Question 1

How Do You Approach Capturing Photos/Video?

Accepted Answer

I'm a storyteller telling YOUR stories. I document your most important moments through photo and film and weave those images together to create the story of you. Whether it's a wedding photo shoot, elopement video shoot, senior or family portrait shoot, personal branding shoot, headshot, etc, I cater to telling the story of YOU.
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Some of my favorite captured moments are created in remote, out of the way locations that may not be the easiest to get to (can you say "mountain top"?), but prove to be massively rewarding in the end. And I'm seasoned at getting to those locations and can help you get there as well.

Question 2

What's the Investment?

Accepted Answer

My goal is to document your story exactly the way YOU want it done. Sometimes that fits into a pre-defined package, and sometimes it doesn't. Everything I do is custom and I want to deliver the very best work I can within your individual budget.
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That said, I do have some starting points to help with your decision making process:
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PHOTOGRAPHY RATES:
More in-depth pricing guides HERE.

Mini Session Fee - starting at $450
This is typically a short portrait shoot, family portraits, senior portraits, 1-hour engagement shoots, etc. that typically last less than 1 - 2 hours.
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Half Session Fee - starting @ $800
Multiple location & outfit change portrait shoots, larger family portrait sessions, some of our smaller 'Adventure Settings', and multi-location engagement shoots that can be 2 - 3 hours or less.
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Full Session Fee - starting @ $1,200
This is the full pull! Multiple locations and outfits and props, extended senior portrait session, "Adventure Setting" portrait shoots, luxury engagement shoots with multiple outfit changes, etc.! Typically these shoots last 3 - 4 hours.

Wedding Day Session Fee - starting @ $1,500
Partial day wedding sessions start at $1,500 and increase with additional hours, extra photographers, etc. 
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Multi-Day Shoots - tailored based on your specific needs.

Learn more about specific pricing HERE.

VIDEOGRAPHY RATES:

Cinematic Sizzle Videos - starting at $800
This is typically an engagement shoot, very small elopement, family stories, couples stories, etc. that typically last less than 2 hours. These videos are short montage storytellers set to music that capture the moment, but without on-camera interviews, etc. Typical video lengths of 1 - 3 minutes.

Short Storytelling Video - starting at $1,500
This is typically an elopement, micro-wedding, mini-mony, more involved family stories, more involved couples stories, etc. that typically last approximately 2 - 4 hours. These videos tell more of a full story with short on-camera interviews, dialogue, music, etc. Typical video length of less than 10 minutes.

Full Storytelling Video - starting at $3,500
This is the full storytelling, all-day experience - full day wedding, family reunions, etc. that typically last approximately 6 - 8 hours. These videos tell the full story of your day with on-camera interviews, dialogue, music, etc. Typical video length of 45+ minutes.

Learn more about specific pricing HERE.

Question 3

What Do We Get for Our Investment?

Accepted Answer

The deliverables are the best part! Whether I'm shooting photos or video or both, we collectively agree upon what the end result expectations are. Am I delivering only digital files? Creating an heirloom album? Or maybe delivering both? Am I creating a shorter 2 - 3 minute engagement video, or is it a 30-90 minute epic film capturing the entire day? All of these things are discussed and agreed upon prior to your day or event.
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WEDDINGS/ELOPEMENTS/ENGAGEMENTS: I typically deliver 35 - 50 selected, edited, and retouched images per hour of shooting. Examples:

Are we doing a 2 hour elopement shoot? You can expect 70 - 100 images.
An all-day, 8 hour wedding shoot? I plan to deliver approximately 250 - 500 images.
*Some photographers will offer more images in the same time period, but I'm meticulous about how I edit and some of my images become small photo illustrations. The images will be elevated above your normal documentary style, thus the sheer number is reduced a bit.

PORTRAITS: Portrait sessions are a little different than weddings in that we're not shooting the same volume of candid images, so the deliverables will be fewer, but will take more time individually with setup, posing, wardrobe changes, etc. Typically I average about 10 - 20 selected, edited, and retouched images per hour of shooting. Examples:

If we're doing a 1-hour session with a senior, you can expect 10 - 20 high quality, edited images.
If we're shooting a family of 4 for 2 hours, you might end up with 25 - 40 images, etc.
If we end up with more 'keepers', you'll have access to those as well!
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Regardless, before you invest a dime with me, you'll have a clear vision of what you'll be receiving.
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Question 4

What's the Process Like Working With You?

Accepted Answer

I LOVE that you’re considering Illume for your special moment. It’s important that I help guide you along your storytelling journey, so there are a few things you probably want to know about how I approach each unique photo and video assignment.

Step 1:
We connect! I have people and couples reach out to me in a host of ways. Knowing that each individual may prefer different forms of communication, I try to make it easy for everyone by being accessible via phone, text, email, and social media. Pick your preferred method and reach out!

