Deposits: an Essential, Yet Intimidating Part of the Creative Process.
We cannot commit to you, if you do not commit to us.
It is not as simple as that, but if I had to sum it up with as few words as possible, those are the ones I would choose. Continue reading for the complexities.
Canceled bookings cost us money. When we take a day off of our calendar for you, that means it becomes unavailable to anyone else, no matter how much they are offering to pay. That is the commitment we make to you when we take your deposit. We will be there. We need that same commitment from you and we cannot afford to turn away people who are willing to make that commitment, in exchange for a promise from others.
The work starts well before the day of your shoot. We do not just show up on the day ready to go. We have to commit time, energy and money to preparation. That includes traveling to meetings and shooting locations for scouting, as well as renting gear or hiring subcontractors. It could also mean staying up late, or scheduling time to clean and/or prep gear. in short, your production has overhead and it is not in our best interest to take it on out of pocket. Your deposit ensures that these costs are covered and allows us the freedom to do our job with peace of mind. Which takes me to 3.
Forecasting is an essential piece of finance that people who do not run a business have the luxury of not having to do. We do not have guaranteed monies coming in on a trackable schedule. So planning bill pay, vacations, and other common expenditures becomes an unsolvable math equation. We have to look at many different pieces of information and make an educated guess as to how much income we will have coming in during any given month. Some of the key pieces of information are:
How much we made this same time last year while accounting for new clients, repeat clients and lost clients.
Averaging the amount we have made in the previous 6 months.
Deposits. The only sure thing on this list.
We need to be able to make an educated and accurate guess as to how much money we will have, so that we know how much money we can spend and where. Deposits play in invaluable role in doing that.
We at Francois Visuals understand that for some entities, the issuance of a deposit is not a straight forward process. The request must go through several hands before a deposit is remitted. In those cases, we merely ask for transparency throughout the process and an eventual conversation about how we can work together to expedite such processes for future bookings.
For those wondering, yes, there are clients for which we do not ask a deposit. These are people and entities with whom we have established a great deal of trust and confidence, either through past personal or professional connections. A Status we aspire to reach with all of our clients.
For those who we have yet to establish such a relationship with, we have to assume and account for the worst in order to remain viable as a business and to protect our peace. To us, that simply means that if you decline to pay a deposit, then you were never serious about booking us. Despite us being wrong about that some of the time, we are content due to the many pitfalls that our deposit policies inevitably protect us from.
Thank you kindly for your attention and consideration regarding this matter. We truly hope that our portfolio, reputation and prowess are sufficient enough for you to make a financial commitment to us which in turn allows us to make a commensurate commitment to you.
Sincerely,
Ferns Francois
Introducing the Influencer Mini Session
📸 Looking to up your social media game with stunning, professional photos? Look no further than our brand new Influencer Mini Session! 🌟
Our photographer, Ferns Francois, not only has years of experience behind the lens, but also as a model, so he knows exactly how to make you look your absolute best! Whether you're looking to update your Instagram feed, freshen up your website, or just want some fabulous new profile pictures, our mini session is perfect for you.
“I like my money right where I can see it…hanging in my closet.”
For just $200, you'll get a full hour of shooting time with our talented photographer, capturing all your best angles and moments. With limited availability, you'll want to book your session as soon as possible to secure your spot! This mini session will occur in a different, photogenic location each time it pops up. As of this writing, our first event is June 1st in Downtown Lynn.
“Trendy is the last stage before tacky”
Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your online presence with our brand new product. Use the booking link below today to schedule your session and get ready to shine in front of the camera! 🌟📸
Luxury Photoshoot at Raffles Boston
The experience of shooting a campaign for Mr. Sid at the Raffles Hotel in Boston was yet another goal realized. As a photographer, being able to work in such a luxurious and beautiful location was inspiring and truly brought out the best in our team.
Contracted to work in the role of Lead Photographer alongside the talented individuals at digital marketing agency Kure Creative, which includes visionary Chris Baker and Director of Photography Miguel Rubiera, and our amazing models Malcolm and Areli was a pleasure. Liz Morache, our hair and make-up artist, was a true pro who helped make sure our models looked flawless throughout the day. Jin Lao captured behind the scenes footage while providing assistance.
Chris (left) consults with Miguel prior to the next shot.
Visit Kure Creative
Liz Morache
“Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.”
The resulting images and videos are truly stunning, capturing the essence of Mr. Sid's brand and the sophistication of the Raffles hotel. I couldn't be more proud of the work we created together and I can't wait to see it showcased on Mr. Sid's website, social media and bi-annual magazine.
