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Frequent Questions

Who is BKB & Co?

Why should we choose BKB & CO.

There are many talented Boston wedding photographers and cinematographers that you may also be considering for your big day. We believe what sets BKB & CO. apart from everyone else is our education, dedication, product and superior customer service. Additionally, the BKB team of photographers and cinematographers hold a college education in the field of photography and cinema capture and are committed to your wedding capture and your wedding experience.

Brittany, our Creative Founder and lead photographer is proud to hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from The Art institute of Boston at Lesley University. She also attended The New England School of Photography. However, even with such quality training, there is no better teacher than experience, right? Brittany has been immersed in the local wedding industry for over a decade and captured hundreds of weddings all over New England and beyond. She is well-respected within the industry and is often called upon to speaking segments. Watch a video here featuring Brittany speaking for The Knot Magazine XO Publications.

Brittany is also recent bride, and knows you are just dying to see your pictures/video and committed to getting them to you within weeks of your wedding. We promise that hiring BKB & CO. will be one of the best decisions you make during your planning process!

Who is the BKB & CO. team?

We’re glad you asked! A wonderful group of wedding professionals who work exclusively with BKB. Read about them here.

What is your experience as a wedding/event photographer?

BKB & CO. is a full-time wedding photography and video production studio, capturing hundreds of weddings all over New England and beyond. BKB has been a fixture in the Boston-area wedding industry for 15 years. The wedding celebrations photographed are diverse: Catholic, Jewish, Episcopalian, non-denominational Christian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Indian, Greek, Lebanese, Irish, Armenian, Muslim, same-sex, and non-religious ceremonies. We’re eager to learn all about the customs and traditions surrounding your union.

Why should we hire a professional photographer?

Read an article featuring BKB & CO. published by Boston Magazine, here.

Do you have another job?

No. We are all full-time professional photographers and filmmakers. You may contact the studio at anytime to connect about your wedding or event. 

Do you photograph and film only weddings?

Weddings are our primary focus.

However, we have also photographed and filmed events such as birthday parties, engagement parties, and captured event photography and portraits including clients Top Chef BRAVO series events, Shark Tank's Damond John, Actress Keisha Nash Whitaker, Celebrity Wedding Planner Bryan Rafanelli, Boston Bruins Derek Sanderson, Saint Louis Bread Co. Panera Bread, The Hyatt Hotel, The Lenox Hotel Boston, The Fairmont Hotels and The Catered Affair.

Inquire about event pricing.

How would you describe your photography style?

The studio’s work has been described as “Creative, editorial style with photojournalistic flair” photography, focusing on portraits, details and casual candids surrounding the event. Every wedding is captured as if it were going to be featured in a wedding magazine or wedding blog.

 
Who is BKB?

The studio has been in demand since 2002 and we decided in 2013 to partner with some incredible talent in the area. Our associate photographers and video division have personally worked with owner and lead photographer Brittany K. Blando to ensure their photographic style and filming matches the studio expectation. BKB clients have raved about personalized service, wedding coverage and of course their beautiful imagery/footage. Watch our video testimonials to see our happy client reviews

What do you wear to a wedding?

Professional attire is a must while capturing events, we wear black suit, BKB company logo black dress shirt, black pants and black shoes. Wearing all black allows us to blend into the background and capture your day as inconspicuously as possible and attire is cohesive.

Do you pose your photos? 

Yes, of course. Any photographer who tells you they don’t pose their photos is misleading you. As a professional photographer it is our job to articulate and capture you in the most flattering way. We have spent years and years education training on posing techniques and have a simple system that works for our couples and their families. But don’t worry! There will also be plenty of magical candid moments that are captured! The best shots are frequently the ones where you are having too much fun to pose!

Do you consider your work photojournalistic?

The term, “photojournalism” is thrown around in the wedding industry a lot these days. Our work has been described as "editorial style with photojournalistic flair." Our work is clean, crisp and colorful and has intent behind it. Certainly candid moments will be captured.

