Frequently Asked Questions

Kansas City Wedding and Senior Photographers, John Phoenix and Lisa Catera of Phoenix Photography, would like to share some Frequently Asked Questions you may want to know about.

How would you identify your photographic style?

Owners, Lisa Catera and John Phoenix shoot a true dual perspective. Both Journalistic and Traditional- but can lean either direction the coulpe desires. It is completey up to the wedding couple.

Do you offer special techniques such as hand-coloring or toning?

We provide many special effects and enhancements at no additional charge...all you will see will be final fully touched up images. You can see by going to our website and looking at the events on our Proofing page.

Do you have experience shooting in various lighting situations?

We have experiance in all areas of Commercial and wedding/portrait lighting.

Is your media preference film or digital?

We are now all Digital as well as all digital flashes

How many photographers do you work with?

Lisa and John shoot all weddings together - they are the only ones at thier company that shoot the weddings.

Do you guarantee your presence at the actual event?

Yes

Do you sometimes book yourself for more than one wedding in a day? Weekend?

No, with what we provide it would not be possible.

Do you have a replacement photographer in case you become unavailable on the wedding day?

Yes

What kind of equipment do you typically bring with you on the day-of?

Three High End Digital camera bodies - The Best Nikon Lenses, Five Flashes, all tops in the industry, several sets of back up batteries with all the essentials and more. Fuji, Nikon, Metz and Bogen

Do you bring back-up equipment to the event in case of malfunction?

Yes

Do you charge hourly or full day?

We have many different packages to fit any budget. Hourly is how most of them are set, but we really have it down to a science with proper planning the couple will get just what they need as you can read in our testimonials on our website.

Do you require a meal break? If yes, do you require that the wedding party provide your meal?

We take a meal break while the couple are eating. We can provide our own if the couple does not.

How many breaks do you usually take throughout the day?

Not many - mainly just the meal - we usually run non stop throughout.

Do you charge for travel?

In some cases - outside 30 miles radius within KC.

How soon after the event are the proofs ready for viewing?

Two weeks

In what format are the initial proofs offered?

Online Proofing for everyone, some packages provide 3x5 lab prints in a proof book.

How long can the couple keep the proofs?

Forever

Do you retain the copyright for the photos?

Yes, but we provide a personal release for the couple to print from thier CD we provide.

Do you reserve the right to publish the photos?

Yes

Do you provide the digital files and/or negatives (or copies of the negatives) to the couple?

We provide a CD of the images per package with the permission for use statement.

Will images be available for viewing on an online gallery?

Yes. the best in the buisness at SeeYourPhotos.net right from the Phoenix Photography website.

What kind of albums do you offer?

Many different kinds to fit all budgets- Traditional, Leather, Flush Mount, Coffee Table Books and more.

Additional Questions and Answers

One of the important things to remember is that when you hire a seasoned wedding professional, you not only get someone who is good at photography, but you also get someone who can help manage unpredictable situations that can come up at any wedding.

Great photos are the first step in your decision, but actual wedding experience and professionalism is just as important.

Don't try to trust a friend or relative to something so important - we have heard all the horror stories from families who did not use us or a seasoned professional the first time around.

Play it safe, go with someone who has the talent and experience with the testimonials to back it up. Just check our testimonials on our website and you will see we have what you need.

Tips and Advice

Photographs by True Professional Photographers Will Tell Your Wedding Story Best

Phoenix Photography is your Best Choice in Professional Photography

Your wedding only lasts one day, but you'll want to hold onto the pictures forever. Unfortunately, statistics show that many brides are taking big risks with their memories. Ask questions about their styles. Most wedding photographers offer either traditional, posed portraits or a candid photojournalism style. Phoenix Photography offers a combination - and you make the choice!

• Look at samples. Ask to see albums that show wedding coverage from start to finish. This will give you an idea of both the style and quality each photographer provides. You can see many examples of complete weddings Phoenix Photography has done on thier website under the "Proofing" tab.
• Ask about backups. Always ask if the photographer carries back-up equipment. Also, make sure the photographer has a ready replacement who can photograph your wedding if he or she becomes ill.
• Develop a relationship. Look for a photographer that you are comfortable with. Remember, you are not hiring someone to simply take pictures, but to tell the story of your special day. A skilled professional will want to know about the bride and groom - your personalities and preferences. Lisa and John realize you hire them to do a professional job, they also take it very personal.
• Communicate. Make sure the photographer has a clear understanding of your expectations. Take the time to sit down with Lisa and John and discuss the services provided and the fees involved.
• Ask about credentials. Membership in a professional association, certification or a photography degree shows a certain level of commitment to the profession. These types of credentials can help you determine which photographer is right for you. John Phoenix and Lisa Catera are members of the Wedding and Portrait International -WPPI
• Check references. A friend's recommendation, the Better Business Bureau and professional associations are excellent sources of information.

Come see us at Phoenix Photography of Shawnee Mission Kansas - you will be pleased that you took the time to visit.