Toronto Wedding Photographer And Videographer
Your big day comes only once a lifetime,
so don’t miss your chance to have Focus create memorable long lasting moments for you and your loved one.
One is nice but two is better.
Focus offers both wedding photography and wedding videography throughout the country and worldwide.
Focus promises beautiful, extravagant, elegant photography and cinematography.
Take your love for each other one level higher, our relationship starts today and get twice the love in return.
Happy wedding planning and have a wonderful day!
Currently Delivering Weddings Shot On
September 15th – September 22nd
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY FAQ |
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO WE USE?
Canon 5D Mark 3, Mark 4, 1Dx, Nikon, Sony A Series. All our lenses are top of the line, best and most suitable for weddings.
What Is Our Photography Style? Special Request For Photos
Focus practices a stye that is mixed with candid + posing. We take in our client’s request all the time. If you have a pinterest board / saved ideas, feel free to show us prior or even the day of, we are ready to fulfill your needs and ideas!
What Is Considered As Full Day Photography?
Full Day is considered after 12 hours of service, capping it at 15 hours / midnight ( one calendar day ), whichever comes first.
Additional over time (after midnight / 15 hours) will be an additional $150 per hour, per artist.
What Time Does The Team Start?
We generally arrive 1 hour before your makeup is scheduled to be done. This allows us to take details shot such as your wedding dress, suits, rings, before moving on to the getting ready portion.
What Happens During Reception Receiving Line / Cocktail Hour?
Our team will always focus on getting the details shots in the reception hall during the cocktail hour, the team will also take this time to refresh themselves, preparing for the reception, and also charge up on equipment if needed.
Our team does not shoot the whole cocktail hour unless requested. Please politely inform your photographer if you require them for group photos during the reception cocktail hour.
How Much Time should be allocated for group photos / how to coordinate them?
While it varies, we recommend having a maximum 3 minutes per group, this will include any chatting and posing needed.
The best way to ensure all group photos are taken into consideration is by making a list.
Usually group photos are done after the ceremony, during cocktail hours, or throughout the day.
We focus on getting all the immediate family first, that will always be our priority
Turn Around Time For Wedding Photos
Current turn around time on contract is 12 to 20 weeks. Sneak Peek Photos available after 2 weeks upon request.
Delivery Format
A full day wedding photo session will deliver approximately 800 to 1300 photos in high resolution nonwatermarked jpg. Photos will be sent via online download / USB.
Travel Fees
Additional travel fees may apply for locations outside of GTA, such as hamilton, caledon and so on. Please contact us regarding the travel fees if you’re unsure.
When does the team leave?
The team generally leaves after the dessert table has been opened to the public. Our team will always confirm with the client before leaving the event. Our full day contract ends at 15 hours / one calendar day.
Wedding Videography FAQ |
Difference between one and two videographers for coverage
With packages that comes with only ONE videographer, it is POSSIBLE to cover for both parties getting ready, depending on the distance / timing for travel to both parties. In the situation where both parties are not far away, the videographer will arrive at the groom’s side first, using 15 to 30 minutes to cover what’s needed.
In the situation where both parties are far apart, we will have the groom “re-enact” the getting ready portion during the photo shoot period.
The Main difference is during the bride’s entrance to the ceremony, only one angle will be shot while shes walking down the isle. This is same for the reception entrance.
EQUIPMENTS FOR VIDEOGRAPHY
Our team uses Sony A series, Canon C-100s, Canon mark 3 to mark 5 series for cinematography. We also use steadycams, monopods, and also drones ( additional fee, also dependent on weather and flying permit ) for mobility.
For our audio department, we attached a wireless microphone to the groom during the ceremony, and also a recorder to the DJ for the reception speeches ( dependent on the DJ having an audio output )
In the rare occasion, a wireless microphone might pick up radio signals, it is always advised to have your guest turn off their cell phones during outdoor ceremonies.
DRONE AVAILABILITY
Drone has an additional charge of $300.
It is dependent on weather / flying permit.
The client is not responsible for any damages to the drone caused by weather or flying conditions or human error.
what is same day edit?
