Frequently Asked Questions

Services:
- What types of photography services do you offer?
- Digital vs. Film. What should I know?
- Can I use an image you've already taken?
- How do you calculate your prices?
- Why does it take time to 'edit' images?
- I have my image files, now what?

Ordering Prints Online
- How does it work?
- What is the print process & quality like?
- Any technical stuff I should know?

- What types of photography services do you offer?

Although aviation photography keeps me busy 80% of the time, I'm originally a fine art photographer with many clients in the corporate, studio and portraiture genre. I've had the opportunity of photographing newly constructed hotel interiors to delectable dinner dishes. I still enjoy photographing motor sports and automotive art on the side which, combined with aviation, brought about, 'If it moves, Shoot It!'.

- Digital vs. Film. What should I know?

Many people believe that the digital world should provide a reduction in the overall cost of photography services. Unfortunately it has proven to be quite the opposite. Although photographers no longer need to purchase film, they are required to replace cameras, computers, memory devices, archiving hardware, software and other equipment every two years on average. Add to the fact the photographer now plays the role of the lab and service bureaus with color management, image editing and other digital services requiring more time and labor than ever before.

- Can I use an image you've already taken?

Absolutely. If hiring a photographer and dealing with a custom photoshoot isn't your forte or if the time for such a job doesn't exist, this website provides a constantly expanding library of stock images found under the 'Portfolio' section. Simply contact me with the file number of the image(s) you would like to use and I will assist in every step of the way towards meeting your expectations.

- How do you calculate your prices?

Whether it be a contracted photoshoot or licensing an existing image, rates are updated annually to reflect the average market pricing for your needs. That means not only can I add a personal touch and individual attention, but also pricing is competitive with that of the larger online stock agencies.

- Why does it take time to 'edit' images?

Today's digital cameras offer different types of files. In order to offer the highest quality images possible, I utilize the 16-bit Raw setting. Unfortunately, Raw images require post-production time to convert to the standard 8-bit system. Raw files also tend to supply flat, low contrast images with muted colors. A minimal amount of editing is required to bring these colors back to life for a realistic reproduction. This process along with other standard enhancements such as the removal of sensor dust spots, must be applied to each and every image resulting more time needed to provide a quality product. Below is an example of an image before and after editing.

- I have my image files, now what?

If you are assembling an ad campaign or promotional product, I can assist you with turning your vision into reality. Since the image(s) you have requested are already on file, utilizing my graphic design experience to provide a finished product would be an efficient and economical decision. Check here for more information on graphic design services.

- How does it work?

After browsing through the database, if you find an image you like, click on the image for a larger view. Just below the enlarged image is a drop down menu asking the size and finish you'd prefer. You'll then be taken through the purchase process or have the option to continue viewing the thousands of images available. Once an order has been placed, I receive the print number and specifications you prefer. The image is then sized to your request and sent to the lab to be printed on old fashioned silver-halide paper with the requested finish. Once the lab has finished the printing process, the image is sent to the address you've provided.

- What is the print process & quality like?

Images are printed on the same kind of wet-process one-hour paper that retains detail and archival properties when properly displayed. Although ink-jet photo paper quality and archival characteristics are improving, silver-halide paper still provides for a more reliable product.

- Any technical stuff I should know?

Although photographs are personally inspected before being sent, due to computer monitors having a wide gamut of color balance properties, photographs may look different than when viewed on a monitor.

Because photographs are custom printed based on your specifications, I am unable to accept returns. However, if there is a problem with the image due to shipping or packaging, please let me know so we can get the problem corrected and you get the quality product you want.