FAQ

What equipment do you have?
I currently shoot with a 10.2 MegaPixel Nikon D80 and D200. with Nikon backup camera, two flash heads for lighting and one continuous light source  (in studio), two flashes for backup, and studio backgrounds and props for in studio photoshoots.

What experience do you have?
I have been involved in photography ever since I was old enough to hold a camera. I graduated the 2 year diploma Photography Program at Algonquin College, in Ottawa in 2005. I have done modeling portfolios, food shots and other interesting event work but really enjoy working with people and doing portraiture. 

What types of projects and photography have you done?
I started off over 5 years ago now doing modeling portfolios. I did shoots from my home studio and worked for an Ottawa Fashion Magazine for a year doing feature articles, cover stories, modeling and bridal portraits. I also did family portraits on location.
I've tried sports photography, architectural (residential and commercial) including staging residents, special events, promotions, landscape photography, pets and people.
My work has been published on several Ottawa and Toronto business websites and in print for Prestige and Canadian Real Estate Magazine.

What type of event services do you provide?
The type of event services include but are not limited to:
Corporate events and group headshots
Parties (Christmas, Anniversary, Family Reunion, Bridal/Baby Shower,
Grand Openings
Fashion Shows
Portrait, In studio or on location
Weddings
Graduation Photography
Pets
Please inquiry if you have a special event as I do most events.

Where can I find more samples?
You can 
1. View the slideshow on the home page
2. Visit: www.melanieshields.zenfolio.com
3. Come to the studio or book an appointment to see printed photos, portfolio, sample albums and DVD Slideshow

How do I pay?

All payment must be received before shooting commences. Accepted methods of payment are cash and personal cheque.
Deposits are required before wedding photoshoots.  



BRIDES:
Are you available to meet for a consultation prior to the wedding?
Absolutely! It's very important for the wedding couple to meet with the photographer prior to booking to ensure my style of photography and price are exactly what you are looking for.  This also gives you an option to tailor your package to exactly what types of prints or coverage you need. You can also share your ideas for photographs and discuss locations and timing.
Consultations can be in your home, on location or in my studio with no obligation. 

 
How does the payment schedule work?
For smaller packages (Basic, Bronze and Silver) I take a deposit of $250 which is non refundable. This ensures you will have a photographer on your wedding day.
For larger packages (Gold and up) it can be split into three or four equal payments depending on the package price. The deposit is $300 and  is due upon signing the contract. The remainder of the sum must be paid 2 weeks (14 days) before the wedding date. 

How long after the wedding to see the proof album?
The maximum amount of time in between the wedding and receiving the proof album is 2.5 weeks. Often they are ready sooner but due to outside processing I can't guarantee any less than 2 weeks 

How long after choosing the prints to be enlarged will I receive them?
Again, it will be approximately 2 weeks for the enlargements to be ready for pick up.

How long does album assembly or High Resolution CDs take?
After you complete the paper stating which sizes of prints/mats and which photographs to be displayed in the album it will take 3-5 weeks for 8x10 or 12x12 albums to be assembled. Coffee table albums are mailed to me from the lab at the earliest 3 weeks so they will be longer than the albums I can assemble here.
For the best retouched CDs please expect 5 weeks after the wedding to receive the CD. 

How do I receive my prints/books after the wedding?
It is the responsibility of the couple to come to the studio to pick up all prints, proof book, CDs and albums.
For out of town Brides, you will be responsible to pay the 15 dollars it will cost to ship your proof book and enlargements. I do not mail any frames so you must make arrangements to have me drop it off at the wedding location or pick it up prior, during your initial consultation. 


MODELS:

Do I need to find my own makeup artist or stylist?

It is up to you. If you can do your own makeup that is good, but if you want professional results you need to hire a professional. Makeup can often look different on film therefore it is better to leave it to someone with experience. I do have some experience with makeup for photography and high fashion makeup .

If you know someone that you trust feel free to use them. The cost of the makeup artist or stylist is the responsibility of the model.

You can book makeup and hair stylists to provide different “looks”. 
 

What does the model receive?

What you will end up with will be decided before any pictures are taken. You will be required to sign a model release and prove that you are able to legally enter into a contract. In the province of Ontario, you must be 18 years old at the time of the shoot. If you are younger, your parent/guardian must sign for you. Copyright belongs to the photographer. You will not receive any raw image files, negatives or slides. You will receive a contact sheet or proofs depending on the agreement decided at the beginning of the shoot. You are granted a license to use the photographs from the shoot for your own self promotion (portfolio/composite card) but you are not able to sell them without explicit written consent from the photographer for each specific use. Complete license terms are listed in the model release form.

Copyright infringement will be investigated and prosecuted.

What is ‘model testing’?

Model testing is when a model pays a photographer to shoot pictures for their portfolio. This is usually how a model builds their portfolio. This will involve shooting about 100 digital pictures with a photographer creating different looks by changing hair, makeup, clothing and lighting. It is better to have 10 good shots of yourself in your portfolio than 20 mediocre ones.

It is also important to keep your book up to date. If you have changed your hairstyle or colour since your last shoot, you may want to reflect this in your book. If a photographer is expecting a long-haired model from looking at your pictures and you show up with shoulder length hair, there may be problems!

What types of pictures do I need for my portfolio?

Depending on the type of desired work a good portfolio consists of a selection of tight headshots, full length and ¾ shots. If you are looking for more editorial work, you would want to include some candid poses or environmental portraits.

Any good hints?

The best thing you can do is have an open mind. If you have a good idea for the shoot let the photographer know. Do what you think will get the look that you are going for.

REFERRAL PROGRAM
As I always enjoy referrals I have a rewarding program for pointing your friends and family in my direction.

Portrait Referrals:
Both parties receive a free 8x10 retouched enlargement with any package purchase! 

Wedding Referrals 
Both parties receive their choice of complimentary photo gift. Choose from free 8x10, 2-5x7 enlargements, photo candle or photo mousepad with your choice of photograph with any signed contract from referral. You can also take a credit toward a product you are purchasing for each referral.

This template and information provided by MBEimages/Mark Burton

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