F.A.Q.

Below you'll find answers to my most frequently asked questions about everything from how I edit my work, to what it means to cost-share a shoot with others to save money. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, set up a free strategy session and I'll be happy to answer them for you.

Who owns the rights to the photos/videos after the shoot?

As the creator of the images, I retain full copyright to all photographs taken during the shoot. You will be given a comprehensive licensing agreement that specifies how you can use the images in various ways. This arrangement is quite similar to how music licensing works; you own the right to use the music but not the music itself.

What is included in your licensing agreement?

The license I provide is quite inclusive, granting you perpetual use of the works. This means there is no expiration on your rights to use the images. It covers a wide range of uses including digital displays such as presentations and web content, print materials like brochures and billboards, and even entries into contests.

If at any point you need to distribute the work nationally or globally through mass-media like print or TV/Streaming platforms, an extra licensing fee may be required.

Is posting the photos on social media allowed?

Absolutely! You are encouraged to use the photos on social media platforms. Please tag my social media accounts @shawnbeltran when sharing the work whenever possible.

Can I share the licensed photos with other people?

The license you receive is specific to you and does not extend to third parties. If other parties are interested in using the photos, they need to either join the cost-sharing agreement before the shoot or obtain their licenses directly from me afterward. This ensures that all parties fairly compensate for the use of the images, respecting the investment made by those who participate in cost-sharing.

Do I need to be present during the shoot?

I value and enjoy client involvement during the shoot. Having clients on-site can enrich the creative process, allowing for immediate feedback and collaboration. That said, I do work with a number of clients that prefer to let me work alone and make image selections later. If this is you, we will discuss your goals in detail before the shoot to make sure I have the info I need to deliver what you need.

What does your photo editing process involve?

I use a detailed multi-step editing process that involves everything from basic adjustments like color correction and cropping to more complex enhancements such as exposure blending and retouching. All images are blended by hand, not using HDR processing software like most real estate photography.

What is the expected timeline for delivery of photos?

You can expect to receive the first set of proofs within about a week following the shoot. These proofs are partially edited to give you a sense of the final look. Once you select your preferred images, the final editing process takes approximately two more weeks, depending on the workload and time of year. This timeframe ensures that every image is crafted to meet high standards before final delivery.

How do you ensure the best lighting for architectural photos?

I utilize a combination of available and supplemental light to capture the essence and ambiance of a space. For interiors or challenging light conditions, I incorporate advanced artificial lighting techniques. This combination ensures every detail is optimally illuminated, highlighting the architectural and design elements effectively.

What types of projects do you typically photograph?

My expertise spans a wide range of architectural and interior design projects, including residential properties, commercial buildings, hospitality venues, and bespoke architectural structures. Each project is approached with a tailored strategy to best showcase the design and architectural intent.

Can you describe your approach to architectural video production?

My approach to video production is cinematic, focusing on the narrative of the space. I use cinema quality equipment and techniques such as drone footage, time-lapse, and stabilized movement to create dynamic, engaging videos that tell the story of the architecture and its both its beauty and utility.

What measures do you take to ensure client confidentiality and privacy?

I prioritize client confidentiality with strict protocols to handle sensitive information and project details securely. I ensure all client requests for privacy are met, including non-disclosure agreements when required.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends in architectural photography?

I continuously educate myself on the latest trends and technologies in architectural photography through professional workshops, seminars, and collaborations with industry experts. This commitment to ongoing learning ensures that I bring fresh perspectives and innovative techniques to every project.

How do you determine the pricing for a project?

Pricing is determined based on a number of factors, including the number of images needed, complexity of the project, location, etc. I price using an industry standard model of charging a ‘creative fee’, plus per-image licensing & post-production fee, plus travel and additional expenses when applicable.

As a guide, I have completed jobs priced from $1,700 - $21,000 in recent months, with the average project costing between $2,000 - $4,000 for photography, and $3,500 - $7,000 for video projects.

How far out are you typically booked?

This can vary depending on the time of year and the weather. In a perfect world, we would have 2-4 weeks lead time for bookings though. This allows adequate time to put together the optimal strategy for executing your vision. However, if you are prepared to put down your booking deposit, scout the location, and have the space ready, it may be possible to shoot a space a few days from now.

Feel excited and empowered to present your work for publication.

Use the button below to schedule your free portfolio review and strategy session.