Services:

For over 10 years I've honed my skills in photography, design and image processing. From humble beginnings developing my own 35mm film to cutting edge digital techniques, I have established a personal approach to this timeless art.

I've been told that my unique blend of technique and emotional imagery is what sets me apart and drives couples to seek me out to document their wedding. My positive personality and commitment to their satisfaction is why they refer me long after their special day.

In both work and play I find excitement in capturing life's planned and unplanned moments. My attention to detail and creative insight help me create artistic memories that will last a lifetime.

I'm excited to hear about your plans and invite you to get to know me. Most of the couples I work with tend to hold tight bonds with family and friends, and generally have a good sense of humor. I tend to mirror the energy that is around me. When the mood is subdued and romantic, I take on the roll of an unobtrusive professional. When the celebration kicks into high gear, I'll deliver fast paced, high impact images.

If my style and philosophy speak to you, I'd love an opportunity to get to know each of you better. Feel free to contact me any time.

- Craig

Classic Cakes by Louise	Weddings are such a happy time and Luster Studio's photographer captures those emotions exquisitely! From the moment she says "Yes!" to the "I Do's" and even after the last dance of the reception... everything is captured on film to be enjoyed for years to come. This is one of North Carolina's finest photographers.
Reverend Kayelily Middleton	Craig of Luster Studios is a great photographer. I enjoy working weddings with him because he is so friendly and easy to get along with. He is so good at setting up shots and getting everything the couple want for their wedding. He even tolerates my little digital camera snapping away for photos for my blog. Thanks for being so accommodating, Craig!

What area do you work in?
My local operations are based in North Carolina so I am often asked to photograph in areas like Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Cary, The Outer Banks, Fayetteville and Wilmington. I have also photographed at select locations out of state and for destination weddings.

How would define your photographic style?
I try to blend in with guests to minimize intrusion. I’ve found that most couples want their wedding photographer there during the important moments but to blend into the background during most of the day. I’ve found that this approach has allowed me to capture spontaneous moments of action and emotion. I also feel that formals are supposed to be as relaxed as possible. I tend to keep these light & fun.

What makes you different from other photographers out there?
With the advent of digital photography and the latest photojournalistic trends, anyone can buy a camera and proclaim themselves to be an “amazing photographer”. Past clients and their guests have shared with me their insights as to why they enjoy being photographed by me. The first is that I have a “natural eye” for composition, creativity and emotion in my images. This is supported by my technical knowledge and hands on experience. The second is my positive personality and simply the way I treat others. I am a great mixture of “respect for tradition” and “relaxed fun.” You will always here me say “please” and excuse me.” This will never be sold at a local camera store and I pride myself on the personal relationships I build with my clients.

If you become sick or injured who will be our photographer?
I take care of myself as best I can and so far I have never missed a wedding. A common cold or a headache will never prevent me from performing my duties, however in the event of an emergency, I already have a backup plan in place. I have built strong friendships with a network of photographers and studios locally and nationwide. My wife has a list of these contacts (and steps to take) and will immediately secure another photographer of equal skill.

Can I request specific photographs at my wedding?
If you let me know a list of specific shots you would like or specific people to be photographed, I will do my best to ensure coverage of those details. Many couples appoint someone that is familiar with both sides of the family to help me identify everyone. In many instances I suggest a premade “formals shotlist” to keep things moving quickly and smoothly. During the day, you can even let your guests know that they can grab the photographer at quiet periods during the day to get specific photos!

Can we print the photos ourselves?
Yes, whilst I do offer a complete print service, you are more than welcome to produce your own prints from the files. I will provide you with a print release which will allow you to create prints at any lab of your choice.

Is this your full-time career?
Yes! I’ve found that one of the largest misconceptions about wedding photographers is that they only work a few days on the weekend. On the contrary, I work 6-7 days a week. I find that I am constantly meeting with potential clients, updating the blog, shooting portrait and couples sessions, processing images, designing albums etc.

Do you carry backup cameras and equipment?
Yes! Camera malfunctions and equipment damage can happen to anyone at the worst time. If you hire anyone that doesn’t carry duplicate gear, you are taking an enormous risk. Simply don’t do it.

