Hello friends!
In the past 24 hours especially,
I have had a few clients reach out with questions about
canceling and/or postponing their photography plans with me.
So I  wanted to take some time and address some common questions and concerns.
To let you all know what my plan of action is for 2020.

First off, COVID-19 was not in my plans for this new year
and I'm sure it wasn't in yours either.
Yet, here we are.
We are all being inundated with emails and breaking news.
Fear and panic are affecting so many of us.
In the midst of this chaos, I'm truly hoping to be a source of calm for you.
I want to allay some of your concerns
and to answer as many questions as you have for me.
I will endeavor to be understanding and accommodating at this time
as we all try to navigate these unknown waters together.

I am doing my best to stay alert to all updates and recommendations
both locally and on the national level.
And I am taking all the precautions I can, to personally remain healthy
so I can avoid catching or spreading this virus to others.

1) I am going to work with you on rescheduling or postponements.
I realize that there is a lot that is out of your control and mine at the moment.
Don't worry! We will figure things out together.

2) I will thoroughly wash my hands before every wedding/photo session.
I will avoid touching my face and carry hand sanitizer with me.
Let me know if you need a squirt!

3) I won't shake your hand or hug you, which is hard for us Italians!
But, I feel like I have seen enough episodes of The Office
to have mastered the Jim and Pam "air high five" from across the room by now.

4) I have lenses that allow me to keep a distance from you
and still capture intimate moments.
The current recommendations is a minimum of 3 feet.
I am perfectly comfortable with that.

5) If you would feel more at ease, I can totally rock a face mask
while photographing your wedding/session.

6) I am happy to offer FaceTime meetings to interested couples
in lieu of in-person meet and greets.

7) I will always be completely transparent with you about my own health
and where and when I plan on traveling.

8) Lucky for you, when I'm not working I'm a virtual recluse.
I rarely mix in public, let alone large crowds.
​This is not likely to change.

1) Don't panic! Remember, we're all in this together.

2) Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds.
Do not touch your face.

3) If you're feeling sick, stay home. Don't expose others.
No appointment or plans are worth the risk right now.

4) If you are getting married and have event insurance,
understand that Coronavirus may not fall under your coverage.
Be proactive and find out what is and is not included ahead of time.

5) If you are getting married, clearly communicate with your guests
as to what precautions you are taking at your wedding to protect them
and what you would like in return from them.
(Is hand sanitizer considered a tacky wedding favor? LOL
​Not right now, it's not.)
Please inform those who are sick or exhibiting symptoms to kindly stay home.

6) Consider live streaming your nuptials for those who are most at risk.
So that they can still be a part of your special day,
even if they can't personally attend.
Or hire a videographer to share the day with them at a later time.

7) If you are thinking of postponing or rescheduling,
let all your wedding vendors know now.
2020 is already looking like a financially difficult year
for many of us in the service industry.
This is our livelihood, this is how we feed our families
and how we would buy TP, if the stores had any.
We want to work with you, but we need communication in order to help.
Don't wait and cancel at the last moment.

8) Be flexible with your wedding plans.
Some of my favorite events are smaller, more intimate affairs.
You can still have a stunning and memorable day
with just a few special people by your side.

9) Be respectful and kind.
It's normal to be scared.
To worry about health, the economy, the future.
Remember, we're more alike than we are different.
Let's try to be considerate and neighborly.

I want you to know that I get it and I am here for you.
If you want to postpone your wedding because you or your loved ones are sick,
your venue and/or the government has restricted you,
or you're just plain scared,
rest assured that your paid retainer will 100% transfer to a new date.
Let me know as soon as possible, so I can mark the date.

If I am already booked on the new date that you choose,
I will return 50% of your non-refundable retainer
​and assist you in finding a new photographer
with a similar style to myself.
If I can re-book your original date, I will return the only half of your retainer.

If you feel that you need to cancel your wedding entirely,
please know that I feel for you.
I know it cannot be an easy decision and I want to give you options.

