Congratulations, your engaged and planning your perfect day! You've decided upon a beach wedding, now what? Following are five things to consider when having your wedding on the beach.
- WHAT TIME - In the summer, especially here in the U.P., the days are long, so a wedding that is near dusk is not really an option if you are having a reception afterward. During typical wedding times, i.e. mid afternoon, the sun will create harsh shadows because it will be high in the sky. If you have a certain beach in mind, it is best to scout the location out during different times to see if there is any shade created from nearby trees. You can also get an idea of which way you want the guest to face to watch you get married, as you probably wont want them facing directly into the sun. This is a big one for your photographer as they will want to make you look your best, but sometimes there are things that can't be controlled and your final images might not be as perfect as you want them to be. It is best to let your photographer know if you are planning a beach wedding and where as soon as possible as they may have some ideas or can at least scout it out for the best photo locations beforehand.
- WEATHER - You set your date many months in advance, so there is noway of
knowing what the weather will be like on your special day. Have a backup plan. This could be a tent or using the reception venue as your wedding backup location. You should check with the venue to make sure that it is available at the time you would need it and what, if any, the charge would be. This is very important and shouldn't be overlooked! - BUGS - Will it be mosquito season? Even if it isn't, I highly recommend having bug spray on hand for the bridal party and for your guests. I typically carry bug spray in my vehicle, but my supply wouldn't be enough for an entire wedding :)
- PARKING - Is there parking and easy access to the beach? If not, consider a shuttle. Checker Transport, LLC is a good option in Marquette.
- ATTIRE - Will you have a full length wedding dress? What will the bridesmaids wear? How about the groom and his guys? Don't forget your guests... If you are wearing long dresses, understand that they will be full of sand. How about shoes? High heels typically don't work so well on the beach. Will the fellas lose their shoes and go barefoot. Let your guests know how formal the wedding will be, so that they can plan ahead for different shoes for both the wedding
and reception if needed.
A beach wedding can be very memorable one. Take the steps to ensure that those memories are great for you and your guests by putting in a little extra thought into somethings that could get overlooked.
To discuss your beach wedding or book a date, contact Bill 906.250.2484 | [email protected]
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Outdoor wedding photography is one of the most enjoyable parts of the wedding day photos that I take. To me, the couple is able to show their personality and we are able to get those fun memorable shots! If the wedding ceremony is outside, their style and personality is even more prominent because they typically decorate or set up the wedding to meet their style. Some of that can come through in a church, but from my experience church weddings typically go down the traditional route, while outside weddings take on a style all of their own.
When I am set to photograph a couples day one of the topics I always ask about is if there are any special locations that they would like to go to for photos? These can be done before the ceremony or after, but I can typically get an idea of what they are looking for based upon where they would like to go. Typical locations around Marquette, MI include: Presque Island, Founders Landing, McCarty's Cove, Tourist Park, the Seventh Street Cemetery, the Lower Harbor. I have a few locations downtown that I like to go if they are looking for ideas from me as well. I love to find little doorways, alleys and places with great colors or textures to use as backdrops. I even have an idea in the back of my mind if we have a really rainy day, but the couple wants to get some outdoor shots. Maybe your wedding will use that idea, for your sake I hope it doesn't happen, but as a photographer I have to be ready for any situation. I love when couples have a place they want to go that I haven't been to or that I don't get to shoot often! This is when the creativity can really pick up and we can have a really great time and capture great memories.
I have also been fortunate enough to have photographed several destination weddings. These are my absolute favorite! When I'm in a new exotic location it is the best of both worlds for me. A wedding and photography! My idea of an amazing vacation, although it drives my wife a little crazy, is exploring and looking for that one great shot. Destination weddings provide me the ability to explore and capture fabulous wedding pictures that the couple will remember forever. If you are having a destination wedding, give me a shout, I would love to capture your memories!
To request pricing or book a wedding date with me, just send me an email at [email protected] or call me 906.250.2484.
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thinking about what the owner of a home can do to make their home that will soon be on the market look as good as a brand new home. So with that here is a list of things to do before having a photographer, be it a professional or your real estate agent, come to your home.
- De-clutter - The less stuff the better. You don't want the house to be empty, but clean and uncluttered is much more appealing and less distracting in the final images.
