10 Questions with Shannon Sasaki

Shannon Sasaki Photography

Photographer - Shannon Sasaki

10 Questions with Shannon Sasaki

1. Introduction: What's your story?

I am a local girl, born and raised on the beautiful island of Oahu (Kaimuki girl). It all started in high school when I took my first photography class. I started off with black and white film, developing everything on my own in a darkroom. I dabbled in a bunch of different photography endeavours but it wasn't until I was asked to 2nd shoot for someone at a wedding... that's when I fell madly in love. The fire was ignited and I knew that this was something I wanted to be doing for the rest of my life. I quit nursing school to pursue this passion of mine. There is nothing I love more than being able to capture timeless memories for people to enjoy for a lifetime. It would mean the world to me if you would allow me to do that for you.

I currently live 2 lives... one in Hawaii and one in San Francisco. My love of 7 years (now fiance) currently works at Pixar Animation Studios. Yes... we are living that "Lala Land" life only with a happier ending where we actually make it work. Thank you Skype and Facetime!! We both support each other's hustle and there isn't anything I wouldn't do to make it work with her. Since I'm always flying back and forth, it allows me to accept shoots in the NorCal area as well. So if you're in the NorCal area, lets connect!

2. How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?

I have been officially in business for 10 years now but have been shooting for much longer than that. I started off as a 2nd photographer and eventually started my own business back in 2011. By now I have shot well over 200+ weddings and loved every moment of it!

3. How would you describe your photography style?

Vibrant, Adventurous, Fun, and Genuine. I am based in Hawaii and Hawaii has access to some of the most stunning lush locations with perfect weather. I want to be able to truly showcase the beauty Hawaii has to offer while managing to capture all the unforgettable candids/memories for you as well. I balance a perfect mix of styled formals and candid photojournalism on your wedding day. None of that awkward stiff prom poses you remember in high school, I'll bring the Zoolander out of you! I make sure all of my couples are feeling comfortable around me so that your photos will naturally reflect how much fun you're having.

4. How well in advance should couples book their wedding photographer?

Majority of my couples book with me a year in advance but I am starting to get a lot of 2 years in advance. It might be because of the uncertainty of Covid but I would definitely not do anything less than one year just to be safe. When you come across a specific vendor that you love, you should book with them as soon as you can. Especially in Hawaii, weddings are very abundant and vendors get booked up very quickly.

5. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?

I have several packages to accommodate every couples needs. From small intimate elopements to large grand weddings, I got you covered! Once you schedule a consultation with me, I will send over a PDF of my packages/pricing. My most popular full day package is my "Take a Sip" package. That includes 8 hours of photography coverage + 2 photographers (me as the main and one 2nd photographer) + all digital high resolution images will be delivered on my deluxe glass/cork usb encased in a custom image wood box + 1 custom image box containing 50 4x6 prints of your choice + a complimentary one hour engagement session with 25 edited photos of your choice for $3200.

6. Are you the wedding photographer who will be shooting on the wedding day? Who else is there in your team?

Yes I am the main photographer but I always bring a 2nd photographer with me to ensure we have your day fully covered!

7. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

If you are getting married on Oahu I have no travel fee. I do have a $450 travel fee for outer island bookings (Kauai, Maui, and Big Island) since that requires me to fly over, rent a car and bring over all of my equipment. Mainland/international travel fees vary depending on the destination.

8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?

All of my full day (6hrs+) packages come with prints. I offer three types of wedding photo albums; all very elegant and modern. Albums are a separate charge and I also have a PDF showing the pricing/options when requested by a couple.

9. How long after the wedding will the couple receive the images? How will they be delivered?

My turnaround time for your finished photos is 2-3 months depending on how booked I am. All high resolution digital images are delivered on my deluxe glass/cork usb encased in a custom image wooden box.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

For weddings and events, if for any reason the Client cancels before the wedding/event date, Shannon Sasaki will keep the the retainer fee paid to hold the wedding or event date as a cancellation fee. Cancellations must be made and sent in writing, by mail or e-mail. I understand that these are strange and unpredictable times with Covid still being around. If your wedding/event is affected by Covid-19, it is encouraged to postpone instead of cancelling. I will do my best to accommodate the change and no fee will be charged as long as the new date is available. The deposit will then be transferred towards the new date. If the couple chooses to cancel, they will be refunded half of the paid deposit. The other half of the paid deposit is non-refundable and will be retained by Shannon Sasaki. We are all in this together guys and please know I will do everything in my power to help you figure out how we can make your day happen.

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Awards

WeddingRule Editor’s Choice 2020