Are you fully insured?
I hold full Liability & Indemnity Insurance specifically for Professional Photographers. I don’t leave anything to chance.

What do you wear during personal sessions and at weddings?
During fun family and couples sessions I usually wear long pants and a polo shirt. During weddings I arrive well dressed and groomed with black pants, dress shoes, and a dress shirt sometimes with a tie. My goal is to always look my best without drawing attention to myself.

Do you offer wedding albums?
Yes I do. I work with a few album companies that specialize in medium to high-end wedding albums.

Did you go to school for photography? How long have you been doing this?
I attained my BFA in photography and graphic design and have been an active artist for over 10 years. I feel that each skillset compliments the other. My eye for strong composition is influenced by my design skills. Before the advent of digital photography I learned to develop my own 35mm film and spent many hours in a traditional darkroom.

Do you work alone at weddings? Do you use assistants?
In most cases I prefer to be the sole photographer. It allows me to blend in with guests & cause as little disruption as possible. As an experienced professional, I can confidently cover most events alone but will assign someone when I feel it is needed. If a wedding is particularly large, or multiple shooters/assistants would benefit the photos, then I hire a second professional to join me.

How do we secure you as our wedding photographer? Do we need to pay a deposit/retainer?
In most case I collect a 50% retainer and a signed contract, however a request can be made for payments to be made in thirds. Once this is received, no one else can book me for that day. The balance is due 2 weeks prior to the wedding day.

I’m not sure of my wedding details yet. Should I wait to book you?
A lot of couples have this issue. I’m more than happy to book you at my base package to secure the date & then upgrade packages as the day approaches.

How many photos do you take? How many do we get?
That depends on the length of your wedding, number of venues & the general flow of the day. I shoot anywhere between 500 and 2500 frames, then edit down photos (where people blink, or where someone stepped into frame etc.) to a more reasonable number. I process these as required. My goal is to always capture every planned and unplanned moment.

Do you provide a variety of color and black and white photographs?
Yes. I take all my shots in color then convert to black and white or sepia after the wedding day. This gives me full control on the processing decisions and how best to bring out the full potential in each shot.

Do you photograph the bridal “getting ready” shots?
I understand that some brides/bridemaids may be shy about having a male photographer in the room at certain moments. I remain professional at all times, but if there is ever a concern about this, I can happily wait outside until everyone is ready. I never want anyone to feel even the slightest bit uncomfortable.

When do photographers usually find time to eat? Do we need to provide a meal?
I’ve found that most guests prefer to dine without cameras around so I usually take this opportunity to grab a bite. In a buffet style dinner I always wait until everyone else has been served before I prepare a plate. In a formal setting I do not expect the same food as everyone else but it’s always appreciated if that is your choice. A simple boxed lunch will suffice for the budget conscious.

Meaningful Imagery - I'll take the time to get to know your friends and family. By understanding these relationships I can anticipate and capture key moments.

Custom & Original Art - I will always be the lead photographer and do not outsource the process. Each photograph and album is personally developed and designed by me.

Modern Techniques - I will utilize my unique and diverse skill sets to make your images the best they can be. In addition to documenting your event, I will usually spend an entire week adjusting images for color, exposure, and artisitic style.

Timely Delivery - I understand how excited you're going to be to see your wedding photography. I'll be just as excited to show everything to you! Although I will take the time to get everything perfect, my personal promise to you is that you will receive your images within one month.

Attention To Detail - Memorable imagery is not created by simple point and shoot. I have spent many years studying dynamic lighting, composition, exposure, and image processing. I will go beyond the obvious to focus on the "little things" that help make the day special.

Professionalism - As I interact with guests, family and other vendors I will always conduct myself in a polite, respecful and professional manner. I will arrive well dressed, honor specific requests, and will work within location guidelines to the best of my ability.

Preparation - Whether you are looking for casual candids or a lot of formals, I believe that pre-wedding day planning help everything go smoothly. Instead of "just showing up" I will work with you to create a tenative timeline and a list of any important planned moments.