I can either give you 50% of your non-refundable retainer back, 
with the rest refunded if I am able to re-book your original date.
Or, I can offer you an elopement package.
Just the two of you and myself, or a very limited guest list.
I have shot so many elopements and small weddings in the past decade
and I can attest to the fact that they are some of the most
beautiful and intimate affairs.
I'm here to work with you,
so just let me know if you need help with anything!

If I become sick before your wedding,
or feel any symptoms whatsoever,
understand that I will be completely upfront with you.
I will notify you immediately and help to find you a replacement photographer.
We can chat more about options,
should this situation arise.
Communication is key right now.

I have already canceled my spring mini sessions
and will be contacting the families who already signed up and paid for a session,
if I have not already done so.

Photo sessions are much easier to postpone and/or cancel
than a wedding or large event would be.
Please let me know if you aren't comfortable keeping your session date
and we will work something out.

If you are feeling sick or exhibiting any symptoms,
let's just delay friends.
It's better to be safe than sorry!
My business is taking a huge hit right now,
but I care about all of you.
I want to keep both yours and my own family safe and healthy.

If anyone has any other questions,
please feel free to reach out to me.
You can use the contact page HERE
or email me directly at Paige@PaigeEverson.com

Here are some resources for the most updated information regarding Covid-19,
​both national and locally.

I would also like to thank Katy Weaver
at KatyWeaver.com
for creating this template
and allowing other photographers to use it
by putting it into our own words.
Very much appreciated!

Lindsey & Patrick were the winners of this year's
engagement session giveaway.
We met up this weekend on a chilly,
but sunny morning at Erie Canal Park in Camillus.
They brought their sweet little girl and
we were able to get a few family pics,
then engagement photos for the rest of their session.

The images turned out so sweet and playful.
I really love them.
It was wonderful meeting this beautiful family!
And I wish them every happiness in their future!

Here is their sneak peek . . .

I'm always so curious with how people find me.
It's such an honor to be chosen as someone's photographer
for one of the most important days of their lives.
Being that there are so many options out there
it's humbling when a couple sees your value.
Maybe even more special, when it's a fellow artist.

One of the coolest things that's happened to me
several times over the past decade
is when someone remembers you from years earlier.

I worked with Jeffrey at a wedding over five years ago.
He was the videographer and I was the photographer.
That was it, he remembered me and my work from that one experience.
I had no clue I had even made an impression.

Then, when I met him again,
this time with his fiancé Jillian
we just clicked.
I loved their story and their connection.
We laughed a lot at their meet and greet.
Jillian is so down-to-earth and fun!
I knew right then and there that their wedding
was going to be a blast.
I literally can't wait!

That feeling carried over when
yesterday, I photographed their winter wonderland
engagement session at Highland Forest in Fabius.
It was just relaxed and genuine.
They fit so perfectly together, it made my job so much easier.

Thank you to the future Mr. & Mrs. Newell!
I am so excited to share your wedding day with you.
I hope you love your engagement session sneak peek!!

To book your own couple's or engagement session,
contact me HERE.
To see my engagement gallery and pricing,
​click HERE.
>>>   <<<

Well friends, I can hardly believe
another year has come and gone.
We've created so many incredible memories together,
you and I.
Every year when I reflect on what I get to do for a living
I am once again reminded,
that I could never do this job
without all the wonderfully supportive clients and friends
I have acquired over the years.
You are all special to me in unique ways.

Thank you for believing in me!
For trusting me with all your irreplaceable moments.
Life in this world is fast and fleeting.
I am so honored you have chosen me
to slow it down a bit.

It may seem like I'm only capturing memories for you.
But I remember each and every session,
wedding and life event.
My memories are wrapped up in yours.
We have laughed together,
told each other stories.
I've acted a fool getting your children to smile,
gotten lost on precarious wooded trails
with your high school seniors,
cried during emotional wedding speeches at your receptions.
Holding your babies, after the loss of my own
was cathartic.
And traveling out of state for your
weddings and elopements
fulfilled some wanderlust in this old boring lady.
Your memories are a great part of my memories, too
and I can't say thank you enough!

