FAQ

 

BOOKING & PAYMENT INFORMATION

How do I book my session?

It’s very easy!  Just pop us an email at photo@michaelblanchard.ca or call (709) 682-8674 and we’ll check our availability.  If it’s convenient for you, we would love to set up a time to meet so we can discuss exactly what you’re looking for and to give us the opportunity to answer any questions that you may have.

Do you require a deposit?

We require a $300.00 deposit to reserve your day.  The remaining balance is due one week before your wedding day.

What are your payment options?

We accept cash, cheque, and e-mail transfer.

Can we make monthly payments?

Absolutely!  Just let us know and we can set it up.

 

EXPERIENCE & EQUIPMENT

Have you had any formal training?

Yes! Michael completed a degree in Visual Arts in 1998 at Memorial University where his primary focus was photography and drawing.  In addition to his education, he has been working as Creative Director and Fashion Photographer with Eclipse Stores Inc. since 2001.

With nearly twenty years of experience, Michael has been fortunate to work on numerous exciting projects including a multitude of weddings, portrait sessions, fashion shoots, theatrical productions, and with various commercial clients. His work has been featured throughout the country on numerous marketing materials for Eclipse Stores Inc.

Michael’s partner, Samantha, manages all business related aspects of Michael Blanchard Photography. With a Master of Business Administration degree, Samantha is well versed in entrepreneurship, marketing, sales, accounting, and communications.  Her involvement in the business allows Michael to focus on his art while she ensures all the little details are in place.

What kind of equipment do you use?

Michael’s principal camera is a Canon 5D Mark III along with a variety of Canon professional lenses.

Do you bring back up equipment?

Absolutely!  We bring a second camera set-up as well as multiple lenses, flashes, memory cards and lots of batteries!  We even bring along blankets, umbrellas, and a “wedding day” emergency kit so we’re prepared for everything.

Do you have an assistant?

Yes! Samantha accompanies Michael on the majority of his shoots.  She is an incredible source of creativity and offers a complementary perspective which allows them to work together efficiently throughout the entire day. She’s also great at carrying purses, keys, sunglasses or anything else you might now want in your pictures.:)

Do you travel outside of St. John’s?

Yes! We love to travel around our beautiful province.  For weddings outside of St. John’s and surrounding areas, a travel cost of $0.75/km will apply.  This charge covers fuel, meals, and accommodations.

 

PACKAGES

Do you offer customized packages?

We certainly do!  We will work with you to customize a package that suits your needs perfectly.

Do we get a DVD of our photos?

Absolutely! All of our packages include a DVD of fully edited, high resolution photos with full printing rights.  We only release the highest quality as a standard for our company.

I do not need an engagement session, can I save money by removing it?

Each package includes a complimentary engagement session as a gift to you. There is no hidden fee for the session which means the price of your package will not change if you choose not to participate.

Also, we’ve found that couples who take part in the session are more relaxed on their wedding day and it helps us to get to know one another a little better. Plus….it’s always a lot of fun!

When will I receive my photographs?

Your photos will be ready within 8-12 weeks of your wedding.  We meticulously choose the best images from the day and process each of them with individual attention.

Do you offer enlargements?

Absolutely!  We offer a variety of enlargements and custom framing options.

Do you offer photo books?

Yes! We offer customized photo books. Standard books are 40 pages, hard cover with a dust jacket and are available in the following sizes: 8” x 10”, 12” x 12” and 11” x 13”.

Can you provide a photo booth at our wedding reception?

Definitely! We offer an open air style photo booth which consists of a backdrop that can accommodate up to 10 people.  The booth includes a designated photo booth photographer and a box of fun props.

The booth is a great way to capture images of your guests and it really adds a lot of fun to the evening.  The booth can be added to any package for an additional charge of $400.00 which includes up to two hours of coverage.

 

WEDDING DAY INFORMATION

How many locations can we visit on my wedding day?

We can visit as many locations as time permits.  Prior to your wedding day, it is a good idea to discuss your photo locations so we can be as efficient as possible.

Is it possible to have photographs of the groom getting ready as well?

Absolutely!  With unlimited locations offered in every package, we will do our very best to visit every location that you want.  It is best to plan out an itinerary of where you’d like us to be.  It’s a great opportunity to capture all of the excitement of the day.

Do you accept lists of the photographs we want?

We love lists!  It is actually recommended for you to provide us with a list of photos that you’d like to have on your wedding day.  It is also helpful to have a family member or friend act as an assistant to ensure that nothing is missed.

Is it possible for my friends and family to take pictures while you are shooting?

Of course!  Your wedding day is a big day for all of your guests and they are welcome to take photos.  From experience, we have found that it’s best to ask friends and relatives to allow us to shoot first and then we’ll stand aside and let them take some shots.  Otherwise, you may end up with a lovely group photo of your bridal party with only half of them looking at our cameras.

Do you require a meal?

Yes! It would be greatly appreciated to be included in the meal arrangements as we will be spending the majority of the day with you and want to remain fully dedicated to the event.  If this is not an option, we would require a break to go and get food.

What if the weather is bad on my wedding day?

The best way to deal with bad wedding day weather is to be prepared.  This includes getting creative with location spots and also having an alternate indoor photo location.  We’ll also be sure to bring along umbrellas and above all, just remember to have fun!

I already have my wedding photographer booked, is it possible for you to do an engagement session with us?

Certainly! We’d be more than happy to shoot your engagement photos.

Do you only shoot weddings?

No….we also shoot family portrait sessions, infants and children, graduations, corporate and community events.

 

We hope these FAQs have answered all of your questions, if there’s anything else that you’d like to know, don’t hesitate to contact us at anytime with further questions.