Frequently Asked Questions

In no particular order.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

I have been a professional photographer since 1996 and have photographed more than 3,900 weddings throughout Texas. In addition to weddings, I photograph 200 to 250 portrait and specialty sessions each year, including engagements, families, maternity, seniors, headshots, commercial projects, real estate, and select boudoir sessions.

My passion for photography began at around age ten with a 110 film camera. In high school, I learned photography using 35mm film cameras and developed a strong foundation in composition, lighting, and storytelling. My first paid photography session was in 1996 when I photographed a boudoir session for the wife of a soldier deploying overseas. The session was photographed on a Canon AE-1 film camera, and that experience launched what would become a lifelong professional career.

Today, I continue to photograph 100 to 150 weddings annually, ranging from intimate elopements to large celebrations, along with hundreds of additional portrait and commercial sessions throughout Central Texas, including Leander, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Austin, and surrounding communities.

Services I regularly photograph include:

Weddings
Elopements
Engagement Sessions
Bridal Portraits
Pre-Wedding Sessions
Post-Wedding Sessions
Family Portraits
Maternity Sessions
Newborn Photography
Senior and Graduation Portraits
Holiday and Seasonal Photos
Professional Headshots
Team and Corporate Photography
Commercial Photography
Real Estate Photography
Select Boudoir Sessions

If you don't see the type of session you're looking for listed above, just ask. I enjoy creative projects and am always excited to help bring new ideas to life.

2. What Photography Equipment Do You Use?

I use professional Canon mirrorless cameras, Canon L-Series lenses, and professional lighting equipment to deliver high-quality images for weddings, portraits, commercial photography, and events throughout Central Texas.

My primary camera equipment includes:

Cameras

Canon R5 Mark II (Primary wedding and commercial photography camera)
Canon R6 Mark II (Primary portrait and family photography camera)

Lenses

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

Lighting Equipment

Canon EL-1 and EL-5 professional speedlights
Westcott Ice Lights
Westcott softboxes and light modifiers
MagMod professional lighting systems
Beauty dishes, reflectors, grids, gels, and diffusers

I invest in professional-grade equipment because reliability, image quality, and consistent performance are critical when photographing weddings, portraits, and commercial projects where moments cannot be recreated.

3. Why Is Professional Photography Expensive?

Professional photography pricing reflects much more than the time spent taking photos. It includes professional equipment, editing software, insurance, ongoing education, business expenses, marketing, travel, and years of experience.

A professional camera body can cost several thousand dollars, while professional lenses often cost thousands more. In addition, photographers invest in computers, editing software, lighting equipment, backups, insurance, website hosting, and continuing education.

When you hire a professional photographer, you are paying for:

Experience and expertise
Professional equipment
Image editing and retouching
Planning and communication
Business licensing and insurance
Reliable backup equipment
Quality customer service

My goal is to provide exceptional value while keeping my pricing fair and accessible for families, couples, and businesses throughout Central Texas.

4. Do You Require a Deposit?

Yes. Most photography sessions require a deposit to reserve your date and time.

Deposit Requirements

Weddings and large events: 50% deposit
Smaller sessions: Typically $50 or a reduced deposit
Some sessions may have deposits waived at my discretion

Your session is not officially booked until a deposit has been received or specifically waived.

The remaining balance is due before photography begins on the day of the session.

Deposits are non-refundable and are governed by the terms of the photography contract, which is available for review before booking.

5. Why Are Your Prices Lower Than Many Other Photographers?

I am able to keep my photography pricing competitive because I operate with lower overhead costs than many traditional photography studios.

Unlike photographers who maintain large studio spaces or extensive advertising budgets, I focus on investing in professional equipment and client experience while keeping unnecessary expenses low.

This allows me to offer:

Affordable wedding photography
Affordable family photography
Competitive portrait pricing
High-quality images without premium studio overhead

My goal has always been to provide professional photography at a reasonable price while delivering excellent service and quality.

6. Why Don't Your Packages Include Prints or Photo Books?

Every photography package includes high-resolution digital images, giving you complete freedom to print your photos wherever and whenever you choose.

Many photographers bundle prints and albums into their packages, which increases overall pricing. By delivering digital files, I allow clients to:

Order prints from their preferred lab
Create their own photo books
Share images with friends and family
Print photos whenever they need them

For clients who prefer professional products, print ordering and custom photo books are also available through my online gallery.

7. What Areas Do You Serve?

I primarily serve Austin and Central Texas, but I am available for travel throughout Texas and across the United States.

Primary Service Areas

Austin
Leander
Liberty Hill
Cedar Park
Georgetown
Round Rock
Pflugerville
Marble Falls
Burnet
Horseshoe Bay
Waco
Killeen
Belton
Salado
Bastrop
Buda
Kyle
San Marcos
Dripping Springs
Spicewood
Wimberley

Travel is available for weddings, elopements, destination events, portrait sessions, and commercial photography projects. Travel fees may apply outside the Leander, Liberty Hill, and Cedar Park areas.

8. Do You Have a Photography Specialty?

My strongest specialties are wedding photography, portrait photography, and boudoir photography.

These areas have earned me the most awards, recognition, and positive client reviews throughout my career.

I regularly photograph:

Weddings
Elopements
Engagement Sessions
Family Portraits
Senior Portraits
Maternity Sessions
Boudoir Photography
Headshots
Commercial Photography
Real Estate Photography

If you have a photography project that is not listed, feel free to ask. I enjoy creative projects and am always open to discussing new ideas.