Step 2:
Once we have a chance to chat and get a feel for what you’d like to achieve, we then schedule a face-to-face consultation, (either in person or via Zoom, FaceTime, etc.) Getting to know you and what you’re going for is vital to the process. Learning a bit about who you are, what your story has been up to this point, and where you’re going help to shape how I approach immortalizing your moments. And likewise, it’s important for you to get to know me! I realize not everyone is a great fit for each individual project, so I want to ensure you’re comfortable with me being who you choose to capture your special moments. This step is wildly important!

Step 3:
After the consultation, it’s up to you to say “YES!” to Illume. Once you do, we sign an agreement, collect a 25% deposit,* and book your date(s)! We collectively decide what your expectations are and how I’ll work to fulfill them. Am I only shooting photos? Am I only  shooting video? Am I doing both? Do you want to end up with an heirloom album to commemorate your day? Or do you prefer a digital delivery of images and video to share with family and friends? Maybe it’s both?! Or maybe it's something extra special?! Regardless, I want to customize our deliverables based upon what YOU want, not a set package.

If you're booking a full day session with me (i.e. full day wedding), you'll also receive an engagement session included in your package for free! These engagement shoots typically take place 4 - 6 months prior to your wedding date, but it's ultimately up to you when that happens.

*The deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days prior to your event.

Step 4:
I typically like to connect with whomever is running the show for your event. In some cases this can be a wedding planner, day-of coordinator, a family member or friend who’s the gatekeeper for the day, or even the bride/groom directly. Each project is a little different and I'm flexible. I work with that person regarding expectations, timing, schedule, etc. And I keep YOU in the loop along the way without adding any undue stress to your already full plate.

Step 5: 
The day is here! And I'm ready to roll (puns are fun, right?!) I’ll have a specific call time for your event, a 'must have' shot list, the day's schedule, and I’ll be geared up and ready to move throughout your day with you. Full day, half day, multiple days? I'm ready.

I spend most of the day-of coordinating with someone in your camp (mentioned above)…I want to make sure I'm not in the way. My goal is to be effortlessly in the background capturing those precious moments without anyone being the wiser.

Step 6: 
Now for the fun stuff! I typically get a sneak peak out to you within 72 hours. This is typically a single edited and retouched image, but can be several or even a short edited video clip.

This is now the hardest part for you…the waiting! I typically shoot an obscene amount of photos and film, so it takes time to wade through it all, organize, make my selections, and then do the most important part during this phase…the edit and retouching.

If I'm also shooting video, the edit is more complicated, but also so rewarding as moving pictures are the ultimate storytellers.

I do my best to deliver final images and video within 45 - 60 days after your event. This will be determined by the amount of content we capture as well as my current bookings.

Step 7: 
Delivery and wrap up. I want you to love what I help create with you, so it’s important for me to have a closure moment. I love hearing what my clients think of the work and hear some of THEIR stories of the day. And of course, I'm always around if something comes up down the road, (lost images, damaged albums, etc.)

Question 5

We're From Out of Town...How Does That Work?

Accepted Answer

You're not alone! Colorado is an amazing spot to host a special event. The backdrop simply can't be beat and makes the storytelling that much more incredible.
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At least half of my clients are from out of state hosting their wedding, engagement, elopements, etc. in the Centennial State. I can assist in so many different ways from helping choose photo locations, wedding venues, suggested accommodations, rehearsal locations, etc.
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Are you looking to up the 'wow' factor even more by having the shoot or event staged in an amazing, remote, stunning location (mountain top, high altitude lake, incredible mountain valley, etc.), I can absolutely help you plan that out. I call those our 'Adventure Settings' and they can be stunning...and I'm experienced at pulling those off.
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However, if your day is more traditional, I'm ready to make that happen as well. Shooting along the Rocky Mountain Front Range in one of Colorado's major cities? No problem. Getting married in a mountain town looking for hints on amazing spots? I've got you.

Regardless if I'm shooting on a mountaintop or in a venue in town, I always pre-scout the location ahead of time for you so I'm not only prepared, but can help prepare you! And if you need help finding that perfect location, I've got a guide to help with that as well.

Question 6

What Do You Mean by "Adventure Setting"?

Accepted Answer

Are you looking for something truly epic to commemorate your occasion? My vision for the 'Adventure Setting' shoots are just that...truly special moments captured in unbelievable locations.
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Do you dream of getting engaged on a wind swept mountaintop? I've got you covered. Looking to capture your elopement in a gorgeous mountain valley only accessible by foot? No problem. A romantic nighttime ceremony under the stars in a remote location? Done. 
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I'm well versed in backpacking in my gear, wardrobe changes, changing tents, camera equipment, stylist(s), etc. into some of the most remote and breathtaking locations to get the look and feel you're after. I can even work out the best way to get YOU there.
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The image below is a small example of an Adventure Setting. This shoot required a 2 hour hike to get to this location.

