Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reserve your services for my wedding?
Call me at 510.655.1988 to discuss your wedding plans and needs. You can also email me at joy@edaust.com . Based on our conversation, I will draw up a wedding plan and contract for you to approve and sign.

How long have you been photographing weddings?
I've been photographing weddings part-time for over 20 years, in addition to jobs in photojournalism, public relations photography, and agency communications. I've recently begun focusing on wedding photography as a fulltime business.

What kind of cameras do you use?
I use Nikon digital cameras with a variety of wide angle and telephoto lenses. I bring backup equipment for every wedding assignment.

How would you describe your photography style?
I shoot fast and unobtrusively. With a photojournalism background, I have a distinct reportage style. I immerse myself in the wedding and strive to capture the myriad fleeting moments that all too often get missed by photographers. I also value the traditional images and include a repertoire of posed "formal" shots that most brides want included in their albums.

Do you shoot black and white?
I'm proficient in black & white and color. The price is the same for either.

Do I have to pay all at once?
There are two installments. The first ($500) is due when the contract is signed. The balance is due one week prior to your wedding day. Additional charges will apply if you order reprints, enlargments, or albums.

How far will you travel to photograph a wedding?
I will travel within 50 miles of Oakland, California, at no extra charge. Locations beyond this range will require additional travel expenses.

We're having a small wedding with just 30 guests and we can't spend more than $1,000 on pictures. What can we do?
Call me and let me know your needs. Depending on the time of year and my schedule, I may be able to accommodate you or refer you to another photographer who can.

How much time will you spend at my wedding?
Normally 6-10 hours for full photographic coverage. This includes: final preparations prepared by the bride/bridal party, formal pre-wedding shots of the bride, her family and attendants, the ceremony, post ceremony formal shots of the bridal party and family/friends, reception, including arrival of the bride and groom, first dance, bridal/parent dances, toasts, cake cutting, garter and bouquet tosses, candids', dancing/last dance, and departure of the bride and groom.

What about getting an album?
I can help you select from a variety of professional leather-bound albums specifically designed for preserving wedding photographs. I will show you your options at the time you receive your proof prints.

Who chooses the photos that go into an album?
You do. After the wedding, when I show you the images, you can select which photos (if any) you'd like printed or enlarged.

Should we get plastic-covered pages to protect the pictures?
No! Unless they are specifically designed for archival protection, most plastic album pages deteriorate over time and damage photos.

Do color photos last as long as black and white?
While all photos fade eventually, the dyes used in color photo processes fade faster than black and white.

What is "wedding photojournalism"?
Wedding photojournalism is a style that emulates the editorial photography seen in magazines such as People, National Geographic, or Town & Country. It tends to emphasize spontaneity, informality, and documentation.

Do you take formal posed pictures?
Yes, I include formal posed pictures in my repertoire. I find that most clients expect at least a few of these. I conform my style to your preferences.

How do I know you won't "take over" and run my wedding day for me?
That's definitely not my style. I may be directive when posing people for formal group shots, but I will never be pushy or manipulative. For most photos, I try to stay as unobtrusive as possible. I'm a pretty mellow and cooperative guy.

Can I keep the negatives?
Because I am shooting with a digital camera, there are no negatives. I will, however, provide all images in high resolution jpeg format on a CD or DVD to the bride and groom within 6 months.

Do you allow guests to take photos during the formal photography?
If guests are unobtrusive, I have no problem with them taking photos during the formal shots. I'm usually so focused on my work I don't notice them anyway.

Will my photos end up on your website?
Probably. I reserve the right to use any photos I take for marketing purposes.