Your Questions, Answered
Everything you need to know about booking Ember Media for weddings, events, portraits, and content creation. From pricing to delivery timelines, we've got you covered.
1. General & Booking
What do you actually do?
We cover weddings, corporate and private events, portraits, and social-media content (reels + photos). You can book us for photo only, video only, or photo + video.
Do you provide livestreaming?
We typically don't offer livestreaming as a core service, but we can figure something out upon special request if you need it for a specific event. Let us know your requirements and we'll see what's possible.
When should I book?
We recommend booking as soon as your date is confirmed, especially for wedding peak seasons (roughly March–June and September–December). Popular weekend dates often fill 6–12 months in advance.
For corporate and private events, we can often accommodate shorter notice depending on our schedule, but earlier is always better if you want your choice of date and coverage.
Events: 2-8 weeks ahead (flexible)
How do I check if you're available?
Fill in the contact form with your date, venue(s), and what you're looking for. We usually reply within 24 hours with availability, a suggested package, and a clear quote. If you prefer, we can jump on a quick call to walk through your options.
How do I secure my date?
Once you're happy with the package, we'll send:
- A simple online agreement, and
- An invoice for a 50% retainer
Your booking is confirmed once both are completed. The remaining balance is typically due about one week before your event (details will be in your agreement).
What's your payment structure and how do I pay?
For most bookings, a 50% retainer is required to reserve your date, with the balance due shortly before the event (usually one week prior). For large or custom projects, payment schedules may be adjusted and will be outlined clearly in your quote.
We accept bank transfers and PayNow for local clients. For overseas clients, we can arrange international bank transfer or payment platforms. All payment details are included in your invoice so you know exactly what to do and when.
Do you meet clients before booking?
If you'd like, yes. We're happy to do a quick video call or meet over coffee (subject to schedule) so you can ask questions and see if we're the right fit before you commit. Many clients book confidently after reviewing our portfolio and chatting via email or WhatsApp, but we're always open to a meet-up if it helps you decide.
Is the retainer refundable?
The retainer is non-refundable because it secures your date exclusively—we turn away other bookings to reserve that time for you. However, if you need to reschedule (not cancel), we can often move your booking to a new date within 6-12 months, subject to availability.
In cases of force majeure (serious illness, extreme weather, government restrictions), we'll work with you to find a fair solution, which may include rescheduling or partial credit toward future services.
What happens if you fall sick or there's an emergency on the day?
We plan for this. If something genuinely unavoidable happens, we will activate a trusted backup shooter from our network and keep the style and deliverables aligned to what you booked. We will also brief them properly so you're not left guessing.
Will I get you specifically, or will you assign a random photographer?
You are hiring Ember Media for a specific eye and standard. We are a lean boutique team, not a volume agency. The lead creative you speak with during your consultation is typically the one shooting your wedding. If we ever need to assign a trusted associate lead due to scheduling, we will tell you before you book, not surprise you on the day.
2. Weddings
What's your approach to shooting weddings?
Our style is calm, guided-when-needed documentary. We'll give light direction for portraits and formals, but spend most of the day capturing honest moments so you can actually enjoy your wedding rather than pose for it.
We're not the "yell instructions from across the room" type—we work quietly, observe natural interactions, and step in with gentle guidance only when it adds to the story.
Do you offer photo, video, and photo + video bundles?
Yes. You can book photo only, video only, or combined photo + video packages for:
- Proposal or engagement coverage
- Pre-wedding sessions in Singapore
- Actual day weddings (solemnization, church ceremony, banquet)
We also offer bundles across these if you want everything under one team with one consistent style.
Do I need a second photographer or videographer?
For most weddings, we're solo-first by default to keep the footprint small, the cost sensible, and the day relaxed. A second shooter adds value if:
- You have multiple locations or large guest numbers (150+ guests)
- Both sides are getting ready at the same time in different places
- You want more angles of key moments (processional, vows, speeches, tea ceremony)
- You're having a full-day wedding (10+ hours) and want continuous coverage without breaks
If a second shooter won't genuinely improve your coverage, we'll say so instead of upselling you for no reason. Honest recommendations are part of how we work.
Can you handle church weddings and low-light ballrooms?
Yes. Our gear and workflow are tuned for churches, hotel ballrooms, and evening banquets. We prioritize natural skin tones and realistic ambience rather than over-flashed or muddy images. Low light is part of the story, not something to fight against.
