Visions By Smiddy

Modern wedding and portrait photographers, Visions By Smiddy specializes in photojournalism weddings and lifestyle portrait photography. Packages include 2 photographers, flat-lay albums and a disc of all images! Their studios are located in historic downtown Scottsdale, Arizona and Indianapolis, Indiana and they are available for travel worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will actually be taking our pictures on the day of the wedding? Tina is always the lead photographer; about 80% of the time, Nathan is the second shooter.  We prefer to shoot together so whenever possible, that is the team you will get.  Because Nathan is also a furniture designer there are a few times when he has other commitments.  In those cases, we have two fabulous associate photographers we use, one in Arizona and one in Indiana.  We strongly prefer to shoot as a husband-wife team for any destination wedding and normally will not accept a destination date unless both of us are available.

Do you shoot film, digital, or both?? Although we are well-versed in both mediums we photograph our weddings and events using all digital equipment.  One of the biggest advantages is the cost-savings we can extend to our clients by using a digital format.  This also allows us to throw in extra goodies like a DVD slideshow of some pre-ceremony pictures at the reception.

Do you shoot in color, black and white, or both? Both! Generally, we photograph most images in color because color images can very easily be changed to black and white and/or sepia (brown-toned). There are times, however, when we see that an image will look exceptionally better in black and white and will go ahead and capture the image in black and white right in the camera. This means that you cannot turn that image back into color. Also, when ordering prints, you have the option of changing a color picture to black and white or sepia and custom order it for no additional charge!

Will the prints and albums we order be archival quality? Yes, all prints ordered through the studio and via Pictage are printed on Kodak Professional Archival Photographic Papers. Coffee Table Albums are press printed and also of archival quality.  Our Craftsmen Leather Albums are printed on the same Kodak Archival papers and then mounted, sealed, and sewn into the custom leather album by hand.

May I view a complete wedding you photographed and/or complete wedding album? Of course!! Go to our “Clients” page and type in “sample” to view a recent wedding, start to finish. We also have videos of what our finished Albums and Coffee Table Books look like on our blog so if you don’t have time to come in and view these in-person you can still get a great idea of the quality and difference. If you’d like to set up a time to look at some samples in person give us a call to schedule a consult at our studio.

How many images will we get? It depends on the size and length of your wedding; but for most weddings, you will end up with a gallery of 600-1000 images: a LOT! We actually take more than that and will spend time during the weeks following your wedding hand-picking the “keepers.” The keepers are the most flattering images of the bunch that tell the story of your day, and capture the important details and portraits.  We take out the blinks, the test shots, identical duplicates, and any non-flattering images so your wedding gallery is flawless.

How long does it take to see our images after the wedding? Usually by the time you get back from your honeymoon you’ll be able to preview a slideshow of our favorites from your big day on our blog. The online gallery of all 600-1000 usually takes a few weeks since there are so many that need to be processed and uploaded. Everything is guaranteed to be available within 4 weeks after your wedding.

Where are you located? Good question!  Our actual studio is located in the fabulous downtown art district of Scottsdale, AZ.  However, we spend 3-4 months out of the year in Indianapolis, Indiana and additionally travel throughout world on a steady basis.  Both of us grew up oversees and we tend to get itchy feet when we stay in one place too long!

Do you bring back-up equipment? What equipment do you use? Yes, yes, yes! We began with the Nikon brand and have been very happy with their line of professional cameras, lenses and equipment. Both photographers carry at least two cameras and multiple lenses in different focal lengths as well as multiple memory cards and batteries.

How soon will my album be ready after I submit my order? It depends on which album you order. Leather Albums take a little bit longer because they are hand-made. After you submit your order we do final retouching and airbrushing which usually takes up to two weeks. Then it’s off to print, bind, and assembly. This part of the process generally takes 6-8 weeks. Coffee Table books take 4-6 weeks usually after our final retouching process. This means 8-10 weeks for Leather Albums and 6-8 weeks for Coffee Table Albums. If you need albums sooner, let us know, and we can get a quote for you on rushing the order.

Can my guests and family purchase the digital negatives? Yes, of course! Individual images can be downloaded in full format directly from your online gallery.

What is included in an engagement and/or portrait session? These sessions typically last 45 minutes to two hours and can be at a location of your choice in the greater Phoenix or Indianapolis areas. If you are located outside of this area or are having a destination wedding, talk to us in advance about our travel schedule.  Let us know ahead of time how you envision your session and what you see as the final results.  Do you prefer a modern-urban style, a nature setting, seasonal pictures?  Are you looking for an image for the save-the-date cards, a Signature Guestbook album that guests can sign at your reception, or a series of artistic portraits to grace your walls?

Is it possible to add an additional album or print design to our package? Yes, all of our albums, canvas prints, fine art cards, etc are offered a la carte as well as in packages.  Our wedding packages make the albums more cost effective but you and your guests are always welcome to order single albums and art pieces a la carte. 

How far in advance should I book my photographer?

I always encourage clients to book as soon as they’ve set the date.  You’ll quickly learn that wedding vendors work on a first come, first serve basis.  Although the average is 8 to 12 months, I’ve had couples book as early as 2 years in advance.

How much is the required deposit?  What form of payment do you accept?

50% plus all travel expenses (when applicable.)  Payment can be made online with a credit or debit card by or by check.

What are the benefits of having two wedding day photographers?

                With two photographers, you’ll have two points of view for all your images.  Typically during the ceremony, one photographer shoots from the left focusing mainly on the groom, the other from the right capturing the bride.  It is also convenient to have two photographers for your pre-wedding shots; one can catch the groom and groomsmen getting ready while the other can remain in the bridal room with the ladies.

I’m getting married in a church with low lighting– will that be a problem?

                We shoot with 1.2 aperture lenses to maximize the amount of light typically found at an indoor service or evening reception.  We also have lighting equipment to set up for formal poses to increase light and minimize facial shadow.  Make sure your church or ceremony location does not have photography restrictions!            

How long will I have to wait for my pictures?  Can I print them on my own?

                Online viewing will be available 2-4 weeks after the wedding.  Digital negatives are mailed out approximately 4 weeks after the wedding along with a copyright release for the bride and groom.