North West wedding photographer

So why should pick you?

OK, there are plenty of other wedding photographers out there. I believe however that we provide the best quality product for the price you pay. I offer an exclusive slideshow of your day. This consists of not only images of the day but small videos too. I present the final images in a persoanlised DVD/CD wallet.  You are the boss, its your day. I will not therefore bark orders at you like some photographers. If you (or Mum) has had enough of been dragged this way and that then that's it! But most of all I think what stands we out from the crowd is that I take great photo's. Simple as that. Photo's that you will treasure for a lifetime.

What type of photo's do you take?

My general style can be described as "reportage" which basically aims to capture the day in an un-posed, candid way. I find that this approach helps to tell the true story of the day as you capture true feelings and emotions. I do however offer a purely voluntary Styled photoshoot during the day where I will take the couple off for around half an hour and take some more intimate shots, away from the wedding party. This usually consists of professionally lit posed shots and include the environment and location.

Styled shoot? Sounds fancy – What is it?

A styled shoot is where I will take the couple off for around half an hour and take some more intimate shots, away from the wedding party. This again is usually taken in natural light but sometimes consists of professionally flash lit posed shots depending on the weather, environment and location. Trust me – these are the images you’ll want on your wall. The styled shoot is usually taken after the reception and before the evening do.

Tell me more about this "Exclusive Slideshow" that you offer.

Nobody enjoys sitting through reams and reams of photos. That is why we provide our exclusive slideshow. The slideshow is a collection of images selected by me (or you if you prefer) which best show the story of the day, set to music. We either use music from the day itself or music specified by you. Be warned - a couple of my grooms have been reduced to tears watching these!

How quickly can we expect our photo's?

As a guideline we aim to provide fully edited photo's 4-5 weeks after the wedding day. If you have ordered an album please allow an additional 2 weeks.

Why do you provide small and large images on the discs?

For your convenience! The large format images are perfect for enlarging and printing your photo's. The resolution is as such you'll be able to blow up pictures for your wall. We recognise the importance of social media at Simon Halstead Photography. That's why we also provide you with lower resolution images so that you can easily post them straight onto Facebbok and Twitter.

Do you take posed "family shots?"

Yes. Absolutely. It's your day so I will take any shots you wish. Just let me know beforehand exactly who you want photographing with who and we'll arrange it. It often helps me to have the best man or one of the bridesmaids (or, probably best - mum!) there with me to help me arrange this part as they know the guests. These shots are usually taken straight after the ceremony.

You mention "Preparation" shots in your packages...what are these?

These are shots of either the bride or groom getting ready. Don't worry I won't be prowling around photographing everything! Prep shots usually consist of hair and make-up, dresses/suits, momento's of the day such as flowers, rings, shoes etc. I do also like to do a few posed photographs of the bride/groom/bridesmaids when you are all ready to go.

Why do you just have one package available?

It keeps things nice and simple. You have got enough things to think about on your special day, right? I offer as standard in my package 10 hours of photography. You can add additional hours if you please. And don't worry - once the 10 hours is up I won't just pack up my stuff and go. I will let you if its approaching time and will respectfully ask you whether you want me to stay any longer. All I need is a simple yes or no and that's it. I won't insist on you getting out your cheque book there and then - we'll sort payment out at a later date. 

So do you offer your services for less than 10 hours?

When I photograph a wedding I photograph 1 a day, no matter how long I am asked to stay for. So it does not make sense for me to do less than a full day.  Some people do not however wish to have preparation shots. In these cases I often make an exception and draw up a special package and fee for them. Please ask.

Do you just take photo's?

Unlike the majority of other phototographer's - no I don't. I also take small video clips. I wanted to make my finished product stand out above the crowd and you'll be surprised how a small 5-10 sec video clip helps to break up the images and add to the final experience, capturing moments only moving pictures can. Check out the Unique Slideshows for more.

Why don't you include an Album in the packages?

Again this is to give you the ultimate control in what you want and what you don't want. Market research tells me that in these times of austerity people want the option to print their own images should they wish to do so. You can do just that by using the images I provide on the discs. I do however offer the choice of 3 top quality albums to suit all budgets should you wish to have one.

Why are most of your photo's in Black & White?

From experience I have found that the majority of couples prefer black & white images. And I personally agree! Black & White images give a timeless feel and really capture the moment.

But you do some in colour right?

As photographer I ask you to give me artistic licence with the photos. This, after all, is part of what you are paying me for. If I think the picture will look better in colour then I will do it in colour. If not I will do it in black and white. Of course if you specifically want one or the other then just let me know.

