HEY, I'M TARA

I am so thrilled that you are here! I am Tara Kneiser. I've been photographing weddings and portraits in the East Tennessee area since 2006. Please get comfy and spend some time browsing through my website. I've curated some of my favorite images from the past years to showcase for you. If you are moved by what you see, please don't be shy! Get in touch with me and let's create something wonderful together!

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION

Will you bring a 2nd photographer to my wedding?

ANSWER

This depends on your wedding. For large weddings, I will bring another photographer with me to help document. For smaller affairs, I feel that a 2nd photographer is overkill, as well as a potential distraction. Additionally, a 2nd photographer produces double the images, which requires double the time to deliver the final product.

QUESTION

How long until I can see my photos?

ANSWER

This depends on the season. For portraits, the average turn around is 2 weeks. For weddings, 2-6 weeks. For example, October is a very busy month where I am shooting nearly every single day. If I am out taking photos, I am not at my computer. Average turn around for October weddings is 6 weeks, while March weddings are 2 weeks or less.

QUESTION

Who will photograph my session/wedding?

ANSWER

Me. Always me, Tara Kneiser. I do not have any associate photographers employed with me. All photographs on this website were taken by me, Tara Kneiser. However, if I need help, I'll bring one of the best local photographers from Knoxville with me, who have surpassed my high standards of quality image making.

QUESTION

What is a reproduction release? Why don't I get the copyright?

ANSWER

All clients will receive a reproduction release with their high resolution image files. A reproduction release is a legal form authorized by me, the legal copyright holder, that grants you permission to reproduce your images. You may make your own prints and share your images to social media with a visible photo credit given to Tara Kneiser. The copyright always remains with me per US copyright law.

QUESTION

Can I share my images on social media?

ANSWER

Yes! In fact, it's encouraged! However, it breaks my heart when I see my photos shared in poor quality. This is often the result of screen shots or removing thumbnail photos from the client gallery, rather than accessing photos from the USB drive or the download function from the client gallery. PLEASE, share your images with pride! I will happily provide more instructions on how to better share your images once they are delivered to you.

QUESTION

How can I book you?

ANSWER

Click on the contact button and send me an email! To book a wedding, please be sure to include your date so I can verify my availability. For portraits, please include a desired time frame (i.e. first week of certain month, etc.). To book a wedding, a signed contract with a $1500 retainer is required. For a portrait session, 50% of the session fee is required. Please inquire for more info.

QUESTION

When are payments due? Do you take credit cards?

ANSWER

For weddings, the $1500 is due with a signed contract in order to reserve your date. The final balance of whatever package you selected is due 2 weeks before your wedding date. For portraits, the remaining 50% is due on the day of your session. Yes, all major credit cards are accepted, as well as cash, check, and PayPal. Venmo is not available per their terms of use.

QUESTION

Can I have a custom package for my wedding?

ANSWER

Of course, as long as it is a reasonable request. Note that the custom package will not be a discounted or lower rate than the current packages listed.

QUESTION

What about mini-sessions for portraits? When do you do those?

ANSWER

Never.
I do not offer mini sessions. Only full portrait sessions are available. There are plenty of other photographers who offer mini sessions, and my feelings won't be hurt if you book them. I prefer full portrait sessions as they allow you to become comfortable with me and show your true self, which often can't be captured in just a few minutes.

QUESTION

You're out of my budget, but I really want to hire you. Can I have a discount?

ANSWER

The only people who I feel are entitled to a discounted rate are the people who selflessly protect me and my family. All former and current military personnel will receive a 10% discount for both session fees and products, for both portraits and weddings.

QUESTION

Do you shoot elopements?

ANSWER

elopement
[ih-lohp-muh nt] noun
an act or instance of running off secretly, as to be married.

(Just in case there is any confusion between an elopement and a small wedding.)

Elopements are subject to a custom package beginning at $2500. Elopements may not be booked more than 3 months in advance of the wedding date.

QUESTION

How soon do we need to book you?

ANSWER

For weddings, as soon as you get engaged! For portrait sessions, give yourself at least 4-6 weeks before your desired date. Don't even think about trying to book a session for the Fall once you notice the leaves are pretty, as you'll be too late and I won't be able to get you scheduled.

QUESTION

What if it rains?

ANSWER

You'll get wet.

Just kidding! If it rains on your wedding day, please do not freak out. It happens a lot in East Tennessee, and it's actually raining in a lot of the photos you just viewed. I'll make it look good. Promise.

For portrait sessions, we'll simply reschedule to our mutual next available date.

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