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PHOTOGRAPHY
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MINNESOTA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER FAQ

Service | Gallery | Reviews | Pricing
Answer:
We work with top-tier photographers who focus on photography, not running a business. Most of our photographers shoot the majority of their weddings through Bellagala. Some photographers shoot weddings outside Bellagala, however they tend to be more expensive for the same product and/or simply cannot offer the same product as Bellagala. This is because Bellagala's post production and finished album resources far exceed the capability of an individual photographer, which allows Bellagala to provide an awesome value.
Answer:
Most photographers got into business because they liked taking photos and they soon realized they could charge for their services.

As a photographer becomes more successful, the time previously spent shooting slowly shifts into areas that are not their strength; organization, administrative, and business operations, but of course, they now need to now juggle multiple balls to keep things rolling. At Bellagala, photographers are able to focus on the clients and shooting the images. We focus on the business details.
Answer:
While Bellagala prices vary in range from $995 - $4,495, you certainly can find a cheaper option. What you won't find is a cheaper option at the quality we offer. We are able to offer unbelievable packages because we do more weddings.

Typically a photographer charging $1,000 for an entire day of shooting is new to the industry and hasn't invested in quality equipment or training, which can cost upwards of $10,000.

The cheaper photographers think that photography is a fun hobby instead of a business. That said, Bellagala does now offer an apprentice package starting at $995. It combines our resources with emerging professional photographers to offer the Bellagala look at an entry level price.
Answer:
We have partnered with the premier finished album company, Graphistudio (Oprah even uses them for her photo albums!). Our albums feature seamless binding, archival printing, stunning layouts and cover options. These quality albums are hand-made in Italy by the finest artists and designers.

Unlike online album services, Graphistudio albums are made to last a lifetime (or longer). Your album will still be beautiful after hundreds of viewings (and trust us, you will love your photos so much you will look at them at least 100 times!) and is an heirloom piece for the next generations.
Answer:
We feel that it is best to be up front with all the costs associated with photography. There are so many different package options that it can be hard to discern real value. Other photographers set their package prices lower and don't include an album. After the wedding they make money by selling you add-on products.
Answer:
Digital photos have a distinct disadvantage over film if one is not properly equipped.

In 2009, Bellagala invested into onsite and offsite servers, CD backup and a series of other internal back up measures to make sure we always have your wedding photos, in case you lose them.

Although it may seem trivial to ask about these technical issues, if your photographer seems unclear about the technical process in which they backup data, it's likely that they have insufficient backup and your wedding photos are at risk
Answer:
It depends. Some have 10+ years, while others have three years. We have found that time in business does not always equate to better photographs or a better experience.
Answer:
Our apprentice photographers typically have one to two years experience in the wedding industry. They regularly assist our associate and studio lead photographers. They are gaining the experience needed to move to our associate lead level. Bellagala will review your profile and select an apprentice for you.

Associate photographers have proven wedding experience and are on their way to becoming a studio lead, but they typically are working on developing and broadening their portfolio. Associates are often moved up to the lead position after one or two years at Bellagala. Our associate leads have an average of two-four years professionally shooting weddings upon joining our team!

Our studio leads are experienced industry professionals with extensive portfolios. They have years of shooting weddings under their belts. While the average years of experience for our studio leads is five to seven, some of our studio leads have been snapping photos professionally for over 10 years. Their experience results into beautiful and memorable wedding pictures for you!

View galleries online.
Answer:
No. Bella Pictures is a national company based out of California. Although our names are similar, our service offerings are not. We pride ourselves in being a Minnesota company and hiring the best local talent and artists. In some instances our prices may be slightly higher, but we don't think you should sacrifice your relationship with your photographer or the quality of your photos to save a few dollars. For a more detailed comparison of Bellagala and Bella Pictures, contact your Bellagala sales consultant.
Answer:
If you would like to order professional grade prints, this can be done so through our online proofing and printing center. All images are printed on archival quality paper.

4x6 print - $7.99
5x7 print - $9.99
8x10 print - $19.99
11x14 print - $35.99
Answer:
After your pictures are online, you will fill out our finished album order form, where you will choose your photos, layout style and cover.
Answer:
Yes, please contact your sales representative for specific pricing and options.
Answer:
You can incorporate pictures from your engagement session, wedding day, Trash the Dress session and the Photo Station.
Answer:
$700 and it is fully refundable for 14 days.
Answer:
Three weeks prior to your event date final payment is due. Any additional charges accrued the day of your wedding will be automatically billed to your credit card on file.
Answer:
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover.
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