Crossroads del Sol Photography: 10 Questions with Corey Carlson

Photographer - Corey Carlson

Business: Crossroads del Sol Photography
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona AZ
Experience: 5 Years
Photography Types: Engagements, Weddings
Profile: Crossroads del Sol Photography
Website: www.azcrossroads.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit more about me! Wedding photography and portrait photography have been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. It is my hope to share that joy and enthusiasm with you with superb professional photography.

Crossroads Del Sol Photography has been a long time coming. I have always been fascinated by the lore of the great blues guitarist, Robert Johnson. As Johnson sang about his encounter with a crossroads, I too, found myself in a situation not too dissimilar. Through every breath I take, I have explored life in a creative manner. For most of my life, that creative outlet was through being a musician. I have played guitar and sang in front of thousands of people in my time.

Unfortunately, in 2017, I got incredibly sick (I almost kicked the bucket!) and was physically unable to play music for the first time in my life. It devastated me. The creativity in me was was still there though, just bursting in me to be released. I had always looked at photography as something I would ultimately get around to, taking classes here and there, and decided that it was finally time. It was a crossroads of sorts (hence the name!).

As soon as I started snapping my first photographs, the world opened up an entirely new beauty to me. I was hooked immediately! I learned and absorbed from everywhere I could and just immersed myself in the art. Originally, I did this as a means of expressing my creativity for creativity's sake. Now that I have found out that others are enjoying my work, I am enamored and have found even more inspiration.

Today, my health is back and I am able to pursue both passions and am in love with life as a result! I reckon you can call that a happy ending. I know I do!

2. How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?

I have been shooting weddings since 2018. I have an eye for detail and for catching those fleeting moments with quick snaps when attention is drawn elsewhere. There is nothing more rewarding nor exhilarating as shooting weddings. There is so much going on at once and my head is on a swivel the entire time making sure I'm capturing everything. Weddings are such happy and momentous occasions, I often find that it is pretty hard to wipe the infectious smile off my face until long after the wedding has ended. I am humbled by every couple that has hired me to capture their special day. I do not take this responsibility lightly. I understand how important it is for my job and my work to go flawlessly every single time. I am constantly looking at ways to hone and refine my knowledge and skills so that not an ounce of attention is drawn away from the newlyweds on their big day.

3. How would you describe your photography style?

I have some clients call my style modern while others call it rustic. If I were to describe my style, I would have to sum it up as natural. I love photographing in the moment. My inspiration in what I try to do with every picture I take, is to capture the candid, yet extraordinary, beauty that exists all around us at any given moment. What originally inspired me to pick up a camera was one of those moments at my daughter's piano recital. I remember one of the kiddos was performing and another kiddo was eagerly looking on from 'behind the scenes' in the background. I thought that was the most pure, unadulterated instance of a fleeting moment that will never present itself again. I was devastated that I could not encapsulate that moment in time. It will always live in my mind, but I cannot express the joy, fear, wonder, anxiety, love that was all expressed in that kids face as he was eagerly awaiting his turn the way that a single picture would have. As such, it is my goal to capture those moments where beauty exists within the everyday. While we all see what is going on, on stage, it is my goal to grab the highlights that are occurring around the stage all of the time that most are looking past or ignoring.

4. How well in advance should couples book their wedding photographer?

To ensure you will get the photographer of your choice, as the old saying goes, the sooner the better. That said, living in the valley can present some unique conundrums due to the weather in which times where I might expect to be booked solid, may be pretty mild and visa versa. Booking during the Summer for the upcoming Fall & Winter is usually the ideal time.

Of course, Saturdays book the fastest. Followed by Sundays. If you are looking to try something different, a weekday could make for a nice change. Most people do not mind taking a day off of work and things tend to be considerably less crowded that way.

5. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?

I completely understand wanting to find pricing information without having to ask. I do this myself. My rates are not publicly listed for a variety of reasons. There are usually many details to take into consideration where me listing a flat fee could leave you without a great photographer, or me without a great client. I strive to give you the absolute best quality at the most affordable price. So definitely reach out so we can find what a personalized quote for you would entail. If you end up not going with me after reaching out, no problem. As long as you get the most personalized information in order to make an informed decision on your investment!

6. Are you the wedding photographer who will be shooting on the wedding day? Who else is there in your team?

I serve as the main photographer. Depending on your needs, I'll bring in a 2nd shooter and/or videographer. We would iron out all of this well beforehand. I'll also have one assistant who will help me facilitate my work as swiftly as possible.

7. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

While I am based in Tempe/Scottsdale, AZ, I absolutely love to travel! If you want me to photograph your story beyond the valley of the sun, no problem. Depending on how far the location is, will determine any additional expense to you. Because I enjoy traveling though, I keep those fees to a minimum (if I do end up charging them at all).

8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?

These are available, although I'm find fewer and fewer couples requesting these. Yes, both are available and can be handled through my website.

9. How long after the wedding will the couple receive the images? How will they be delivered?

I shoot to have all images digitally delivered within 2 weeks or less. I will create a private, online gallery for you where all photos can be downloaded en masse, or individually. As well, you'll have the option to download in full resolution or web-friendly sizes.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

All retainer fees are non-refundable. A minimum of 14 days notice will be required for cancellation. Any cancellation made with less than 14 days notice prior to the agreed upon service date will result in full payment due.