We use fast lenses, high ISO capabilities, and off-camera lighting when needed (but never intrusive flash that ruins the mood). Churches with strict no-flash rules? No problem—we work with available light and adapt our approach.
Can my parents or relatives talk to you directly?
We're used to liaising with parents, siblings, and the bridal party. We're happy to be calm, respectful, and patient, especially with older folks and kids who may need a little extra time or reassurance.
If you'd like us to coordinate with specific family members for shot lists or logistics, just let us know in the pre-brief. We're comfortable working with multiple stakeholders and will keep everyone informed without overwhelming you with CCs on every email.
Do you cover traditional ceremonies (tea ceremony, gate-crash, etc.)?
Absolutely. We're experienced with Chinese tea ceremonies, Malay akad nikah, Indian weddings, church solemnizations, and cultural traditions. If there are specific customs, rituals, or moments important to your family, let us know in the pre-brief so we're prepared and positioned correctly.
We research unfamiliar traditions in advance and always work respectfully with elders and officiants to ensure we capture everything without disrupting the ceremony.
Can you help us plan a photo-friendly timeline (especially for weddings)?
Yes. During the pre-brief, we'll help you sanity-check your schedule, travel buffers, and where portraits fit best, so you get great photos without feeling rushed.
Can you cover multiple cultures and ceremonies (tea ceremony, ROM, church, akad nikah, etc.)?
Yes. We're used to different flows, family dynamics, and venue rules. If there are any sensitive or "must-capture" traditions, tell us during the pre-brief and we'll prioritise them.
Will you help direct posing if we're awkward on camera?
Yes. Our default is documentary, but we'll give simple, natural prompts for portraits so you don't feel stiff or "performative".
Can we request "no flash" or a more discreet approach?
We can usually accommodate, subject to venue rules and lighting realities. If a space is extremely dark, we'll explain the trade-offs clearly and propose the cleanest option.
What defines the "Ember Media" look?
We shoot on high-resolution Sony Alpha systems with prime lenses to achieve a specific "sexy and elegant" aesthetic. We prioritize low-light ambience, creamy backgrounds (bokeh), and cinematic composition. We don't just "capture" the event; we aim to make it look like a high-end production.
How do you capture audio for the wedding film?
Great audio is 50% of a great film. We use discreet, professional lavalier microphones on the groom and officiant (and the bride where possible) to ensure vows and speeches are crystal clear. We never rely solely on the camera microphone from the back of the room.
3. Corporate & Private Events
What kinds of events do you cover?
We handle corporate conferences, dinners, product launches, seminars, team days, birthday parties, anniversaries, church events, charity galas, and more. Most services are available as photo, video, or photo + video.
Do you provide reels or highlight edits for corporate events?
Yes. Many clients add on short vertical reels or a highlight film for internal comms, social media, or recap emails. We can build this into your package from the start so it's properly planned and not a last-minute scramble.
Typical deliverables: 30-60 second vertical reel (Instagram/TikTok) + 2-3 minute highlight film (YouTube/website) + full-length recordings of key sessions.
Do you work with our AV or event agency?
Absolutely. We're vendor-friendly and used to coordinating with planners, MCs, AV teams, and hotel staff so that everything runs smoothly and house rules are respected. We'll join pre-event briefings, share our technical requirements, and work seamlessly with your existing vendors.
If you have a dedicated event manager or planner, we're happy to coordinate directly with them so you don't need to be in the middle of every technical conversation.
Can you provide same-day edits or next-day previews?
Yes, for an additional fee. Same-day edits (delivered during the event itself, typically for evening playback) require an on-site editor and advance notice. Next-day previews (30-50 selects for immediate sharing) are more common and can usually be arranged if requested during booking.
This is popular for conferences where you want to share highlights on social media the next morning, or for weddings where you want a preview slideshow at the dinner.
Can you deliver event photos fast for a press release or internal comms?
Yes. We can provide an expedited "priority selects" set (same day or next day) for PR and stakeholders, with the full set delivered on the agreed timeline.
For corporate clients: can you support PO, vendor registration, and invoice payment terms?
Yes. Share your procurement requirements (PO, vendor forms, billing contact, payment timelines) and we'll align on admin so approvals don't delay delivery.
Can you sign an NDA or keep coverage confidential?
Yes. If your event is sensitive (internal launches, private family matters, closed-door church sessions), request privacy and we'll honour it in writing.
