Q: What do I do with my hands?
A: THIS is a valid question. In an awkward contest, I would win. I have been accused on occasion of being slightly offbeat (the fun kind). Your discomfort with a camera being pointed at you is 100% appropriate and 100% okay. You are not at all expected to be a model. I will do everything in my power to make you comfortable and to interact with you in a way that will elicit authentic expressions and connections. And although I prefer to shoot as candidly as possible, I do a lot of directing and prompting to be sure you look and feel your best.
Q: What is Due West’s definition of someone looking their best?
A: Plain and simple, I want you to look like you. I will use flattering angles and the best light available to me, but I do not change or liquify bodies, Think of it like this, if it’s going to be gone in a couple of weeks (pesky zit!) I’ll get rid of it, beyond that - I am honoring you just as you are.
Q: What else should I know about your post-production (editing) process?
A. Editing a wedding takes WEEKS. Each image is painstakingly hand edited with love. I believe in natural true-to life colors, deep shadows and rich contrast. I don't oversaturate, swap skies or add backgrounds, people or objects into your images after the fact. While I acknowledge and respect photographers who do these things, it is just not my jam. I want your photos to reflect the real moment that they were taken.
Q: What about my dog or cat? Are they welcome?
A: Resounding YES. My dogs sleep in my bed. Under the covers. Cats are good, too. I love all things pet.
Q: Do you travel?
A: Yes! For clients out of state/country, I put together an individualized package to include a percentage of travel expenses.
Q: How would you describe your approach to shooting weddings?
A: Photojournalistic. Playful. Adventurous.
Q: Okay, I booked Due West Photography for my wedding, besides a contractual agreement and payment, what do you need from me?
A: Very little! I’ll be in touch on and off before your wedding day to finalize timelines, locations and other details and I'll send you a questionnaire that confirms all of it. The questionnaire will also include a list of must-have family photos so I can be as efficient as possible though that process and get you back to your guests!
Q: Anything else? What about on the day of?
A: Even if you hired a superhero planner and are yourself a color-coding queen or king, weddings are stressful. I will do my best to be as in sync with you as humanly possible to prevent photo fatigue, (it's a real thing!) weather-related meltdowns and any other wrenches thrown your way. Your only job is to be present with your partner. Your connection will speak more loudly than any and all wedding day catastrophes combined.
Q: If you were to take partial payment in baked goods and/or snacks, what would you prefer?
A: Gummy candy anything is a win. Just head to the bulk gummy candy section and go wild.