Hi orosalind,
Your uncle is a professional photographer or a freelance? Does he have his own studio?
It's 'fair' market rate to refund about $500 - $600 for w/o PS. Of course, it's no fair deal for us customers. But, you should negotiate for the gowns and makeup even if you are going to use your uncle's service. cos, I see the $$ as cost for the photographer and photos w album. Otherwise, you have to rent your gowns elsewhere and pay for makeup artist..... not worth it liao.
Well, i got the date from a temple (dunno exactly where cos it's my FMIL and FH went together). She checks the Tong Shu. My FMIL says she is good, that's why we had to make appointment to see her and not go elsewhere.
The day is good for us, my parents and his parents based on our Sheng Xiao and ba zi, although the day is not an auspicious day for wedding generally.
If you wanna consult her to be sure, i can ask my FH where the place is. But as a guide- I'm dragon, my FH is rat, two parents dog, one cow, one horse. hehehe...so now you can count my age liao