Do you offer an on-site headshot booth at corporate events?
Yes. We can set up a simple headshot station (lighting + backdrop if needed) and deliver consistent, professional portraits for staff profiles.
Can you handle same-day edits for corporate conferences?
Yes. We can produce a highlight wrap-up video to be played at the closing dinner or end of the conference. This requires an on-site editor and careful planning, so please let us know early if this is a requirement.
4. Social Media & Content Packages
Do you offer ongoing social media content packages?
Yes. We offer content production packages such as:
- Batches of short reels / vertical videos (10-60 seconds each)
- Combined photo + reel content for campaigns or retainers
- Brand introduction films and product showcase videos
- Monthly content retainers with scheduled shoot days
Tell us your goals (awareness, trust, conversions) and we'll propose a package structure and schedule that makes sense for the way you work.
Can you help with concepts and scripts?
Yes. We don't just turn up and roll camera. We can work with you to shape hooks, simple scripts, shot lists, and posting ideas so your content is usable, on brand, and realistic to produce consistently.
For retainer clients, we typically do a monthly planning session to align content with your marketing calendar, campaigns, and business goals. This ensures every shoot has a clear purpose and measurable outcome.
Do you shoot vertical (portrait) format for Instagram and TikTok?
Yes. We shoot native 9:16 vertical for reels, stories, and TikTok, as well as 16:9 landscape for YouTube and websites. If you need both formats from the same shoot, we'll plan framing and composition to work for both aspect ratios.
We can also repurpose existing 16:9 footage into vertical edits if needed, though native vertical capture always looks better for social platforms.
Can you include captions, text overlays, and animations?
Absolutely. Most social media content benefits from text overlays, animated captions, and graphic elements to grab attention and communicate key messages quickly. We include basic text and graphics in our standard content packages.
For more complex motion graphics, brand animations, or custom graphic packages, we can quote these separately or refer you to trusted motion design partners.
Can you shoot specifically for my Instagram Grid aesthetic?
Yes. If you're curating a specific look (e.g., minimal, dark & moody, or editorial), let us know during the pre-brief. We can shoot vertical-first and compose images specifically to look good in a 4:5 crop or a 9:16 story, ensuring your feed looks cohesive.
Do you provide "Behind-The-Scenes" (BTS) phone content?
We focus on high-quality professional capture, but for our Social Content packages, we can include immediate, raw-style phone clips (BTS) alongside our professional footage. This gives you that authentic "in the moment" feeling for your Stories while waiting for the professional edits.
For social content: do you provide subtitles, cutdowns, and vertical-first versions?
Yes, if you want content designed for Reels/TikTok/Shorts from the start. Tell us your platform and goal (awareness, trust, conversions) and we'll structure the deliverables and edit approach accordingly.
5. Pricing, Packages & Payment
How are your packages structured?
We keep pricing transparent:
- Clear packages for weddings, events, portraits, and content
- Each with stated hours of coverage, deliverables, and turnaround
- Optional add-ons clearly priced (second shooter, drone, rush delivery)
You can then add optional extras like a second shooter, same-day edit, extra hours, or drone coverage if it genuinely adds value to your plans.
Do you charge GST?
At the moment, we do not charge GST. All prices are in SGD and clearly shown on your quote and invoice so you know exactly what you're paying.
If our business crosses the GST registration threshold in the future, we'll provide advance notice and update pricing transparently. Existing bookings will honor the original quoted price.
Are there any hidden fees?
No hidden fees. The only extras you may see are incidentals (for example venue permits, parking, paid shooting locations) which are passed through at cost with receipts where applicable and flagged in advance wherever possible.
If we discover mid-project that something will cost more than quoted (rare, but sometimes venues add surprise charges), we'll notify you immediately and get approval before proceeding.
Do you offer discounts?
We sometimes offer a Weekday Saver rate for Tuesday–Thursday daytime events (typically 10-15% off), and occasionally bundle pricing if you book multiple services (for example pre-wedding + actual day, or photo + video packages).
We also offer loyalty discounts for returning clients and referral credits if you recommend us to friends or colleagues. Tell us your situation and we'll advise what makes sense.
What's included in your wedding packages vs. what costs extra?