Farewell 2019,
see you all in the new year!

To book a session or wedding
with me in 2020
contact me HERE

Let's do this thing!

>>>   <<<

Oh, Finny!
My sweet, sweet boy.
Who loves music and cuddles
and rocking in the chair.
You've never met a truck, dinosaur or robot
you didn't like.
You're two now
and climbing on everything
that doesn't move.
And even a few things that do.
(Sorry Early Mae)
You're still a complainer
about so many things in life, lol.
And you're definitely not a fan of napping.
But your giggle steals away my breath.
Your love for your sissy
makes my whole world complete.
And the fact that you'll eat just about anything I serve,
makes Mama do a happy dance!

I hear a lot of parents speak of their kids and say
"I can't imagine life without you."
Well, I can imagine life without you.
In fact, I had to, for a very long time.
And it was like a missing puzzle piece
that ached in my soul.
But you're ours now
and the past two years have made us whole.
You were the piece
that gave me peace.

I love you Baby Mine
So far, so deep and so wide.

​Mama

>>>   <<<

Emily found me on social media.
She contacted me for engagement and wedding photography.
We agreed to meet up in NYC, where she and Connor now live.
We had a blast walking the streets of Brooklyn together.
These two have been with each other for five years,
but still seem so newly in love.
They have the cutest story
and I am so excited I get to have a part in documenting it!

Congratulations on your engagement
Emily & Connor!
​Here is your  sneak peek...

>>>   <<<

Kat and Brandon had such a romantic
engagement session.
We went to all the places that have held 
special meaning to their relationship,
including the spot where Brandon proposed!
It was a beautiful fall day,
a little chilly, but lovely.
These images have me so excited
for their wedding next year!

​Here is their sneak peek...

>>>   <<<

This session went so fast and smooth
because these kids are so fantastic!
The lighting was perfection just as I pulled up
so we quickly hustled them outside to catch that
gorgeous golden hour glow.
They were ON from minute one.
Although I do have to apologize to Mama
for making the kids say poop, butt and boogers, lol.
I play to my audience,
what can I say?
Making it work, haha.

Here is their sneak peek...

Tyler is literally THE smartest,
most talented and respectful kid.
I remember him as a small child.
He has really grown into an incredible person.
Plus, he plays the cello y'all!
How cool is that?!
You know what else is pretty cool?
Golden hour!!

Here is Tyler's sneak peek...

Megan and Dalton found me last minute,
when their original photographer had to move out of state unexpectedly.
I'm so glad they did.
No couple comes any more real or genuine.
They were both so laid back and relaxed
for their wedding day.
The entire atmosphere felt light and happy,
not stressful, as can sometimes happen at a wedding.
And their day had so many things I absolutely adore.
A country setting, hay bale seating, a rustic venue
and a whole lot of love.

From their first look
(which they shared with their two babies!! <3)
To their greenhouse reception.
Everything was just..
​Sweet, simple, beautiful.

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Wenzel!
Here is a sneak peek at your happily ever after...

I don't know how I always seem to find
the most beautiful and gracious couples.
Kristina and Ashish were no exception.
Just good people, raised right.

Their concern was for those around them
even on their most special day.
And those around them,
included the sweetest group of friends and family.

Add to that, we had a stunning location
and the loveliest, end of summer, weather.
It was just perfect all the way around.

Congratulations and best wishes to an incredible couple!!
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your story.

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek...

​Click HERE to see my Wedding and Elopement Pricing.
To book your own fine art wedding, contact me HERE.
​>>>   <<<

Allison & Kurt have such a powerful connection.
I saw tears welling up in both their eyes,
more than once throughout their day.
I also saw just how much
they care about one another's feelings.
And how that consideration extended
to those around them as well.

