This is a summary of frequently asked questions for weddings, seniors and portraits.
WEDDINGS
How many weddings do you photograph each year?
We love photographing wedddings! Currently our schedule allows for 15-20 weddings per year.
How long does it take to get our images back after the wedding?
We know how high the anticipation to see those images is after a wedding! A preview of the wedding is posted on our blog and Facebook page as soon as possible following the event. These previews show 30-50 highlights from your special day. Completed galleries may take up to eight weeks, however, we do our best to complete them sooner.
Do we get the digital files?
All of our wedding collections do allow you to download all of your finished proofs directly to your computer at full resolution.
Do you have a 2nd shooter/assistant?
Both Jason and Amy are present at all weddings. While Jason is the primary photographer, Amy is right there to assist and help with all the important details.
Are engagement sessions included in your wedding packages?
Engagement sessions are not included in the wedding packages, however, we do provide complimentary engagement sessions for those who request them.
What if we do not need an engagement session?
While engagement sessions are fun (not to mention it allows us to get to know each other more) we understand that some couples just do not need them.
Do you travel?
Yes! We love traveling for weddings when our schedule allows. If you're planning a wedding outside the Minot area (anywhere for that matter) we are always willing to discuss travel arrangements and costs associated with it.
What is your style of photography?
Our style of photography can be summed up with these two words - modern elegance. We love capturing the beautiful moments of the day, and we also know how important it is to capture those candid and traditional memories as well.
What if the weather does not allow us to go outside for pictures?
The weather can be unpredictable on your wedding day. The good news is that although we may have to adjust the photo schedule a bit, we will do what we can to get outside for the images you desire! If the wedding is in the Minot area and the weather is uncooperative, we have the studio as an option. The studio provides a very modern and individualized way to photograph the bride and groom, wedding party and even family. We have also found success in shooting under protective areas such as band shelter, etc.
If we decide to book Gemar Photography for our wedding, how much is the retainer?
We collect a non-refundable $800 retainer at the time of booking. This retainer secures your wedding date with us and becomes no longer available to another inquiring client.
Can we make payments toward the balance on our wedding collection?
Yes you can. However, it is not required. Upon booking us, the only amount we require is the retainer of $800. Nothing more is due until four weeks before the wedding day. You are more than willing to make payments along the way if you choose.
What if we do not want to see each other before the ceremony?
No problem! We love when a bride and groom want to wait for the first look when coming down the aisle. Be sure to visit with us about this as soon as possible in your wedding planning so proper timing is allowed to capture all the images.
Do you offer custom packaging?
We are always willing to visit about a custom package during our off season months of January - April.
Do we choose the outdoor location?
If you have ideas, we love to hear them! We love private property as long as we have permission. And, we are more than willing to shoot in an area that you have found. If a permit is needed to photograph in your chosen area, it is up to the bride and groom to obtain this permit before the wedding day.
How long do photographs take?
Bride and groom, wedding party and family pictures ideally take about 2-3 hours.
SENIORS/PORTRAITS
How many outfits should I bring?
It depends which session you plan to purchase - be sure to review your options so you can come to your session prepared! Overall, it's better to bring more than you'll need rather than wish you would've brought an outfit or sports jersey. We will help you narrow them down if you have more than you need. For portraits, many will do one outfit for the entire session. Some families will change into something different for the outdoor portion. For single subjects such as newborns or other milestone sessions such as one or two-year photos, we recommend starting with your favorite outfit followed by a second or third.
Can I wear straight hair for some pictures and curly hair in others?
We do offer this in our platinum senior session. It's best to let us know in advance so we can be sure to leave plenty of time during the shoot to accomplish it. We also offer it as a $100 add on for our senior sessions and typically have you come back another day to finish that portion.
How long does it take to get our pictures back?
We know how exciting it is to get those images so we always blog and Facebook sneak peeks as soon as possible (usually less than a week). For seniors, the entire gallery is usually completed with four weeks and for portraits - three weeks.
Do we choose our outdoor location?
If you have a special location in mind for outdoor pictures, absolutely! Many people rely on us to pick their location and that is just fine, too. We have lots of favorite places to take you!
Do you travel to a location such as a lake, farm or my hometown?
It really depends on the time of year. We do love to travel for senior and portrait sessions. However, the summer and fall months are limited due to our busy schedule. We are always open to it! If we can make it work, we'll do it. Mileage and destination fees may apply. If a location session is something you're interested in, let us know as soon as possible. We typically book these types of location sessions months in advance.
Do you offer sessions on the weekend?
It depends on the time of year. We are busy on Saturdays in the spring, summer and fall with our wedding schedule. However, during the winter season, we do offer occasional Saturday sessions for seniors and portraits. We are always closed on Sundays.
Do you offer the digital files?
We do offer sessions for seniors and portraits that allow for downloading full resolution files right to your computer.
How do we place an order for pictures?
You can easily order right from within your gallery using the cart. If you prefer, we can make arrangements to take an order over the phone or at our studio. You can also email an order to us. Your choice!
If we have the digital files, can we still order from Gemar Photography?
Of course. We understand that everyone has different ideas and needs for their digital files. You can always order from our professional lab to ensure the best quality and color. Our screens are calibrated perfectly to match our lab's output. If you purchase a wedding, senior or portrait session that includes the digital files, you will receive a 25% off discount code for orders placed with Gemar Photography!
Do you offer graduation announcements?
Absolutely...and we love designing them! When you order a graduation announcement from Gemar Photography, you will receive a custom, designed proof from scratch. Every announcement is unique based on the pictures, wording and overall style that you desire. We always send out proofs of these announcements so that you can request any changes that are needed until we have the perfect design for you! We do not use pre-purchased templates.
How do we get our yearbook selection to the school?
Sending a digital copy is the best method for a yearbook picture. All we need is the school's email address and we will send the file you request.
Can I bring a friend, my mom or others to my session?
