FAQ

Here are answers to common questions about planning, booking, pricing, delivery, products, and other aspects of photography services and working together.

PHOTOGRAPHY & PREPARATION

Photography Files & Negatives

  • My standard approach is digital photography, with film photography available as an enhancement when requested. I’ve photographed with film throughout my entire photography journey, and I hand process my black and white film. A subtle amount of film photography can add another layer of texture, character, and variety to a collection, and can be incorporated alongside digital coverage in 35mm, 120, or large formats, depending on the project.

  • When photographing digitally, I do so in RAW format rather than JPEG. RAW files preserve much more of the information captured by the camera sensor, allowing greater flexibility when adjusting exposure, color, white balance, contrast, and other elements during post-production. JPEG files have already been processed and compressed, with some information discarded in the process.

    Think of a RAW file as a digital negative: it offers the most information possible from which to create the final photograph. The additional storage and processing required are part of my commitment to the quality of the finished images. Your final photographs are delivered as high-resolution JPEG files after my editing and post-production, suitable for high-quality printing and digital use.

  • Photographs created on film are scanned as high-resolution TIFF files, preserving as much detail and information from the negative as possible. High-quality JPEG files are also made available for convenient digital use and sharing. If you need a particular file size, format, resolution, or color profile for a specific purpose, we can discuss those requirements.

  • Digital photographs are captured in color and can remain in color or be converted to black and white during post-production.

    I present each photograph as I envision it for your initial gallery. If you later prefer a different treatment, such as a color photograph converted to black and white, we can discuss that when ordering prints or other products.

    When photographing on film, I typically present the photograph according to the film used: color film is presented in color, and black and white film is presented in black and white.

Planning & Backup

  • Before each wedding or event, I confirm the details that will help everything run smoothly. This may include creating a timeline, identifying important moments, and preparing group or other shot lists when appropriate. We also plan for the unexpected in advance. We’re always equipped with a Plan B — and sometimes a Plan C — which may include an alternate location, adjusting the timeline, or making other changes as circumstances require. Portrait sessions are often reserved with one or two backup dates as well, particularly when weather or other conditions may affect the session.

  • If unforeseen circumstances prevent me from photographing your wedding or milestone event, I will make reasonable efforts to provide a comparable photographer at no additional cost. All conditions and fees of the agreement will continue to apply. If a replacement is not available, prior payments will be refunded, as outlined in the service agreement.

  • I maintain backup equipment and established workflows to help ensure that unexpected equipment or technical issues do not interrupt your photography coverage. Specific provisions for circumstances beyond my control are outlined in your service agreement.

  • Your photographs are backed up throughout the editing and delivery process. I maintain multiple copies of your working and completed files to help protect them from equipment failure, accidental loss, or other unexpected issues. I recommend that clients download and safely back up their final files as well.

BOOKING & SERVICES

Availability & Service Reservations

  • Complete the inquiry form on the Contact page or the page for the type of photography you’re interested in, or email me directly at dana@danasiles.com. The information you provide helps me understand what you’re looking for and determine the best next step. When possible, I encourage scheduling a call rather than handling everything by email, especially for larger or more involved projects before preparing a proposal.

  • Availability varies by the type of photography, time of year, and scope of the project. Weddings and larger events are often booked well in advance, while portraits, smaller assignments, and lessons typically have more flexibility.

  • Consultations are available when helpful and may take place virtually, by phone, or in person depending on the project. We'll discuss your goals, schedule, location, photography needs, and other details that will help determine the right approach.

  • Travel within the included service area is built into applicable photography services. Extended travel is available for an additional fee and can be included in a customized proposal.

  • Because photography dates and lesson times are reserved specifically for each client, cancellation and rescheduling policies vary by service. I understand that circumstances can change, and I’ll work with you to determine the best available alternative when possible.

Pricing & Payment

  • Pricing varies according to the type of photography, coverage or session length, location, number of people involved, intended image use, and any additional services or products. Published starting prices are available where applicable, while larger or customized projects receive a personalized proposal.

  • A deposit is generally required to reserve photography services. The amount varies by service and is outlined in your agreement. Your date is confirmed once the required paperwork and payment have been received.

  • Full payment is required to book a photography lesson. Lesson pricing is listed on each Lessons service page. After purchasing your lesson, you’ll receive a discovery form by email with instructions for scheduling your date and time.

  • Payment schedules vary by service. Portrait balances are generally due on the day of the session, while wedding and event balances are generally due prior to the event. Lessons are paid in full at the time of booking. When applicable, your agreement will specify the payment schedule for your project.

  • Payment may be made by check, PayPal, or wire transfer. Applicable processing or transfer fees are outlined in your agreement.

DELIVERY & ENHANCEMENTS

Delivery & Products

  • Delivery times vary by the type and scope of photography. An Early Preview may be provided when applicable, followed by the complete edited gallery. Your specific delivery schedule will be outlined before your project begins.

  • Prints, framing, albums, books, and other artwork are available for many types of photography, tributes, and memorials. Heirloom albums are custom designed and produced using professional craftsmanship and archival materials. See the Heirloom Albums, Heirloom Prints, and Tributes & Memorials pages for more details.

  • Photography services include an online gallery, which remains available for up to one year from publication unless otherwise agreed upon.

  • I guide all of my clients through the process of deciding which photographs to use for their intended purpose. Suggested “Selects” are determined before your initial gallery delivery to help identify photographs that may be especially well suited to your project or intended use. Consultations are available upon request.

Extended Services

  • When available, coverage can be added beyond your scheduled end time. This may include rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, or simply extending your scheduled coverage. Extensions are typically prorated in 30-minute increments, so you don't need to purchase a full additional hour when you only need a little more time.

  • Enhancements can include expanded coverage with additional photographer(s), as well as film photography in 35mm, 120, and large formats. Options vary by service and availability.

MORE FAQS


Questions specific to a particular type of photography?

Portraits · Weddings · Milestone Events · Professional Events · Professional Portraits · Nonprofits · Music · Lessons · Heirloom Albums · Heirloom Prints · Tributes & Memorials


Learn about Terms & Policies including rescheduling, usage, insurance, privacy, and more here.

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PROFESSIONAL PORTRAITS

PROFESSIONAL PORTRAITS

PROFESSIONAL EVENTS

PROFESSIONAL EVENTS

MILESTONE EVENTS

MILESTONE EVENTS

PORTRAITS

PORTRAITS

  • We searched high and low for the “right” photographer and the instant we sat down with Dana we knew immediately she was “the one.” From her professionalism both in and out of the studio, to the museum-like quality of her work and her care for our needs as individuals, we’re lucky she is based in Rhode Island because lesser photographers in New York or London would be booked solid year round. If I had the ability, I would have every single professional photo I ever need taken by her for the rest of my life. We literally cannot recommend her highly enough. She is worth every penny, and honestly probably more.

    — Abbie & Evan, Tampa, FL