Same Day Edits are edited on the day itself, creating a recap highlight of your wedding day ready to play during reception.
The client is responsible for the projector and audio. We deliver a usb with the digital files for you / DJ.
Same day edits generally span 3 to 5 minutes ( one song chosen by client )
SAME DAY EDITS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE FOR PACKAGES THAT HAS 2 VIDEOGRAPHERS
Same day edit vs short feature film
If you choose to have a same day edit + short feature film, we recommend having the short feature film a different length vs the same day edit.
The short feature film length options are ( 3 to 5 minutes, 8 to 10 minutes, and 15 to 20 minutes ), we suggest choosing 8 to 10 minutes / 15 to 20 minutes option in order to have a different flow than your same day edit ( the choice is up to you of course! )
Same day edit and feature film generally feature the same clips, we encourage clients to purchase only one of it.
difference between a short feature film and full documentary
Short feature film consist a HIGHLIGHT of your day. ( Options between 3 to 5 minutes | 8 to 10 minutes | 15 to 20 minutes )
Full feature film is a CHRONOLOGICAL order for your wedding day ( Minimum length of 1 hour ).
Backup Equipment
Our team brings in extra cameras and backup equipments.
In the situation where camera error happens that is out of our control, we will use the backup camera, which will also be shot in the same resolution ( high definition ) for your event. Client’s understanding is appreciated regarding the slight time lost between transition of our artist switching cameras.
Delivery Format
Videos are delivered in high definition mp4 format, available for online download and USB delivery
ENGAGEMENT SESSION FAQ |
HOW / WHEN SHOULD YOU BOOK YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
We suggest having weekdays for your engagement session, this is to avoid crowds, and also our weekdays are generally available.
In order to make sure we have spots available for your date, please inquire with us 2 months prior to the 3 alternate dates.
What If It Rains / Bad Weather During The Photo Shoot?
Our artist will try our best to shoot in bad weather, getting all the necessary shots before it becomes impossible to proceed. Please check out the location list for a list of our suggestions. For engagement sessions, we will reschedule to another date
Satisfaction Guarantee With Our Engagement Session
Focus offers a satisfaction guaranteed policy with our engagement session. Don’t feel like you and your photographer connected? Submit a ticket with us to request for another session, tell us what we can do better to suit your needs!
Do We Heavily Beautify / Retouch The Engagement Photos?
Focus does not do heavy retouch on digital photos, this includes photoshop on background removal, surface retouch, skin retouch, body slimming, height enhancement. Background removal and skin retouch request are only available for albums and prints. ( additional charges might apply ). Engagement Photos are edited with color adjustments, cropping, and straightening alignment.
When Is The Ideal Time To Start The Engagement Session?
Ideal times depends on season
Winter – 9am to 11am, 1pm to 6pm
Summer – 7am to 9am, 3pm onwards
We would encourage our lovely couples to avoid shooting during 11am till 2pm as the sun is ideally strongest during these hours, causing heavy shadows and squinting eyes.
Permits For Engagement Shoot?
Clients are responsible for location permits. Most locations do not require permits for engagement shoots, please refer to the location that requires permits.
Turn Around Time For An Engagement Shoot
For a typical 2 hour engagement shoot, our team requires an estimated 2 weeks turn around time. URGENT turn around time request available.
Delivery Format
A standard 2 hour engagement session, we will deliver an estimated 80 to 140 photos in high resolution nonwatermarked jpg. Photos will be sent via online download.
Are Multiple Locations / Multiple Outfit Changes Allowed?
Multiple locations / multiple outfits are definitely permitted. Travel times between locations are included in the 2 hours engagement shoot.
PHOTO BOOTH RENTAL
2017 DATES ARE FILLING UP FAST,
SAVE NOW BY BOOKING YOUR FREE CONSULTATION.
The First Step Of Your Journey Begins With A Conversation
Your big day comes only once a lifetime,
so don’t miss your chance to have Focus create memorable long lasting moments for you and your loved one.
One is nice but two is better.
