hello@shawnaraephotography.com
Keep reading below for more helpful information
Are you interested in going on a well-documented adventure with me? Then fill out the form with any questions you have. I do my best to reply within 48 hours, although I could be out shooting a session or hiking in the mountains with no reception.
Travel dates:
24/12/21 - 25/02/12 VANCOUVER, BC <3
hello@shawnaraephotography.com
Are you interested in going on a well-documented adventure with me? Then fill out the form with any questions you have. I do my best to reply within 48 hours, although I could be out shooting a session or hiking in the mountains with no reception.
Travel dates: 24/12/21 - 25/02/12 VANCOUVER, BC <3
I've made a document that can help give you the guidance and the push you need to start organizing your dream wedding. Though I focus on elopements and small intimate weddings, it is certainly transferable to larger weddings as well. It's free with no obligations, just fill out the form and hit that send button!
Are you confident in how to begin planning your best day ever?
How do we book you?
• I have various contact forms around my website. In fact, there's one at the end of this page! Please send me a message there or by email, sometimes Instagram and Facebook messages get lost or hidden.
Do you shoot things other than weddings?
• Yes, click HERE to check out my other work!
Do you travel?
• Yes! Although, I try very hard to keep my environmental footprint as low as possible, so I travel by train or bus when I can (easily done throughout Europe).
How can I pay you?
• It depends on where you are from, so please ask me personally. But normally, bank transfer, cash, Wise, or Revolut.
How does your pricing work?
• My packages are all customizable. I have a document with them, so please shoot me an email and I can send you my packages that way. That being said, to find what fits for you, a custom package is often best.
What are you doing to help the environment?
• Gosh this is always such a tough question; needs vs wants. I'll start by saying, if you want to view my commitments, click HERE! I try my best to do my part. I eat whole foods plant based most of the time (vegan 100% of the time). You can't deny the countless, reliable research on the effects animal products have on our planet. I compost properly and love using the compost for my home garden. I plant wildflowers for the bees. I own an electric car that's powered by solar, and take public transport, bike, or walk when I can. I always avoid taking a plane when I can, even when it's a lot easier. I always reuse and reduce when possible, because recycling is kind of a sham. Facebook marketplace and thrift stores are my favourite places to shop. I try to buy in bulk with my refill containers to avoid plastic, and always ask for tea in my takeaway cup. I could really talk about this for hours, this is a prime subject for me, so if you just want to chat environment, hit me up!
When will I get my photos?
• Normally, 6-8 weeks depending on how big your shoot was and when you booked for (beginning or end of the season).
Can I use my photos online or print them?
• Of course! They are yours to use however, whenever. I just ask that you keep them the way they are- adding extra instagram filters defeats the purpose of you hiring me! Also, when using them online, please credit me when possible <3 @shawnaraephotos
Do you offer prints and albums?
• YES I most certainly do, and highly recommend getting prints and albums done! They are so good to have on your coffee table, and to bring out on your anniversary. Bonus points if you gift an extra copy to mom. Going through photos that are physically in your hand feels so much more personal than looking at them on a screen. Where I print from depends on where you live so I can cut shipping costs for you and also so there is less of a footprint on the planet. So just ask me and I will see where I can get it done!
Can I rebook if the weather is bad?
• Possibly, yes. I am ready to shoot in all weather scenarios and sometimes moody weather can make for the best pictures! But I understand that not everyone wants to shoot in the rain, so if we see in the report that it's going to be wet, we can try to rebook. I will start checking the weather report a week ahead just so we can prepare for what's to come. Rebooking is not guaranteed, it depends on whether or not our schedules will align last minute. I will always try my best to make it work!
How should I prepare for my photos?
• This depends on which session you're after. But some common things to think about- do you want your nails done? Do you want a professional hair/makeup artist? Are you physically ready for whatever adventure you've booked with me? Do you have the right shoes, and will you need a pair of slip-ons or extra socks handy? Are you and your partner on the same page about what to wear and ready to put your game faces on?
What should I wear to my photo shoot?
• Make sure you're wearing complimenting colours with your partner, and better yet, have a colour pallet you are working with. Please do not fully match! 90% of the time, you look back on those photos and think "what did I do?!". There are times when it works, but just make sure this is one of those times if that's what you want. Try to avoid patterns, particularly small ones (a flannel shirt is still ok, for example, because the pattern is big). Small patterns and lines can mess with the quality of the photo in bizarre ways. Solid colours are best, and ones that aren't too bright/fluorescent. Neutral, muted, and pastel tones/colours are great. Keep in mind any tan lines you may have, or anything you want to hide.
Do you use a second shooter?
• I have for many of my weddings, but normally I shoot solo. If you would like me to hire a second shooter, just ask! I have no problem with the extra company. It also is an extra guarantee that in some very extreme circumstance (such as, I get hit by lighting, or your uncle Joe stands in front of me at that very important moment) no shot is missed.
Do you offer video?
• I have 3 go-to videographers who are ready for your day, and I also have a Drone + Social Media package for those who want a bit of video, but not as much of a production. Then you also don't have to touch your phone!
Are you a wedding planner?
• Although I can help you find your dream destination, suggest activities, and point you in the right direction in finding accommodation and such, no I am not a planner. I am not the one who will hire your makeup artist or hair stylist, book your accommodation, contact a florist for you, etc. I do know some planners if you need a little extra help!
Can I have the RAW files?
• No, very sorry. I don't give out RAW files just like a florist doesn't give you a bunch of separated flowers to make your own bouquet, or a dress maker doesn't give you thread, a needle, and fabric to make your own wedding dress.
Why does photography cost so much?
• You're paying for more than just the click of a shutter. You're paying for years of experience, schooling, professional camera gear, editing gear, programs/overpriced subscriptions, gear maintenance/ cleaning/ replacements, insurance, continued learning (online courses and educational retreats), upkeep on current trends, location scouting, advertising and social media, the countless hours spent on your shoot after you've gone home ... etcetera. Not to mention, taxes & social security fees in Europe are craaazy. You're paying the cost that it takes to help a photographer get by at a fairly comfortable level while working just as much as anyone else, because we've done the math, and we charge according to how we can pay our monthly bills and taxes at the end of the year.