FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
General Photography Questions:
IF THERE'S ANYTHING I HAVEN'T ANSWERED HERE, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ASK WHEN YOU GET IN TOUCH WITH ME!
A:I specialize in candid, real life modern portrait photography, and work to make sure I capture the details, emotions and natural expressions that make each session unique and special. People find me friendly, easy-going and pleasant to work with, and I am nearly always smiling while I work because I love what I do.
A: Yes! I'm the one whose photos and style you like, so I'm the one who shoots your session.
A: KoOlina is my home based. I travel and service the island Oahu.
A: Nope, but that's not a bad thing. I specialize in on-location photography, which means that - whether your shoot is indoors or outside - I am happy to go to a favorite place of yours to make your images. This means that your images will be unique to you, hold more meaning for you, and really ensure that your photos speak to who you are. Plus, the Hawaii is our backdrop! We've got beautiful, natural, real locations on Oahu.
A: Yes! Weddings, romantic couple, maternity, high school seniors and headshots are all favorites of mine, I always have a great time telling stories in the event photography. I also freelance as a photo journalist in the United States and around the world.
A: Typically I recommend weekdays. Location are less Crowded early mornings and the temperature can be much cooler. Afternoons or evenings (depending on the time of year) to make the best use of our natural light, and because I generally have more availability on these days. Beaches can be crowded on weekends.(Oftentimes on weekends I'm photographing events.) However, that being said, I occasionally have Saturdays or Sundays available. So it is always best to ask. I can be somewhat flexible on your start time, so we can make sure your session also works well with your schedule!
A: Absolutely! Believe it or not, I know exactly how you feel and many of my clients feel this way too. I aim for a relaxed, happy feel that shows closeness and interaction, and we'll keep it natural and fun, but it won't be awkward or forced. I'll help direct you enough so you know what to do, but not so much that you won't recognize yourself in the images. And most often I'll be letting things flow naturally without any interruption, so you won't even have to worry about striking a pose.
A: My Photo Sessions are base on time and include an SD Card with all of the high-resolution unedited 30.4-megapixel images right out of the camera. Given at the end of the photo session. Most of my Customers ask... How am I able to offer this? I photograph every Photo Session with a Canon 5D Mark IV which has 2 card slots, one card with the Raw files and another with the High-Resolution Jpeg files. I also work with an assortment of Lenses, changing the perspective of the image several times during my Photo Sessions. I pay extra attention to the little details during the Photo Session, which makes a huge difference with the end product. What sets me apart from other Oahu Hawaii Photographers is, I photographed with film for most of my Photography Career, which disciplined me towards getting it right every time, straight out of the camera. Most photographers offer a Disc of some of the Proofs which you will receive in 2 to 3 weeks later. You might be able to find Family Portrait Photographers on Oahu who advertises for less, but I don't think you'll find any Photographer out there who offers a better value. I photograph every photo Session personally and works very hard at every photo session. You will receive a Copyright for Reprinting.
A: Typically, I first exchange questions and answers with each customer to discuss their vision for the photos session. This includes your how many individuals would be present for the session, preferred package, location, date, time. I also encourage my customers to schedule a phone call so I may answer all of their questions. Once the details are ironed out I'll email you an agreement and invoice. From there I'll send you a link with clothing ideas and how to get ready for your photo session.
A: I have been a portrait photographer all of my life. I went to college in the 1980's and studied photography at San Francisco Community College.
A: I always loved the vintage family photos. When I was 10 years old, living in Malta, I was inspired by my cousin Victor Caruana who was a portrait photographer in Malta. He is also my mentor.
A: Individuals, Advertising Agencies, Magazines, Corporations
A: Returning to Malta, my roots after being away for almost 20 years. Photographing the Maltese people and the flavor of the Maltese islands.
A: Planning is the Key to a successful photo session. I recommend having options for hair in case it might be a windy day. Also, if you are visiting the Hawaiian Islands wearing sunglasses, sunscreen and staying hydrated is also important.