Do you have a Pinterest account?

Yes! We’re slightly obsessed with pinning! We host a Pinterest account to assist you during the planning process, pin ideas for decor, photos & more! Importantly, if you want to create a Pinterest board and submit it to BKB with your photo ideas, go for it! We recommend sending your Pinterest board to us about 14 days from your wedding for us to review.

What venues have you captured at? 

We have captured hundreds of weddings throughout the U.S. and in the Caribbean. Below is a list of some of our favorite local venues: State Room, Chatham Bars Inn, Ocean Edge Cape Cod, The Hyatt Harborside at Logan, Hyatt Boston Harbor Hotel, Tupper Manor at Endicott College, The Boston Park Plaza, The Intercontinental Boston, The International Golf Club, Turner Hills Mansion, Hamilton Hall Salem, Boston Public Library wedding, The Boston Harbor Hotel, The Seaport Hotel, The Four Seasons, The Lenox Hotel, Moraine Farm Estate, The Crane Estate, The Westin Waterfront, The Fairmont Copley, The Omni Parker House, The Harvard Club, The Boston College Club, Alden Mansion, The Salem Waterfront Hotel, Salem Country Club, Wellesley Country Club, The Eastern Yacht Club of Marblehead, The Commandant’s House, The Hyatt Regency Cambridge, Misselwood Beverly, Cruiseport Gloucester, The Hampshire House, The Seaport World Trade Center, The Liberty Hotel, Charter Oak Country Club, Odyssey Cruises, Hotel Nine Zero, Gore Place, Topsfield Commons, The Boston Public Library, The Neighborhood Club of Quincy, Lakeview Pavilion, The Boston Yacht Club, The Royal Sonesta, The Yale Club, The Castle at Boston University, BU Marsh Chapel, The The Wheatleigh Hotel,  The Sapphire Estate in Sharon, The Warren Conference Center & Inn, The Arabian Horse Inn, The Algonquin Club of Boston, The Boston University Castle, The Colonnade Hotel, Granite Links Country Club, The Hawthorne Hotel, Lars Anderson Automobile Museum, The Exchange Conference Center, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Bell Mer Newport, Hotel Viking Newport, Mount Hope Farm Bristol RI, The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls Meredith, New Hampshire, Wentworth by the Sea, The Science Center New Hampshire, International Golf Club, Wollaston Golf Club, The Harvard Faculty Club, The Bedford Village Inn, Fairmont Battery Wharf, Commanders Mansion Watertown, District Lounge Boston, Crowne Plaza Rhode Island, Double Tree Bedford, Lord Thompson Manor, Turner Hill, The Custom House by Marriott, The New England Aquarium, Roger Williams Botanical Gardens, The Harvard Faculty Club, The Harvard Club of Boston downtown, Longwood Events, Wychmere Cape Cod, Hamilton Hall Salem, MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and numerous private tented weddings throughout New England. Whether your nuptials are taking place on a beach, in a grand ballroom or your own backyard, BKB will capture your special day with classic style. If you don’t see your venue on this list, don’t fret! You can be assured that we will familiarize ourselves with the venue prior to your arrival and your photos will be captured beautifully.

Have you photographed same-sex weddings in Massachusetts?

We had been honored to photograph many same-sex weddings from Boston to Cape Cod. Please visit our press section to see one of the first same-sex weddings published nationally in La Bella Bride Magazine in 2008.

As a team that captures love, we're thrilled, The Supreme Court delivered a historic victory for gay rights in 2015. Love is love after all! We have the best job in the world to be able to document a couples' family history.

Booking

Where is BKB & CO. located?

BKB & CO. headquarters are located at 213 Newbury Street, second floor in Boston, Massachusetts, by appointment only.

Do customers book you via phone and email?

Yes! 90% of our customers book the studio via phone or online. That being said, our Owner/Creative Founder, Brittany is always happy to meet with you, in person, at any time throughout your wedding planning.

