Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

While we strive to provide as much information as possible throughout our website, we realize that some questions may need clarification or more information. Therefore, we've compiled a list of our frequently asked questions in hopes that this Q&A section may help you. If the answers we have provided still leave you in need of assistance please feel free to e-mail us.

We've broken the FAQ into sections so it will be easier for you to find the answers you are looking for.

Booking

Q. How do I request a quote or book a date?
A.If you are booking a photo session: Please fill out the appropriate inquiry form and we will contact you through e-mail. Include name, e-mail address, phone, date, theme, number of people, location, etc. If you have a request that is not shown on our website but deals with photography then please send us a message.

 

Q. I need a photographer for my wedding. What is your package pricing?
A. We handle wedding photography on a case-by-case basis. Please fill out our wedding questionairre and we will contact you with our pricing.

 

Q. How much is the non-refundable deposit? Why do you require one?
A. Werequire a 50% deposit for all bookings which is due at contract signing. We do this to free ourselves from cancellations and so we can secure your date.

 

Q. What methods of payment do you accept?
A. We prefer payment in cash.

 

Q. If I book now for a future date, will you honor your current rates?
A. If you are inquiring about a promotion that is only in effect for a certain month, then no. If you book a wedding date we will honor the rates that were in effect at the time of booking so long as you have paid the non-refundable deposit. Our pricing may change periodically so be sure to pay the deposit to keep the current rate.

 

Q. I am not in the Virginia Beach, VA / Hampton Roads area but would like to hire you as my photographer. Would you be willing to accommodate my request?
A. We handle this on a case-by-case basis. If we accept your request, we will require a traveling fee to cover our travel expenses and lodging.

 

Q. I have an event that I would like you to photograph but it lies on a weekday. Would you be able to book my event?
A. Contact us with details and we will determine our availability.

 

Q. How many photographers will be photographing my event?
A. Usually, two people will be photographing the event. Mark Gamboa is the main photographer and uses a Canon 40D while Crystal Mathias will be taking secondary photos with a Canon 30D and assisting Mark Gamboa. However, there are certain times that a secondary photographer will not be available.

 

Day of the photo session

Q. What should I wear?
A. Although your outfit is your decision, solid colors work best. If someone is to be taking the photo with you it will be better to wear similar colored outfits.

 

Q. What type of makeup should I have?
A. Something subtle and not too wild unless that's the look you are going for. Something natural works great. Enough to cover any blemishes but not so much that you'll be obsessing over your makeup during the shoot. Depending on the shoot, a makeup and hairstylist may be provided.

 

Q. Do I have to sign the model release and terms and conditions?
A. Yes, we cannot photograph you if you do not sign these papers. Please read over them the day before the shoot so you get an understanding of what is expected. We will be using your photos on our website and for promotional and portfolio use. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

 

Q. May I view your Terms and Conditions?
A. Of course! We require all clients to agree to and sign our Terms and Conditions and Model Release so please read over the documents. You're welcome to print out the documents and have them filled out by the time of the photo session to save time.

 

Q. I'm interested in having photos taken of myself but I don't know how to pose. Would you tell us what to do?
A. We will be directing you where to look, move, pose, etc to give you a variety of photos.

 

Q. Where are you located?
A. We are located in Virginia Beach, VA at 2421 Bowland Parkway, Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454. We do not allow walk-ins and appointments are required.

 

After The Photo Session

Q. What happens after my session is complete?
A. We will create a page on our website dedicated to your session. Typically within a few days you'll see teaser photos on your page and the rest will be up within 2-3 weeks or more depending on our workload. Once all the photos are uploaded we will create an online shopping cart for you to order additional prints.

Q. I'm an aspiring model/actor. What agencies should I apply to?
A. There's a few local agencies that you may want to apply to including Splash Model Management and Evie Mansfield. Keep applying to agencies and see where that takes you!

 

General Questions

Q. I love your work. May I use your images for public or personal use?
A. Our photographs are copyrighted to GamboaPhotos.com and therefore any use of our images without our specific consent is not allowable. You do, however, have the option of purchasing a print release so that you may print your photos yourself, however you cannot retouch or tamper with the photos in any way. Please contact us if you have questions.

 

Q. What is your turnaround time?
A. We pride ourselves on our quick turnaround time. Although we do not give out your files on the same day of your shoot our turnaround time is usually complete from start (day of photography session) to finish (shipping of CDs) within two weeks to a month. However, this time may be longer if you purchase prints or other items and services. We usually put a few photos up within a couple days as we finish retouching them to show you our progress.

 

Q. Do you have a minimum print purchase?
A. No. If you would like to purchase any prints you are more than welcome to, however it is not required.

Any other questions can be asked on our Contact Us page.