As you can likely guess,
I see a lot of attractive people in my line of work.
This couple definitely fits that bill.
They are obviously physically beautiful human beings.
But more than that, was their kindness and their humor.
It made them so lovely to work with.
It was an absolute honor to be a part of their memories.

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Neidlinger
I hope your laughter lasts forever!!

​Here's your sneak peek...

Click HERE to see my Wedding and Elopement Pricing.
To book your own fine art wedding, contact me HERE.
​>>>   <<<

Venue :: Tailwater Lodge
Wedding Dress :: David's Bridal  
Hair & Make-Up :: Danielle Gaudette and Theresa DeYulio
Groom's Tux :: Via Roma
Bridal Party Attire :: David's Bridal
Wedding Rings :: Hannoush Jewelers
Cake :: Geddes Bakery
DJ :: John Carucci

Having your photo taken is not natural for anyone.
For a teenage boy, it can be downright torture, lol.
I always try to keep my sessions quick, fun and lighthearted.
Alex was a good sport about it.
We laughed throughout the whole session
​and we finished right on time.

The light at Green Lakes was absolutely perfect
for some incredible sun flares.
We ended with a good mix of traditional portraits and artistic shots.
Here is his senior sneak peek...

Interested in a senior session?
Click HERE to see my senior session pricing guide.
Contact me HERE to book your own session!

>>>   <<<

This is the third baby I have photographed
for this genetically blessed family.
And just like her big brother Milo and big sister Leonie,
baby Elowen was an absolute dream!
(Don't they pick the best names?!!)
She slept so well throughout her entire session
and even posed her own hands for me at the end.

This little one is so loved already,
both her siblings were vying for who got to hold her.
I have a feeling all three of them are going to be
best friends for life.

Welcome to the world baby Elowen!
​Here is your official sneak peek...

​To book your own newborn session, contact me HERE
For maternity/newborn STYLIZED or LIFESTYLE session pricing,
​click HERE.
​
​>>>   <<<

What a joy this sweet family is.
Older sister Maisie was just a doll
with her new little brother.
Touching his face and giving him gentle kisses.
And baby Jack was a dream.
He slept through his entire newborn session.
He was re-swaddled three times and never even made a whimper.

I love newborn lifestyle sessions.
They are always so quick and easy
and this one was no exception.
In one hour, we captured so many beautiful moments.
​Here is just a small sneak peek...

To book your own newborn session, contact me HERE
For maternity/newborn STYLIZED or LIFESTYLE session pricing,
​click HERE.
​
​>>>   <<<

I have loved traveling with Michelle and Seth!
We did their super fun baseball themed
engagement session in Cooperstown, NY.
It was snowing in late April!!

I was so excited when I found out their wedding
was going to be on the beach in New Haven.
It definitely did NOT snow.
In fact, the forecast was predicting
"damaging storms with high winds and hail"
for the entire day.
I am happy to report that we had 92 degrees of pure sun.
We shot the first look, bride and groom portraits,
the bridal party and the ceremony all outside.
We finally went inside to start the reception and BAM!!
The beach was hit with what looked like a legit hurricane.
We couldn't have asked for more perfect timing.

To Michelle and Seth,
your day was as lovely as the two of you are.
It was proof that you can weather any storm.
​Congratulations!!! Here's your sneak peek...

Click HERE to see my Wedding and Elopement pricing.
To book your own fine art wedding, contact me HERE.
​>>>   <<<

​Venue :: Anthony's Ocean View & Lighthouse Point Park
Wedding Dress :: Allure (Aleana's Boutique)
Bride's Shoes :: Betsy Johnson Blue
Hair and Make-Up :: Tammy Taylor & Kiss and Make-Up CT
Groom's Tux :: The Black Tux
Bridal Party Attire :: Christina Wu (Atiana's Boutique)
Wedding Rings :: Zoland Jewelers | NYC
Florals :: Fitzgerald Florist
Cake :: Pastry Fusion
Officiant :: Jim Wolan
DJ :: DJ Lion King
Photo Booth :: Super Partyland
Videographer :: Jimmy Pham 

I tell all my wedding couples that unless I'm dead,
I'll be at your wedding. 
That's not just a platitude.
Trust me when I say,
I truly mean it.
This past Friday I had a medical emergency.
I was scared and sad,
but also so worried about disappointing Stephanie and Jim.
I was scheduled to shoot their wedding reception
the following day (yesterday).

