Photographer - Nirav Solanki
- Business: Nirav Solanki Photography
- Location: Long Beach, California CA
- Experience: 10 Years
- Photography Types: architecture, art, Engagements, Family, Weddings
- Profile: Nirav Solanki Photography
- Website: niravsolankiweddings.com
1. Introduction: What's your story?
Greetings all! Nirav Solanki here, creative director and chief photographer for Nirav Solanki Weddings.
Having a great love for photography since childhood, I knew I could bring out the life in every event captured. There is something about capturing weddings that allows artists like myself to bring into full view the emotions and intimacy between two people that can be treasured forever.
I have had ten years of wedding experience, photographing different cultures and backgrounds, bringing a unique perspective when I go in to each new ceremony. Working with my team of videographers and second shooters allows me to capture a well rounded view of each wedding.
Getting into this business was always a goal of mine because weddings are elegant, graceful, and full of inherent beauty that is always a pleasure to capture in an artistic way.
2. How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?
I have had at least ten years in capturing weddings around the country and the globe. I have been the destination photographer for couples in many different states in the USA, and have even shot in the UK and India. In all my experience with photography I'd say a conservative estimate of weddings I have shot would be in the 50s or so (very conservative). Though, the quantity of weddings is not as important to me as the quality of each image I produce as an heirloom for the families to remember.
3. How would you describe your photography style?
Being an artist allows me to view each wedding and couple uniquely. In essence, I bring a modern touch to the classic style.
The vision I have includes snapping all of the beautiful scenery, colors, and culture while also using minimal effects and elements so I can let the couple shine naturally in the images. Capturing what is important to the couple is something I also strive to intertwine into my art. Making them as much a part of the process is what helps me create the images that please the couple. Always taking into consideration each couple's own style, using that to develop their unique story.
4. How well in advance should couples book their wedding photographer?
It could be said that it is never too early to book your wedding photographer. I have been booked a year in advance to a few weeks before the wedding (lucky for them, I was available).
Booking at least a few months before your wedding is workable timeframe. Within a week or so of the couple's inquiry, we have a meeting to show what they gain by hiring me as their photographer, and then sign contracts to book the date. So, I'd say that once a client calls me, shortly thereafter we end up booking a date for their wedding months in advance. Weekends are popular days of the week for most couples, and I have had many inquiries for the month of November. Spring and Summer offer beautiful weather so there is also an influx of weddings occurring during these months as well.
5. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?
Each couple's event is different so they may wish to have some a la carte add ons to their package. I offer a variety of products to purchase which is the best way to display and showcase your images with your family and friends.
My engagement clients have been great fans of my art so they end up hiring me for their weddings as well. Most couples select the engagement and wedding package where they have me photograph their engagement session which they display at their wedding and then I return for their wedding ceremony and reception.
There are also more modest packages that include a shorter amount of time but more in the style of elopement photographs. My services include photos as well as a video option, and extra hours as needed. Sometimes the party is so full of life that it brings many photo opportunities to continue to capture.
6. Are you the wedding photographer who will be shooting on the wedding day? Who else is there in your team?
Depending on the size of each wedding, I may have a team with me which could include a second shooter and one or two videographers. I am the chief photographer at each event and I orchestrate my team accordingly. It all depends on what the couple wishes to include into their package and capture for their memories. I have shot smaller weddings solo but if they desire to include more people and coverage then that is absolutely something we can achieve.
7. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?
Yes, I do account for travel fees as it is a necessity to make our way with all equipment to the event location. Travel fees are itemized and it could be anything from fuel, flight ticket, and/or hotel room. I am a destination photographer, whether it is for engagement, elopement, or wedding, so I am always on the go and ready to travel with you!
8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?
Some of our more extravagant packages may include a certain number of prints and albums. If the couple wishes to opt for a more moderate or modest package they always have the option to add on more prints and albums a la carte.
9. How long after the wedding will the couple receive the images? How will they be delivered?
After each photo session, I send the couple a secure link to an online gallery where they can favorite their most preferred images. From there the post production process begins and, depending on their package,
I typically can get the final images back to them in as little as a week or two. After this, they may wish to add on prints to showcase their joyous occasion and even add an album for themselves and one for the parents. I do my best to ship them to the couple's address as soon as possible once I receive all products from my printing lab.
10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?
I understand that life happens and somethings just don't allow for the schedule you intended. That being said, yes there is a cancellation fee, though it may be possible to waive this fee depending on the circumstances. The refund policy is definitely something we could have a discussion about. Both policies can be discussed but it all depends on what the circumstances are that bring us to this situation.
Gallery
Awards