If you're in the Boston area and looking for high-end fashion, be sure to check out Mr. Sid at their Newton Centre location. And if you're in need of a creative director for your next photography project, consider booking Francois Visuals for a truly exceptional experience.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such an amazing team and to create visuals that truly capture the essence of luxury fashion. Thank you to everyone involved for making this campaign a success.
Shooting a Music Video Behind The Scenes
As the behind the scenes photographer and filmmaker for the Seven Spires music video shoot, I had the opportunity to witness the magic unfold behind the lens. Working alongside the talented team at EmVision Productions, I was able to capture intimate moments of the band members as they prepared to shoot their latest video.
The location of Hammond Castle in Gloucester, MA added an air of mystery and grandeur to the shoot. As the band members arrived, their excitement and energy filled the air. Guitarist Jack Kosto, vocalist Adrienne Cowan, bassist Peter de Reyna, and drummer Chris Dovas brought their A-game as they worked alongside the EmVision team to bring their vision to life.
The gaffer for the shoot, Sean Peloso, was a master of lighting, creating a cinematic atmosphere that perfectly complemented the band's sound and style. His expertise added depth and drama to each shot, enhancing the overall visual impact of the video.
Gaffer Sean Peloso
Throughout the day, I captured candid moments of the band members laughing, dancing, and jamming out between takes. It was clear that their passion for music was infectious, and it was a joy to document their creative process.
As the shoot wrapped up, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented group of individuals. The collaboration between EmVision Productions and Seven Spires had resulted in a visually stunning music video that would undoubtedly captivate audiences and showcase the band's talent.
Reflecting on the day's events, I realized how rewarding it was to be able to capture behind the scenes moments that would forever be immortalized in the final product. As a behind the scenes photographer and filmmaker, I had the privilege of witnessing the magic of creativity and collaboration come together in perfect harmony. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Hair and Make-up provided by Aya / Druid Mua
Summer Photo Shoot at Chatham Bars Inn
The Chatham Bars Inn in Cape Cod, Massachusetts provided the perfect backdrop for a summer photoshoot that was nothing short of magical. With its stunning waterfront views, charming cottages, and lush gardens, the property was a photographer's dream come true.
The two-day production kicked off with a golden hour shoot on the first day. Photographer Conor Doherty and director Devin Lee captured breathtaking photos and videos using state-of-the-art equipment. From aerial shots of the property to close-ups of the pool and marina, every angle was covered with precision and artistry.
Joining the crew were producer Anna Levithan and Chatham Bars Inn representatives Beth and Olivia, who provided invaluable assistance and insight throughout the shoot. The team worked seamlessly together, creating a fun and creative atmosphere that translated into stunning visuals that included meals at the Beach House Grill on site as well as a dinner at their off-site farm to table experience “The Farm”.
The second day of the shoot brought models to the set, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already picturesque scenes. With the addition of Danielle, who was eight months pregnant at the time, the shoot took on a whole new dimension of beauty and emotion.
From the poolside shots to the beach cabanas and lobster bake, every moment was captured with care and attention to detail. As the sun set on the final day of shooting, the team captured some truly epic shots that will surely leave a lasting impression on anyone who sees them.
In the end, a summer photoshoot at Chatham Bars Inn was more than just a job - it was an experience to remember. Working alongside talented professionals in such a stunning setting made for an unforgettable two days of creativity and collaboration. And with the resulting photos and videos as proof, it's safe to say that this shoot was a success in every sense of the word.
Headshot Photography in Boston
As a photographer servicing the Boston area, I've had the pleasure of working with many amazing clients. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Patrick, a local professional who needed a new headshot for his website.
Patrick's session took place in his home in Boston, a location that added a personal touch to his images. I pride myself on conducting smooth, professional, and fast sessions that result in clean, stunning images.
For only $500, clients like Patrick can benefit from a quick, but unrushed session that includes one edited photo as well as full-sized jpegs of all selects. And if more edits are desired, they can be purchased for an additional $50 each.
When it comes to capturing professional headshots, I believe it's important to create images that reflect the individual's personality and professionalism. Patrick's session was no exception, as I was able to highlight his unique qualities and present him in the best possible light.
If you're in need of a new headshot for your professional endeavors, consider booking a session with me. I'll work closely with you to create images that exceed your expectations and help you make a strong impression in your industry. Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule your session today!