A: Exactly what are their needs. How the images will be used. What type of usage rights they require (exclusive, managed rights etc.) Check references.
A: Simply let me know you would like to book a photo shoot session, what dates work best for you and what type of session you are looking for and email me. For wedding photography please send me your date, venue location and which wedding package best fits your needs and I will send you the wedding contract with more information. Once we have decided on a photography service, photo session or event date, time, and location. I would then send you via email an agreement. Once the agreement is completed and returned a deposit is made, the photo session or event will be reserved.
A: Unfortunately no. Deposits are non-refundable. Use to reserve your date. Once we've reserved your date we do not accept new clients for your date and time.
A: Yes.
A: My photography service does not include videography services, but If you are in need of a referral, I will be more than happy to refer you to a videography service.
A: I have shot at hundreds of venues so there is a good chance that I have. If I have not I will be sure to perform a thorough walk-through with you prior to your wedding day.
A: For all photo sessions and events conducted in the East, South, and North Shore's of Oahu are subject to the following travel fees: – $25.00 to $55.00 flat fee
A: Although I do offer monthly specials and special promotions for weekday photo session. I do not offer discounts on Sunday weddings and off-season weddings. As you know wedding season is almost year round here in beautiful Hawaii so because of that we are shooting throughout the year.
A: My website includes details on all of my portrait / event packages and services.
A: Yes! Every photography package that I offer includes an SD Card of all the digital images from the session or event.
A: I shoot all of the images in both Large Raw and Large Jpeg. The Canon 5D Mark III has the ability to record to 2 different memory card simultaneously. This way you will receive you SD card with all of the high-resolution Images at the end of the photo session or event right out of the camera.
A: None of the unedited files you receive at the end of the photo session or event contain a watermark or logo.
A: After the photo session or event, you will receive a disc or SD card with all the unedited high-resolution jpeg files.
A: Once you had a chance to review the unedited image files and have decided on which images you would like edited. You would then email me the original image file number. it would take an additional 2 to 3 weeks (depending on the work-flow) to receive the final prints and edited files. Fist come first serve.
A: Yes, I do offer photo retouching services. view: photo retouching rates view: photo retouching comparisons
A: Advanced post-production includes touch ups such as removal of blemishes, removal of bags under eyes, removal of fly-away hairs, etc. On the other hand, custom post production is anything that requires extensive, custom work in Photoshop such as removing entire objects from the scene, changing the size and shape of body parts or other objects in the scene, adding objects to a scene, and other custom work. We charge hourly for the custom post production, as the time required ranges depending on the complexity of the project. Please contact our studio manager for a quote for custom post-production.
A: To keep our photo session rates affordable we only accept one (1) credit card payment per customer, per photo session, to secure the photo session date and time. If it is your preference to pay with a credit card for the remaining balance, you can make payment in full at this time. If you do choose to pay the balance with a credit card. The credit card processing fee will be 3.5 % of the entire purchase price.
A: Unfortunately, collecting in cash does not exempt a photography business from paying Hawaii sales tax
A: I do offer gift cards for special occasions and Holiday.
A: I do not offer a refund for gift cards.
A: Yes. These are all considered event photography. We have chosen to focus and excel at event photography, and we would love to cover your celebration.
Business Headshots Frequent Asked Questions
A: The images that you select will be fully and naturally retouched. This means that I enhance your photos, but don't change the overall character of your face. I keep things looking natural and not overly photoshopped.
A: If you prefer a Studio Setting for your Headshot, I offer a mobile Studio Service and can set-up a Studio at your location. I also offer on-location environmental Headshots, so if you're looking for more of a natural feel, I'm happy to photograph you in either a nature or urban setting (either outdoors or indoors). I'm even happy to photograph you in your office setting, too.