Focus offers both wedding photography and wedding videography throughout the country and worldwide.
Focus promises beautiful, extravagant, elegant photography and cinematography.
Take your love for each other one level higher, our relationship starts today and get twice the love in return.
Happy wedding planning and have a wonderful day!
Focus Photography as been awarded the WeddingWire Couple’s Choice Award for
“top five percent of wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism in the Greater Toronto Area”
MORE THAN 400 WEDDINGS EXPERIENCE
37 WEDDING BLOG FEATURES SINCE 2014
WEDLUXE FEATURED 2016
2014, 2015, 2016 WEDDINGWIRE COUPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
HUFFINGTON POST FEATURED 2016
MARTHA STEWART WEDDING FEATURED 2016
How To Select A Wedding Photographer
A wedding photographer is in every sense of the word, an artist. As artists go, they are professionals who take their craft to a unique level.
No two are alike and you do not have the luxury of knowing what you are getting until the wedding is over and it is too late to change things.
This is why it is important to choose your photographer carefully.
Style Matters
There are several styles of photography. You need to educate yourself on these styles so you can speak candidly about what is and what is not acceptable for your photographs.
Documentary Style
The documentary / wedding style of photo taking is best described as “grabbing a moment”. The photographs are not posed and they capture moments of time in the wedding. They may catch a bride brushing a tear away during her father’s toast, or the laughter of the bridal party at the bar before the celebration begins. Of course, you will have your posed pictures of you in your wedding dress as well.
Edgy And Raw
This is similar to Documentary Style in that a moment is grabbed. But the edgy photographer may focus on the bottle on the bar, rather than the people. He may take a shot of the bride having her makeup applied and take a photograph that focuses mainly on the makeup application.
Traditional
This is just as it sounds, a traditional photographer. The photos are posed and the focus on the subject not something around her. Think about this style as you would expect to see it in your mother’s photograph album.
How Do You Begin?
Start with your computer. Do a local search for wedding photographers and read their reviews. Ask friends and family about local photographers.
Set-up an interview
You will spend more time on this most important day of your life, with your photographer than any other person! Make sure you have personalities that click. If their tone puts you off or the way they speak seems offensive or condescending, do not hire that photographer, Likewise, if they seem to be bothered by you, or there is a friction when you are making requests, do not hire them. It is not that they are good or bad, it is a personality conflict and that can be a disaster.
Take your time and ask to see entire galleries of photo albums
Of course, a photographer will show you their best shots. They are trying to get your business. But, ask to see the entire gallery of the wedding. This is how you get a clear idea of what you can expect.
Ask questions
Unless you specify it, you may not get a choice of the actual photographer who will shoot your wedding. Ask about prices and compare them to others of the same class and style. What are your options if something goes wrong? What if there is a delay; will you be charged extra?
Ask for details on how long you can expect to wait for your photographs and how long extra copies will take if family members ask for them. Can you have your own copies made or does the photographer retain the rights to the images? What are your options when it comes to touching up the photographs?
Note: your photographer will take a lot more photographs than you will ever see. He/she must upload them to select the best shots and then edit each and every one. This is a huge undertaking and it takes time. The average wait time is usually 4-8 weeks. Be patient.
Take your time and find the right photographer for you. You will treasure that decision forever.
What You Need to Know Before Hiring Your Wedding Photographer and Cinematographer
Your wedding will only last one day, but your wedding pictures will be around forever. You want to make sure your special day is captured perfectly. If you are like most people you don’t have a lot of experience working with or hiring wedding photographers. How do you know which artist is right for you? Below is a guide to help you pick the right team that will best capture your once in a lifetime experience.
Are You Getting Solid Answers to Your Questions?
Photography may be an art, but wedding is a service business. You want to make sure you are working with someone you are comfortable with. If you feel like the photographer is not answering you questions or does not understand what you want, you should find a different artist to work with.
The better you level of communication with your chosen artist is, the better you pictures will be.
You deserve to have wedding pictures that are just as special as the love you and your future spouse share.