Question 7

Do You Only Shoot in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

As much as I love shooting events in Colorado, I'm more focused on capturing moments in locations that are meaningful to YOU. If that's Colorado because you either live here or are traveling here for the epic scenery, great. But if it means traveling to your special location, I'm accustomed to that as well. 
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I've shot all over the U.S. as well as internationally.

Question 8

How Will We Receive Our Images & Video?

Accepted Answer

All galleries are delivered via a private online gallery app. You'll have access to view all of you images and video as well as make your selections, etc. It's a seamless and easy process that's not only a breeze, but fun for you as well as your friends and family.

Question 9

Do You Offer Wedding Albums and Prints?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Albums and prints are special...that tangible feel of a very special physical heirloom piece that encapsulates your special moments is a truly unique way to immortalize your story. Digital images and video are great, don't get me wrong, but there's something magical about being able to flip through your very own album and relive those moments.

Albums start at $500 and are tailored to your EXACT specifications. You make your selections as far as images are concerned and I can design an heirloom piece that you'll want to show your grand kids! Want a leather or wood cover? No problem. Interested in museum quality archival paper? Done. Want special engraving or foil stamping to make it extra special? Absolutely. Looking for a bespoke, one-off piece that commemorates your story? I've got that covered as well.

Question 10

How Big is Your Crew?

Accepted Answer

This varies based upon the size of your event and what I'm trying to capture.
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Am I only shooting photos of your engagement or small elopement? In that case, it might just be me (Rocco) and possibly an assistant. Is it a half day wedding shoot where we're trying to capture as many images as possible? That might be 2 photographers and an assistant. Full day wedding with both photos and video on the menu? We might have 2 - 3 photographers/videographers as well as an assistant. Need a makeup and/or hairstylist for an 'Adventure Setting' shoot? Not a problem.
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It all depends on the scope of the project as well as location and expectation. We're here to tailor our footprint to YOUR need.

Question 11

What Do Your Clients Have to Say?

Accepted Answer

"OMG, illume absolutely nailed what we wanted out of our wedding album! The images blew us away and will help the memories last a lifetime!"  -SR

"Everything from the initial consultation through to delivery of our wedding video was top notch. Rocco's attention to detail and communication helped put our minds at ease as we knew we were in good hands. The video itself made me ball my eyes out!"  -CC

"Rocco and the Illume crew did an amazing job capturing our engagement! We wanted something different and uniquely us and Rocco helped us achieve that by going the extra mile to work with us on a truly crazy day! I wouldn't hesitate to do it all over again with illume."  -RL

"We had illume create an amazing photo album as well as our wedding weekend video and it all came together so beautifully that I'm sure I'm annoying my family and friends by sharing them over and over! I love how both the pictures and video look like they go together, it just makes the whole experience that much more special." -LS

"LOVED the pictures that Illume took of our elopement in Colorado! Not only are the memories super special to us, but now I have the pics to help relive the day! Rocco and his crew went above and beyond for us, especially since we were from out of town."  -SE

Question 12

Do you provide RAW photo files to your clients?

Accepted Answer

RAW images are only half of the process. Capturing images in camera is a vital step in the storytelling journey, but it's not everything. The edit, retouching, and manipulation process on the back end helps elevate the images into little works of art. Because of that, I do not provide RAW images to my clients and is just doesn't reflect a true representation of my work.

Question 13

What's Illume West's Privacy Policy?

Accepted Answer

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 7/2025

At Illume West Studios, your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you engage with our services.

1. Information We Collect
We may collect the following personal information when you interact with our website, contact us, or use our photography/videography services:
Name
Email address
Phone number
Event details (e.g., wedding date, location)
Mailing or billing address (if needed for contracts or product delivery)
Images or video content taken as part of our services

2. How We Use Your Information
Your information is used solely for:
Communicating with you about your session or event
Providing contracted photography or videography services
Sending invoices, contracts, or galleries
Sharing updates, promotions, or studio news (only if you opt in)

3. We Never Sell or Share Your Information
We will never sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.
We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers (such as online gallery or contract platforms) strictly for the purpose of delivering our services—always with your privacy and data protection in mind.

4. Client Galleries and Media Use
We may showcase select images or videos on our website, blog, or social media to promote our portfolio. If you prefer to keep your images private, simply let us know—your preferences will always be respected.

5. Data Security
We take reasonable precautions to protect your personal information from loss, misuse, or unauthorized access. Our online tools and platforms are selected for their secure handling of user data.

6. Your Rights
You may request to view, update, or delete your personal information at any time by contacting us directly at info@illumewest.com.

7. Policy Updates
This Privacy Policy may be updated occasionally. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

Contact Us
 If you have any questions or concerns about your privacy, feel free to contact us at:
 📧 info@illumewest.com
 📍 Illume West Studios – Colorado

weddings & couples captured in photo & film

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