A: Most definitely! And I'm happy to visit your office to make your photos and keep it easy for everyone (or if you've got another location you'd prefer to shoot in, we can talk about that too). We'll plan ahead of time when the best day will be do schedule your team's headshots to make sure everyone who needs to be photographed will be there. I also offer team rates, so please contact me for a custom quote and I'll be happy to send more information your way.
A: For sure! Many of my business clients are doing total website overhauls and would like to make their online-presence as custom to their business as possible. If you know you need a custom photo package that includes individual team headshots, group shots and images of your workplace environment (or other options not listed here), I'm more than happy to talk to you in detail about your needs and provide you a custom quote. contact me to get your conversation started!
A:A: Typically I recommend weekday. If It is an on-location Headshot session, early mornings, afternoons, or evenings (depending on the time of year) to make the best use of our natural light, and because I generally have more availability on these days. (Oftentimes on weekends I'm photographing events.) I occasionally have Saturdays or Sundays available. So it is always best to ask. I can be flexible on your start time, so we can make sure your session also works well with your schedule!
A: Most single headshot sessions are quick and offer coverage for the session and a select number of fully, naturally retouched images along with a usage license. Please visit my Business Headshot Services page for more detailed on pricing and information about your session, or for a custom quote if you're looking to have multiple people photographed. I'm happy to offer team rates as well!
A: Generally I recommend clothing that, first and foremost, you are comfortable wearing (it's not fun to be wearing clothes that you're constantly tugging at), and clothing that speaks to who you are. It's a good idea to try to avoid large logos if possible, and jewel tones look great. Don't forget to iron the clothes you'd like to wear, and make sure to use that lint roller, too. If you just can't decide between a couple of looks on the day of your shoot, I'm also happy to provide input on outfit choices day-of.
A: The number of photos I make varies greatly depending on the length of our session, and what is taking place during your session. I shoot as much as I can without sacrificing quality for quantity, so my clients generally see anywhere from 45 to 200 images. I retain copyright of your images, but you will receive personal and business usage rights for any images that come with your session choice or any additional images you purchase, which means you can print to your heart's content, post your new photos to your website, and share as much on social media as you'd like!
A: Absolutely! I'm a stickler about having backup gear, backed up cards, and always carry insurance (both equipment and liability), and then I back it up all over again to multiple places after your session.
A: After I've sent you a reply to your inquiry, and when you're ready to book with me, I'll send you an online contract to sign. Once that's been signed and I've received your retainer payment for your session, I'm officially your photographer! I do book my session dates on a first-come first-serve basis. I do not hold dates until I actually receive the retainer and signed contract. If someone else is asking about services on a date you've inquired about, I will be in touch with you to inform you of their interest and make it as fair as possible for all parties. Generally, because I book up quickly, if you can book your session 2 to 3 weeks prior to your ideal date, you are more likely to have a date available to you that will fit best with your schedule. I can sometimes squeeze in last minute sessions so don't be afraid to be in touch if that's you, but it's usually best to plan ahead.
Engagement Photography Frequent Asked Questions
A: An engagement session is a portrait session of you and your future spouse. Some clients opt for an engagement session to fulfill a specific purpose. Sometimes it's for Save the Date cards, to be displayed at your wedding reception, or to be incorporated into your wedding website. Sometimes it's just a wonderful opportunity to have professional photographs taken of you two together during this time in your lives. The engagement period is a very sweet time in your relationship, and it's lovely to commemorate that with pictures of you both together.
A: Once you decided on a engagement package, we can then choose a photo session location and time. On the day of the session we will meet at our pre-determined location and get started! We will explore the location for the session. I like a natural feel to my portraits. I am opened to your ideas for posses and I can help you pose if you prefer. For example, I might have you take a walk along the beach, or I might tell you to talk to each other, laugh, or smile. My goal is to capture your real moments, your emotions and interactions with each other.
A: If you are not familiure with Oahu, I can help by with a few recommendations. I also have a Oahu photo session location page, full of photo samples from each location. If you have a location in mind, I'd love to hear about it!
