frequently asked questions

style & approach

how would you describe your photography style?

Do you direct poses or let things happen naturally?

can we share a shot list or inspiration photos?

what if the lighting at our venue is really dark or difficult?

I would describe my style as true-to-life Documentary-leaning Editorial with a warm, inclusive heart. I prioritize authenticity and personality, but don't shy away from bold, intentional framing with a creative eye.

Both! I guide you into positions that look natural and flattering, then step back and let the real moments unfold. I may give you prompts or engage you in conversation  to help you settle into the shoot. Most people say they relax within the first half hour.

Absolutely! In fact, I encourage it! Often times I find buzz words like 'cinematic' or 'editorial' may mean one thing to me, and an entirely different thing to you. Inspo photos, pinterest boards, etc. help us get on the same page. I use it as a launching point, not a rigid script. In one of our calls, we will also go over the details before your date in order to capture all of this.

Challenging light is something I prepare for and enjoy. I use professional off-camera flash and lighting equipment when needed and scout venues or shoot locations in advance when possible. Don't worry, I've got you!

working together

what do you need from us to make the day run smoothly?

For weddings, a finalized timeline (4-6 weeks out), a family formal portrait list, a point of contact (a planner or trusted family member) who can help wrangle people throughout the day, and two people who are ready to be present and enjoy their day!

do you work with a wedding planner?

I love working with planners - a well-organized day is a well-photographed day. If you don't have one, I can recommend planners I've worked with and trust.

Whats the best way to reach you with questions leading up to the wedding?

Email is best for anything detailed, so that you have the ability to reference anything you may need. That being said, once you're booked and a client, I'm available to you any time! Call, text, let me know if you have any questions any time! This is your first wedding, not mine, so I am happy to talk through any pain points you may have at any point in the process! 

how involved can we be in the creative process?

Very! I send a detailed questionnaire before your wedding or portrait session to learn about your timeline, priorities, must-have shots, family dynamics, and vision. I'm a collaborative partner, not a hired hand! Your input and excitement is what will give the images the most life!

booking & availability

how do we officially book you for our date?

Booking is simple - it requires a signed contract and a retainer (25-50% of the total package). Once both are received, your date is locked in. The remaining balance is due day of for portrait sessions, and 30 days before a wedding.

How far in advance should we book?

General rule of thumb is as soon as you can, especially if your wedding is during peak-season (May-October). Traditionally couples book 12-18 months in advance, but it is becoming more and more common for weddings to happen in 3-6 months. Elopements have also been following this pattern more recently. If you're looking to book, reach out regardless of timing. Last-minute books do happen!

Do you travel for weddings?

Absolutely I do! Travel within NYC is included. For destinations beyond that, travel costs (flights, accommodations, transportation) are added at cost with no markup. Destination weddings and Elopements are a specialty and I love them!!

How many weddings do you photograph per year?

Intentionally limited. I take a maximum of 18 weddings per year so every couple gets my full attention, energy, and creative focus!

pricing & payment

do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Beyond the initial retainer, payments can be split into installments leading. up to your booked date. Just ask and we'll find a structure that works for you.

Is there a discount for off-peak or weekday weddings.

Occasionally, yes. Off-season dates and micro-weddings or elopements to my bucketlist locations may have flexible pricing. Let's talk.

what is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Details are outlined in your contract. Generally, the retainer is non-refundable as it holds your date and turns away other clients. In the even of a reschedule, I do my best to accommodate the new date. I also strongly recommend wedding insurance - it protects your investment beyond just photography.

the portrait session

Do you offer portrait sessions outside of weddings?

Yes - and I love them. Portrait sessions are a great way to capture a moment in time, whether that's a new relationship, a milestone, branding/headshots, or simply wanting beautiful images of yourself or your people. Sessions are available year-round, subject to availability.

what types of portrait sessions do you offer?

Common session types include:
   ~ Couples Portraits - romantic, anniversary, or "just because" (my favorite kind)
   ~ Individual - for creatives wanting polished, updated images that represent who they are
   ~ Branding - for professionals, with a creative direction designed to help sell them and their business
   ~ Headshots/Portraiture - for professionals and creatives 
   ~ Milestone sessions - graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

If you have something in mind that isn't listed, just ask. Chances are we can make it work.