Francois Visuals Storms Art Basel with Art Hearts Fashion
As a photographer who was lucky enough to capture behind the scenes footage during Art Basel 2023 in Miami, I must say it was an incredible experience. From the moment I booked gigs with producer Anthony Serrano during a model casting call at Fabel restaurant in Wynwood Miami, I knew I was in for a wild and exciting weekend.
Throughout the busy weekend, I had the opportunity to photograph models on runways as well as behind the scenes. The runway shows, produced by Art Hearts Fashion, were filled with stunning designs and talented models strutting their stuff. It was a whirlwind of activity, with quick changes, last-minute touch-ups, and the anticipation of the next show.
In addition to capturing the high-energy runway shows, I also had the chance to engage models for individual shoots on event sites. One standout moment was doing a one-on-one test shoot with model Janell Castro in Brickell. It was a chance to focus on one individual and really capture their unique look and personality in front of the camera.
Janell Castro
The events were a great success, and I was thrilled to see my work being used by various parties, including models, designers, Art Hearts Fashion, the venues, and marketing agency Designing the District. It was a gratifying feeling to know that my photos were being appreciated and shared with a wider audience.
For me, capturing behind the scenes moments is where the magic happens. I love being able to show the hard work, dedication, and creativity that go into putting on a show like Art Basel. It's those candid, unscripted moments that truly showcase the behind-the-scenes magic.
When it comes to photographing fashion events, I like to use on-camera flash to create a contrasty and dramatic look. This helps to highlight the models, the fashion they wear, and the hair and makeup looks they sport. It adds a certain edge and visual interest to the photos, giving them a dynamic and stylish feel.
In addition to photographing the models and runway shows, I also had the chance to capture the stylish guests who attended the events. From influencers to party planners to artists and retailers, there was a diverse range of attendees who brought their own sense of fashion and style to the events.
Overall, Art Basel 2023 was a fantastic experience, and I feel lucky to have been a part of it. Being able to capture the energy, creativity, and passion of the event through my photography was truly rewarding. I can't wait to see where my next gig takes me and what behind-the-scenes moments I'll be able to capture next.
Behind The Scenes at The Intercontinental Buckhead Atlanta
As a photographer, I am always excited to work on new projects and this shoot for 5th Street East at the Intercontinental Buckhead hotel in Atlanta was no exception. The stunning location provided the perfect backdrop for our two day shoot, showcasing the luxury amenities and services offered by the hotel.
Working alongside lead photographer Conor Doherty, I was able to capture behind the scenes footage of the photo and video teams in action. It was amazing to see how seamlessly we all worked together to capture the perfect shots. The video team, comprised of Devin Lee and Nate Richert, were a pleasure to work with and their communication and vision make collaborating look easy.
Conor Doherty
Owner and producer of 5th Street East, Anna Levithan, was instrumental in ensuring that everything ran smoothly during the shoot. Her attention to detail and professionalism were truly impressive and it was a pleasure to work with her team.
Anna Levithan
One of the highlights of the shoot was the use of continuous lighting with the Profoto B10x Plus. This allowed us to quickly move between locations and capture stunning shots both indoors and outdoors. I used the Sony a7RIII to capture the bts photo and video as the team moved quickly from location to location.
The Intercontinental Buckhead hotel was truly a photographer's dream, with its beautiful natural lighting and elegant decor. Every corner offered a new opportunity for a stunning photo and it was a joy to capture the essence of this luxurious property.
Overall, this shoot was a huge success and I am grateful to have been a part of the team. The collaboration between the photo and video teams was seamless and I am excited to see the final results of our hard work. Thank you to 5th Street East for allowing me to be a part of this amazing project.
Salem Massachusetts Photo Tour
Hey there! Are you looking to explore the enchanting history and beauty of Salem, Massachusetts? Whether you’re a professional photographer or just want to capture some amazing memories during your stay in this historic city, here is a list of the best places for photoshoots in Salem. From street photography to night photography, portrait sessions to capturing the iconic witch statues, get ready for an incredible photoshoot experience!
Ropes Mansion
First up is Ropes Mansion. Located in the heart of Salem, the Ropes Mansion is an iconic landmark in the city. The Georgian-style house was built in 1727 and has been featured in many films and television shows, including Hocus Pocus. The mansion is perfect for outdoor photoshoots with its beautiful gardens and stunning facade. They up keep the gardens and change out the flower display regularly so you will have something new to experience each season.
The Witch House
Make your way down a few doors and stop at The Witch House of Salem. This house the only structure still standing in Salem that has direct ties to The Salem Witch trails of 1692. Many flock to here for a photo during October. You can expect a long line but if you are looking for a photo that screams “ I was in Salem” this is THE ONE. Plus the line moves really fast and you will see all kinds of people with great costumes roaming the streets as you wait. This one is a must must when we are on our photo tours and it should be yours too.