A: Photo Sessions can be scheduled any day or time of the week. What may be available will depend on my schedule and what is already booked. I believe weekdays are best for Engagement Sessions, especially for a beach location. Beaches can be more crowded on weekends. Sessions times will differ depending on the time of year.
A: The most important thing is that you're comfortable, that you feel natural, and that you're wearing something that's representative of who you are. If you're a jeans-and-t-shirt person that is ok too. If you are driving to the location, I don't recommend wearing your clothing while you drive. Arrive early enough to give yourself time to change and feel fresh. Coordination is okay, but I don't encourage matching. The outfit does not need to match that of your future spouse. if we are doing a beach photo session, bring a second outfit in case we get wet. Consider your location when you're deciding on your engagement session outfits.
A: I recommend bringing , drinking water, a towel, sunglasses, items for hair in was it is windy, touch up makeup for shine, your ring, props and a change of clothing.
A: If you have pets or kids, please feel free to include them in your session. However, I strongly suggest limiting their involvement. If you're going to bring pets or kids, you're also going to need to bring someone else to handle them. The best thing is to include them in the beginning of the session, for a brief time, and then having a trusted friend or family member take them home. If you don't, we'll spend valuable session time wrangling them. You won't be able to relax and be together if you've got kids running around that you need to keep an eye on, and it's difficult to cuddle up when you're trying to hold your dog's leash in your free hand!
A: Absolutely! Believe it or not, I know exactly how you feel and many of my clients feel this way too. I aim for a relaxed, happy feel that shows closeness and interaction, and we'll keep it natural and fun, but it won't be awkward or forced. I'll help direct you enough so you know what to do, but not so much that you won't recognize yourself in the images. And most often I'll be letting things flow naturally without any interruption, so you won't even have to worry about striking a pose.
A: If it rains on the day of our session we would wait, relocate or reschedule the session.
Maternity Photography Frequently Asked Questions
A great maternity photographer will know how to use comfortable poses, artful lighting, complimentary fabrics, and careful retouching so that the final images showcase the best of your natural beauty. Whether you plan to keep the pictures for yourself and your partner or share them with close family and friends, your satisfaction with such intimate portraits will depend on the details. So be sure you select a photographer whose work you absolutely love.
One great thing about maternity pictures is how they can break through shallow notions of feminine beauty. Maternity photographs will flatter the unique form of the pregnant body and help the woman and her partner to feel a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for the journey. If done right, you may be surprised at how much you treasure the pictures.
A: It is generally recommended to plan your maternity photography session in the late second or early third trimester. You want to be clearly showing but still feel comfortable enough to enjoy the process.
Earlier than that and the belly may not be prominent enough, later than that and you may feel uncomfortable. But every woman and every pregnancy are different, so listening to your body is always a good idea.
Be sure to plan things early so you'll be sure to have your choice of a convenient time. The best maternity photographers can book up weeks in advance.
A: Because maternity photography requires such specialized techniques, it is important to find someone with plenty of experience. Photographers that may be good with other types of photography may not be able to deliver top quality maternity photographs.
Do some INTERNET searches and look over the options in your area. Look through each photographer's samples to get a sense of their style. Find pictures that put you at ease, touch you, and make you feel wonder. That's the photographer you want.
Anthony Calleja of Honolulu, Hawaii specializes in maternity photography. Take a look through his extensive portfolio and see how he captures the warmth and joy of motherhood.
A: Wear one of your favorite maternity outfits! Something comfortable and flattering to your form. A relaxed fit is good since you'll be moving into different poses. Mid-tone colors work best -- avoid busy patterns which can be distracting.
If you choose to work with Anthony, he can also recommend an assortment of fabric wraps to accentuate your form. The wraps give a more intimate look while keeping things completely discreet.
A: If you work with Anthony, the simple answer is "yes"!
As any mother-to-be knows, pregnancy is hard on the body. Additionally, everyone has variations and minor imperfections to begin with. Maternity photography will show more of you than usual, so extra care must be taken so the variations do not appear unflattering or distract from the focus of the picture: the beauty of motherhood.