- Fresh paint - This isn't always necessary, but if you burn candles on a table next to the wall, have a child that is a little mischievous or have an affinity for extremely bright colored paint [think Nemo orange], you might want to consider a nice fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room.
- Dust - That ceiling fan, pot rack, I just noticed mine, refrigerator door, kitchen counter and even your floors all accumulate dust, smudges and other unsightly things. You're probably thinking, "that stuff doesn't show up?" I'm here to tell you that sometimes it does. With the high-resolution digital cameras that are on the market today extreme detail can be seen. Take the time and do a good "spring cleaning" you never know if your couch or chair is going to be moved a bit to make the living room look as big and appealing as possible.
- Mow the lawn - Take care of all of the outdoor chores. Cut the grass, prune the hedges, pull the weeds, etc.
- Make the beds - You probably don't want someone else making your bed and hiding your laundry, so make sure that everything is put away or hidden for picture day.
- Clean the bathroom - Need I say more?
- Plants, vases, books, etc. - Sometimes it is helpful to have props that fit the character of the home. If you have them available, it's always a plus. They may or may not be used, but sometimes a shelf or table just needs a little something.
I realize that you will do much of this when getting ready to list your home, but these tips are just good to keep in mind. Oh, and if you are moving out before you actually sell the home, if at all possible have the pictures taken before you move all of your stuff out. Empty rooms aren't nearly as appealing to a buyer as a nicely staged room.
To learn more or set up an appointment to have your home photographed, contact Bill Schumann | 906.250.2484 | [email protected].
your home, price it attractively and tell about the updates, but if the pictures are not outstanding you will be missing out on potential buyers. A properly staged and photographed house will give potential buyers the first impression that you want them to have. Remember, you only have one shot at a good first impression. People are busier than ever and don't have the time to go through houses that don't appeal to them. If your listing has dark, cluttered photographs you ARE missing out on potential buyers and potentially more money. In fact, in an article by The Wall Street Journal, they report that "listings with nicer photos gain anywhere between $934 and $116,076. The data also showed that listings with nicer photos get more online attention." With the real estate market performing as it is, can you afford not doing everything in your power to have the best listing?
A professional photographer will work with you and/or your agent to make your house shine! Following are a few things that a professional photographer will bring to the table that a point-and-shoot camera will not capture including:
-
the addition of supplemental light where needed
- properly exposed images
- expanded views of each room by use of a wide angle lens
I know you are probably thinking, "that would be nice, but what's it going to cost me?" The cost is not a substantial one. Typically professional photography of a residence ranges from $100-$500 depending upon the listing. Some real estate agents will even cover the cost. If you are considering listing your house, or if you have done so already talk to your real estate professional about using a professional photographer or contact one on your own.
To learn more or receive a quote, contact Bill Schumann | [email protected] | 906.250.2484
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today.
It all starts well before a photographer even shoots a wedding. Assuming the photographer is a professional, there are costs associated with owning and operating a business. Those costs include business and equipment insurance premiums, office | studio space, camera equipment [see below], phone, computers, internet, web hosting, a vehicle, advertising, continuing education, health insurance premiums and I'm sure there are plenty of additional items that I am forgetting, but you get the idea. Just to own a business to have the opportunity to photograph a wedding costs plenty of money.
Below I will breakdown two of the biggest costs that go into wedding photography, equipment and time.
Equipment
I'll elaborate on the camera equipment just to illustrate what some of those costs actually are. I currently have three camera bodies, four lenses, three flashes, five backdrops, six mono light flashes, six continuous lights, a light meter, two tripods, six memory cards and lots of batteries and additional items like stools etc.
- Camera bodies range in cost from $1,500 - $12,000 each. I currently shoot with a Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, Canon EOS 7D and a Canon 5D.
- Lenses average $800 each
- Flashes $250
- Backdrops $150 each
- Mono Light Kits $2,000 [I have two kits]
- Continuous Light $50 each
- Light Meter $350
- Tripods $200
- Memory Cards $50 each
My equipment total $16,100. This equipment only allows me to take the photographs. I also have thousands of dollars worth of computer equipment and software that I use to process the images I take. So the real total is somewhere in the neighborhood of $21,000. Do you know what the real bugger of it is, all of this stuff will be or already is obsolete and will need to eventually need to be replaced. The newest Canon body that will be released in 10 days costs $12,000. I won't be running out to buy that right away, but you can see how replacement of items will continue to become more expensive.
