Frequently Asked Questions

And, more importantly, answers

The following are common questions that I receive. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, then please use the contact form to send me a message. I do my best to respond to everyone promptly.

Do you photograph weddings or other events?

No. To be perfectly honest, I lack the necessary equipment and staff to ensure that I am able to capture those events as they happen. Without the proper back-up cameras, lenses, and other equipment (or a second photographer), it wouldn’t be fair for me to risk missing your special, once-in-a-lifetime moment if something went wrong. I do take plenty of other types of photos, and will shoot in just about any situation where we can give it a second try if we were unable to capture perfect images for you on our first attempt.

How far will you travel for a photo shoot?

Barring special circumstances, I generally stick to Eastern Suffolk County (Eastern Long Island, New York). Remember that photography is just a hobby for me, not a profession. The work that I take on with my Memory Foundry project is done primarily to support my hobby. Moreover, as an amateur, I don’t think it would be appropriate to charge clients for my travel expenses for long-distance photo shoots, so I try to work close to home.

How much do you charge?

Every shoot is different and it really isn’t possible for me to quantify the time, effort and material costs involved until I know the details of your specific request. Generally, I only charge as much as I need to support and develop my hobby. If you’d like to discuss your specific needs, then please contact me and I’ll gladly provide you a quote once I know exactly what you’d like me to shoot and how you would like your final images delivered.

Do you take studio portraits?

No. I do not have a portrait studio. However, there are plenty of places in the local area (Eastern Long Island) that provide truly outstanding settings for portraiture. I am a strong proponent of natural light photography and will only use artificial light (strobes, flashes, etc.) when absolutely necessary. You’d be surprised at how easy it is to obtain great images in your home, your backyard, at a local park, or in other familiar places close by.

Are the images on this website available in print or other media?

Yes. Absolutely. Standard-sized prints are available for most images you see on the Memory Foundry website.  Just click on the shopping cart icon beneath any image.  If you would like framed photos, photo books, posters, note cards, or other media, then  contact me to discuss the size, quantity and format that you would like to order and I will provide you with pricing information.

May I obtain digital files and license to use them?

Yes.  Use the contact form to tell me which image(s) you wish to use and how you intend to use them. I’ll then provide you with pricing and licensing terms.

Have other questions? Contact me.

If your questions weren’t answered on this page, then please contact me to discuss your specific needs. I am always looking for opportunities that will help advance my skills and welcome the chance to do something new with my camera that I haven’t done before.

John Galvin

Meet John

Photographer and Memory Foundry curator