A good maternity photographer will know how to light the scene softly, choose poses, and utilize clothing to flatter the form. Additionally, they will perform professional quality digital retouching so that any unflattering marks can be removed. This process takes great skill since they must be sure to maintain a natural looking result.
Look for examples in the maternity photographer's work that demonstrates how they capture the beauty in a natural way. Unless they specialize in maternity photography, a photographer's work may come across looking either unsightly or plastic. Be sure you like your photographer's style before you book a session!
A: The preparations are similar to any other photo shoot: just be prepared to look your best. It's a good idea to avoid any new or radical changes to your normal hygiene regimen just before the shoot, as new skin cleansing and hair care products could bring about unexpected results.
Being well rested will help, though it's sometimes difficult during pregnancy. Also eating light and healthy the day of the shoot is a good idea so you don't feel bloated or hungry. This will help you look your best.
Modeling Photography Frequent Asked Questions
A: Here are the four steps necessary for booking a modeling portfolio shoot with me.
- Set up a pre-shoot meeting.We'll set up a time to meet before your shoot. If you are unable to meet in person, we can have our meeting over the phone.
- Show up at the pre-shoot meeting. We'll discuss your look and what you'd like to achieve during the shoot. We'll also arrange a shoot date at this time.
- Pay your deposit. A 50% deposit is required at the pre-shoot meeting to secure your shoot date. You must give 72 hours notice if you wish to rebook your shoot, otherwise your deposit will be lost. The deposit is non-refundable.
- Confirm. After your deposit is received, I will confirm with you that your shoot is booked!
- Bring lots of different clothing options.
- Clothing that is a bit over-the-top is usually the most fun to work with and will give you the best results in photos.
- Accessories to dress up your look.
- Bring some music that you like to listen to. It's not mandatory, but it's fun!
A: You can arrive for your shoot in your regular clothes.Avoid wearing constrictive items that will leave pressure marks on your skin. Bring a lot of different clothing items with you to your shoot. It's better to have too many than not enough! We'll help you choose the best outfits for your photos.
A: To confirm your shoot date, you must first pay a deposit of 50% of the total cost of the shoot. The deposit is non-refundable, and is due no less than one week before your shoot date. You may reschedule your shoot without losing your deposit if you give at least 72 hours notice. The balance is due at the end of the photo session.
A: Proofs are high resolution versions of the photos we took during your photo shoot. They are not watermark. Proofs do not have any touchups or adjustments done to them. Proofs are unedited. Their purpose is to allow you to choose the best photos from the shoot to be finalized.
A:I will provide your finished photos in digital format. The photos will be delivered in high resolution JPG files for printing and web resolution JPG files for sharing on the Internet (social media, profile pictures, emailing to agents, etc.). When your finished photos are ready, I'll email you a link to download the photo package.
A: Yes, of course. We can still do a modeling portfolio shoot for you, even if you just want the photos for personal use and never intend to do any professional modeling.