Time
Let's say you've hired me to capture the best day of your life. An average wedding that I photograph takes two hours to prepare for [charging batteries, gathering and cleaning gear etc.] and eight hours of actual shooting time. Many people forget that when I leave the venue my work has just begun. Photographing a wedding is the fun and artistic part. After all you hired me for my artistic ability and my eye for detail, not just because I have a camera that takes really good pictures. When I reach my computer there is 20-40 hours worth of work ahead of me. So in essence a one-day wedding is a week's worth of time.
From the various blogs that I have read from wedding planners and other wedding professionals the recommended amount to budget for your wedding photography is 10%-15% of your total budget. You've planned for and spent thousands of dollars on your wedding, getting all of the details just right. Your wedding photos will be one of the only things that you have to remember your day.
I hope this helps to shed some light on why wedding photography costs what it does. If you would like to find out more about the packages that I offer, contact me at 906.250.2484 or [email protected]. Happy planning!
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A. You are welcome to book your wedding day with me at anytime. However, please know that your date will only be held after a contract and deposit are returned to me.
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. I have been in business since June of 1999. I have only been in business in the Marquette area since 2008. Prior to moving to Marquette, I successfully ran my business in Ann Arbor, MI and Milwaukee, WI.
Q. What is your style?
A. My style is a blend of traditional and photo journalist. Nearly all of the bride and grooms that I have worked with want a blend of the two, so I have evolved my style to meet those needs. Posed family and wedding party shots and un-posed | candid shots to capture the feeling and fun of the day.
Q. What is your working style?
A. My working style is to blend in and capture the moments of the wedding without being disruptive. I will talk to the officiant before the ceremony to determine what rules they have and then abide by them. The day is about the bride and groom and all of their guests, not about me getting in the middle of everything to capture images. The only time that I try to be seen and heard is during the portrait sessions with the bride and groom, the bridal party and family, before and after the ceremony. During the remainder of the day, I do my best to blend in and capture the moments and details that make your day special and unique.
Q. Do you have a portfolio I can see?
A. My portfolio can be viewed online at anytime by visiting my wedding photography page. If at anytime you would like to see a complete wedding gallery, contact me [[email protected] | 906.250.2484] and I will be glad to share an entire wedding gallery with you.
Q. What type of equipment do you use?
A. I shoot with Canon equipment, specifically a Canon EOS 1D Mark IV [professional model] with a Canon EOS 7D as a backup. I have several different lenses that I use throughout each wedding. I also have studio lighting, on-camera flash units and backdrops that can be used when needed.
Q. Do you shoot digital or film?
A. I shoot everything in digital format.
Q. Do you shoot in color, black + white or both?
A. I shoot everything digitally in color. Images can then be converted to black + white, sepia or many other treatments.
Q. Can I give you a list of shots that I would like taken on my wedding day?
A. You can supply a list of images that you would like taken during the day and I will do my best to get all of them. However, a wedding is an uncontrolled event and I cannot guarantee delivery of all of the specifically requested images.
Q. What do I need to supply to you before my wedding?
A. It is helpful to know how many people will be in the wedding party, the timeline for the day, if there are any people that can't be in photos together or next to each other [i.e. divorced parents], any special things you will be doing [roses for mom's before ceremony, bouquet toss, garter toss, etc.], special locations you would like photos taken at and any other information that you think would be helpful to capture your day.
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I've been thinking about the events and weddings that I have attended, been a part of, planned or photographed over the years and there is always one common trait, lots of work. If you have ever planned an event you know exactly what I am talking about. Just planning for the big items, such as the location, decorations, food and entertainment can take a lot of time and effort. Many brides, who are getting married in Marquette, are planning their dream weddings from a distance. This compounds the difficulty because they are frequently trying to set lots of appointments in a short time while they are in town, or they are doing much of it over the phone.
I have recently come across a new company that might help you in the planning of your next event. The company is called Knots & Kisses, a wedding planning and event decorating business, founded by Sarah Balding and Nicole Corne. It is located in the I Do Wedding and Event Center in Downtown Marquette, MI. Knots & Kisses recently hosted the Walk of a Lifetime Bridal Fashion Show and a successful Masquerade Ball that raised money for a local organization. If you are in need of help planning or decorating for your event call Sarah and Nicole and maybe they will be the solution for you.
