Frequently asked questions
Looking for clarity before we work together? Below are answers to the most common questions photographers ask me. If you’re still unsure about something, feel free to send me a message.
Who runs this site?
ForegroundWeb is a one-person business run by me, Alex Vita.
I’m your point of contact for everything: web-design, consulting & support, and all the content you see here.
Why the name "ForegroundWeb"? What does it mean?
Your photography website is in the foreground of what your clients/buyers see (with all your shooting and editing happening in the background). Plus foreground is a photographic term, it made sense.
Do you prefer email or Zoom calls?
Email is best — it keeps us organized and doesn’t interrupt focused work. I reply within 24–48 hours. For calls, I prefer Zoom, scheduled in advance.
Do you build photography websites?
Yes — exclusively. I’ve worked with hundreds of photographers over the past 19 years and know the nuances of the industry inside out.
Do you work on non-photography websites?
Only rarely and if it’s adjacent to creative industries (like illustration or fine art). Otherwise, I stay focused on photographers — but I’m happy to recommend someone else if I’m not the right fit.
How much does a website cost?
Read how I price my work or contact me for a cost & time estimate.
I already have a website. Where should I start?
If you want a full expert review and a prioritized plan, start with the website audit.
If you already know the site needs hands-on improvement work, the website makeover is probably the better fit.
Are your project deposits refundable?
All deposits are nonrefundable. Deposits guarantee that I block time for your project in my work calendar (so I can properly focus on your site). I turn away other projects in that time frame, so the deposit protects us both, not to mention it being a strong sign of commitment on both parts.
Do your website support plans renew automatically?
Yes. Support plans renew annually by default, so your site's protection doesn't stop and restart every year.
Website maintenance works best when it keeps running quietly in the background. Starting and stopping creates gaps, and gaps are where most problems creep in.
The terms are clear up front, and you can cancel anytime before a renewal if you'd rather not continue.
Can I cancel a website support plan?
Yes. Cancel before the next renewal and you won't be charged again. I don't trap people into anything.
Support plans are billed yearly and I don't offer prorated refunds for unused time, because I reserve space for support clients in my workload and plan around that ongoing commitment.
What happens after the 3 months of support included with a project?
Once those 3 months are up, you can either take over the site yourself or continue with one of my website support plans.
The 3-month window gives you breathing room after launch. Time to tie up loose ends, settle into the site, and make sure everything is actually working in the real world.
If you'd rather keep the site professionally maintained after that, a support plan is the natural next step, and existing project clients are usually in the best position for preferred pricing.
Do project clients get preferred pricing on support plans?
Usually yes. If I built your site from scratch or did major improvement work on it, support is often simpler and more predictable on my side. That means I can offer existing clients a better rate than the public one.
It depends on the platform, complexity, and how much baggage the site is carrying, so it isn't a blanket discount. But project clients are almost always in the best position for preferred pricing.
Can you start my project now?
Usually not right away. I’m often booked a few weeks in advance to give current clients my full attention. Get in touch to check availability.
How long does it take to get a new website?
Building a new website from scratch can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months. Every project varies in complexity, especially if other professionals are involved (outside designers, copywriters, etc.)
As part of my process, at the beginning of the project, I'll give you a more precise target date for finishing the site.
What does building a photography site involve?
Please read my detailed Process page.
My work process might seem complex, but everything serves a purpose, you're not just hiring a monkey to push some buttons. I value my time, and to work well together, you need to value my time as well, so I've set those steps/requirements in place to make sure that we're a good fit and that the project runs smoothly.
How do you decide who to work with?
It's a combination of science and gut feeling, there are many red flags that I look for.
Not being technically savvy is not a deal-breaker for me (I'm used to hand-holding inexperienced clients till they learn the ins-and-outs of their website).
But if you're open-minded (after all, you're hiring me for my technical expertise instead of ordering me around) and enthusiastic (which gives you the energy to collaborate and work on your content), the project will run smoothly.
But most importantly, life is short. My ideal client is honest and kind.
What happens when a project goes south?
First of all, if I make a mistake or miss a deadline, I'll be first to admit it. I have a well-defined process in place just so that I avoid 'hiccups' as much as possible.
If you start treating me poorly during a project, it's usually a sign that either you've lost your enthusiasm for the project (new goals, personal problems, etc.), or I did something, and you don't feel comfortable telling me (lack of communication). In both these situations, I’ll try to realign with a call.
Nonetheless, as one does in a (work) relationship, I'm willing to get on a call with you and talk through it to try to salvage the project.
What info do you need for a website?
Content is crucial. Start by reading my dedicated page for custom photography websites and my process page where I explain what usually needs to be prepared for a project.
Can you copy a particular website I like?
Besides the obvious copyright infringement implications, is it really a good idea?
A unique design is what sets a photographer/business apart, tailored to its own goals and personality.
Do you work with clients internationally?
Absolutely. I’m based in Bucharest, Romania, but I’ve worked with photographers across the US, Canada, UK, and Australia. Time zone differences are never an issue.
Can you critique my images or do a portfolio review?
No, I don’t offer photography feedback — only website strategy and technical guidance. But I can point you to pros who specialize in that.
ForegroundWeb doesn't load well in my browser (and I found I typo).
If you spot anything broken or buggy, do let me know, I'll fix it asap.
I have read this entire FAQ, but I still have a question for you, Alex!
Reach out anytime via my contact form or email me directly at hello@foregroundweb.com and I'll respond asap.
