Are you full-time? When did you start shooting full-time?

Yes, I have been photographing weddings full time since 2005.

Do you bring backup equipment to weddings?

Yes. I always bring backups to make sure that we will be more than covered. I bring two Contax 645 film cameras with extra lenses, film backs, and tons of film to every job. I also bring two super-fancy Canon digital cameras and an arsenal of lenses and flashes. I want to get amazing photos of your wedding as badly as you do!

My film gear: 2 - Contax 645, 2 Zeiss 80mm f2, 140mm f2.8, 45mm f2.8, 13mm and 26mm extension tubes, 8 120/220 film inserts, 2x- Canon 1v 35mm,

Films: Kodak Portra 400, Portra 800, HP5 400, Ilford Delta 3200

My digital gear: 2x Canon R5, 50mm f1.2L, 35mm f1.4L, 85mm f1.2L, 70-200mm f2.8is L, 24-70mm f2.8L II, 100mm f2.8 macro, 600 ex 

When is it a good idea to have a second photographer for our event?

Having a second photographer is a great idea. It allows for coverage of different parts of the event happening simultaneously- while I'm shooting the family photos, they can be out covering the guests at cocktail hour. They also add depth to overall coverage of the day with their unique vision and vantage points throughout the day. If budget is not an issue, I'd say it's a no-brainer. I also really feel that their importance increases as the guest count goes up. I like to cover intimate events (75 or less) without a second photographer because I feel like we start to become the paparazzi and it can be a distraction to the intimate vibe. At a wedding with 100 - 150 guests it is nice but not always essential depending on the venue(s) and timeline of the day to have two photographers. At 150+ guests I'd highly recommend having two or more photographers. Imagine how much is going on at the same time at a large 300 person affair- it might be nice to even have a third photographer. 

Will the photos be retouched and color balanced? Is that done before I see the proofs?

Yes. All of the final images are delivered with individual adjustments  made to ensure ideal color and consistency for printing. I will also do some spot removal or other photoshop type edits when appropriate, but I don't alter the natural beauty of the people I work with (no photoshopping to make people look extra skinny or have a different nose shape). 

How many weddings have you shot, and how many do you do in a year? 

383, but who's counting ;) I typically do 20-25 per year. 

Do you shoot both digital and film?

Yes. I view both as great tools for certain conditions. I really love the look of film outdoors and in good light, and I prefer digital in fast pace or low light situations. 

 Do you have liability insurance?

Yes - I can provide your venue with a COI with them listed as an additional insured.

 Do you have photos of entire weddings that I can see?

You can see lots of full weddings, engagement sessions and other events on my proofing site: http://joshgruetzmacher.pixieset.com/

How long after the wedding do we get to see the photos?

It typically takes 12 weeks. 

Do you post the proofs online, or will I receive negatives?

Yes, the photos will all be posted online to my Proofing Site, Once available, guests will be able to order prints or download full image files if they'd rather not buy anything. My goal if for the photos to be as accessible as possible. The complete set of high resolution images are delivered to the couple via digital download and/or on a flash drive. 

How will you be dressed?

I always dress like I could be a guest at the event.

Have you ever shot at my venue(s) before?

There is a good chance that I have shot at your venue or somewhere similar. If I haven't, I can always accommodate a site visit prior to your wedding or arrive early to do a walk through day of. 

Do you photograph other events, families portraits, editorial shoots, or commercial work?

I focus primarily on shooting weddings, however I also shoot a select number of events, portraits, editorials, commercial lifestyle and family sessions per year as well. I love travel, and taking photos in other situations that keep me inspired and interested in the world around me. 

How far in advance do I need to book with you?

Early bird gets the worm :) Some dates end up being more popular than others, but I often get multiple inquiries for the same date (especially from May-October). 

How do I book you and reserve my date? 

I take a 25% deposit and a signed contract to finalize a booking for a couple and date.