I can't fully express in words just how kind
and beautiful this couple is!
I have no doubt in my mind
that if I had needed emergency surgery,
they would have been gracious
and understanding.

Of course, I had last minute
replacement photographers in place,
but thankfully I was able to push through
and do the job.

Although, they never once made it feel like work.
For 8 hours, I was able to escape
any issues I was dealing with
and smile and laugh with these two incredible humans.
Every single staff member at the venue,
the DJ, the kitchen staff, the wait staff
everyone said the same thing...
"This is our absolute favorite couple EVER!"

Is there an antonym for Bridezilla?
That would be Stephanie.
So laid back, so easy to work with.
She didn't stress about rain
or table settings or if a hair was out of place.
And Jim, well he just wanted to make Stephanie happy.

Over and over again I heard him say
"I can't stop smiling."
Well no need my friend.
Stephanie and Jim
your love is so obvious and so genuine.
I wish you every happiness in this world...forever!
Thank you for sharing a part of yourselves with me.

Thank you to 
Mary Beatty Buttolph
Nicole Hiltbrand
and
Traci McLaughlin
who all so generously offered
to step in for me if I couldn't make it.
You are all so talented and I admire your work so much!

Big thanks to my assistant Jamie
who always comes through,
but who also sat with me for hours
and hours and HOURS in the hospital.

Shout out to DJ Knoway with Black Tie Entertainment.
You rock!! Literally.

Lastly, I want to mention Alicia at Hayloft on the Arch.
This lady has her act together!
She will legit watch the forecast.
At the first sign of rain
she comes to pick up the couple in a golf cart
if they are on the other side of the property.
I've been shooting for nine years
and that was a first.
Props to you and your ridiculously
gorgeous venue!

I know you're excited,
so here's your firs​t look at
​Mr. and Mrs. Fredenburg!!

​Click HERE to see my Wedding and Elopement pricing.
To book your own fine art wedding, contact me HERE.
>>>   <<<

Judy and Gary had a very simple ceremony
surrounded by their children
and a few other loved ones.
It was a cool, but lovely day.
They hired me for one hour.
Enough time to photograph their ceremony,
a few family images
and a sweet couple's session.
I think their gallery is so beautiful!
​Congratulations to this sweet pair!!

Click HERE to see my Wedding & Elopement pricing.
To book your own fine art Wedding/Session, contact me HERE.

>>>   <<<

I'm going to try my best to convey
the beauty and romance of this past weekend
with Hilary and Lee.
There are certain couples you meet
that you can just feel the connection.
These two individuals
share a powerful love.
They've been together over six years.
When they were writing their vows separately,
they wrote about the same, exact memory.
What are the chances
with all they have experienced together,
that they would reminisce about the same day?!
They are so in tune with one another.
They know what the other needs.
They handle tough situations with humor
and kind words.
I believe in their happily ever after.
​And I am so honored
to have been a part of this wonderful new chapter
in their love story.

To the Bride's mother Maria,
thank you for being so sweet and considerate
all weekend.
You are just a high class woman!
You had us laughing so hard.
I know the Bride and Groom
truly appreciated your support and humor!

To the Groom's mother Dawn,
it was due to your generosity that we had
this incredible hotel rooftop as the setting
for the ceremony and dinner.
Your personality had a huge impact
on the day.
​I will never forget all you did.

The hotel was so lovely.
And I can not say enough good things about the staff!
From the valet Luis,
to the server Juan.
​And the event coordinator, Krystal.
You were all very understanding
and such a gracious group.
I wish I had learned more names!
Those in the service industry
work their tails off and
are not always treated the best.
They definitely don't always get
the recognition they deserve.
So I want to make it a point to say
a special thank you.
We all know that without you,
the wheels would come off.