Photography Equipment:
A:(2) Canon EOS 5D Mark lll 22 megapixels cameras
Canon EOS 7D Mark ll 20 megapixels camera
Canon 15mm EF F2.8 Fish-eye Lenses
Canon 50mm EF F1.4 Lenses
Canon 85mm EF F1.2 L Lenses
Canon 100mm EF F2.8 L IS Lenses Macro
Canon 16-35mm EF F2.8 L Lenses
Canon 17-40mm EF F4 L Lenses
Canon 24-70mm EF F2.8 L Lenses
Canon 70-200mm EF F2.8 L IS Lenses
Canon 300mm EF F2.8 L IS Lenses
Canon 2x Teleconverter
Tamron 24-70mm F2.8 IS Lenses
DJI Mavic PRO Drone
(4) Canon 600EX-RT Speed lite Flash Units
(6) Yongnuo YN600EX-RT Speed lite Flash Units
(2) ORLIT RoveLight RT 610 TTL Monolight with On Board Power (Bowens Mount)
(2) FLSHPOINT EVOLV 200 R2 TTL POCKZET FLASH KITS
(1) 22" Dome(Bowens Mount)
(1) Westcott Rapid Box Duo 32" Octa
(1) Westcott Rapid Box Strip - 10" x 24"
(1) Westcott 20" Silver / White Reflector
(2) Impact 42" 5 in 1 Reflector
(1) Westcott Illuminator Arm
(1) Impact Telescopic Collapsible Reflector Holder
(1) Sekonic L-758CINE-U Digital Master Light Meter
(1) Nodal Ninja NN4 Tripod Head with RD16 II Rotator for Panoramas
(4) Manfrotto Light Stands
(2) Westcott Light Stands
(1) Avenger Heavy Duty Light Stands and Boom
(1) Photoflex Backdrop Stand
(1) Westcott X-Drop 5' x 7' Backdrop Stand
(8) Muslin Backdrops including, Black, White, Gray Mist, Charcoal Grey, Stone Blue, Nickel, Westcott White, Westcott Nuetral Gray
A: Absolutely! I'm a stickler about having backup gear, backed up cards, and always carry insurance (both equipment and liability), and then I back it up all over again to multiple places after your session.
Planning For Your Photo Session:
A: Yes. I do offer a variety of photography packages, for more detail please visit the Oahu portrait packages section of my website.
A: Sure I do! Referrals for an Officiant, Transportation, Make-up and hair are available upon request.
A: Makeup and Hair are not includes in the price of the session, but I do believe that having professional hair and make-up does make a huge difference in the photographs.
A: I recommend, bringing a variety of clothing to the session, but it does depend on the type of session. Revisited some of my images on the site and see what inspires you.
A: Yes, You can change outfit during the photo session.
A: Yes, Changing time is part of the photo session time.
A: I have from 3 to 5 Photo Session per day. Photo sessions run on time and we request that our customers arrive about 10 minutes early. There is not a grace period.
A: For family and/or children photo sessions: outfit changes, a drink, favorite toy, special stuffed animal. Please make sure your little one has been fed and had a nap before the photo session for a more comfortable and positive experience.
A: If it rains we would either, wait, relocate or reschedule.
Wedding Day Questions:
A: For a variety of reasons, we have to charge for the time in between events. The fact is, we're never truly resting during the day, whether we're backing up images, setting up for the second venue, traveling to the second location, taking venue shots, or making up for lost photo time because of wedding day delays. In many cases, we use that ""downtime"" to take you and your significant other out for a photo session or more family portraits.
A: We understand that not everything goes as planned during a wedding. We never pack up before the contracted time, and moreover, we're not leaving on the dot when the contracted time is up. Instead, we will ask you at the end of your contracted time whether or not you would like to extend. If you would like us to stay, we will charge the rates specified in your contract rounded to the closest 15-minute increment.
Image SD Card and Legal Questions:
A: The SD Card is formatted for a Canon Camera and are viewable on any Canon Camera, Mac Computer, Windows Computer, and an Ipad with an SD Card attachment.
A: In most cases, you can print your photo's up to 20×30 without any quality loss. If you'd like to print larger than 20×30, additional post-production will be required.
A: You have the right to reprint images whenever you want, wherever you want. However, you may not sell your images for a profit or publish your images without the written consent of Anthony Calleja Photography.
A: Each of our packages comes with all of the high-resolution Jpegs on an SD Card, straight out of the camera, (SOOC Images). However, we typically do not provide the RAW files . However if you absolutely want your RAW images, we will provide them to you for an additional fee ranging from $175. to $1,000. or $9. each.
A: Yes we do. All of our packages come with all of the high-resolution Jpegs on an SD Card, given at the end of the event or photo session.
A: We strongly suggest making a copy of the images on SD Card. There is a $75. image replacement fee if you have lost your SD Card.