Frequently Asked Questions
1. We are interested in your services what is the next step?
First - let's check dates! If you don't have a date - skip this step.
Most couples want a real look at some actual weddings - we give you access to former weddings as delivered - in order to make the best possible decision. In the "CONTACT US" box request a link or two - you may even want to see "Outdoor ceremonies" or a specific venue!
Once you feel like the style & images are what you are looking for - we schedule a consultation. Think coffee with friends - no sales push - no pressure. We look through albums and we talk to see if we are a good fit.
Out of town or unavailable for a consultation - we typically do everything via email and chat at least once on the phone!
2. How do we book you for our date?
To book requires 50% of the contract amount paid at the time of signing.
3. How long have you been in business? What is your experience?
I photographed my first wedding in 2001 and from there maybe photographed a few weddings a year mostly for friends and family. In 2009 I was fortunate to become a lead-photographer for a St. Louis based photography company. In 2010 my wife and I officially began DM Photography in Southern Illinois.
4. Do you travel?
Yes and we love to travel! There are rarely travel fees associated between St. Louis, Nashville and Louisville.
5. Do you offer discounts?
Yes! Winter weddings get a significant discount. Non-Saturday clients can usually book us for a song! Military, Police, Fire and Rescue receive 10% off their package.
6. What about rest periods and meals included on contracts?
For 8 hours or more of coverage we will find the most convenient times to "take five." As for meals, it is customary for the vendors to be included in the dinner, contact the venue or caterer who may have an alternative room for the photographer, videographer and vendors to eat.
7. What kind of equipment do you use?
We use whatever cameras.
My favorite lenses: Canon 85mm 1.2L, Canon 135mm f2L, Sigma 50mm f1.4 ART, Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART, Canon 14mm f2.8L, Canon 100mm f2.8L IS Macro, Iris 11mm f4
Our look is sharp eye-lash catching shots with backgrounds that melt into smooth warm buttery goodness.
Other Equipment:
We also have a thing for light. For those smooth bridal close-ups prior to the ceremony we have a 7 foot tall Parabolic umbrella (which also comes in handy when it rains)! For the hard, edgy, slightly shady groom shots - I prefer Elinchrom strip boxes. For run-n-gun shooting outside we use only the very best German engineered California Sunbounces.
Nothing that I've mentioned above has ever got anyone's attention as much as our camera-carrying utility belts. Yes, they are called Spider Holsters and they are the coolest. No one likes a camera strap.
8. Do you have backup gear in the event something goes wrong?
We have backups for our backups.
9. Do you take Cash, Check or Card?
Yes!
10. Will you help us with the wedding day schedule?
Of course! We want to help you have a smooth worry-free day while making sure that we get the best shots at the best time of day. We can work with you or your coordinator to custom fit an itinerary for your wedding.
11. What are you doing for weddings affected by Coronavirus?
Everyone in this industry is trying their best to ensure that couples have the best possible experience in some of the worst possible circumstances. We are committed to rescheduling receptions, providing discounts for backyard weddings, and the reimbursement of retainers for cancelled events.