Charles Maceo Photography

I either send a series of questions and/or schedule a phone call with the client so I can know EXACTLY what they are looking for in a photographer. I want to make sure I understand that vision and feel confident that I fit that vision. Most times, I feel like I'm the man for the job and with that said, I've been completely honest with potential clients in saying that I may not be the right photographer for them.

I also like to explain what my shooting philosophy is more in depth and really give a potential client a good feel of my personality. It is a big decison they are making and they deserve to have all the information they need to make a confident decision as to who to hire.

I've been shooting for nearly 10 years and started out learning under Jeff Lewis, a world-class photographer who is the head photographer of the Los Angeles Rams.

I was a 2nd shooter for MANY of his weddings when he was an award winning wedding photographer. I then went out of my own and started to lead shoot weddings. 

I've also shot tons of headshots - literally over 2,000 headshot sessions as this point.

So, fair to say, I've spent a lot of time over the years working with people, delivering great images, and continously perfecting my craft.

My wedding prices differ from "non-wedding" event photography. All my headshots have the same rates. The only additional fees that can occur are traveling fees, rush fees, and retouches.

I picked up a camera, read books and watched tons of videos, and ended up getting hired by Jeff Lewis - who is now the head photographer of the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL. I shot alongside him for a lot of weddings and different events and really got comfortable enough to say, "Hey, I can do this on my own."

So, I opened up my own business and started shooting TONS of actor and corporate clients for headshots. And eventually, it led to weddings, events, etc.

I love the headshot stuff but I really am drawn to events and weddings because of the opportunity to tell and capture a beautiful story that clients can hold onto and pass down for generations. Check out my blog to see many of my "wedding stories!" 

I've worked with celebrity clients, strangers, family, and friends.

I've also worked with corporate clients for headshots and events such as Holiday parties or fundraisers. 

I had a client who planned their own wedding and had it in a backyard of a family member. Many have said "you can't tell a story of capture great photos in a setting like that."

I disagree wholeheartedly. I LOVE clients who DIY their own wedding. And it's not to say I don't love the huge budget weddings either because I do...however, I feel like as a photographer, if you're good, you can capture beautiful moments in ANY setting because it's the couple and their guests at the end of the day that tell the story...not objects.

Check out the story below:

https://www.charlesmaceophotography.com/blog-1

Make sure to look at their portfolio of course BUT also look to see if you can check out an event of theirs from BEGINNING TO END. Anyone can get 1 or 2 great images out of an 8 hour day. But can they tell the story throughout the entire day that fits your vision?

And be honest as to what you're looking for. Are you looking for high-end magazine type photos? Do you want someone who knows how to do tons of posed photos? Or do you want someone more photojournalistic and candid style photography?

*What type of photography style resonates with you and why?

*What type of persoanlity are you looking for in someone you are going to be spending a good amount of time with the day of the shoot/event?

*Are you looking to be sold a PRICE or a high quality SERVICE?