While I hope to earn the privilege of photographing your special day, I understand that not everyone who inquires about my services will decide to use Michael Troy Photography. For that reason, I offer these interview questions to provide an easier way to help choose the photographer that suits your needs. Ultimately, I hope that you will conclude that I am your best choice, but if not, I hope this questionnaire plays a small part in making your day special.

How many years have you been a photographer?

I have been a photographer for over 17 years, shooting mainly landscape and nature photos. A little more than 5 years ago, I started photographing events, weddings, and sports. A little over 3 years ago, I incorporated Michael Troy Photography (formerly Photographic Memories of Tampa Bay). I attended the University of South Florida and received my certification in photography in 2005. I also worked for two national photo labs during the early to mid 1990's.

Do you have insurance? If so, can you provide proof of insurance?

Yes. Michael Troy Photography, LLC has coverage with The Hartford, through Hill & Usher Insurance. Hill & Usher is one of the foremost photographer insurance providers. I can provide a certificate of insurance upon request. (Some venues require that the vendors you hire have insurance. Most photographers do not.)

What type of photographic style do you shoot?

My style is a combination of traditional and photojournalistic style. My preference is photojournalistic because it tends to be more "real". If people don't realize you're capturing a moment, they are likely to act more natural; therefore, provided more accurate photos. No matter what photographers tell you, no two photographers have the same style of shooting. Viewing a photographer's portfolio is the best way to visualize his/her style and determine whether it works for you.

What type of equipment do you use? Do you carry backup equipment in case of failure?

I use a Nikon D200 and Nikon D300. Both have a resolution over 10 megapixels and provide excellent digital image quality. I use both cameras during weddings and am always prepared in case of equipment failure. I also carry two flashes/strobes, several lenses, extra memory cards, batteries, flash stands, etc. so that I%u2019m ready for any situation.

Do you have a portfolio that I can view?

Yes, I always bring a portfolio to my initial meeting. I also include examples of my work on this web site.

How many weddings/events have you shot?

I have shot over 50 weddings, engagement photos, quinceneras, class reunions, charity events, and numerous on-site portraits. I have also photographed mayoral and county commissioner campaign photos.

How many images do you shoot during a typical %u201C6 hour%u201D wedding event?

It is hard to guarantee a certain amount of photos during a given wedding since each is unique; however, I usually provide AT LEAST 200 images from a 6 hour wedding. More often, you%u2019ll receive more.

Do you sell CDs of the images? If so, what format will they be given in and what sizes will I be able to print?

Yes, I offer an option to purchase a CDs of your high quality digital images. %u201CHigh Quality Digital Image%u201D is defined as a JPG with a resolution of 1600x1200 dots per inch (dpi) or greater. This file size is appropriate to produce prints up to 8 inches x 10 inches (horizontal or vertical). For CDs, you will receive all of the final original images.

Do you edit the final photos? What type of editing do you provide?

Yes, I review each photo and provide %u201Cstandard%u201D editing. %u201CStandard%u201D editing means corrected for density (exposure - lightness/darkness), minor facial blemishes, and color corrections. You can request specialty edits which may incur additional costs depending on the request.

Do you shoot in black & white, color, or both?

I shoot in color at a high resolution format. This allows me the ability to modify photographs without degradation; that includes converting photos to black & white, sepia tone, old-age, etc. If I determine that a photograph will look good in another tint, I will provide the original and the modified on your photo proof. If you have determined that one of your photos would look good as a black & white, you can include the instructions on your order form and I%u2019ll be glad to convert it for you.

Do you perform any %u201Cspot-coloring%u201D or %u201Ccolor touching%u201D to digital images?

Yes. This type of treatment has become very popular with photographers. It is the coloring of a certain point on a photo (i.e. a black & white photo with only the bride%u2019s bouquet in color). I automatically perform %u201Cspot-coloring%u201D for photos that I feel can benefit from it. I will provide a limited number of requests without an extra charge beyond those provided. For photographs that are %u201Cspot-colored%u201D, you will also receive the color version of the photograph.

Do you provide photos online for family and friends to view and purchase?

Yes. Photos are uploaded to *Fotki (http://www.fotki.com/pmtampabay) for the viewing of friends and family. They can also purchase photos from this site. The clients DO NOT order from this site. To ensure the highest quality, I use a specialty printing company and take care of quality control personally. *Fotki is a hosting/order site and is not affiliated with Michael Troy Photography, LLC.

What other services or products do you offer?

Additional products that can be added are bound photo books, photo slideshow DVDs, engagement photos, wedding sign-in book, wedding announcement photo for the newspaper, poster prints, and framing.

Do you use an assistant/2nd shooter?

Generally I use a second shooter for weddings; however, it depends upon the number of people attending the wedding, type of wedding, and request of my client(s). In instances where the client requests a second %u201Cprofessional%u201D photographer, additional charges will be incurred.

What is your requirement to reserve a date?

I require a 20% non-refundable deposit to hold the date. The remainder is due within 2 weeks of your event. Full payments are required when purchasing albums, CDs, DVD Slideshows, or other products or services.

Have you ever been late to a wedding ceremony or event? If you can't make an event, what is the backup plan?

No, I have NEVER been late to a wedding ceremony or event. As a matter of fact, I (along with my assistant) generally arrive an hour early to capture venue and setup photos. This time is complimentary. If, for some medical or emergency reason that I cannot photograph your wedding, Michael Troy Photography has a network of highly skilled professional photographers through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) that will capture your day in our place.

Do you have referrals that I/we can contact?

Yes, I can provide referrals from previous weddings, events, portraits, etc.

What are your timelines?

After your wedding, I ask for 8 - 10 weeks to provide photos online for your viewing (generally a shorter time, but I have to factor in "what if" scenarios). I will mail a proof CD within 2 weeks after the photos are placed online. The proof CD contains a PDF of all of your images in proof form. You can print the proof sheets for viewing later; however, I recommend viewing your photos online for a better view. After your print order is placed, I will mail your order within 4 weeks. For wedding books, I request 14 weeks from the date your photo order is placed (again, usually completed sooner).

Should our event go over our contracted number of hours, what do you charge for additional time if we need more time for cake cutting, bouquet toss, etc.?

I don't believe in leaving you "high and dry" just because you happen to go over your planned time and will never leave if all events are not complete. My time ends as soon as the last event is completed (i.e. cake cutting, bouquet toss, etc.).

If you have any additional questions, please give me a call at (813) 376-2349 or email troy@michaeltroyphotography.com.