information about ell film

keep your memories alive through photos and film.

Do you provide photography or videography?

I do both! I love creating multimedia projects that meet all your video, photo, and website needs. For weddings, I’m often hired for one or the other, so feel free to hire me for whatever your particular needs are!

Why should I splurge on a brief photo or video session?

You do not need a reason to want a quick session documenting a segment of your life, a relationship, or a feeling. Documenting your life is important—it helps memories live on for years to come, and I’ve never heard someone say they regret having that little photo session.

What’s your pricing?

I have packages for weddings for either photography or videography starting at $4000, and photography sessions starting at $400. Contact me for more information on investment.

Why the cost?

A big part of it is that you’re investing in me and my time — for every hour of shooting, I spend many hours editing, including refining the coloring, texture, retouching, and framing of every photo. I want to invest in you the way you’ve invested in me.

Another other part is my equipment. From multiple cameras, to high resolution lenses, to drones, to stabilizers (to make video smooth), to monopods, to backup drives, to tripods, to lighting, to microphones, to audio recorders… the list goes on… I want to ensure I have cutting-edge equipment that makes your photos crisp, clear, and with top-notch bokeh (the pretty blur in the back of a photo), while also promising smooth, focused video with stylized coloring. I also spend the time to create a feeling and a story, inspired by YOU, my client!

When will I get my photos or video?

Turn-around time typically ranges between 1-6 weeks after a wedding or video shoot and between 1-4 weeks after a brief photo session. I don’t have exact timelines, because I may take more or less time depending on how many times I feel I need to step away and back to a project with fresh eyes. I am serious about getting editing right, so I always step away and return to a project to make sure I can find new, creative ways to enhance the photo or video.

How far in advance can/should I book my wedding?

Just ask about your date! Depending on the specific situation, I may be able to book pretty far in advance. I’ve also booked weddings less than a month in advance. However, I do take a limited number of weddings and clients per month, so I can fill up fast. I do this to make sure I’m investing enough time and energy ever single one of the projects I take on — so that you are feel secure in hiring me, and so that you have a memorable experience with ell film from beginning to end.

What is your style for photography?

My priority is story. I want the viewer to get to know you, even in a still photo. I prioritize authenticity, emotion, and impact. At the same time, I value beauty and that you’re happy with the product (I’m not afraid to adjust your hair or to give direction to make sure we’re getting the best possible photos of you!). Most of all, I want clients’ experience to be fun and relaxed, so that they come out of the photo session rejuvenated and so that their personalities punch through in the photos. As for my aesthetic, I like minimalism, lots of negative space, and, for coloring, I like sage greens, warm skin tones, striking blacks, and crisp whites.

What is unique about your videography?

I prioritize aspects of video that many videographers don’t tend to focus on. For example, I spend hours choosing the right music and focus on matching the music/the words being said to the images. I also capitalize on movement in video—I always use special, expensive stabilization gear for every wedding so that I can move with you, and so that each shot has energy, even when you’re standing still. Finally, I like a diversity of shots, and I always emphasize emotion and meaningful moments (rather than just stringing together a thousand shots of makeup trays and decorations--although I grab shots of those too!).

Should I have videography for my wedding?

Yes. 100% yes. The number one thing I hear people say they regret about their wedding is NOT having a videographer, because there’s nothing as precious as being able to relive this wonderful day over and over again, with family or children or each other. Video takes you back to what people actually said and did in a beautiful way. I didn’t realize this until I got married myself, and it was our wedding video that my husband and I watched over and over again to bring us back to how we felt that day. It’s become a tradition to watch it on our anniversary, and it always takes us back. You are putting so much effort and cash into this day, why forget it? I’d say take away that extra decoration or appetizer and invest in a videographer (even if you go with somebody else!).

What is your vibe the day of a wedding or during a shoot?

If I’m shooting your wedding or business, my #1 priority is YOU. The shoot is not about me; it’s about capturing your unique qualities as a couple or as a business. That means I might direct movement differently based on your unique qualities. I also want you to be comfortable and have FUN (even for those who don’t tend to like being in front of a camera—you know who you are). That means I’m not there to show off or talk myself up or make noisy jokes. I’m there to serve you and make sure that the process is enjoyable for YOU (although I won’t lie that I may occasionally make a quiet, pretty bad dad joke to make you smile for a photo). I used to work as a therapist for four years while obtaining my PhD in clinical psychology, and I think it’s enhanced my ability to listen and to make people comfortable. I’ve also learned the importance of communication and flexibility. This all means that if you have a particular shot or vibe in mind, do not hesitate to communicate with me and let me know what you want! I’m here to make sure you walk away happy with the product.

Okay, I’m interested. How do I book?

Message me through my contact page. For weddings, your date will be reserved once the contract is signed and the down payment is complete. I’m always happy to chat on the phone or meet up for coffee prior to or after booking! :)