However, if an event planner isn't in your budget, all is not lost. Many of the local reception locations have very helpful staff. They can make recommendations of who to contact or how to get some of the things that you are looking for. Also, if you have already booked your D.J., band or photographer tap into their knowledge and networks. They may know just the person or company you are looking for. They work with many very good companies throughout the year at the events they attend.
And finally, don't forget about your friends, family and coworkers. Most, if not all, have been at or have hosted an event where someone made a good impression on them. Use their knowledge and experiences to help.
As I mentioned before, planning an event is a lot of work. You don't have to do all of it on your own. Use the resources and expertise of your family and friends, the people that you are working with or a professional planner to take care of the details for you. In any event remember the event is meant to be fun and create lots of new memories, so try to have fun planning it. After all you will probably spend more time planning your special event than you will actually attending it.
Have fun and happy planning!
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Senior portraits are a big deal for many seniors and a pain in the butt for many others. Many seniors get very nervous when they get in front of the camera. They
freeze up and say I don’t know what to do. This is where some good pre-planning can help. It also helps to have a photographer that is outgoing and able to put them at ease, but that’s a topic for another day.
“What should I bring?” is a question that I hear often when booking a senior session. While I can’t tell you exactly what to bring, I can give you some suggestions.
1. Bring clothing that fits your personality
2. Accessories that make you, who you are [favorite hat or some jewelry]
3. Musical instruments
4. Sporting equipment and jerseys
5. Your pet [please let me know before, if this is the case]
6. Your best friend or boy/girl friend [if mom and/or dad approve]
7. Your car, truck, suv, jeep, motorcycle, bike, etc.
8. Your smile :0)
Really the sky is the limit. If we are able to talk before your session just about anything, within reason, can be worked into your portraits. The more options we have to show your personality, the happier you will be with the final product. I also find that these things give us something to talk about and maybe have a good laugh or two during your senior portrait session. I would much rather you bring too much than not enough. I love to see what makes people happy. If you’re struggling with what to bring, give me a call and we can talk about the things you are interested in and come up with some great ideas!
To schedule a senior portrait session with William Schumann Photography, contact Bill at 906.250.2484 or email me [email protected].
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As a father and photographer I have seen many different ways of taking children’s photographs. Many pictures that I see are posed and very cute and some are candid. I like to capture images of children in a different way, or during what I call “The Ten Minute Photo Session.” Being a father has taught me that if you want to get images of a happy kid, you have about 10 minutes before they lose interest and get cranky. I like to get the little one to the photo shoot destination and get them playing with something that interests them. It could be a book, a certain toy, a blanket or even a rock, but the point is to have them focused on something other than the camera. This is where mom or dad come in big time, because they know best what their little one likes. While mom|dad and little one are busy playing, I typically am on the floor, usually flat on my stomach moving around and taking photos. During this short session an unbelievable amount of pictures can be taken.
If the children are a bit older, they might not need a toy because they can more easily communicate. Sometimes they will tell me a story or point at a “boo boo” and sometimes they are just wondering about the camera that is right down in front of them and their little personality will begin to shine through.
When they have had enough of the session, they let you know quite quickly! This doesn’t always mean that the session is over because sometimes those sad faces and little tears turn out beautifully. Be mindful that this part of the session is where you walk a fine line between upset and total meltdown. You need to be aware of when stop and take a break for a treat or when to call it quits for the day.
So, here are my Three Tips For Taking Better Photos of Your Children.
1. Let them play, talk and move around
2. Get down to their level
3. Know when to quit
Yes, lighting and backgrounds really help with your photos, but if you are in a spot where the light is decent and your child is comfortable you’ll get at least one photo you love.
To book a Ten Minute Photo Session [I promise you won’t feel rushed:0)], Contact Bill Schumann at [email protected] or call 906.250.2484 or check out my children and babies portrait gallery.
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Every couple wants the best of the best for their wedding - from the dress, to the location, to all of the details, including their photographer. 