Not All Artist Are The Same
There are tons of different types and styles for how one captures a wedding. Some specialize in portraits while others work with wildlife. Wedding photography is its own discipline. Taking wedding pictures requires both an ability to capture impromptu displays of love and laughter and the ability to take stunning posed pictures with the wedding party and the families.
Your friend who has taken a few family pictures may be on their way to being a great photo taker, but do you really want your wedding to be their first one? Make sure you are hiring a professional and experienced veteran, not just a part time hobbyist who occasionally shoots weddings. There is a world of difference.
The Pros Are Happy To Share Their Work
While some are shy and others and brash, any professionals will be happy to show you examples of their work. If they don’t have a full portfolio, they either are new or aren’t very good.
It should be easy to find stunning wedding pictures on their website. Always ask to see a portfolio. It not only gives you a chance to see the quality of the work, but also lets you see how passionate they are about their work.
Do You Like Their Style
Photography is art. Experienced wedding photographer will have a certain style. They will be able to adapt to your wants and needs, but your wedding pictures will most likely be similar in style, tone, and feeling to the ones in their portfolio. Different styles appeal to different people. Make sure you like a wedding studio’s style.
Ask any wedding studio you are considering hiring what they think makes a great wedding picture. This will help you know if you and the team are a good match.
Top 10 Wedding Venues in Toronto
Top 10 Wedding Venues in Toronto
Choosing a wedding venue is the number one priority on most newly engaged couples to-do list. A quality venue provides the platform from which your entire wedding can be built. Picking the best possible location largely depends on your personal preferences. Fortunately, Toronto is home to a wide selection of incredible venues that are perfect for hosting an unforgettable day. From quaint outdoor settings to grand ballrooms, cozy halls to luxurious clubs, this list highlights the best of the best wedding venues in Toronto.
Built in 1850, St. Lawrence Hall is breathtakingly beautiful venue stooped in rich tradition. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the historic building boasts a luxurious interior that manages to be warm and welcoming without losing any of its aesthetic allure.
It would be plausible to think that such a stunning site would cost an arm and a leg, but that couldn’t be less true. St. Lawrence Hall is city own and allows you to purchase your own permit and stock the bar, saving hundreds or potentially thousands on booze. You also are responsible for your own caterer and furniture, allowing you to customize nearly every detail of your special day.
For those planning to host a large wedding, look no further than the incredible Palais Royale Ballroom. With vaulted ceilings and a hardwood dance floor, the venue has all the necessities to handle an amazing party. The ballroom can seat up to 350 attendees for dinner and up to 800 for cocktails.
In addition to a plush interior complimented by an original stone fireplace, Palais Royale offers premium full-service packages. From customized menus to wildly entertaining flair bartenders, the service and care provided are second to none. Accustomed to handling large-scale events, the staff is able to seamlessly serve massive crowds while still providing the unique and original experience you desire.
Sticking with the large wedding theme, Berkeley Church, and Berkeley Fieldhouse can be rented separately or together. The Church features a traditional feel, with 17ft. stained glass windows while the Fieldhouse promotes a classy combination of French glass doors, high ceilings, and rustic treehouse that all manage to stay connected to the scenic outdoor landscape. Depending on your choice between Church or Fieldhouse, the venue offers a wide range of menus and catering options. The food receives rave reviews and in conjunction with jaw-dropping architecture make for an unforgettable wedding experience.
Residing on a private and secluded property well off the beaten path, Ivy Lane Estates is a stunning venue perfect for spring, summer and fall weddings. While the manner commands attention, the true beauty is found in the amazing views of Niagara countryside. For those who choose this luxurious high-end option, be sure to utilize the incredible outdoor party tents offered by the estate. Capable of dining up to 150 guests, this is the perfect venue for a memorable outdoor wedding.
Those seeking a unique atmosphere will find an ideal venue in The Venetian. With a mission centered around elegance, the family owned and operated facility has recently undergone renovations that only helped further highlight the incredible 30,000 sq. ft. premise. Committed to accommodating a wide range of guests, the staff is incredibly adept at transforming the reception and banquet areas into exactly what you’re looking for. Years of experience help ensure that all operations run smoothly on your big day.
