FAQ.
Q: How soon should I schedule a session?
A: Scheduling 4-6 weeks in advance for portraits, family, engagement, press, concert, fine art, copy work sessions is ideal.
For wedding and events 4 to 6 months is ideal. The earlier you book the more likely I'll have your date available for you. For wedding and events there will be a 10% charge to your final bill if booked one month or less in advance. Also, 20% is due at the time of booking, which will be refunded if there are any cancellations.
Note: Cancellations must be made within 30 days of wedding or event or there will be a non-refundable 10%.
Cancellations for regular shoots should be made 14 days prior to your session. Emergency cancellations are understandable and accepted.
Q: What equiptment do you use?
A: Nikon D200 DSLR with 18-200mm zoom, and a SB800 flash... for backup I use my Olympus Evolt 410 DSLR.... Want more? Ask.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: I love animals and I am always up for photographing animals. However, if you pick a specific location please check about their pet policy and regulations. Very few allow dogs and other animals for children and adult safety.
Q: What can I expect at my session?
A: Your session will last from 1 to 2 hours unless noted otherwise depending on your package. Expect nothing but a good time. I will help direct posed shots, or if there is an assistant he/she will help pose you or your group. If candid is what your looking for, the more fun it will be.
At the beginning of your session payment is due. Checks need to be made payable to Joel Atwell. I may also ask that you sign a model release at that time. This grants me the right to use any of the images taken for my website, in my portfolios, for advertisement, in photo contests and forums.
Q: What about locations?
A: I will recommend several locations upon request. If you have specific location in mind please let me know at the time of booking. I am also available to shoot in-home shoots. Please note: Any in home shoots; I will have an assistant with me.
Locations locally that I may recommend are: the beach, Mobile Botanical Gardens, Ashland Place United Methodist Church, area lakes, Fairhope peir and various other interesting locations.
Q: What if my child does not cooperate?
A: I understand children can be cranky and unsatisfied at times. Please make sure all children, young and older, that they are well fed prior to our session. I recommend bringing a dry snack and some water, just in case. Feel free to bring any toys as they could result in a great prop.
As for pre-teens and teenagers, I understand they may find it more comfortable to bring a friend, please do not allow this since I have found it harder to work with the teen, due to having a friend present.
Q: What should I (we) wear?
A: Anything without a distracting pattern or logo is recommended. For family oriented shoots you will probably want to match in the same color scheme. However, they are your photos and you may wear what you like.
Khaki pants and shorts and a white top are very popular as well as blue jeans and a white top. Note: these color schemes at the beach usually result in a somewhat colorless photo.
Please dress children appropriately to the weather. Nothing beats something funky, fun and colorful. Costumes are recommended as well as the child's personality.
If you would like to bring a change of clothes please inform me of this prior to your shoot so we can make proper arrangements.
Q: What if it rains and our shoot is outdoors?
A: If rain is in the forecast that week for our location of choice, I will notify you and ask you if you would like to reschedule. If you do not hear from me, and you are concerned please feel free to call, I may not have watched the news or get your local news forcast.
If it rains on the day of the shoot I will be happy to reschedule at our next best available time. Please note, that after rain photographs can sometimes result in the most beautiful photos.
Q: Where should we meet you?
A: If we are shooting at an easy to find public location, we'll meet there. If you are unfamiliar with the area an assistant or I can meet you somewhere of your choice locally.
Q: How long before we can see the proofs?
A: Additional proof pages are available for 30 images for a fee of $10.00 and must be paid for in advance.
Q: How many proofs will we get to see?
A: You will be able to see all the photos taken if there is enough time after the shoot.
Q: How do I pay for my order?
A: I accept personal checks, made payable to Joel Atwell. There is a $40 return check charge if your check does not go through. Credit card payments must be made via paypal. You may also pay by cash if it is less then $100. (not including session fees and additional travel costs)
Q: When can I expect my order?
A: Orders are placed as soon as payment is received for all items. You should expect your order within 2-3 weeks of placement. Specialty items or back ordered items will take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. You will be notified about which are specialty items and approximate time period. If shipment takes longer myself will notify you immediately. When your shipment has been shipped, you will be notified by e-mail.