How can I book you for our wedding?

Please use the “Contact” link in the menu at the top of this website. Once the studio receive your request, we will promptly let you know my availability and send you additional information on packages and pricing. A retainer made by credit card or check along with a signed electronic contract reserves your wedding date. We also keep regular office hours to meet with clients and am available to speak over the phone on week days.

While most of BKB clients are in New England, we frequently work with couples who are planning their weddings remotely. You are welcome to contact us at any time during your planning process with questions or concerns, we’re here to assist you.

 
How far in advance should I book you?

You should plan to book a photographer and videographer 3-12 months before the wedding date. That being said, in the past, we have been able to accommodate couples whose weddings fall outside of that timeframe. So, if your wedding is weeks or years away, please contact us to discuss availability!

Do you charge travel fees for Cape Cod & the Islands weddings?

For weddings taking place on Cape Cod, Provincetown, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, ferry fees and lodging fees may apply, based on wedding times. During peak season we require lodging the night before your wedding in order to account for heavy traffic and ensure timely arrival.

Do you travel outside of Massachusetts?

We have traveled throughout New England and beyond. Weddings outside of Boston metro will require a travel fee, airline fee and lodging.

Engagement Sessions, Rehearsal Dinners & Extra Coverage

Do you offer pre-wedding, rehearsal dinner or post wedding coverage? 

Yes. We have photographed many pre-wedding celebrations, rehearsal dinners and brunch celebrations throughout the years and we love capturing the anticipation of the bride and groom and the excitement of all the guests and family members!

Are engagement sessions necessary?

Engagement sessions are definitely not required, but are encouraged!

We offer several variations of photo shoots. The benefits of an engagement session are as follows: 1). It gives the couple and photographer a chance to get to know each other and get comfortable with the process prior to the main event. 2.) Many couples choose to use one or more of their engagement photos as part of their "Save The Date" announcement. Many couples also display some of the photos at the wedding reception or rehearsal dinner. 3.) It’s just nice to have some really beautiful, yet fun and casual images of you as a couple! Engagement sessions take place in and around the Boston-area. Although not required, professionally styled hair and make-up is recommended. Your final professionally edited photos will include images (depending on your type of engagement session) at your password protected website ready to view, purchase digital files, prints or download images. 

 

Preparing For Your Wedding

Will you help us create a wedding timeline?

Of course! Approximately one month prior to your wedding, the studio will send you a schedule to fill out for your photo and video services. There, you will re-confirm your ceremony, reception and photo locations, point of contact, vendors, etc. From there we will create a schedule to make sure everyone is coordinated and on the same-page. In-person meetings are welcome at our Newbury Street office.

Do I need getting ready photos? 

That’s up to you! Getting ready photos consist of detail shots of the bridal gown and accessories (shoes, jewelry, etc.), hair and make-up application, groom getting ready and pre-ceremony time with your friends and family. If you prefer to nix getting ready photos and utilize your coverage differently, that is fine. We can work together on a start time that fits your needs.

We are thinking about doing a “first look” session. Do you recommend it?

Yes. A first look is when the couple meets prior to the ceremony to share an intimate and emotional “first look” at each other before the big walk down the aisle. Of course, for logistical purposes, you should choose a location that is nearby your ceremony. Because it is such an emotional moment, we prefer to capture a first look simply and quietly. We usually ask that the family and bridal party stand back and allow the bride and groom the share a private moment before we get started on the formal bridal portraits. Depending on the time of year, a first look can be key to capturing outdoor photos. If you are getting married in the late afternoon or evening during the fall or winter season and outdoor photos are important to you, a first look should be considered.

We would like to stop at a second location, like the Boston Public Garden, in between our ceremony and reception for photographs. How much time do you need?

In situations like this, we prefer to travel with the bridal party and family so that I am not double parking, or worse, holding you up while we find a legal parking spot! We would need approximately 30 minutes at the desired photo location and another 15 minutes in travel time to the venue.