The Sunnyside Pavilion offers the best of both worlds to those seeking an outdoor wedding but can’t afford the risk of potentially day-ruining bad weather. A uniquely designed second-floor terrace is covered, shielding guests from the elements while still offering stunning views of Lake Ontario. All catering is done in-house which alleviates any menu selection stress making for an easier planning experience.
Another historic venue, Alderlea is an iconic heritage building perfect for your special day. The modern green design meshes beautifully with the tradition-rich atmosphere of the building. Perhaps the best feature is the floor to ceiling windows that display the immaculately landscaped gardens in their full glory. With full-service options available, it’s possible to plan an entire wedding with the assistance of this venue alone.
The Royal Conservatory of Music is a venue with modern design in mind. Sleek architecture lends itself to an artistic vibe without losing any of the romance. A sunset reception at this location produces timeless photos sure to be cherished by all loved ones. The floor to ceiling windows allow for an abundance of light and can’t help but fill guests with positive emotions. Close proximity to the University of Toronto makes this a desirable destination only serves to provide more romantic photo ops.
Widely respected as one of the top wedding venues in all of Canada, Shangri-La Toronto combines an incredibly designed interior with world-famous cuisine. Connected to a prestigious hotel, guests are able to fully immerse themselves in the downtown location. Abstract sculptures at the entrance and abundance of natural light make this venue perfect for incredible photoshoot possibilities.
One King West Hotel is an intimate venue that carries a class timeless vibe. Featuring a grand ballroom, crystal chandeliers, and marble staircases, it’ll be difficult not to feel like royalty on your wedding day. The staff is incredibly committed to making your wedding as personal to you as possible. Whether you’re looking for a modern event or to draw on your family’s cultural traditions, the One King West Hotel wedding specialists are fully capable of putting together exactly what you desire. An incredible culinary team is merely the cherry on top.
What Extras Do They Offer
Wedding studios offer a variety of different services. Make sure you understand everything a photographer offers. Many talented wedding photographers offer extras like videography, deluxe wedding album printing, and even photo booth rentals. If you like two photographers equally, pick the one who also offers related services you need for your wedding. The fewer people and vendors you have to deal with the easier the wedding planning will be.
You also want to make sure you understand what the final product will be. Are you just getting the raw images, or is the artist going to edit your pictures to make sure they come out perfect? You can’t ask too many questions when trying to find the perfect wedding photographer and videographer.
Contract
Our contract ensures that all our artist are insured, also states the terms and conditions of our services. No need to worry about a thing, our contract addresses all the usual wedding worries and ensures our clients have nothing to worry about
Files Backup
All our files are backed up into our cloud server once the event is done. Each file is categorized into client’s folder, backing it up twice into different servers.
This ensures your files are kept safe.
Substitution Crew
If any unforeseeable event or acts of God that results in the scheduled artist unable to perform it’s duties, a substitution crew will be sent.
Experience
Whether it’s a multi cultural wedding or a traditional matrimony, Focus are all equipped with the knowledge and experience for all cultures.
Read More Tips
How To Hire Your Wedding Catering Team
How To Save On Your Wedding Dress Alterations
Essential Aspect Of Hiring Vendors For Weddings
Seating Etiquette For Wedding Reception
How To Plan A Worry Free Wedding
Importance Of Hiring A Wedding Planner
Ideas For Perfect Wedding Favors
Raw vs Jpeg for Wedding Photos
What To Look In A Wedding Studio Portfolio
How To Communicate With Your Wedding Team
Perks Of Hiring Wedding Photographer and Videographer From The Same Studio
Wedding Photographer Interview Checklist
Common Wedding Disasters and Ways To Prevent
Why Have An Unplugged Wedding?
How to Choose The Best Wedding Venue
How To Plan Your Wedding Without Getting Caught By Your Boss
How To Hire Vendors For Your Wedding
Planning A Wedding With A Tight Budget
Things To Do Before Shopping For The Wedding Gown
Tips in Hiring The Perfect Wedding Planner