frequently asked
questions
Gereral Infomation
How can we get in touch with you?
If you’d like to check my availability and pricing, please fill out the inquiry form with as many details as possible. The more information you provide, the better I can understand your needs and provide an accurate quote. If you have any other questions, feel free to email me at info@jamestananan.com
Do you offer video services?
Yes, we believe video captures moments in a way that still photos sometimes can’t—combining sound and motion to tell a richer story. We offer both hybrid photo and video coverage, as well as standalone video services, so you can choose the perfect fit for your vision.
Do you work with a second shooter?
Yes, in many cases, a second photographer is highly recommended. They capture different perspectives, add variety to your gallery, and typically result in more final images. The second photographers I work with are trusted professionals, many of whom I have collaborated with before and greatly respect.
Do you photograph elopements and micro-weddings?
Yes! Micro-weddings and elopements hold a special place in my heart. I love their intimate nature and the opportunity to connect with a couple’s closest family and friends. If you’re planning a small, meaningful celebration, I’d love to be part of it—don’t hesitate to reach out!
Will we meet before the wedding day?
Yes! We’ll meet either in person or online—both at the time of booking and again before your wedding day. I believe great service comes from trust and connection, so before we move forward, I want to ensure we’re the perfect fit. This meeting gives us a chance to align on your vision, expectations, and any special details that matter most to you. That way, when your wedding day arrives, you can feel completely at ease knowing I have everything covered!
booking & investment
How do we book your services?
The first step is to fill out the inquiry form. I will reach out via email with a proposal based on your inquiry. If you’re interested in my services, we’ll set up a time to chat and get to know each other a little more—either over a cup of coffee or online! Once we decide we’re a great fit, we’ll proceed with the onboarding process, which includes signing a contract and collecting a small deposit to secure your date. The entire process can be done online and is very easy!
What’s required to secure our wedding date?
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of signing to secure your date.
Do you offer payment plans?
Payment plans can be set up based on your preference. By default, 25% is due at signing, with the remaining balance due two weeks before your wedding day.
Do you charge travel fees?
Additional fees may apply for events outside Saint Louis County and Saint Charles County, Missouri. Travel fees may include transportation, accommodation, and other necessary expenses, all of which will be clearly outlined in the contract. If the location changes or was not specified before booking, additional travel fees may apply.
What happens if we need to reschedule our wedding?
If your wedding date needs to be rescheduled, we will do our best to accommodate you. A rescheduling fee may apply, and the new date is subject to our availability. The rescheduled date must be within 12 months of the original wedding day. Since weekends are in high demand, we strive to ensure that every couple receives the attention and service they deserve.
technical & back up plans
What kind of equipment do you use for photography and videography?
As the lead photographer/videographer, I’m equipped with two cameras and a variety of professional lenses. To ensure the safety of your photos and videos, all of my cameras record to dual card slots. My second shooters follow the same standard. Additionally, your photos and videos will be backed up both locally and online until the final galleries are delivered, providing you with extra peace of mind
What happens if you get sick or have an emergency on our wedding day?
In the rare case that I am unable to personally cover your event, I will assign a trusted associate to ensure everything runs smoothly. I will still oversee the process and ensure the final deliverables meet my standards. If you would prefer not to work with an associate, I completely understand, and I will provide a full refund if no services are rendered.
What if the weather is bad on our wedding day?
If the weather doesn’t cooperate on your wedding day, don’t worry—we’ll make the best of it! While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we approach it. We’ll be fully prepared with backup plans and creative solutions to capture stunning images and video, rain or shine. If needed, we can take advantage of indoor locations or adjust our shooting schedule to ensure every moment is beautifully documented.
Editing & delivery
How long does it take to receive our photos and videos?
Typically, it takes about 6-8 weeks to deliver the final products. During peak wedding season or for larger deliverables, it may take a bit longer. I always strive to ensure your photos and videos are carefully edited and thoughtfully curated, and I truly appreciate your patience as I work to deliver the best possible results.
Do you edit all the photos?
Yes, I personally hand-edit each image using film-inspired techniques to ensure your gallery truly reflects our brand. This approach gives your photos a timeless, refined look that highlights the beauty of each moment with a soft, natural feel.
What’s included in the photo editing?
Editing includes enhancing the colors and minor retouching, such as removing small blemishes, to ensure your images look their best. However, editing does not include removing people, face-swapping, or body alterations. Photos featured in the highlight gallery will receive extra attention to ensure perfection! If there are any specific images you’d like updated, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My priority is making sure you’re completely satisfied with the final products.
How many images will we receive in our final gallery?
We don’t have a set number of photos in the final gallery, as it really depends on the events of the day. My goal is to curate the gallery so you and your partner can fully enjoy and appreciate every moment. On average, you can expect around 400 images for 8 hours of solo coverage, though the final number will reflect the unique flow and highlights of your wedding day.
How will our photos and videos be delivered?
When your final gallery is ready, you’ll receive an email with a link to your private collection, along with a download PIN. Feel free to share this link with family and friends. I highly recommend downloading the entire gallery and storing it both locally and online for safekeeping. If your package includes a photobook, you’ll also receive a beautifully crafted flat-lay photobook in the mail to hold your memories in a tangible form.
policy & other services
What’s your policy on guest photography during our wedding?
Guests are welcome to take photos throughout the day, as long as they are mindful of the professionals at work and don’t interfere with the key moments being captured. We encourage everyone to enjoy the celebration while allowing us to do what we do best, ensuring the best results for your final gallery.
Do you offer RAW, uncompressed, or unedited footage?
We do not offer RAW, uncompressed, or unedited files for photos or videos. These files are much larger and require professional software to open, which can be tricky for most people to handle. Plus, they don’t reflect the final quality of your images or videos since they haven’t been edited yet. It’s a bit like going to a restaurant and asking for raw chicken—just not quite ready to be served. We deliver only fully edited and polished photos and videos so you can enjoy your memories exactly as they were meant to be.
Do you offer engagement sessions?
Yes, many of our collections include a complimentary engagement session. However, if you’d like to book an engagement or couple’s session for any occasion, feel free to reach out to me at james@jamestananan.com, and I’d be happy to arrange it for you!
Do you offer albums and prints?
Absolutely! Albums and prints are highly encouraged because there’s something special about holding a tangible memory. It allows you to relive those moments in a meaningful way and serves as a reminder to stay present in a digital world. It reminds me of when I first discovered a hidden album of my mother’s from when she was a child—it was such a special moment, and I want your future generations to feel the same when they look back on your memories.
Do you offer other types of services?
I offer a range of services, including family and maternity sessions, portraits, professional headshots, sports events, and commercial events. Feel free to reach out at info@jamestananan.com if you’re interested in any of these services!