Tartan Trews: 10 Questions with Liam Gordon

Photographer - Liam Gordon

Business: Tartan Trews
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado CO
Experience: 4 Years
Photography Types: Engagements, Weddings
Profile: Tartan Trews
Website: www.tartantrewsphoto.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi, I'm Liam, I'm the founder of Tartan Trews. I know it's an odd name for a wedding photography company. Tartan Trews is Scottish for tartan pants and as a Scottish immigrant to the US, I wanted the business name to be fun and very Scottish.

My interest in photography began in 2011. I was traveling and wanted to document my journey. But it wasn’t until 2013 that I started to understand how important photography could be. I found my grandfather’s film camera with some undeveloped film inside. It turned out to be photos of me playing in his yard from around 1991! Seeing these old photos fascinated me. At the time it probably wasn’t very interesting, but 20+ years later it was something special.

When my wife and I were planning our wedding, I realized that as important beautiful photos are on the day of the wedding, they only become more important in the future. Especially the candid ones. Photos of grandad dancing with his grandchild, Parents tearing up during the ceremony, the wedding party opening Champagne while getting ready, and any other unique moments that make each wedding different. These are the photos that tell will mean the most in 20+ years. Being able to provide something special like that to couples and their families is a great privilege. I love this job.

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

I've been shooting weddings for 4 years now. In total, I have photographed around 100 weddings. As well as starting my own wedding photography business, I trained and photographed with Ashley Gerrity Photography, a high-end wedding photography studio in Philadelphia. There, I was able to learn the ins and outs of successful wedding photography and also given the space to develop my own style. As much as I loved photographing weddings in Philadelphia, Colorado is the place for me.

3. How would you describe your photography style?

I'd describe my style as photojournalistic, natural, and dynamic.

During the portrait session, I will coach couples and help them feel at ease while being photographed. I love to make those beautiful wedding photos that will look amazing printed and hung on the wall. Incorporating layers, lines, and reflections give these photos life and help them stand out from the crowd.

I like to photograph the rest of the day as candidly as possible. Of course, I will talk you through getting ready and point out where the best light is. I'll also make everybody feel comfortable with my presence because that is key to those photojournalistic images that express the individuality of your wedding.

An important part of my style is also having a smaller footprint on your wedding. I do not wish for you to spend the day being told what to do and where to stand. I want you to enjoy your wedding, greet your guests and soak it all in. My role will be to document all those beautiful moments. I'll step in if I need to. I got you.

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

Usually, at least 9 months in advance is the best time to book your photographer. At this stage, you will likely know your venue so your photographer can research the area and gather some ideas for the portrait session. At this point, you'll probably have an idea of the timeline of events. It's always good to discuss these with your photographer so they will know the order of events and be fully prepared.

That being said, you can book whenever you feel you are ready. I've had couples book 3 months in advance and others 2 years in advance. If you are interested, reach out and we'll set up a time to chat. The last thing I'll do is pressure you to book, but talking things through can help you decide if you'd like me there on your wedding day.

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

I have 3 main packages. The first is for smaller weddings and elopements where there are only a few hours of coverage needed. The second package is my most popular. It has all-day coverage as well as a beautiful online gallery with free downloads. the third package features everything the second one has as well as an engagement session and a 12x12 album.

Everything is customizable and I'm more than happy to build a package that suits your needs.

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

I am the photographer who will be shooting on the wedding day. As I mentioned before, I want to leave a small footprint on the wedding day. So for the majority of weddings, I am the only photographer. I am confident in my abilities to cover all the most important moments and prefer to keep my attention on making great images. I only recommend a second photographer if you are getting ready more than 45 minutes apart or if the wedding has 200+ guests or something that truly requires a second photographer.

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

If you choose an all-day package, I do not charge for travel within colorado. This keeps things simple.

I am always open to travelling to photograph weddings. Whether it's a days drive or a long flight. I would ask that flights accommodation and a couple of meals are covered.

8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?

An album is included in my third package. Professional prints, albums, and various other products can be purchased through the store within your online gallery.

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

I deliver most galleries in about 2 weeks. During very busy times it can take up to 30 days. Images are delivered via a beautiful online gallery where clients can download images, order prints, albums, and other products such as a USB with high-resolution images as a backup.

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

Retainers are non-refundable, however, if a wedding is postponed for any reason I will be happy to transfer the retainer to any other available date.

I understand that in 2020, situations are extremely variable and I will do everything I can to be a good human and work with people to re-schedule as many times as needed.