Thank you for visiting Boxcar Photography. I am pleased that you have made your way here. This website will showcase a little about the business as well as give you information to utilize. To view recent work, please feel free to check out my blog, or to view older portfolio work, check out the gallery. Boxcar Photography is a wedding photography business based out of La Crosse and Onalaska, WI. We primarily offer wedding photography and videography, but we are also willing to shoot lifestyle sessions, family, and children portraits. Please contact me if you would like to book a session.

 

Click Below to Download

Contract | Packages | Shotlist

Why go Pro you ask?

Getting a Professional photographer is the second largest cost next to your Venue and Catering. You are going to look stunning, people are going to be in tears and out of breath by your beauty, but who will be there to capture all of this? Aunt Jane has a good digital camera, but does she know how to use it? Uncle Jimmy can hold a camera, but does he know how to edit photos and video? These are a few reasons why you decide to hire a Professional. You will get stunning results for the amount of money you put into it.

Professionals utilize cameras, lenses, lights, and software to present your work. They know to show up on time, take clear and precise photos, and deal with situations in a timely manner. Many people think that they can take pictures, but a professional has dealt with enough weddings to work around any last minute changes. What if you decide to dash for a quick kiss with your husband, and the moment was over in an instant? To a professional, it's a matter of two clicks.. and snap, the photo is ready. Most amateurs will miss the moment.

How to pick a Photographer

Photography is both an art and a profession. When you pay for a photographer, you are paying for his time, artistry, and final product. There are many different styles of photography and videography. I shoot photos with a very photo journalistic feel. I capture not only formals, but also candids and details. Each wedding is different and should be treated like that. As for videography, it is actually called cinematography or documentary. I mix in voice overs, and music to express your day better. I hope you enjoy my portfolio as you browse the site.

What makes a good photo?

When looking at photos look at the lighting, the color, composition and focus.

What is a good cost for a photographer?

Finding the right photographer is looking at their product and deciding if your budget can allow for what you want.  Photography is not a commodity. Making sure you have a solid photographer is a necessity.

How many edited photos can be expected?

Although most photographers do not guarantee the amount of edited photos, the average runs anywhere between 300-700, although I tend to have a higher count depending on the day. The reason photographers don’t give an exact amount is because it depends on hours booked and how cooperative the subjects are.

Why are photographers so expensive?

All professional photographers have a high equipment cost, each lens costs between $1500-$2600…and up.  And if you’re fully equipped you have multiple lenses. On top of that professionals realize the importance of paying taxes.  This accounts for approximately 25-30% of your total cost.  After your wedding day the photographer will spend days to edit your photos…and for video it tends to take a lot longer. The list goes on with other expenses, and upkeep costs.

Engagements

Engagement shoots are a way to get to know each other. Each couple is unique in their own way, and by being able to get a feel for you, I am able to understand how to capture you best.

What's expected?

A relaxed and natural enviornment. We will roam around your chosen venues taking various posed and candid shots. Each session usually lasts between about an hour and at most two hours, depending on how many outfits and locations you choose. Usually I recommend 3-5 outfits and 1-3 locations.

I recommend wearing a nice top, like a dress shirt with jeans. Think business causal. Dress to your scenery...match colors...complement each other. I am always willing to give a little consulting before the shoot.

Bring props! Think of anything you share...a pet, a special momento, etc.

Weddings

It's your day. The one big occassion where all eyes are going to be on you. And your photographer is the one you depend on to capture that day. On your wedding day, expect to be picked at, primped, and propped to make sure that your day goes perfectly. You should not need to worry about one of the biggest things in your event.

So what should I look for in a photographer?

Style. If you like the photographer's style, then find out if your date is open and how much it will cost. I personally mix posed and photojournalistic photos. All final edited photos go onto a disc for you to print out at your leisure.

Do you travel?

Is that a question???  YES!  I love to travel. From in the states to a Destination wedding.  The fact is that you will spend significantly more money hiring a photographer in a larger city because of their upkeep costs.  You can save so much more money by finding a trusted small city photographer that has the same talent and product.

Do you archive?

Yes.  I backup all photos to an external hardrive.

Do you allow others to take picture too?

Of course, I will however ask that during formals everyone be focused on me as that tends to take longer than need be.  If there is an issue with a family friend taking pictures I will mention it to you and allow you to assist to help your day go more smoothly.

Do you provide a second photographer or assistant?

Yes, Please inquire about pricing for a second photographer.  I also tend to bring a assistant along, however it is not guaranteed.

Should we feed you?

Please!  This is one of the nicest things for you to do.  It will allow so I do not have to leave to find something to eat.  Also I request that you allow us to eat when you eat.  This allows for more potential pictures to be produced.

The following are a few things I offer:

Wedding Photography

Wedding Videography

Wedding Cinematography

Wedding Documentary

Event Photography

Event Videography

Commercial Production

Wedding Albums, Prints, Gallery Wraps, and Pre-downloaded iPads.

As for Photography, I provide all of the edited photos on a CD/DVD for you to print off wherever you would like.

For videography I offer High Definition Video DVD

A typical wedding day should be as follows:

-Posed shots with the bride's and groom's side of the family separately approximately 90 minutes before the ceremony

-Be out of the sanctuary approximately 30 min before the wedding

-After your ceremony, expect approximately 30 minutes for the receiving line

-Plan out at least 30 min for formal shots of the wedding party

-After that, please allow 1 to 2 hours for both fun wedding party shots and romantic photos with just the two of you. Time scheduled for this depends on time spent on traveling.

-And finally, allow 20 to 30 min after dinner for night or sunset shots

How much do you cost?

My prices and packages range. The average wedding is $1500 and up. It all depends on what additional services you want for your day. Please call for all price inquiries for a custom price package.

What kinds of proofs are provided?

All of your edited photos or video will be provided on DVD for you with authorized print rights to print wherever you would like.

How long does it take to get photos back?

Usually 4-6 weeks; however so far I have gotten the photos back to my clients within a week.  For video it does take longer, usually expect within 8 weeks, however this may take longer because of the workload it takes to produce.  Most see a turn around of about 3 weeks.  Same day or weekend edits can be provided at an additional cost.

Do you charge for editing?

The simple answer...No! I feel editing is part of the photographer's job.  I edit all of my photos using only the best professional equipment from Adobe.  I will not “shun” you if you ask for some in black and white or sepia in certain situations. I do all editing with utmost importance and dedication.

Do you Charge tax?

All Pricing and Packages are subject to Wisconsin 5.5% sales tax.