9. Are There Any Types of Photography You Will Not Photograph?

I welcome a wide variety of photography projects; however, I will not participate in any session that involves:

Illegal activities
Hate, discrimination, or harassment
Promotion of violence
Content intended to degrade or exploit others

I proudly serve clients of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, or relationship status.

Certain locations may require permits, proof of insurance, or location-specific approvals. I can often assist with obtaining permits for parks and public locations throughout Central Texas. Any permit fees are the responsibility of the client.

10. Are You LGBTQ+ Friendly?

Absolutely.

I welcome and support clients of all backgrounds, identities, orientations, and relationship types. Everyone deserves to have their important moments documented with professionalism, respect, and dignity.

Whether you are planning a wedding, engagement session, family portrait, boudoir session, or any other photography experience, you can expect a welcoming, judgment-free environment.

My focus is simple: creating beautiful images for people who value great photography and meaningful memories.

11. Do You Negotiate Your Prices or Accept Barter?

Yes. I may negotiate pricing or consider barter arrangements on a case-by-case basis when it makes business sense for both parties.

Every photography project is unique, and I understand that budgets, travel requirements, and project scope can vary. While I strive to keep my pricing affordable and competitive, any adjusted pricing must still cover the costs of providing professional photography services.

If you have a specific budget or barter proposal, feel free to ask. The worst answer you'll receive is "no."

12. What Types of Boudoir Photography Sessions Do You Offer?

I offer professional boudoir photography for individuals, couples, and small groups throughout Central Texas. To access the boudoir gallery please email me at [email protected] or text 254/466-0190 and a link can be messaged to you.

Boudoir sessions commonly include:

Women's Boudoir Photography
Men's Boudoir Photography
Couples Boudoir Photography
Group Boudoir Sessions
Bridal Boudoir Photography
Bridesmaids' Boudoir Experiences

Sessions are customized to your comfort level, vision, and goals. Whether you're creating a personal gift, celebrating a milestone, or simply boosting your confidence, every session is conducted professionally and respectfully.

I do not provide models or interaction partners for boudoir sessions. However, I can recommend locations, studios, hair stylists, and makeup artists to help create the experience you're looking for.

13. Do You Shoot on Film?

No. I currently photograph exclusively using professional Canon digital camera systems.

I began offering digital photography alongside film photography in 2006 and fully transitioned to digital photography in 2010. Modern digital equipment provides outstanding image quality, reliability, faster delivery times, and greater creative flexibility for clients.

14. Can I Bring a Friend or Family Member to My Photo Session?

Absolutely.

Clients are welcome to bring friends, family members, spouses, partners, or support persons to their photography session. Many clients find that having a trusted friend nearby helps them feel more comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

My only request is that guests respect the equipment, avoid disrupting the session, and contribute to a positive and comfortable environment.

Yes, you can even bring the entire UT football team if they're willing to stay out of the shot.

15. Do You Offer Military, Law Enforcement, or First Responder Discounts?

Yes.

As the father of a United States Marine and a longtime member of the criminal justice community, I deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by military members, veterans, law enforcement officers, first responders, correctional professionals, and their families.

Rather than offering percentage discounts, I typically provide additional services or products at no additional charge.

Eligible Groups

Active Duty Military
Military Veterans and Retirees
Police Officers
Sheriff's Deputies
Corrections Officers
Probation and Parole Officers
Firefighters
EMS Personnel
Similar Public Safety Professionals

Current Appreciation Benefits

Portrait, Maternity, Bridal, and Boudoir Sessions

Five additional edited images for every two hours of photography coverage

Weddings and Events

10% discount on print orders

Benefits may change periodically, so please ask about current offerings when booking.

16. Where Can I Find Your Photography Prices?

I provide customized pricing based on the specific needs of each client and event.

Photography pricing can vary based on:

Session type
Location
Travel requirements
Coverage time
Number of participants
Venue requirements
Lodging and transportation costs for destination events

Because every project is unique, I prefer to provide customized quotes whenever possible. This ensures you receive accurate pricing and only pay for the services you need.

My standard pricing guide is available here:

www.matthewchambersphotography.com/2026pricing.pdf

If you're working within a specific budget, please reach out. I am often able to adjust coverage options or customize a package to better fit your needs.

17. Why Do You Charge a Processing Fee for Credit Cards, PayPal, or Cash App?

To keep my photography pricing as low as possible, processing fees are passed on only when certain electronic payment methods are used.

Payment providers commonly charge transaction and transfer fees ranging from approximately 3% to 5%. Rather than increasing pricing for every client, I only apply these fees to the clients who choose those payment methods.

Accepted payment methods include:

Credit Cards
PayPal
Cash App
Zelle
Cash

Zelle payments are treated the same as cash and do not incur processing fees.

18. Do You Help Clients Find Commercial Models?

Yes.

For commercial photography projects, advertising campaigns, branding sessions, and product marketing, I can help connect clients with amateur, semi-professional, or professional models.

Clients are responsible for:

Model compensation
Talent agreements
Model releases when required

My role is to assist with referrals and photography services. Any compensation arrangements between clients and models are handled directly between those parties.

19. Do You Carry Photography Insurance?

Yes.

I maintain professional liability insurance that meets or exceeds the requirements of local wedding venues, event venues, parks, and commercial properties throughout Central Texas.

As part of my work as a commissioned Texas Notary Public, I also maintain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.

Proof of insurance can be provided when required by a venue or event organizer.

20. Are You Ordained to Perform Weddings?

Yes.

I am ordained through the Universal Life Church and have officiated hundreds of wedding ceremonies throughout Texas.

In addition to wedding photography, I can often assist couples by providing wedding officiant services, helping simplify planning and coordination for their special day.