Photo FAQ
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How long does a photo session take?
I typically work off of three session options: Quick ~20 minutes, Classic 45-60 minutes, and Premium Session of up to 90 minutes.
These three choices of time tend to catch a lot of clients’ needs, such as family portraits, graduation photos, headshots, or a branded shoot.
While there are set rates for full day events like weddings or conferences, custom quotes are also available to provide you with the best estimate of time/budget possible.
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How many photos will I get?
If we go with a Quick, Classic, or Premium session, the number of photos you receive would be around 30, 75, or 100 respectively. Travel and different looks/backgrounds also factor in to how many final images a client receives. For example, when it comes down to a dozen photos that look almost exactly alike, its the photographer’s job to choose the best one to add to the final gallery for you.
Keep in mind the final photo counts above are typical, but it is my goal to get as many amazing photos for you as possible in the time we have together.
For weddings or other special events that last hours, thousands of photos are taken and the final edited photo count easily stretches into the hundreds!
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Will the photos be edited?
Yes, all final photos will be professionally edited. Each selected image is carefully processed to reflect the photographer’s artistic style and uphold a high standard of quality. This includes adjustments to lighting, color, contrast, and composition, as well as any necessary retouching - always done with professional judgment to ensure the final images look natural, polished, and aligned with the overall creative vision. Editing is a key part of the process that transforms raw photos into finished work that truly represents the story, mood, and professionalism intended for your needs.
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How long will it take to receive my photos?
The amount of time needed to ingest, sort, edit, export and upload all final images varies greatly depending on the amount of photo coverage that was dedicated to the shoot/the amount of photos taken. Typical turnaround time is within 2 weeks for one of my session options, with the time extending for larger projects.
Rest assured, the client will always be informed about an approximate turnaround time for any and all photos.
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What is the best time of day for a photo session outdoors?
Great question! Morning and evening light (AKA Golden Hour) are considered the best times for outdoor photography because of the soft, warm, and flattering quality of light they provide. During these times, the sun is low in the sky, casting longer shadows and a diffused glow that enhances skin tones, textures, and landscapes without the harsh contrasts seen in midday sun. This softer light reduces squinting and minimizes unflattering shadows on faces, making it ideal for portraits and natural-looking images. Additionally, the golden hues during sunrise or sunset add mood and depth, creating a more visually appealing and professional look.
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How are photos delivered?
All final photos are delivered in an online gallery. In the gallery, you are able to download Print (high-resolution) and Web (low-resolution) sized files for use. It is recommended that all photos and file sizes are downloaded as soon as possible upon delivery for the client’s safekeeping.
Video FAQ
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What is does the video production process look like?
Video production starts the moment you reach out to a professional like me for visuals that will elevate you messaging or your memories.
In typical film industry lingo, the process is divided into three distinct parts: Pre-Production (everything leading up to the shoot), Production (we all know this one), and Post-Production (editing and final delivery).
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What is involved in pre-production?
If you were to reach out to me with an idea, need, or want for video, that would be the moment pre-production begins.
Say you’re a business looking for visuals that punch in a higher weight class, we would begin with what’s called a discovery meeting (usually a phone call to start) to understand the your goals, target audience, key messages, and desired outcomes. From there, we could develop a creative concept that aligns with the brand and objectives, determining the video’s tone, style, and structure. If needed, a script or outline is then written, and a storyboard may be created to visualize the content. Once the creative direction is approved, I would begin to handle logistics (such as scouting locations, scheduling shoot dates, organizing equipment, and hiring any necessary crew or talent) to make everything on the day run smoothly. A detailed shot list and production schedule may be included to ensure an efficient and organized shoot. This phase is essential for aligning expectations and laying the groundwork for a smooth production process.
If you were to reach out for a wedding or other special event, all of the above prep would essentially remain the same, just with different terms. For example, “this is our website, our aesthetic for the wedding, and our pinterest board with inspo images!”
Regardless of the project in question, a solid plan going into the shoot is always pivotal to an exceptional final product.
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What is involved in production?
Here is where the rubber meets the road. Production is the execution of the plan developed during pre-production. On shoot day, the crew arrives on location with the necessary equipment and sets up lighting, cameras, and audio gear according to the shot list and schedule. The director or producer oversees the shoot to ensure the visuals align with the creative vision, while the crew captures high-quality footage of interviews, b-roll, or scripted scenes as planned. Attention is given to framing, lighting, sound, and performance to ensure everything looks and sounds professional. Flexibility is also key! As the old saying goes, “Make plans and God Laughs.”
There will always be curveballs to account for during a shoot day, be it weather, lighting changes, location changes, or what have you, but with experienced professionals in charge and a plan for execution, all obstacles can be overcome.
Clear communication and efficiency during this phase help keep the shoot on track and ensure the footage meets the project's goals.
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What is involved in post-production?
Imagine you’re a teenager who just had a wild party. The crowd nearly brought the house down and the place is trashed. Post-production is a lot like a cleaning crew, sweeping in and tidying everything up to a gloss that looks even better than you remember, all before mom and dad get home.
The post-production process for a boutique video production company like me begins once all footage has been captured. The editor reviews and organizes the material, selects the best takes, and assembles a rough cut that follows the approved outline.
This is followed by refining the edit - tightening pacing, adding transitions, adjusting timing, and incorporating client feedback. Graphics, titles, and branding elements are added as needed, along with licensed music and sound design to enhance the overall feel.
Color correction and audio mixing ensure the final video looks polished and sounds clear across platforms. Once the video is finalized and approved, it is exported in the required formats and delivered to the client for distribution. This phase transforms raw footage into a cohesive, professional piece that fulfills the original creative and strategic goals.
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How is cost estimated?
The short answer? It depends.
For something like a business testimonial or a wedding, the factors are pretty straightforward and pricing doesn’t vary from a set rate.
However, with the endless possible stories video can capture comes a proportional quote. The scope of the project, which includes factors such as the video's length, complexity, and purpose all play a role. A simple shoot - like a single camera interview with minimal editing - will cost much less than a multi-location, multi-day shoot that requires scripting, talent, and advanced post-production.
Key elements that influence pricing include the number of shoot days, crew size, equipment needs (e.g. drones, gimbals, lighting kits), travel requirements, and whether the project involves scripting, voiceover, or motion graphics. Additionally, rush timelines, revisions, and the intended usage of the final video (e.g. social media vs. broadcast) can affect the overall cost.
Ultimately, the broader and more complex the scope, the more time, resources, and expertise are required - resulting in a higher estimate.
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Why does my project need professional video production?
I’m not much of a gambler, but I’d wager if you’ve made it to this part of my FAQs, you could use a professional for the job. The question then is, why me?
Choosing Mark Taylor Media for your video production will bring experience, quality, and strategy to the project that DIY methods often can’t match. A professional team knows how to craft a compelling story, capture high-quality visuals and sound, and ensure your message connects with your target audience. They bring the right gear, lighting, and techniques to make your brand look polished and trustworthy.
Beyond just technical skills, professionals understand how to guide the creative process, meet deadlines, and deliver content that aligns with your goals - whether that’s increasing engagement, building brand credibility, or driving sales. In short, professional video gives your project the impact it deserves.