Please note, a permit for the Boston Public Gardens is required. You may search City Of Boston link here to read more.

I’m getting married 10 minutes from Boston, and my transportation company says it will only take a few minutes to drive to our ceremony site. Do you recommend we allot for more travel time?

Definitely! Not only should you take traffic into consideration, you must allow extra time for herding up your entire family and bridal party and getting everyone onto a shuttle or limo, or whatever! If your transportation company says it will take 10-15 minutes to get from point A to B, allow at least 30-45 minutes.

 
We like your photography style but would like to have traditional portraits as well. Is this something you do?

Yes. Traditional family portraits are an important part of your wedding and family record. We keep your posing simple and natural to expedite the process. Please feel free to draft a list of the portraits that you would like captured.

My parents want “table shots” is this something you do?

We do not usually take “table shots” during the reception. We do, however, take photos of individual couples sitting together or groups mingling prior to dinner service. If large group table shots are a must-have, let’s discuss. We’re always available to discuss any and all image requests.

I would like to request a group photo of extended family or friends. Is this something you can do for us? When should we take the photo?

Of course! Your wedding celebration is one of the few times that all of your close friends and family will be in the same place. If a large group photo is on your must-have list, please let me know prior to the wedding day so that we can scout the perfect location. Typically, we recommend asking the band or DJ to announce when and where the photo will take place or to allot the time prior to reception festivities, that way you are able to mingle and dance the night away with your guests without breaking up the flow of the evening.

We are hosting a tent wedding. What kind of light is needed?

Ample lighting in a tent is a must-have. A well-lit tent makes an enormous difference when it comes to photos…and safety!  Hire a lighting company or ask your entertainment vendor/venue if they offer up-lighting services. Up-lighting adds elegance to your venue and dramatic flair to your photos. If you are thinking about paper lanterns in your tent, we highly recommend white or off-white lanterns, as they spread the light more evenly.

Day of the Wedding

What is a bridal stylist?

BKB's bridal stylist will work alongside the BKB team to ensure any issues that may come up over the course of a wedding are resolved quickly, efficiently, and stress-free for the couple. A "day-of assistant" if you will, our stylist will handle many logistics that can sometimes overwhelm a couple or be a distraction on such a milestone day. For instance, she will distribute and pin boutonnieres and corsages, adjust your bridal gown for wedding photos, help keep the wedding day timeline on schedule, gather important individuals for photos, bustle your gown and of course, carry your favorite lipstick so you will always have it on hand throughout the day. Logistics aside, she will also be there to hold your hand and give you a shoulder to rely on. Read more about our Bridal Stylist here.

How do you handle inclement weather on a wedding day?

We make the best of it! Let’s be realistic, New England weather changes by the minute! We have encountered all weather situations from blizzards (remember Nemo in 2013?) to hurricanes to simple, annoying drizzle. We urge you to ALWAYS have a firm back-up plan, especially if you are planning an outdoor wedding. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Pay close attention to the weather and, seven days out, if there is even a hint of rain in the forecast, purchase a pair of rain boots and a colorful umbrellas for your bridal party. Not only are they functional, but they make super great props for photos!!

How do you handle city based events such as parades, concerts, marathons, red sox games etc.?

The client is responsible for notification of events to the studio, such as a parade that may interrupt travel logistics etc. to ensure a travel route is in place for photographer and video teams. 

 

Our church or temple does not allow flash photography/videography, what do you do to ensure our ceremony is captured?

Most professional cameras, video cameras, including ours, are designed to be able to capture photos in low light situations. We always respect the wishes of religious venues and we will do our best to follow the rules.

 
How long does it take you to do portraits of the couple, their families, wedding party and our photos?

We style shots very simply because, we think, it makes for a better a photo and uses up less time! It usually takes approximately one hour.