Why do I need an initial consultation?

Unless you specifically do not want one I try and meet all of my clients prior to the big day at least once; preferably at the wedding venue itself. I use this time to get to know you and likewise you - me. You can browse my portfolio and look at the albums I offer.  We will also discuss the fine details as times and dates etc.  It also gives me the opportunity to get to know the venue and get a feel of the shots I will want to take, taking into account lighting, space etc.

Do you require a deposit?

Should you wish to book me I will first ask that you sign a contract. Then I require 50% of the final fee to secure the booking. You can also do this on the day of the initial consultation should you choose to do so. I will also give you a questionairre to complete.

A questionnaire? What's that for?

Don't worry, not more paperwork! Its just a small questionnaire that outlines names, contact numbers, dates etc. It also give you the opportunity to tell me of any "Must Have" shots.

So when do you require the remaining balance?

All I ask is that you pay the outstanding balance one month before the ceremony. The contract that you sign will stipulate this. If the balance is not received at this stage the deposit will not be refunded. This may seem harsh but If I am not strict on this matter I lose money as I will not have the opportunity to re-book another wedding. You can of course pay the full balance at any stage from initial consultation to one month before the ceremony. Any extra hours need to be paid after the wedding but before the final images are received.

How do we pay you?

You can pay by cash, bank transfer or cheque. Its up to you.

How long before the event do we have to book you?

I recommend booking at least 12 months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Can we pay in installments?

Yes of course. Whatever is easiest for you. Just make sure the whole balance is paid one month before the wedding.

I have seen some of your images of couples online. Do you always do this?

I ask the clients permission to do this in the questionairre I ask you to complete. As always if you do not wish me to do this it is your prerogative. I do like to release a few "Taster" shots in the following days after the wedding. Please feel free to share and tag yourselves or friends but please do not crop or remove the watermark.

You mention "watermarks" there. Will my final images have a watermark?

No. I watermark all of my images that I post online. This stops my images being used by others for commercial purposes. And to be honest it does help me advertise my business. All of your final images provided by me to you will be watermark free.

Who owns the Copyright?

As with all photographs the photographer retains the copyright.  You are  free however to use the images for your own personal use; printing, posting online etc.

Do I have to sign a contract?

Yes. Don't worry it’s to protect YOU as well as me. You won't need a solicitor to help you either. It’s a simple document that keeps everything above board and sets out what is expected of each party. Please take your time to read it fully before signing.

Are you insured?

Yes I have full public liability and professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

What’s that then?

Professional indemnity insurance, also known as PI insurance or indemnity insurance helps to protect me if a claim is made due to a problem with work I do.Public liability insurance insures against injury to members of the public or customer, or damages to their property.

What if (whisper it quietly) it rains?

Then we get wet! All all of my equipment can stand a bit of rain. I’m up for it if you are! Seriously though - if you’re feeling adventurous we’ll do it. Some great photographs can be had in the rain. Alternatively we’ll come up with a plan B. It’s not the end of the world.

What about travel costs?

I offer free travel anywhere within 50 miles of the postcode WA11. Every mile after that will cost an extra 50p per mile. If an overnight stay is required this will also be factored into the final cost.

Do you photograph alone?

Yes I do photograph the day by myself.

Are you available for anything else?

I am a portrait photographer so I am available for family portraits or personal photoshoots. Please ask.

I see you offer an engagement shoot – What’s that?

As an addition to the packages available I offer an engagement shoot. This is a pre - wedding photoshoot of the bride and groom. I do love doing these as it gives me an extra opportunity to get to know the couple. It also allows the couple to the chance to get used to being in front of the camera and become accustomed to being "The Star". I like to keep the shoot informal and will usually take the couple to a nearby park or special place.

Is it OK if other people take photos?

Yes of course. I do however respectfully hope they allow me to do the job you have asked me to do.

What happens if your camera breaks?

I always bring back up equipment for my camera’s, lenses, flashes and whatever else you could think of. And if they break then I hot foot it to Jessops!

Do we need to feed you?

You are under no obligation to do so, however, should you wish to provide a meal I will be very grateful.

What do you wear?

I wear dress trousers, shirt and tie and a jacket or waistcoat. I’ll blend in.

What if you are ill?

Then I dose myself up with medicine and battle on! Seriously though if for any reason I am unable to cover your wedding rest assured you will be reimbursed. I do also know many other photographers who I can recommend to you.