FAQ
These instructions are intended to provide you with a general understanding of our processes. For photo shoots that entail props, large-volume orders, high-value items, or for other creative services we tailor our processes to suit the project; a quote and special instructions will be provided at the time of booking.
How much advanced booking is recommended?
1-3 weeks advanced booking is recommended. Please call or email for availability.
What is your average turnaround time?
Expect to see a digital proof within 5 business days from the day we receive your work. Typical circumstances permitting, you can expect to receive notice that your work has been shipped back to you within 7-10 business days of our receiving the work. NOTE: High-volume jobs and high-valued items will be given priority. Please call for details.
You sometimes use models and props, how do those differ from your standard charges?
A portion of our business is dedicated to providing artisans, designers and small companies with high quality product photography to be utilized for a number of purposes. Often we are called upon to provide more distinctive photography that utilizes props or models. We are happy to tailor our services and creative talents to provide you with creative direction with distinctive results. A consultation with Robert is required and an estimate will be provided prior to booking.
What do I include in the box with my work?
Please include: a completed Work Order Form downloaded from the website; an inventory that itemizes the pieces you have included; any special instructions regarding your work. If you are paying by check or money order please include it with your shipment. If you plan to pay with a credit card you we require payment prior to the return shipment of your work or the upload of your files. Email or call with any questions about the Work Order Form or what to include with your shipment.
How should I ship my work?
We recommend U.S. Postal Service Registered Mail to the P.O. BOX address listed on the Work Order Form. If prefer to use another carrier (such as UPS or FEDEX) a street address we will be provided ONLY after confirmation of your booking and when the pieces are ready to be shipped. Never ship your work without making an appointment.
Where are you located?
We have been in Maine for over 20 years and have worked with clients internationally for over 15 years.
What happens when you receive my work?
Your box will be opened and inspected to ensure all the contents are intact. Each piece will be matched with the inventory sheet you provide. After your instructions are read you will either be called or emailed if any clarification is necessary.
Will I see proofs before the work is returned?
Yes. 1-2 days after your photoshoot you will receive via email a PDF file of images from your photoshoot. THESE IMAGES WILL BE UNRETOUCHED. This proof will ensure that all of your instructions and criteria provided prior to the photoshoot have been met. Upon approval, your work will be retouched (usually within 1-2 business days). Please see our reshoot policy below.
What is your reshoot policy?
If all instructions and criteria you provided prior to the photoshoot have been met, and you request additional photography, charges will apply. We will take responsibility if any portion of your instructions were not followed. Reasonable artistic license should be expected from our studio and is precisely why people choose to work with us.
How do I pay?
Payment is required before any portion of your work is shipped back. Please include a check or money order when you ship your work to us. Credit card payments are taken over the phone or through our website.
How will I receive the final retouched images?
After you have approved the proofs and the images are retouched a CD or DVD will be included in the package with your work. On the disk will be several folders including hi-resolution TIFF files, JPEG files, a PAPERWORK file, which will include your invoice, receipt and all electronic support material. If you have requested any additional formatting (e.g. Juried Art Services or Zapplication) these files will be included in separate folders.
What if I need my images quickly, but not the work (or visa versa)?
We offer the option to upload your files via a transfer site (such as idisk or Dropbox). An upload fee will apply. You will still receive a disk unless you choose otherwise. If you need your work back before the images we will promptly expedite the shipment after your proofs are approved. For a small fee we will upload your images to online application sites such as Juried Art Services or Zapplication.
How will my work be shipped back to me?
We return ship USPS Registered mail unless you have otherwise indicated on the Work Order Form. Our standard return shipment charges include a handling fee and $1000 of insurance. If you indicate a higher insurance amount additional insurance fees may apply. If you utilize a third-party insurer (such as Parcel Pro) please include all the necessary paperwork.
I have lost my disk and cannot locate images from a previous photoshoot!
If we have worked with you from 2006 to the present it is likely we have a digital record of that work in our archives. We will need the name (e.g. your last name or your company name) and preferably the year and month of the photoshoot. Our archival retrieval fee includes a new disk with mailing OR uploading the file to a transfer site. It is highly recommended that you backup your images as soon as you receive your disk.
