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How would you describe
your style?
My style is documentary or photojournalistic. I do very little directing
while I shoot. Rather, I prefer to stand back, observe and document what is
happening around me -- capturing candid, unexpected moments. I work hard to
be unobtrusive and to put people at ease--then I take pictures.
Do you shoot digitally or with film? With
what equipment?
I prefer to photograph digitally with Nikon's newest professional digital
camera system, creating files large enough for 11x17 color or black and white
prints. Digital offers higher quality images than 35mm film and for a
fraction of the cost. Additionally, I'm able to keep an identical back up of
the client's wedding images for one year in case the client's CD's are lost
or damaged
Do your clients keep the digital files of
their wedding day?
Yes, absolutely. Very few photographers give the images to their wedding
clients -- opting instead to make the bulk of their profit selling the
reprints and enlargements at markups of up to 200%. I believe that the
digital files should be kept by my clients. This gives my clients the
flexibility to order reprints and enlargements on their own at any time and
from any photo printing company, including those that offer substantial
discounts. The client also retains rights to the photos, meaning you own them
completely.
More importantly to me, I feel that since I am not relying on income from
the reprints I'm given more artistic freedom to photograph a wider variety of
subjects.
What about printing? Do you make contact
sheets?
Yes. Included in all pricing packages are contact sheets of every
photograph taken. Contact sheets are 8x10 and are printed with corresponding
file names. This allows couples to page through all their pictures, easily
identifying their favorites. The filenames below each photo will correspond
to the CD's, making it easy to walk into any photo lab and request a prints
from your pictures. Target, Wal-Mart, any neighborhood photo lab, and online
companies like Shutterfly are examples of places to have photographs printed.
These companies and others make digital prints on the same archival,
silver-based paper that film is printed on--they'll last forever. You are
also able to make prints from your home computer system. Or a web page. (I'm
happy to build a webpage of the best wedding photos for a small charge).
Do you photograph in color or black &
white?
I shoot everything in color. I sometimes find clients are unaware that
color files can be converted to create beautiful black and white or sepia
toned prints. Shooting everything in color enables clients to have the
flexibility to choose black & white photos later.
Do you use flash?
I prefer to use as little flash photography or artificial light as
possible. Shooting with available light allows me create photos that better
represent the reality of your wedding. I'm also able to be less noticed,
making it easier to capture moments. Nikon's new digital camera systems allow
me to successfully photograph in low-light situations without flash. I always
come prepared with flash for dark dance floors, group photos, or other
situations where it can enhance images.
Do you work with an assistant?
No.
Do you shoot weddings full-time or do you
have another job?
Another job. I work as a staff photographer for the Pioneer Press in
St. Paul, MN, and photograph only about 6 weddings a year. At the Pioneer
Press I shoot daily assignments like the Vikings and Timberwolves,
political stories, portraits, and just about anything else. The thing I enjoy
doing most is my regular photo column called Ant Farm which can be
seen at my website, www.bengarvin.com
Do you take formal portraits as well as
candid photographs?
Yes , I always set aside time to do formal portraits. While formal
portraits may not feel as important to the bride and groom, you can be sure
moms a dads and grandparents see them as a matter of life and death. Group
portraits can be (and usually are) alot of fun, but they can also be
stressful without the right planning. Time needed varies depending on the
number of people involved and the location, but I advise planning no less
than 30 minutes. Also, portraits tend to run more smooth when the bride
e-mails a list of specific arrangements (Bride with family, Bride with
bridesmaids, Groom with parents, etc).
Do you work with the bride to create the
photos she wants?
Absolutely. It's all about the bride. I understand each
couple has different needs and I will work to accommodate them. Whether that
means shooting more posed photographs before the ceremony or concentrating on
candids, I am happy to take direction from brides (and grooms!) to create a
wedding portfolio that best captures the day.
How long do you stay?
This will vary according to what we initially agree upon (4 or 8
hours). However, I always stick around for the first dance, the cake cutting,
all that stuff. I realize weddings have a tenancy to run late, and as long as
that doesn't mean lots of extra hours for a really tired photographer, I'm
happy to stick around until all the best photos are made.
Will you make my wedding album?
Occasionally, but I have found that the majority of my clients prefer
to create their own albums. Since clients own all of the images from their
wedding day , they can assemble wedding albums at their leisure. I am happy
to provide information and advice about where to purchase albums, supplies,
and how to have your photos printed.
Do you charge for travel or mileage?
Twin Cities area travel is included in pricing. I charge $100 per hour
travel beyond the metro area. I'm happy to shoot on-location weddings in
Minnesota or nearby states. Or perhaps a weekend wedding in the Bahamas in
mid- January...
What if I need help printing pictures?
No problem. Clients are welcome (and encouraged) to call or e-mail me
with post-wedding questions. I'm happy to recommend photo labs that print
contact sheets, proofs, and that offer other services to make choosing,
printing, and framing your favorite photos simpler.
Do you have references?
Yes! I'd be happy to provide you with a contact list of many couples
who've hired me. Also, you can click on 'nice e-mails' above and read a few
e-mail brides wrote me after getting their photographs.
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What if we want to meet you first and make
sure you're not a slime ball who will ruin my wedding?
I am happy to set up a meeting with couples to dissipate
slime-ball fears. I realize there are many choices for wedding photography
and I encourage couples to find a photographer they feel most comfortable
with. Setting up a meeting also allows me to show recent work, discuss
pricing options, and learn more about you and your expectations.
How can I contact you?
Ben Garvin Wedding Photojournalism
4032 Chicago Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
phone: (612) 554-5450
e-mail: bengarvin@gmail.com
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