations around the the area, or I can come to your home.  For locations outside of Atlantic County there may be a travel charge.  Think about having your portrait taken at your favorite locations or places that are important to you.

What should you wear?

    Wear comfortable, weather and location appropriate clothing and shoes.  Multiple outfits are okay with me.  Simple, plain clothing creates an nice portrait where the main point of focus is the subject's face, and the style doesn't go out of fashion.

     Avoid logos and writing.  They compete with the subject's face for the viewers' attention.   We can get portraits with logo clothing (school, sports, bands, etc...) if you want, but bring something else to wear too.

     Be cautious with white and black.   Anything white will attract attention in the photo.  We really want the faces to be the main point of interest.   A white T-shirt collar peeking out will tend to draw the viewer's gaze down away from the subject's face.   White socks can stick out in full length portraits.  If only one person in a group is wearing white they become the focus.  White outfits are also stain and smudge prone.   We've all heard that black clothing is slimming.  The hard truth is that it's not.  For some people the all or mostly black clothing look works; for most it doesn't.   Colors and the right fit are much more slimming than black.  

     Avoid brand new outfits, styles, and make-up.  Wear it several times before choosing to have your portrait taken in it.  You'll know if it fits and looks good on you, and you'll feel more comfortable.  The more comfortable you are the better the portraits will look.   I think sometimes people feel they have to get all fancied up for their portrait session, but that's not the only way to get nice portraits.  Casual and comfortable will look better than fancy and stiff.          

    On the other hand, clothing choice is a reflection of personality, and that's what portraits are all about.  I would love to hear your ideas and photograph you in your most outlandish, fashion-rule-breaking outfits. 

     If you are planning on putting your portrait on the web avoid small, tight, high contrast stripes or patterns.  These can create a moire optical illusion when displayed as low resolution images on a computer monitor.

How long does a portrait session last?

     Up to 2 hours; usually around 1.5 hours.  If you need a portrait session with more time just contact me with the details, and I can quote you a price.

What should you bring?

    Bring additional outfits, combs, hairbrushes, and make up if you wear it.  If it's chilly bring jackets.  If it's warm bring a towel to dry your face.  Favorite personal items such as musical instruments, family heirlooms, sports equipment, even vehicles and pets can add interest to your portrait. Anything that compliments your lifestyle.

Does SevdaPhotography retouch the photos?

     I clean up small imperfections, but my normal style is a light touch as far as cosmetics go.   I can do more retouching on request; I do not make judgements about peoples' looks, so if you want me to "fix" something please tell me.  I can fade wrinkles, whiten teeth, remove tatoos, etc...  Usually I will have more success if I am aware of your concerns as I'm taking the photos, but if you see something after I've delivered the photos just let me know, and I'll touch it up.  There may be an additional charge for extensive or complicated retouching.

     Frizzy, out of control hair, and make-up issues can be difficult to correct and make look natural.  Please consult your hair and make-up stylists, and use/bring hair spray, combs, brushes, and touch up make-up if neccessary.  

How long before the photographs are ready?

     My portrait session contract says they will be ready within 20 business days (4 weeks, not including holidays), but I know you are excited to see them so I try to have them ready sooner than that.   I work on portrait sessions and weddings in the order they were photographed so it just depends on how busy I am.  For instance October is very popular for weddings and portraits.  At that time of the year I tend to be extremely busy, and it will probably take me the full four weeks to get to and finish the photographs.  On the other hand, if your portrait session is in April you may have them sooner. 

Who owns the copyright to the photographs?

     SevdaPhotography owns the copyright to all of the photographs.  Written permission must be obtained prior to any use for business or monetary gain.  

Can you bring pets?

    Absolutely, as long as it's appropriate for the location. Pets are part of you life and it is only natural to include them in the portraits. Bring pet supplies such as leashes, water bowl, treats, etc...