Typically included in base wedding packages:
- Stated hours of coverage (usually 8-10 hours)
- All edited high-resolution photos (600-800+ images for full day)
- Online gallery with download access
- Video highlight film (3-5 minutes) if video package
- One round of minor video revisions
- Travel within Singapore
Common add-ons (separate pricing):
- Second photographer or videographer
- Extended coverage (overtime)
- Same-day edit or next-day preview
- Drone footage
- RAW files (rarely needed)
- Premium album or prints
- Pre-wedding shoot
6. Process & Timeline
What does the process look like from enquiry to delivery?
The typical flow looks like this:
- Enquiry: You send us your date, venues, and what you need
- Proposal: We respond with availability, suggested package(s), and a clear quote
- Booking: You sign the agreement and pay the 50% retainer (date now secured)
- Pre-brief: 2-4 weeks before the event, we do a timeline and shot-priority call and collect key details (family list, vendor contacts, house rules)
- Event day: We show up early, keep things relaxed, and follow the plan while staying flexible
- Delivery: You receive previews (24-48 hours), then full galleries or films (10-14 days for weddings, 3-7 days for events), via a private online link
How fast do we get our photos and videos?
Typical timelines (unless otherwise stated in your agreement):
- Weddings: Preview favorites within 24–48 hours; full gallery and films in about 10–14 days. In very busy periods (wedding season peaks) or for complex multi-day coverage this can extend toward 3 weeks
- Corporate / private events: Usually 3–7 days depending on scope
- Social-media content batches: Scheduled in the agreement, especially if content is tied to a campaign
If you need things urgently, we can often expedite delivery for an additional rush fee. Larger same-day or next-day preview sets beyond our usual favorites can be added as a rush delivery option.
Can we request specific shots?
Yes. In the pre-brief we'll ask for:
- Your must-have shots (people, moments, details)
- Any family or group combinations that are important
- Specific details or vendors you want captured (rings, dress details, decor, etc.)
We'll aim to cover these while still leaving space for genuine, unscripted moments and documentary coverage of the day. Think of it as a "must-capture" list rather than a rigid shot-by-shot script.
What happens in the pre-brief call?
The pre-brief (usually a 30-45 minute video call or in-person meeting) covers:
- Your detailed timeline and schedule
- Key people and VIPs to capture
- Family list for group photos
- Venue rules and restrictions
- Vendor coordination (planner, MC, AV team)
- Any cultural, religious, or personal preferences
- Shot priorities and "must-have" moments
This is your chance to ask any last-minute questions and ensure we're aligned on expectations. We'll also share our contact details for the day and confirm logistics like arrival time and parking.
7. On the Day: Logistics & Expectations
What time will you arrive?
We plan to arrive early (typically 15–30 minutes before the agreed start time) to settle in, check the light, scout key angles, and coordinate with your planner, MC, or AV team before things get busy.
For weddings, this buffer time is crucial for capturing detail shots (dress, rings, invitations, flowers) before the schedule officially starts. It also ensures we're ready to roll when you are, not still setting up when you want to begin.
Do we need to provide meals or breaks on long days?
For bookings of 8 hours and above, a short meal break helps us stay sharp and energized (and many venues require vendor meals). A simple hot meal and drink for each team member during a natural break in the schedule is ideal.
During this break we normally pause shooting unless we've agreed in advance to cover something specific (for example speeches continuing in another room). We'll coordinate the timing with your schedule so we're not eating during key moments.
Can I extend coverage on the day? What's your overtime policy?
Yes, subject to availability. If your program runs long and you'd like us to stay, we charge our standard hourly overtime rate as stated in your quote (typically S$150-200 per extra hour for photography, slightly higher for video).
We'll always check with you or your appointed contact before rolling into overtime so there are no surprises. Overtime is billed in hourly blocks and rounded up to the next hour. Payment for overtime is due with the final balance before delivery.
How do you handle group photos and family formals?
Send us a concise family list (ideally 10–15 groups max—more gets exhausting for everyone) and appoint one helper who knows the key people. We'll stage things efficiently, starting with older relatives and VIPs, so you can get back to your guests quickly without missing anyone important.
Pro tip: Consolidate similar groups. Instead of "bride + mom," "bride + dad," "bride + mom + dad," just do "bride + parents" and save 5 minutes. Your guests will thank you.
Venue, church, or ROM rules may be strict. How do you handle that?
We always comply with house rules. Some venues restrict movement, flash, or where we can stand. We adapt and prioritize key angles, but certain rules may affect what's possible. We'll explain any limitations honestly during the pre-brief so expectations are clear.
