robin purcell photography
 

 

robin purcell
Have you had any formal training?
Yes, I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from UNH – with an emphasis on painting and photography. After college I apprenticed under a wedding photographer in California and assisted several commercial photographers in the Seattle area. Even though I’ve been at it for a while, I continue to take workshops because there is always something new to learn.

Do you shoot only weddings?
I also shoot portraiture, architecture, landscape and animals. Kind of a mixed bag I realize, but I like the diversity. Weddings can be crazy fast paced and intense at times while portraiture and architecture are more methodical. And as for animals – I just like hanging out with them.

How would you describe your style?
I shoot mostly in a photojournalistic style, which means candid images that are in the moment with more energy and emotion than traditional and posed photos. When I do group photos, I like to be a little more creative and playful so that people’s personalities will really come through.

Do you work with an assistant?
Unless it’s a very small intimate wedding, I always work with an assistant who also acts as a second shooter. I contract with a few different people who are all accomplished and talented professional photographers in their own right.

What if you get sick or something happens to you right before a wedding?
If that very unfortunate situation should ever occur, I’m well prepared to handle it as I’m pretty connected with lots of photographers. I have affiliations with ASMP, SPPA & PPA, so there are a number of excellent professionals I can call on.

Do you scout a location out prior to the wedding?
Even if I’m familiar with a location, I like to do a site review with couples so I have a good idea of how things will be laid out and the service will unfold. I don’t want to miss key moments or be surprised by potential problems.

Will you work from a shot list provided by the bride and groom?
You bet. I know that there are seldom seen friends and family attending that you’ll want to make sure you get photos of and pointing out who the “must photograph” people are, is always very helpful.

Can you shoot in color as well as black and white?
I shoot with digital cameras, so the images are all captured in color but are easily converted to black and white and or sepia tones.

What kind of equipment do you use?
I use all Canon gear. An EOS mark II, an EOS 20D and several different lenses. I don’t typically bring my studio lights because they just get in the way and I’d rather be unobtrusive at the event.

Do you bring backup equipment?
I do bring backup and sometimes even backup for the backup.

Do you carry liability insurance?
Yes, most definitely. I’ve never experienced any sort of accident on a shoot, but you never know what sort of quirky things might happen that could cause injury or property damage and I would rather be safe than sorry.

What’s your process and timeline after the wedding is over?
Depending on my work load, it usually takes a week to download, back-up, sort, edit and create a web proofing site. Prints will take an additional week or two once an order has been placed. Wedding albums vary depending on the number of images and the type of album selected.

Will you travel?
Yes! Especially if it’s some place exotic, interesting and far, far away. My passport is current and so are most of my shots. So I’m ready when you are.