A sincere thank you to our Park Ranger tour guide
at The Missions park, Kate, as well.
She was so accommodating.
Please, be sure to get the proper permits
when using these stunning locations
for special occasions.
Out of respect for the hard work
put into preserving them.

Lastly, I want to give a BIG shout out
to the Bride's sister Brittany.
I have known this gorgeous lady for six years.
She is one of the most supportive and calming forces
anyone could have in their life.
I can't tell you how many fires she put out
to try and selflessly make her sister's
dream come true!
No one can relax Hilary,
like Brittany can.
She added greatly to the couple's 
happiness that day.

By the time we sat down to dinner
on the picturesque rooftop of the Mokara Hotel & Spa
in downtown San Antonio;
I was tired and sore.
I had blisters on the bottoms of my feet,
gravel embedded in my knees
and I realized I hadn't eaten a thing all day
while working in the scorching Texas heat.
And I wasn't mad about any of it.
I worked my booty off for this couple,
because I wanted to!!
Because they treated me like family
and I just adore them!

I hope I did you justice Hilary & Lee!
I'm wishing you a lifetime of laughter
and love (and lightweight chairs, lol. Sorry Lee)

Click HERE to see my Wedding and Elopement pricing.
To book your own fine art wedding, contact me HERE.
>>>   <<<

Venue :: Mokara Hotel & Spa
and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Wedding Dress :: Lulus.com
Bride's Shoes :: Allegra K
Bridal Jewelry :: Cazenovia Jewelry
​Hair & Make-Up :: JAX Studio
Groom's Suit :: Haggar
Wedding Rings :: Nasr Jewelers
Flowers :: Evember Florist
Cake :: Infinity Cakes & More
Calligraphy Vows :: Kelsey with Calligrapeau
Officiant :: Suzanne Benson

Phew, now that I've covered the mandatory snorefest schtuff,
let's dive right in.

"Do your sessions/weddings come with a copyright release?"

I can't tell you how many times I've been asked this question.
The answer is always the same.
"No, they do not."

Yet, as the British would say
"don't get your knickers in a twist, darling."
(You read that with an accent, didn't you?)
That's because you're still getting all the rights
you probably want and need already.
The technical lingo is just a bit different.

When it comes to client galleries and ownership
there can be some common misconceptions.
One of the biggest and most frequent
is the difference between
a copyright release and a print release.

Copyright, Print Release, what's the big deal?
Aren't they basically the same thing?

Negatory!
There is, in fact, a huge difference.

A COPYRIGHT belongs solely to the person who creates the art.
Whether that's photographs, artwork, writing or music.
The moment you create something,
you alone have the right to say
​how that work is used and distributed.
In the case of images,
the photographer is the only one with the right to edit them.
And the only one who can legally sell
​or make a profit from those images.

A PRINT RELEASE is different.
It gives someone, other than the creator,
the right to reproduce the artwork for their own personal use.
​Personal use includes the UNLIMITED printing of images
and sharing with friends and family,
both tangibly and on social media platforms.
That is something most artists actually encourage!
We want you to print your images.
To share your memories!
However, a print release
does NOT allow for the adding of IG filters,
which thereby alters the creator's original work.
It does NOT allow a client to enter images into contests
to win any money or prizes for said images.
It also does NOT allow a client
to offer images for use in a commercial setting.
Such as in a magazine or for use as stock photography.
​The images are not the client's work,
​therefore they have no legal right to sell them. 

The wording may not seem like a huge deal,
but when it comes to protecting the rights of the artist
​it is a priority.

So the next time you have a photography session
be sure to ask for a print release.
And by all means, feel free to plaster the walls
with your bright, beautiful smiling faces!

​>>>   <<<

Check out my post on Aspect Ratio
​for the best ways to print your images yourself!