For example: Some churches ban flash and restrict photographer movement during the ceremony. We work with available light and shoot from permitted positions. The result is still beautiful—it just requires a different approach.
What if there's bad weather on my outdoor shoot? Can we reschedule?
Singapore weather can be unpredictable. For weddings and events, we'll work with your indoor or covered backup plan and bring gear that can handle light rain where safe.
For dedicated outdoor shoots (for example engagement sessions or portraits), we're happy to reschedule once for severe weather subject to availability, at no extra charge. Light rain can sometimes be used creatively if you're open to it (umbrellas, dramatic clouds, moody vibes).
We monitor weather forecasts 48 hours before outdoor shoots and will proactively reach out if conditions look problematic.
What should we wear and bring for outdoor portraits?
In general, solid colors, minimal logos, and comfortable shoes work best. Coordinate tones rather than wearing identical outfits (think complementary, not matching). Avoid very tiny stripes or busy patterns that can cause visual artifacts on camera.
Practical things to bring:
- Water and a small towel (Singapore heat!)
- Touch-up items (makeup, hairbrush, oil blotting sheets)
- A light jacket or umbrella in case of sudden rain
- Comfortable backup shoes if you're wearing heels
If you like, we can share a quick moodboard or simple outfit guidelines to match the location and time of day. Golden hour (late afternoon) suits softer colors; midday suits bolder tones.
Do you carry backup equipment?
Always. We bring multiple camera bodies, lenses, lighting, batteries, and memory cards to every shoot. Equipment failure is rare, but we plan for it so your memories are never dependent on a single body or card.
We also use dual-card recording (two memory cards per camera) whenever possible, so even if one card fails mid-shoot, we have a backup copy of everything.
What if someone in our group is camera-shy or uncooperative?
We're used to working with all personality types—from extroverts who love the camera to shy relatives who'd rather hide. Our approach is calm, patient, and never pushy. For camera-shy people, we often get better results with candid shots than forced portraits.
If you have specific family members who are difficult or uncooperative, give us a heads-up in the pre-brief. We'll work with your appointed helper to wrangle them efficiently without making it awkward for you.
Do you help with location permits (Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, attractions, etc.)?
Yes. If permits or paid locations apply, we'll flag it early and pass through the cost at actuals with clarity.
8. Editing, Style & Files
What's your editing style?
We focus on real color and clean, timeless edits:
- Natural skin tones (not orange, not gray)
- No heavy trendy filters by default (faded film, teal-and-orange, crushed blacks)
- Subtle contrast and clarity that age well
- True-to-life colors that match what you remember
If you have a specific aesthetic you like, you can share references and we'll see how closely we can match while keeping things natural and consistent across the whole story. We're not big on chasing fleeting Instagram trends that'll look dated in 5 years.
What does editing include? Do you do heavy retouching?
Standard editing includes color correction, exposure, white balance, cropping, and a clean natural look on every delivered image. Light skin tidying and distraction cleanup on key portraits is included at our discretion (blemishes, flyaway hairs, temporary skin issues).
Detailed or heavy retouching (for example significant body reshaping, complex object removal, extensive skin work, removing people from backgrounds) is not included by default but can be added as a separate paid service if needed. Most clients don't need this—our goal is to make you look like yourself on your best day, not create a different person.
Do you provide RAW or unedited files?
As a rule, we do not deliver RAW files, because the curation and editing are an integral part of our craft and brand. All packages include professionally edited, color-corrected images in high resolution—these are your "final" files, ready to use.
In special cases (for example archival purposes for large organizations, or if you have an in-house editor), a set of RAW files can be provided for an archival fee (typically around S$288-388), subject to a separate written agreement on how they'll be used. If you think you need RAWs, let us know and we can discuss whether it's really necessary.
How many photos and videos will we receive?
As a rough guideline, you can expect around 50–100 edited photos per hour of coverage. For a full-day wedding (8–10 hours), that often works out to 600–800+ images, depending on your program, guest count, and pace of the day.
For video, highlight reels are usually in the 3–5 minute range, while full ceremony or event films can be 20–30 minutes or more, depending on what's included in your package.
We prefer to deliver a generous but curated set rather than chase an artificial number or flood you with near-duplicates. Quality and curation matter more than raw quantity.
Do we get to choose music for the highlight film?
