FAQ's

We have found that there are a number of quetsions that prospective clients ask at an early stage of their enquiries. I hope that this page goes some way to answering your questions.

What will my photography cost?

This question is inevitable at some point. My costs are based upon your imaging requirements and are fully detailed at the outset, so there are no hidden surprises. A quick look at the rates page will give a general indication of my standard charges. Please remember that I offer a personal service which means that I can maintain a flexible attitude to pricing.

When can you do it?

I work to tight schedules. Because I will normally work alone, my working hours are often committed well in advance. (I need to sleep at some time.) That said, I am always happy to accommodate short notice assignments whenever possible.

I’ve been told that Royalty Free photography is a cheap way to get good photography?

Stock photography can appear less expensive. The image already exists because it was taken speculatively by a photographer in the hope of guessing what you may need. You pay to use the image for an agreed period and specific usage. If you pay for web usage you can’t use the same image in a catalogue unless you pay separately for that use. At the end of the agreed period you pay again, for a further period, should you intend to use the same image again. That image may or may not be available to other users depending on whether you negotiate exclusive use or not.
Royalty Free images are available to anyone at anytime, once you pay a one-off fee (usually determined by size). There is no exclusivity at anytime and the photograph may appear on any literature or website at any time, even that of your closest competitor.
Commissioned photography is the employment of a photographer to produce images to your precise requirements. Initial outlay can be a little higher but the completed photographs are unique and exclusive to you. No one else can use them in any way without your permission and there doesn’t have to be any compromise in the style or composition of the image. Whilst the photographer normally retains the copyright, the photographs are yours to use in any way you choose for ever.

I don’t understand what my printer needs. Can you help?

There are times when printers and designers seem to talk a different language. In actual fact they do. Fortunately, it is a language that I do understand. Interpretation comes free with my photographic service.

Do you offer advice?

Yes. I am happy to offer advice and consultation. If it’s simple advice, I may be able to answer your query on the telephone. Technical questions and detailed advice or advice on an ongoing basis is, of course, chargeable.

Can I do it myself?

Unless you are confident that the end result is going to project the right image for your company, then it is often better to leave to an expert. If you do want to do it yourself but you feel that you need a point of reference, I am happy to offer my services in an advisory capacity.

Do you charge for travelling time?

All travelling time is included within Yorkshire and Lancashire, beyond which there is a nominal cost.

Will my workflow be disrupted?

I always try to make sure that your normal routine is disrupted as little as possible. Depending on what is being photographed, it may be possible to schedule photography for time of least activity including, where appropriate, night shifts, weekends or evenings.

Can I get a discount for a lot of images?

My charges are already some of the most competitive in the industry. However, by keeping overheads to a minimum and maintaining a flexible attitude to pricing, I am always willing to discuss discounts for volume or regular/repeat business.