We have divorced parents and/or other unsettled family dynamics. How do you deal with this on our wedding day?

Please don’t stress over it, fill us in on any details surrounding your family dynamics so that we can ensure that everyone is comfortable during the photo session.

My Groom-to-be isn’t comfortable getting his photo taken. How can we get him to loosen up?

Don’t worry! We’ll handle it. We’re used to working with photo-reluctant grooms. Our formula is to allow him to take it easy; keep it simple and quick and not place any emphasis on being photographed. Many couples feel that an engagement shoot, prior to the wedding, eases a bit of the tension that the groom feels about being photographed.

How do you make your brides and grooms comfortable during their wedding day?

We’ve been there and understand the intense mix of emotions that you are feeling! We all strive to keep the vibe upbeat and relaxed. And we’re there to help with dress fluffing and last minute breathing exercises, if you need them! We will put your needs first and execute as a professional.

Your Photos

Do you shoot RAW or JPG? What is the difference? 

As professional wedding photographers, we only shoot RAW. In simple terms, shooting RAW means that an image will be captured at the highest resolution possible and will not be compressed. RAW files are huge in size, but maintain incredibly fine detail. This allows us to later manipulate the photograph and process as necessary. Once your photos are processed and completed, I will export the RAW files as hi-resolution JPG’s, allowing you to make prints from your high resolution files.

Many wedding photographers shoot only in JPG format. Shooting in a JPG format at the time of capture does not allow for the same depth of detail to be captured. And since you have put so much thought into all the amazing details of your day, we feel strongly that shooting RAW is the only way to go when it comes to wedding photography.

What is the difference between low resolution discs and high resolution files?

For starters, we do not offer low resolution files or discs. Low resolution files are appropriate for web use only, and not for making prints. Therefore, we only offer high resolution files, so that my customers have the ability to make prints (of any size) from the files and you and your guests can download photos.

Do you retouch photos?

Of course! As a professional photographer it is our job to make sure your photos look flawless. All images in your gallery have been color corrected by hand. Any photographs placed in your albums or media features are retouched for lines, wrinkles, blemishes, shadows, etc. Photos that require substantial retouching (opening eyes, removing an object, etc.) are subject to additional fees. 

When will our wedding/event photos be ready?

Your digital proofs will be ready to view via an online gallery within 3-6 weeks of your wedding date. Your high resolution files will be available by direct download at a password protected website.

Do you post a stamp mark on our photos online? 

Only on facebook or social media, this allows our followers or future clients to find our website. Your password protected gallery will not have any BKB logo stamping on your photos, your photos will be ready for direct download at the time of viewing your gallery.

 
Is anyone allowed to download our photos?

We do not give out your password, even if a guest calls the studio. Weddings are personal, it is up to you if you would like to release your password. Images presented at your password protected gallery are available to anyone with access to download.

Please note, if a vendor ie. If your florist, wedding planner, lighting designer, make up artists asks you the client for images, please have them contact the studio directly as we do not allow vendors to download photos without the understanding small fee may be required by the studio, that the vendor would be responsible for.

Do we receive printed proofs and can we purchase professional prints?

We do not offer printed proofs. All of your wedding photos are hosted online, via a password protected website. There you can view a your photos in a collage format in large photos or as a slide show, download high resolution files for free, share your favorites via social media, and purchase affordable prints and products.

Do we own the copyright to our photos and video?

BKB & CO. maintains the copyright of the images/video captured, however, you are welcome to use your photos for your personal use and make as many prints as you like from your hi-res files at any photo lab. However, in the world of social media, it is important to me that our images stay true to my brand and that they are not being altered or retouched on phone applications, ie. filters or via non-professional Photoshop techniques on Instagram. If you hold a Facebook account, let us know and the studio will provide you with images with our logo stamped for you to showcase at your personal social media site. 

Do you offer flash drives?