Bewitched Statue
Next on our journey through Salem we would stop at The Bewitched Statue. A sculpture located in the heart of Salem of Samatha from the famous sitcom Bewitched. This sculpture is great for a quick photo op. Keep in mind if you go during peak season you may need to wait in line here as well but the line moves fast and the photo opportunity and memories you can cherish forever are well worth the wait. Plus there are tons of great places to eat in that area afterwards. You could even get your food to go and eat it in the small park where the statue is located.
Peabody Essex Museum
After a quick photo at the statue and a bite to eat make your way down down Essex Street to The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM). But before getting to The PEM be-sure to take in the sites as this street is where all the action happens. The PEM is an iconic destination that features world-renowned art and history collections. At this museum, you can capture stunning photographic compositions both indoors and outdoors in their small courtyard garden. Our favorite exhibit is the in Yu Tang House. It's a real Chinese house that was shipped here. Its a place you can experience how people in china lived during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In my opinion this sixteen room house is a must see!
Salem Witch Museum
Around the corner from The PEM is The Salem Witch Museum. Get a glimpse into the dark history of Salem at the Witch Museum. Not only can visitors learn about the infamous witch trials, but they can also take stunning photographs in front of the historical artifacts on display. The museum is also perfect for night photography with its eerie atmosphere and dim lighting.
Salem Commons
Across the street is The Salem Commons. Home to many beautiful gardens and quaint buildings that make great backdrops for any photo shoot. The Commons also hosts several events throughout the year such as festivals and concerts which add an extra layer of atmosphere to your photos. Including the famous Haunted Happenings that take places every year, that many from all around the world flock to Salem to experience.
Salem Massachusetts has so much to offer during both off and peak season. If this destination is not already on your bucket list I highly suggest adding it. These are only a few of the gems. One of our all time favorite restaurants is also located in Salem but more on that later. Come down to Salem to experience its witchy history first hand and book a photo tour with us now. We can’t wait to show you around!
Photography at The Christian Science Center
To kick off the 2023 summer Airbnb Experience season we were booked by a vibrant and uplifting woman named Stephanie. She is a content creator from Washington and each year she travels some where new with her father for Fathers Day weekend. This year it was to Boston. She booked us for her first session and wanted to stay close to her hotel so she could do a quick outfit change. Right by her hotel was the Christian Science Center which is located on Massachusetts/Huntington ave in the Fenway area of Boston.
When we arrived at the Christian Science Center Stephanie had already been there waiting for us, which was such a delicate as we love when our clients are on time. We greeted each other and the chemistry was great right off the bat and we could not wait to start shooting. Danielle has shot a quick mini shoot at this location before but it was quick and off season. We anticipated a great shoot as The Christian Science center is a beautiful location with many Boston Iconic views that scream “Hi I am in Boston” not to mention the reflecting pool right in the middle of the plaza. Which is exactly what Stephanie was looking for for her session.
However, once we started to pull out all of our camera equipment a security officer started walking towards us. This usually only means one thing LOL. The security guard at the Christian Science Center informed us that they do not allow professional photography on the Christian Science center grounds. Which was disappointing but we completely understood, especially because the security guard was kind and even recommended other cool shooting locations in the area and informed us that were able to shoot on the perimeter of the plaza.
We were fortunate enough to still have the opportunity to get shots of the beautiful fountain that was on plaza grounds behind Stephanie making for a lively scene. We were also lucky enough to have a very laid back client such as Stephanie. She was ready to shoot and experiment with different and unplanned locations. The photo session ended up being a total success. Thanks to her outgoing personality we were able to capture some candid moments. We explored and shot on some of the neighboring streets which offered a variety of stunning backdrops including a short walk to the Boston Public Library. Although we can not shoot at The Christian Science Center plaza we would definitely shoot in that area again.
“Yesterday morning I met up with some amazing creatives; thank you Danielle and Ferns from @francoisstudioslynn for some amazing pics! #EatDrinkTravelTall”
Instagram: @Stephforrer
Boston Airbnb Experience
If you're looking for affordable photography services in Boston, look no further. The summer weather has arrived here in New England which makes for awesome outdoor Boston Photography. We'd love to take you on a pre-determined route with iconic landmarks for one hour and photograph you making memories that will last a lifetime. If you have a place that is extra special to you we will happily take custom location requests for our private groups and customize your experience to your vision.
