FAQs
Who is Continuum Photography?
Continuum Photography consists of myself, Joshua Mitchell, and my wife Melissa Mitchell. I am the principal photographer and my wife serves as my able bodied assistant who accompanies me to most events as a second shooter. She also helps with album design and the day-to-day tasks of running a business. I choose the name Continuum Photography instead of a name like “Joshua Mitchell Photography” because I wanted our business to seem like a collaborative effort as well as give us the freedom to work with other photographers in the future.
How did you get into photography?
It’s such a boring story! I have always considered myself a fairly creative individual and for many years my artistic outlet was strictly writing. I had a point and shoot 35mm film camera in my teens, and was well versed at taking out of focus photos of my friends. In fact they used to all make fun of me because I never centered people in the frame. Little did they know I was a natural at the rule of thirds! Like a lot of people when digital cameras came out I was early to adopt, partly because I was absolutely fascinated by the technology, and partly because I was too cheap and lazy to ever get my out of focus film shots developed.
Because digital photography was so much easier and so instant I began to take photos all the time. I started to use my camera to document my daily life. I discovered even more inspiration when Melissa and I moved across the country from North Carolina to Seattle. I found my self out growing one camera after another in my quest to capture the images I had composed in my mind. As I continued to upgrade my equipment I got more serious about my photography, and more specific about what I was trying to achieve. Eventually it got to a point where my gear lust started to become unrealistic for just being a hobby. My peers started to take a notice in my photographic abilities and began approaching me about being their wedding photographer. That was about the time something clicked in my brain this is a great way to earn money to buy more camera stuff!
After a couple of weddings I realized that I not only could I get through the day without being a complete nervous wreck, but I actually really enjoying sharing in such an intimate occasion. When Melissa and I married, my passion rose to a new level. Our wedding was so amazing that I really came to understand just how special that day could be for people. It may sound a little cheesy, but every time I shoot a wedding I get to relive my own wedding just a little bit and that makes every event a pretty special experience for me.
Do you do any retouching of images?
Yes. In general, we try to remove noticeable blemishes while keeping true to the natural photograph. We can do edgier and more experimental processing styles in Adobe Photoshop depending on the look the client is trying to achieve.
Do you shoot digital or film?
Digital. I have utmost respect for film, but I firmly believe that the future of photography is digital. One could argue the merits of either format, but in the end it’s the imagery that matters. Melissa and I both shoot with Nikon’s new professional FX sensor in our camera bodies which insures good results in even some of the most challenging lighting conditions. We have broad range of fast pro-grade lenses in our arsenal, as well as backups in case of any unforeseen malfunctions. If you have specifics questions about our equipment feel free to ask.
Do you shoot weddings alone or with a partner?
In the past I have shot some weddings as a solo photographer, but now I never shoot a wedding without another photographer. There are so many memories and details to be captured on a wedding day that it is a tremendous advantage for both photographer and client to have two photographers on site.
How long does it take to get the results?
After shooting an event I immediately begin processing the images. My official response to this is 4-6 weeks, because I want to be sure I have enough time to give attention to each processed image. Usually I finish much earlier than that, but my workload varies depending on the time of year and the length of the events I’m shooting. Album design begins immediately after the processing is finished and usually Melissa will finish the first album layout within two weeks. We offer three album revision sessions where changes can be made to the album design before print. Actual print times vary on the printing company selected.
Do you do both color and black and white?
Yes. With digital everything starts in color, and then can be changed to black and white. What is the ratio? A lot of times it depends on the desire of the client and/or the lighting conditions. Black and white photos sometimes can convey an emotion better than color, especially in weddings where there is often a high contrast of black and white already present in the clothing and decorations. Black and white often seems more classic and powerful. One of the great things about digital is that we have a choice on every frame.
Do you do color effects like sepia or selective coloring?
I occasionally will do sepia tints to my black and whites in postproduction, but I do not do selective coloring.
When do I need to pay?
Our retainer fee is due as soon as you want us to secure your date. We cannot block off your date until a retainer is secured. The remaining balance is due two weeks before your wedding date.
We have a family friend who is a photographer, can they help out?
We understand that almost every guest at your wedding will have a camera. You may have more than one aspiring amateur or professional photographer in attendance on your wedding day. However as the hired photographers for your event we cannot be responsible for missed moments and opportunities to capture fantastic images because someone else was in our way. We respectfully ask that the guests stay out of our “line of fire” as best as they can during all and especially the most critical moments.
Do you offer traditional wedding photography? Photojournalism? Or both?
We’re here to shoot your day. Our strengths and philosophies lend more towards a documentary approach to weddings, but we realize some traditional aspects are going to happen such as group shots. In general we try not to get bogged down in trying to define how our photos fit within certain categories of style, and instead focus on capturing the story of the day from start to finish.
I live out of state, will you shoot my wedding?
Absolutely! Melissa and I love to travel. We can do preliminary meetings over the phone and even videoconference over the net. We have connections in certain areas of the country that can lessen our travel fees depending on where you live. Contact us for details!
I live out of the country/ I am planning an out of the country destination wedding. Will you shoot my wedding?
Sure! Melissa and I both keep our passports current. Contact us and we’ll work something out!
How far will you travel to a wedding before charging a travel fee?
We have considered local travel in our price list. Generally if the travel isn’t more than two hours driving time it is included in the package price.
Do you charge a fee if the wedding and reception are in more than one location? What if we want to go to a third location for pictures? Is there a charge for this?
No, as long as there is not excessive driving between locations (2 hours or more).
What’s an online proof gallery?
Film photographers usually make test prints for the purpose of evaluating density, contrast, color balance, subject composition, and the like. Generally the prints would have the word “proof” stamped across it, or the name of the photographer or gallery. The nature of digital imagery lends itself more towards uploading the images directly to an online gallery that can be more easily shared among the couple as well as their friends and family. With our online galleries you can view your photos and purchase them directly off the site if you desire. The gallery can be password protected, and couples can send the link to their friends and family allowing them access to purchase prints.
How far in advance should our engagement shots be done?
That is entirely up to the couple. Typically engagement shots are used for save the date cards or newspaper announcements, so you’ll want to give yourself enough time for that. And also depending on the time of year my schedule may be tight. So I would say it pays to think ahead!
What are your rates for portraiture?
I charge a flat rate of $200.00 for a two-hour portrait session (2 hour charge is minimum). If more time or locations are required each additional hour will be billed at the rate of $100/hr. 2 hour portrait sessions typically yield around 10-20 strong photos per hour that are edited and color adjusted. I generally shoot portraits solo unless assistance is required.
Can I bring someone with me?
If it makes you feel more comfortable I have no issues with someone coming along for a portrait shoot. Hopefully that second person won’t be a distraction!
Will I be able to change outfits?
Sure. However if we are out in the city doing location work be prepared to carry outfit changes with you.
How much does it cost to hire Continuum for an event?
Events such as corporate gatherings or parties are billed at $100.00 an hour per photographer (2 hour minimum). The number of shots presented upon completion of the event will vary depending on the length of the assignment and the negotiated requirements. Please contact us for further details.
What sorts of commercial photography do you do?
I have a background in both commercial and residential lighting. I have done photography work for restaurants, retail establishments, and real estate listings.
How much does it cost to hire Continuum for a commercial shoot?
Commercial shoots are billed at half day rates of $600, and full day rates at $1000. The number of shots presented upon completion of the day will vary depending on the length of the assignment and the needs of the client. All select edited files will be high resolution and uploaded to our galleries for easy download or burned on to a CD or DVD at no additional charge.