We use properly licensed music only (from services like Epidemic Sound and Artlist), so the track list is limited to what can be used legally online. You're welcome to share the vibe, tempo, or artists you like (romantic ballad, upbeat indie, dramatic cinematic), and we'll pick a song in a similar mood from our licensed libraries.
This keeps your film shareable without copyright issues on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. Using popular songs (Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, etc.) will get your video muted or taken down—it's not worth it.
What formats do you deliver?
Photos: High-resolution JPEGs delivered via a private online gallery (typically Pixieset or similar), with both web-sized previews and full-resolution downloads available. Files are typically 3000-6000px on the long edge, perfect for large prints.
Video: MP4 (H.264 or H.265) in 4K or 1080p depending on your package and needs. Additional formats or aspect ratios (for example vertical reels, square posts) can be provided where agreed.
Need files in a specific format for a particular use? Let us know and we can usually accommodate.
Do you include revision rounds for video?
Yes. We include one round of minor revisions (for example small timing changes, text tweaks, or simple shot swaps) within around one week of delivery. Additional or major revisions (complete re-edits, music changes, structural overhauls) can be done at our standard edit rate.
Most clients are happy with the first cut, but we build in this revision round for peace of mind.
Do you offer albums or prints?
Yes. Premium albums typically start around S$688, and we can also arrange custom prints, canvases, or framed wall art. After your gallery is delivered, we'll send you album and print options so you can decide if you'd like a physical keepsake.
Albums typically take 4-6 weeks for design and production. We handle the design layout and send you proofs for approval before printing.
Can we download and print the photos ourselves?
Absolutely. Your package includes full print rights for personal use. You can download high-resolution files and print them at any lab or photo service you like (Taobao, Photobook, local print shops, etc.).
We provide high-res JPEGs specifically so you can print at any size without quality loss. No need to buy prints from us unless you want the convenience of having us handle it.
9. Drones & Technical Questions
Do you fly drones?
Where it's permitted and safe, yes. Drone use depends on weather, venue rules, and local regulations (CAAS restrictions in Singapore are strict—many areas are no-fly zones). If approved, we'll add it as an optional line item on your quote and advise realistically on when it will or won't be possible.
We hold the necessary permits and insurance for commercial drone operations. Typical uses: outdoor venue aerials, wide establishing shots, creative reveal shots.
What cameras and equipment do you use?
We shoot primarily on Sony mirrorless systems (A7 series for photos, FX series for video) with professional lenses. For video we use gimbals, sliders, and stabilization where appropriate.
Equipment matters, but not as much as you'd think—the photographer matters more than the camera. That said, we invest in professional gear that performs well in challenging conditions (low light, fast action, weather).
10. Travel & Overseas Shoots
Are there any travel fees?
Travel within Singapore is included in all standard packages. For locations outside Singapore (for example Malaysia, Indonesia, or other parts of Asia), we add a travel fee—typically at cost for transport and accommodation where required.
We'll give you a clear breakdown and, for bigger trips, a fixed travel quote so that there are no surprise surcharges later.
Regional travel: Cost + modest coordination fee
International: Custom quote
Do you travel for overseas shoots and destination weddings?
Yes. We're happy to travel for overseas weddings, pre-wedding shoots, retreats, and events. We'll propose a fixed travel quote covering flights, accommodation, and local transport so you have full cost visibility upfront.
Common destinations we've covered: Bali, Phuket, Malaysia (KL, Penang, JB), Taiwan, Japan. We're open to traveling further—just ask!
How early do you arrive for overseas jobs?
We typically arrive at least one day before the main event to buffer against flight delays and, where practical, to scout locations and check light so that we're not seeing everything for the first time on the day itself.
For multi-day events or unfamiliar destinations, we may arrive 2-3 days early to properly plan and prepare.
11. Changes, Rescheduling & Cancellation
What if we need to change our date?
If you need to postpone, let us know as soon as possible. We'll:
- Check availability for your new date, and
- Move your booking where we can
The retainer is generally non-refundable but is transferable once to a new date (usually within 6-12 months), subject to availability and any date-change terms stated in your agreement.
If your new date is more expensive (for example peak season vs. off-peak), you may need to pay the difference. If it's less expensive, we'll credit the difference toward add-ons or future services.
What's your cancellation policy?
Life happens. If you need to cancel outright, your deposit is non-refundable because we've reserved the date for you and turned away other inquiries (this is standard across the industry).