Boston holds so much beauty. We love capturing our clients at Christopher Columbus park. It offers views of the famous clock tower, the archway and waterfront. The Northend streets are also a close by which means we can capture them both in one session. Another location that is a must is The beacon Hill area. Many from all around the world come to take in the small cobble stone streets lined with brown stone buildings. Many of our clients also love grabbing a quick bite on Charles Street after our session, it has tons of food options and lots of little shops.
We’ve had the chance to work with some of the most amazing people in the world. We've seen incredible things and met some truly inspiring people. But one of our favorite things about this job is being able to share our experiences with others—and what better way than through photography?
That's why we have started offering affordable photography services through Airbnb Experience in Boston. Whether you need help capturing your next family vacation or want to document your engagement, We are here to make sure that every detail of your adventure is captured perfectly—and at an affordable price!
Salem Airbnb Experience With Olivia
It all begins with an idea.
Ferns and I had been doing Airbnb experience for a few months when October 2022 had arrived but at the time we were only offering photo experiences in Boston. In October, Salem MA is a historic city that attracts tourists for a variety of great reasons such as the atmosphere, its walkability and the October Haunted Happenings. People from all around the world come to visit the city and its rich history during Halloween.
Olivia had booked our first early morning photo experience through Airbnb and we are so grateful to have experienced her uplifting and positive personality as we explored witch city together. The golden hour sun looked amazing on her skin and on top of that we did not have to fight crowds at popular tourist locations.
Our session with Olivia was only an hour long but we could have toured downtown Salem with her for hours. We explored places like downtown shops/food area, The Bewitched Statue, The Witch Museum, Witch House and The Ropes Mansion. Did you know that the Ropes Manson was featured in the popular movie Hocus Pocus? Its Alisons house! Now, if you didn't know that? You can visit "witch city" and feel like a local. Here is a little of what Olivia had to say about her airbnb experience.
"Quite a bewitching experience! Ferns photographed me during the October season of Salem. It was going to be a quite a busy time, so we met very early in the morning to get sunrise, less crowded, shots. His wife Danielle accompanied us, they were a smart team! They made me feel very comfortable in front of the camera, and the edits were delivered to me quickly with so many shots to pick from. Highly recommend this experience!"
Thank you Olivia for trusting us to provide high quality memories of your time in Salem!
Jalisa + Chris Baby Shower
It all begins with an idea.
Chris reached out to us due to his connection with Ferns, coming up together in Lynn Ma, to cover photography for his and Jalisa’s baby shower. of course, we said yes, always wanting to provide a great service, but being honored that a friend trusted us with creating mementos for such an important milestone that would be cherished forever.
Ferns handled this booking personally, using an on camera speed light as well as off camera continuous light. The event location was the VFW Lt. Norman Prince Post in Melrose. He arrived early to set up lighting and get a scope of the space, as well as discuss goals with the couple. Family is always a priority at these events. We aim to capture tender moments between friends and family that will be appreciated more and more as time goes by. Ferns made sure to visit tables where patrons were gathered and offer photos, as well as making himself present whenever there was a commotion.
A professional photographer at your baby shower will provide high quality products that capture all emotions and details of the day, making them timeless pieces for the whole family to cherish forever. Allow us to remove the stress on ensuring that the most important moments of the day are captured and your story documented by people who are passionate about doing so.
Thank you and congrats to Chris and Jalisa.
Grimdrops Mural Documentation
It all begins with an idea.
We initially encountered Grimdrops at the Black Lives Matter mural hosted by Beyond Walls. Grim was filling in the letter "M" in the word "matter".
A couple of months later, he reached out to us and requested our help recording his most ambitious wall mural to date, located in Gloucester, MA--a chance we couldn't pass up as it marked our first time directly collaborating with an artist.
We arrived at Harbor Village on Elm Street and saw just how big the wall was and determined that shooting drone footage with our DJI Mavic Mini was essential. In front of this enormous blank canvas, Grim unveiled a blueprint of what this piece would become rich with his signature style and references to his hometown.
Ferns devoted approximately two weeks chronicling Grim's formation of the painting from inception until completion. We got some insightful interviews with him; b-roll; plus aerial images so that we could tell his narrative precisely. Quickly enough, he'd gotten halfway through work on the design and its colors already seemed incredibly vivid; when finished, it featured a portrayal of a famous local statue among other elements.
It was quite an honor documenting Grimm's murals and observing how much care he puts into its genesis as well as execution--even if not everything went exactly as planned, the result was fascinating.
