Frequently Asked Questions
Are you looking to do this full time?
Although I appreciate the creativity that photography offers, my primary interest lies in the technical aspects of software development. It's not my intention to pursue photography as a full-time career, as I indulge in photography purely for leisure.
My pleasure in photography is twofold: not only do I relish the act of taking photos, but I also value the chance to contribute to the community and create opportunities.
Why is your pricing reasonable/affordable/competitive compared to other services?
Several reasons why:
I work full time as a software developer, I do photography for fun!
I believe that I should not charge higher simply because I am capable of doing so..
The way I charge for photography is just perfect for my small business.
I am not dependent on this income because I have a full time job, win-win!
I wanted to offer competitive wedding photography packages right from the start.
I am passionate about both photography and software development. This allows me to keep my pricing affordable, as I am fortunate enough to have the best of both worlds.
As a software developer, I manage my own website. I don't pay another tech guy to do it for me - this reduces the cost.
I choose not to pay wedding directories to be featured on their websites since it would add an extra cost that would ultimately be passed on to clients.
Are you a professional photographer?
It is a hotly debated topic at the moment on what makes a professional photographer. As you know, I work full time as a software developer, I don't say I am a professional software developer. Have a look at my gallery and will leave it up to you. Like many other great photographers out there, I do not have any certification nor diploma about photography. I do use professional Canon equipment to give you great image quality.
Do you have a sample wedding gallery?
Yes. Please have a look at this sample gallery here.
Another sample gallery is password protected here.
Please request for the password by sending an email to ces@cesphotography.co.nz
Do you create a slideshow?
Yes! The slideshow is included in the Platinum Package. I create the slideshow during reception and pass it to you before I finish the night. It lets you get a glimpse of your wedding photos. It's a great way to look back at your wedding day. The slideshow is usually 4 to 8 minutes long and shows the highlights from getting ready photos to just before reception starts.
I may be one of the very few in NZ who creates slideshows as part of the service. The slideshow is in a video format and can be played on most modern TVs with a USB port.
Watch a sample of the slideshow here.
Do you have an agreement?
Yes there is an agreement that my couples need to agree before their date is secured.
What's your investment?
I want to clarify that I am not an investment company and I do not promise to grow your money. I am not setting up a retirement fund for you either. I simply offer photography services at reasonable prices, and I do not use the term "investment" to make it sound expensive. In fact, I keep things simple and just call it pricing. I believe that your wedding photos will remain as colorful and beautiful even after 10, 20, or more years.
If you're interested in checking out my affordable pricing, please take a look at the details here. You'll find all the pricing information there, so you don't have to worry about guessing if you can afford my already reasonable packages. Rest assured that I don't hide my pricing from my website, and you don't have to fill out a form to see it.
Do you use professional equipment?
To give you great quality images, I use professional Canon equipment.
Below is my equipment list:
Canon R5
Canon RF 35mm f1.8 IS STM
Canon RF 50mm f.18 STM
Canon EF 85mm f1.4 L IS USM
Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L IS USM II
Canon Speedlite 480 EX II
I also rent gear when needed.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a non-refundable $300 deposit is required for all wedding packages. This comes off the balance (even better) !
Do you have backup equipment?
Yes. See my equipment list.
Also have multiple memory cards and batteries.
Have you studied photography?
I am self taught like many photographers out there! Photography is a hobby since 2009. It all started in 2017 when my colleague asked me for maternity photos. I guess you can say the rest is history.
I do not have any diploma, certificate nor formal training in photography.
Do you have backup of the images?
Being a software developer, yes, I have a backup of your images. I have one that is always with me and have 2nd at my workplace. While this does not completely eliminate the risk of losing images, it minimizes that risk.
Do you travel?
Although we primarily photograph weddings in Christchurch, we are available for travel throughout New Zealand. Our work has taken us to various locations, including Timaru, Ashburton, Akaroa, Wellington, Palmerston North and Blenheim. We are always excited to explore new locations and capture beautiful moments for our clients.
Do you put logos/watermarks on your photos?
If photos are for my couples, then no. Personally, I don't like pesky logos on my photos.
If vendors want to use the photos, then yes.
Do you print photobooks and canvas?
Yes, canvas print and photobook can be purchased as well! Check out the pricing here.
How many weddings did you photograph?
2018: 9
2019: 31
2020: 44
2021: 32
2022: 42
How many weddings are you photographing?
2023: 47 so far
2024: 15 so far
Can we meet you?
I would love too! Please send an email to ces@cesphotography.co.nz or we can setup a Skype video chat as I am Christchurch based.
It would be a great time to show you more wedding photos not on the website and see if you are comfortable with me being your photographer. I will also show you a sample of a photobook. (Not the canvas as it is too big!)
Do you edit photos?
Absolutely, I edit photos based on my personal style, which emphasizes natural and vibrant colors. I avoid excessive editing that can make photos appear unrealistic or fanciful. I do not modify the subjects' appearances in the images or add any artificial elements such as fake sun rays, fog, fireworks, etc.
If you're interested in exploring other editing options for your wedding photos, please take a look at the available styles here.
Do you get sick?
I am not Superman. I am human and therefore I get sick. In the event of me getting sick on the day of your wedding, I will find you a photographer(s) to capture your wedding day. This is also specified in the agreement.