Any additional payments beyond the deposit may be partially refundable depending on:
- How close we are to the event (more notice = more flexibility)
- Any work already carried out (pre-briefs, planning, coordination)
- Our ability to rebook the date
We try to be fair in genuine emergencies (medical, family crisis, force majeure) and are always open to a conversation. We're not here to penalize bad luck.
What happens if YOU need to cancel?
In the unlikely event we need to cancel due to serious illness, accident, or emergency, we'll:
- First attempt to arrange a qualified replacement photographer/videographer of similar skill (subject to your approval)
- If that's not possible or acceptable, provide a full refund of all amounts paid
We carry professional indemnity insurance and have backup plans, but we believe in being transparent about worst-case scenarios. In 10+ years, we've never had to cancel a booking.
12. Data Safety, Privacy & Image Use
How do you back up our files and how long do you keep them?
We use dual recording and on-site backups while shooting (two cards per camera where possible, plus a copy to an SSD before we leave the venue), then store your files using a 3-2-1 backup strategy (three copies, two different media types, one off-site) by the end of the day.
Online galleries typically stay live for at least 90 days so you can download and back everything up on your side. We keep local archives for longer (typically 1-2 years for weddings, 6-12 months for events), but long-term storage of source files is not guaranteed unless you arrange an extended archive as an add-on.
Can I share the photos on social media?
Absolutely. For private clients, your package includes a perpetual personal-use license. You're welcome to share images on social media, in chats, and in printed albums for family and friends. We simply appreciate a credit such as @embermedia.sg or "Photo by Ember Media" when posting publicly.
Tagging us also helps us share your photos (if you're comfortable with that) and connect with potential clients who discover us through your posts. Win-win!
Personal vs commercial use—can my business run ads with the photos or videos?
Private clients receive a personal-use license (sharing and prints are fine, but not resale or using the imagery to advertise other brands or services).
Brands and businesses receive a usage license tailored to your channels, duration, and territory. Running paid ads is usually allowed within that license, as long as it's specified clearly in your quote and agreement.
Tell us where you plan to use the assets (website, social organic posts, paid ads, print materials, third-party platforms, outdoor billboards) and we'll include the correct license so you're covered legally. Licensing is based on usage scope, not a penalty—we just need to know upfront.
Will you post our photos or videos online? Can we request privacy?
We love sharing our work, but we also respect privacy. By default our agreement usually includes permission to use selected images or films in our portfolio, website, and social media for promotional purposes.
You can request limited or no public use for sensitive events, private family moments, or if you simply prefer to keep things private. Just let us know during booking, and we'll honor that (except where third-party obligations apply, for example certain venue or brand collaborations where portfolio use is part of the deal).
We never share images that could embarrass you or that you've specifically asked us not to share.
Are you compliant with privacy regulations (PDPA in Singapore)?
Yes. We only collect the personal data needed to manage your booking and deliver your project (name, contact info, event details, payment info). We do not sell your data to third parties or use it for purposes beyond your project.
If you have specific internal policies (for example for corporate or church events with strict data handling requirements), let us know so we can align with them and provide any necessary documentation.
Full details are in our Privacy Policy (linked in our service agreement).
What if we lose our files or our computer crashes?
This is why we recommend downloading your full gallery within the first 90 days and backing it up to at least two locations (external hard drive + cloud storage like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud).
We keep archives for a limited time, but we're not a permanent backup service. If you lose your files after the gallery expires, we may be able to restore them for a small archive retrieval fee (typically S$50-100), but we can't guarantee availability after 1-2 years.
Pro tip: Use a cloud service with automatic backup (Google Photos, iCloud Photos, Amazon Photos with Prime). Set it and forget it.
13. Ember Lean Fitness (Personal Training)
I saw 'Ember Lean Fitness' in the footer. Do you offer training for couples?
Yes. We believe looking good on your wedding day starts months before the camera clicks. We offer exclusive personal training packages for Ember Media couples to help you feel confident and "camera-ready." Ask us about our "Wedding Shred" add-on when you enquire.
Can we bundle photography and personal training?
Absolutely. We have a "Look Your Best" bundle that includes your pre-wedding shoot, actual day coverage, and a 12-week programmed training block leading up to the big day. It's the efficient way to handle both your media and your fitness goals with one team.
Still have questions? We're happy to chat! Tell us your date, venue, and what you have in mind, and we'll walk you through everything step by step—no pressure, no obligation.
Get in touch