Photographer Details

Just started looking for my photographer and the package details they give seem so vague (not to mention I don't really understand what half of the things are). For example:

- When they say 'assistant', does that mean a 2nd shooter or literally just someone who assists with lighting, equipment, poses, etc?
- Am I able to save the files from the USB/CD they give me to my computer and post them online (if they give me the rights) and just order my own prints?
- Do they ever give you all the raw images as well, or only hand-selected retouched photos on the USB/CD?

If it says 'assistant' they're more than likely talking about a 2nd shooter. My package comes with a photographer, a 2nd photographer and a lighting assistant. Just ask them, and they'll explain to you exactly how many people and what they'll be doing.
If you're given the rights or shared rights, you'll be able to save the images from the flash drive or disk to your computer and do whatever you want with them, so long as it's not for you to sell them to a magazine or something like that
RAW images are far too large to be given out, so most photographers should tell you no, you can't have the raw image. Unedited images is different, and I'm sure they'd be willing to give those to you if you discuss it with them. Afterall, it's less work for them to do!

-When I met with my photographer, it means a lighting assistant. My photographer says the person is there to help with lighting (bouncing the light, possibly providing additional lighting). I'm a film major, so having someone help with lighting is very important! Plus, an assistant with my photographer is only $100. In the scheme of things, a small price to pay.

-Depending on the photographer, you will get your images on a CD/USB, or they may say it's up to you. My photographer says he's sent photos to someone over a file sharing program. Depending on your package, prints may come with it. Usually, photographers will give you time, if you decide to order prints or a wedding album later on.

-I'm not sure what you are referring to: untouched photos or RAW files (a type of photograph file). Untouched photos, I assume it depends on what comes in your package. Some photographers give you everything, while others hand select what they give you. My photographer, for example, goes through the photos and takes out all the ones that are unusable (bad lighting, someone blinked, etc) and then will give me the rest. You should definitely ask how many photos they estimate they will be taking and how many they will give you. As for RAW files, this is a type of photograph file. It is the recommend file for photographers to shoot in. Once your event is done, they will convert RAW files into something smaller and usable for a consumer, like a JPEG.