Mark Creery Photography: 10 Questions with Mark Creery

Photographer - Mark Creery

Business: Mark Creery Photography
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado CO
Experience: 18 Years
Photography Types: High School Seniors, Engagements, Family, Weddings
Profile: Mark Creery Photography
Website: www.markcreeryphotography.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

I'm originally from the West Coast of Canada growing up in Victoria, B.C. (so I might still say 'eh' a few times) and I settled here in 2011 after living in Australia for 3 years, having followed my lovely wife around. I am lucky to be living in such an amazing place and love what Colorado has to offer. I am a passionate husband and a doting dad to our two daughters. I love having fun with my family and friends as well as staying active, which includes playing tennis, yoga, skiing, running and hiking (at least more of this before kids!). I also enjoy gardening and growing veggies, especially tomatoes. Mmmm... tomatoes!

My brand is about outdoor photography for fun-loving, adventurous clients. Mountains have always featured prominently in my wedding work. My first wedding was on a ski hill and we went up the chair lift to the top of the mountain, and I’ve even been skiing myself while taking photos. My goal is to showcase the scenery of the location while still focusing on capturing the clients’ unique personalities. Besides weddings I also photograph families, high school seniors, events, and business headshots. I am proud of my longevity in an industry where most don’t make it past 5 years in business. I believe it’s my stand for making a difference in the lives of others that allows me to continue being successful.

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

I have been photographing weddings for 18 years with over 257 weddings photographed as the lead photographer.

3. How would you describe your photography style?

My approach to wedding photography is a more natural and laid-back photo-journalistic style. I enjoy the challenge of capturing those unique moments and providing lasting memories for such an important occasion. And, more than that, I love connecting with people. My easy-going personality and calm presence on the day help create an environment where you can relax and be yourself - and have fun! I love capturing candid moments that show raw emotions and combining them with beautiful, artistic portraits to tell the couple's wedding day story with style. They likely picked their venue with the scenery in mind, and I excel at capturing the look and feel of their location while still showcasing their personalities. I give every image the attention it deserves and I don't follow the philosophy of just giving images quickly without care for the finer details.

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

As soon as you book your venue and date you should start looking for your photographer.

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

All my wedding photography packages include:

✔An unlimited number of images in high-resolution and fully edited, as well as custom black-and-whites of every image and artistic versions of select images (like high-definition panoramas, vintage and other finishes)
✔ Blemish removal - Look like the best version of you! I'll take care of zits, cracked/dry lips, distracting hairs, neck or shaving rash/nicks, sunglasses/watch tan lines, red skin (i.e. sunburn), food/marks on teeth. You get the picture. I'm making sure you have no regrets about your photos. And for more time-intensive Photoshop work there is just an hourly retouching fee.
✔ An online gallery for downloading and sharing (for at least a year)
✔ Credit towards a custom-designed album
✔ Free mobile photo app for your devices
✔ Consultations

They typical coverage for most weddings is 6-8 hours.

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

I am a solo wedding photographer who can offer an excellent second photographer for your wedding day, depending on your need and budget.

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

Not usually for most locations in Colorado but there may be a night's stay at a hotel required depending on the timing and location.

8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?

Yes, heirloom albums can be included, and prints can be ordered separately.

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

Clients will generally receive their pictures within six weeks, depending on how busy my workload is or vacations, but it’s usually earlier. I post some soon after the wedding on my business Facebook page and Instagram so they have something to stare at and share while they wait patiently. They will get an online gallery to download their photos from, as well as a USB flash drive, where they can easily share their photos and order professional products, such as prints and canvases. While 6 weeks might seem like a long time, the photos are forever so I don't want to rush them!