Yes, at a rate. Your flash drive will contain all your images on a thumb drive and may be purchased through the studio. You will have access to complimentary direct download at your password protected gallery. A flash drive is important to have for back up reasons.

Wedding Albums

Do you offer wedding albums in your collections?

BKB offers a wide range of package selections, included is your coverage, a large leather album and many include parent albums.

You will find as you do your research BKB offers the most competitive package available in the New England market. Album pricing is affordable. We offer 6x6, 8×8, 10×10, 12×12, 14x14 albums. Albums are priced affordably and includes custom design, basic retouching, leather and shipping.

 
Are your albums custom designed?

Yes. Your wedding album is created specifically for you!

Equipment

What kind of cameras do you use?

Each BKB team member is equipped with several camera bodies, we use professional-level digital cameras and lenses. We work with exclusively Canon professional link, including the 5D Mark 111 series, L series lens, flashes. For video, we work with Canon C100, 5D Mark 111. We always carry back-ups!

 
Do you bring additional lighting equipment?

We work with a mixture of telephoto and fixed lenses. However, churches, temples and many other low-light indoor venues require me to utilize my flash and, possibly some off-camera lighting. During winter weddings we often use flash to capture indoor/outdoor portraits.

Videography

We noticed you offer videography, can you tell us more about it?

You can absolutely add video coverage to your wedding package, in fact we recommend it! Our video and photo team work seamlessly together. Reserve your photography and videography together and BKB can provide you with a 5% reduction. 

How would you describe your videography style?

Our videos are captured using the Canon C100, DSLR Canon professional cameras, the same camera used to film major movies and reality TV shows, allowing our footage to be captured like a movie. We also use top of the line equipment including sliders, gliders, drones to capture unbelievable angles and perspective. Our cinematic style offers a clean, crisp perspective showcasing your unique story.

Why should we hire a professional videographer/cinematographer?

Read an article featuring BKB & CO. cinema published by Boston Magazine, here. Read more about our team here and check out their work here.

 
Do you pose video footage?

No. Video capture is meant to see movement and create a cinematic moment.

How much does video cost?

The studio offers several video packages to fit any budget. Purchase your videography and photography together and we are able to offer you a rate reduction of 5% in your package.

Other

We have seen your weddings featured in many bridal magazines and blogs. How can we be considered? OR can we opt out?

Thank you for noticing! Our work has been featured in top wedding publications such as The Knot Magazine, BRIDES National Magazine and Grace Ormonde Wedding Style Magazine. We have also been featured on top wedding blogs, such as, Style Me Pretty. It’s always an honor to see our work published in such upscale and well-respected media outlets.

Whether an editor seeks out our work for review or we submit a wedding to them for consideration, BKB has no control over which images will be selected to run, if any of them. It is up to the editor to select which photos fit their needs. Editors typically look for inspirational details that represent current trends, traditional elements, cultural elements, etc. So, in a nutshell, the key to a publishable wedding is to have a lot of fabulous details! Think outside the box on your décor, including the centerpieces, linens, seating card/chart, etc.

Your wedding is a private event and the studio will always ask your permission before we submit any photos for editorial use. If you decide that you would like your photos to remain private, we fully understand and will respect your wishes.

Do you offer discounts for off-season weddings?

Yes! Get in touch and we will provide you with a custom quote. 

Do you offer a discount if we pay in full?

Yes! The studio will happily provide a discount to clients who prepay for our services in full. 

 
We were referred to you by a former client/vendor/venue do you offer an incentive at sign up?

Yes. During contract signing, please let us know who referred you so that we may send them a proper thank-you! And, as for you, you will also receive a referral perk!

Where are you located? Is parking available on location?

The studio is based at 213 Newbury St, 2F, Boston, MA 02116. On-street parking is available and there are many public parking lots throughout the Back Bay, Boston area. You are also welcome to valet your car at The Lenox Hotel at 65 Exeter Street, mention BKB 213 "neighborhood rate" and receive your exclusive rate of $18 parking all day.