As digital cameras become more advanced and affordable, many “new” wedding photographers are popping up and offer attractive pricing. This puts a photographer like me who has been capturing weddings for nearly 13 years in a tough spot. Should I lower my rates to compete with all of the “new” photographers out there, or continue with my business model? The answer, for me, was a little of both. I’ve adjusted my packages and pricing to bring value to my clients. However, I hope that packages and pricing are not the only things I am selected from. Following are the things that I believe should also be taken into consideration when selecting the right photographer for your wedding day.
Consistency + Quality – Is the photographer’s work consistently done at a high level? It’s easy to check websites and blogs to see if the photographer has consistently photographed weddings or if they have only an example or two.
Being a Chameleon – A great photographer should know when to be noticed and to me most importantly know when to blend in. Many of the happy couples that I have photographed have told me they forgot I was there or didn’t even notice me. This is a great compliment for me because the day is about the couple not the photographer getting in the way.
Adaptable – The photographer should be able to share with you how they are able to adapt to difficult situations. Someone in the bridal party gets sick, having only 15 minutes in the church rather than an hour to capture all of the after ceremony shots, the champagne is missing for the toast or a camera goes down - these are experiences I have dealt with in the past. Remaining cool under pressure and keeping the bride and groom happy is very important.
Details – You spend an abundant amount of time getting all of the details just right for your special day. A photographer should observe and capture the details and the special moments that occur throughout the day.
Style + Creativity – A photographer should be keeping up with the times. What’s trending on Pinterest and new in wedding, advertising and editorial photography? Does their style match yours?
And finally do you like them? Do you find it easy to communicate with them? Do they seem to be happy, spunky and a bit silly or are they just kind of there?
Your wedding will be one of the happiest days of your life. You will spend your hard earned money to make it perfect. The photographs will be the one thing that captures all of your hard work. Make sure the photographer is right for you, not just the cheapest price. To learn more about me, Bill Schumann, and how I work call or email me, 906.250.2484 | [email protected].
]]>In today’s busy world, planning the perfect wedding can be quite an ordeal. With so many items to account for and Pinterest adding new ideas nearly every second, the task continues to take more and more time. You probably already know from your family or friends that booking your reception location is a biggie as many facilities are booked quickly for the most popular times of the year. So, I thought it would be helpful to give you some information to get the ball rolling. My gift to you is a list of the Top Wedding Reception Locations in Marquette, MI.
As a resident and photographer in Marquette, MI, I have had the opportunity to both photograph and attend wedding receptions in many locations. My wife and I also had our wedding reception in Marquette and we were one of those couples that had to settle for our second choice. I can still remember the disappointment in my wife’s voice when she told me that our first choice was no longer available. Luckily everything turned out well and the night was a hit! But take it from an old married guy, book early! Each location offers a unique setting and can be set up and decorated to meet the needs of the newly married couple. The following list is in no particular order and is not all inclusive. There are many other creative places where wedding receptions can be held.
Happy planning!
Landmark Inn
230 N. Front Street, Marquette, MI 49855
888-752-6362
http://www.thelandmarkinn.com/wedding.php
412 W Washington St, Marquette, MI 49855
(906) 228-6000
http://www.ramada.com/meeting-events/main
1951 US Highway 41 West, Marquette, MI 49855
(800) 345-8082
http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/marquette/mqtmi/hoteldetail/events-facilities
Marquette Parks + Recreation
located in Lakeview Arena [401 E Fair Street]
[mail] 300 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855
Tel. 906.228.0460 | Email [email protected]
http://www.mqtcty.org/parks_and_beaches.html
Marquette Parks + Recreation
located in Lakeview Arena [401 E Fair Street]
[mail] 300 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855
Tel. 906.228.0460 | Email [email protected]
http://www.mqtcty.org/parks_and_beaches.html
2145 Sugar Loaf Ave, Marquette, MI 49855
Marquette Parks + Recreation
located in Lakeview Arena [401 E Fair Street]
[mail] 300 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855
Tel. 906.228.0460 | Email [email protected]
http://www.mqtcty.org/parks_and_beaches.html
1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855
Reservations Coordinator
Tel. 906.227.2623
MARQUETTE COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM
213 N Front St, Marquette, MI 49855
(906) 226-3571
http://marquettecohistory.org/
128 W Washington St, Marquette, MI 49855
(906) 225-1157
4501 County Road 553, Marquette, MI 49855
(906) 225-1155
http://marquettemountain.com/home.php
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