How long is a portrait session?

There are 1 hour and 90 minute session options, and typically that is more than enough time. Any session that exceeds that is a personalized session. We can talk through wahat makes sense for your specific session.

where can we have our session?

Just about anywhere. Outdoor locations tend to photograph beautifully. Indoor sessions can happen at your home or a rented studio space as on option as well. I'll help you choose a location that matches the mood and style you're going for.

what time of day is best for portraits?

Best times will vary based on what type of session you are looking to do. 

What should we wear?

The type of shoot you're looking to do will determine what clothing you should wear. I will discuss with you specific recommendations during our consult. Generally, wear what makes you feel like yourself, coordinate without being too matchy, avoid busy patterns and large logos, and choose colors that work in the environment we're shooting in. When in doubt, send me a photo of your outfit options and i'll give you honest feedback!

Can we bring our dog or other pets?

Let's talk first, but please do! Pets are family and they almost always make sessions more fun and more personal. We just want to make sure they're comfortable in the environment you're choosing and bring someone to hold them when needed so we can get some shots with everyone's hands free.

How many photos will we receive from a portrait session?

Typically between 15-40 fully edited images depending on session length and type. You'll receive the best of the best - not every frame, but a cohesive, beautiful collection that tells the story of the session.

How long until we receive our portrait gallery?

Most portrait galleries are delivered between 2-3 weeks after your session. Often you will get them sooner, but there is the option of an additional $100 rush fee for quicker delivery.

What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy for portrait sessions?

Life happens, I get it. I ask for at least 48 hours notice to reschedule without losing your session fee. Additional fees may occur if a studio rental is affected. Weather-related reschedules for outdoor sessions are always accommodated at no penalty, though rainy sessions can be absolutely GORG. Details are outlined in your session agreement.

Do you offer mini sessions?

Occasionally, yes. Mini sessions are shorter, fixed-location sessions offered a few times per year at a reduced rate. They're great for quick updates. Follow me on instagram to be notified when mini sessions open.

If you and a friend want to book a double session, we could discuss a reduced rate for each of you. Just message me to talk details!

the engagement session

Is an engagement session really necessary?

It's not required, but it's one of the most valuable things you can do before your wedding. It's the one time we get to work together before the biggest day of your lives - you learn how to be in front of my camera, I learn your dynamic, and you walk away with beautiful photos. Every couple says it made them more relaxed on their wedding day!

Where should we do our engagement session?

Yes. Beyond the initial retainer, payments can be split into installments leading. up to your booked date. Just ask and we'll find a structure that works for you.

What if we want a shoot but not an engagement session?

Maybe we live in a different location, maybe your wedding is next week! If for any reason you're not interested in or unable to do an engagement session, there are options. Bridal, Day Before, or Day After sessions are always an option to give you those additional images as well as give you a different experience! Let's have a conversation about it!

When should we do the engagement session?

Ideally 3–8 months before the wedding, so there's time to use the photos for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or décor. 

wedding day coverage

How many hours of coverage do we need?

This depends on your day's timeline. A typical 8-hour day covers getting ready through the first hour of reception. 10 hours gets you from the very first detail shot all the way through the last dance. I'll help you map out your timeline so nothing important gets missed.

Will you be the photographer, or might someone else show up?

I will always be your lead photographer. Some packages include a second shooter - if that's included in yours, I personally vet and work with them regularly. You will never have a stranger show up.

Do you bring backup equipment?

Always. I carry multiple camera bodies, lenses, memory cards, and batteries to every single wedding. Equipment failure is not a risk you should have to worry about.

What happens if you get sick or have an emergency on our wedding day?

In the rare and unlikely event of a true emergency, I have a trusted network of professional photographers I would contact immediately. You would be notified as quickly as possible and I would do everything in my power to ensure coverage. This has never happened, but I take it seriously.

Do you stay for the whole reception or leave early?

I stay for the full duration of your contracted coverage. If things are running late or you want to extend on the day, we can add time at an hourly rate - just ask!

tia byington photography

new york city portrait + wedding photographer

tiabyingtonphotography@gmail.com
@tiabyingtonphotography

tia byington photography