When it comes to choosing the details of your wedding day, research is important. After all, you’re marrying the love of your life—a literal dream come true! Choosing a wedding photographer should be no different. After you’ve chosen some final candidates, it’s time to get serious. Here are five important questions to ask your wedding photographer:

1. “How would you describe your style?”

If a photographer has a distinguished brand, and can effectively communicate that style to you, they’ve proven that they’re taking this task as seriously as you are. Good partners play to their strengths, and photographers are no different. Knowing those strengths, acknowledging them, and using them to capture your dream day in the best possible way will give you an intentional partnership, and someone you can trust to deliver. Simply put, being prepared to answer this question is as important as the answer itself—that’s why it’s one of the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer.

2. “Does the package I’m interested in include an assistant?”

Some wedding photographers bring along a second set of hands on the big day since there’s so much to capture (think someone capturing the bride’s big entrance while someone else captures the groom’s reaction). Others have fine-tuned their process of being a well-oiled, one-person show. The important question to ask your wedding photographer? What will you get for the price you’re paying? There’s nothing worse than wanting another set of hands and eyes, only to find out that will push you over budget. 

3. “What happens in case of emergency?”

Just like planning for rain with an outdoor wedding venue, contingency plans should be in place with your photographer, too. Traffic jams happen, as does sickness, equipment failure and schedule delays. If any emergency situations transpire, trust me, you’ll have enough surprises on your hands! Knowing what to expect in the event things don’t go as planned can give you peace of mind where your photos are concerned—and proof your photographer is professional enough to have thought these things through. 

4. “What can I expect after the big day?”

Unlike most of your other vendors, your photographer’s involvement doesn’t end after “I do.” So what comes next? When can you expect to have your images? How many will there be, and how will they be delivered? Will they be color-corrected? Will you have a say in how they’re edited? All of these are important questions to ask your wedding photographer. The less guesswork, the better—even after the big day.

5. “What does your day’s schedule look like?”

Most photographers will list their on-the-clock hours in the details of the package you select, but what about the exact schedule of your big day? How early would they like to arrive at the venue? If the wedding/reception lasts beyond the agreed upon hours, will they stay to grab those final departure shots? How much will that additional time cost? Are they working any other events that weekend? All of these answers will give you an honest look at a photographer’s ability to dedicate themself to your event with no surprises. 

If you’ve checked out my work and are ready to inquire, now’s the time to reach out and get started. Send me a message. I’m happy to answer all of these important questions and more as we create an unforgettable experience—one that results in timeless, joy-filled photos that make your heart swell!

When it comes to celebrating your relationship, feeling like yourself should come naturally. With couples photos, my goal is always to capture timeless, authentic, and joy-filled moments that let your personalities shine, but let’s face it, there’s nothing authentic about standing together in front of a stranger being asked to kiss and pose. What you’re usually left with are photos of forced embraces, stiff body language and staged smiles that hardly capture your love as it truly is. Sound familiar? Let me put you at ease. Read on for five great tips for a non-awkward couples session!

1. Get to Know your Photographer

No matter who you’ve chosen to document your love story, make sure you take some time to get to know them… even if that’s just clicking around on their website and social media. Make sure your personalities will work well together, and that you like their style of couples photos. 

Me? I come from Wisconsin, where we value hard work, connection, and trust. I’ll work hard for you — not only in beautifully documenting your story, but also in making sure that you have a great experience. We’ll spend time getting to know each other before your shoot so we arrive on site feeling like old friends. I’ll come armed with prompts and strategies to make you feel so comfortable, you’ll forget I’m there!

2. Be in the Moment

Whether you’re just starting your courtship or you’ve been married 50+ years, no doubt there are other things pulling your mind apart from your significant other on any given day. “Did I remember to text him/her back?” “Did I ever answer that email?” “Did either of us remember to pick up those chips at the store?” “Did I even remember to ask him to pick up some chips?” You get my drift. 

Enjoy this uninterrupted time together and clear your mind of any distractions. Easier said than done, right? Just take a deep breath, notice your surroundings and take things one step at a time. Afterall, you want these images to highlight YOU, not your stress or to-do list. 

3. Don’t go for “Perfect”

Believe it or not, perfect couples photos aren’t usually born from perfect moments. They come when your true personalities shine through each image—and I’ve yet to meet anyone who’s perfect! Trying too hard can create some pretty awkward poses, not to mention the stress it will put on both you and your significant other.

Have a few poses in mind, and I will, too. But don’t rehearse, and don’t try to copy something you saw or like exactly. The best couples photos happen in those “in-between” moments that let your love for each other be the main focus.

4. Create your own Confidence

No one knows your relationship better than you, and that knowledge can go a long way in creating both comfort and confidence in your photos—from choosing a location to choosing your outfits. If you’d never go on a nature walk together in formal attire, why take your photos that way? Trust me. Years from now, you’ll want images of your love that are timeless, not trendy. 

I recommend complimenting outfits (but not matching), and choosing a place where you’re both comfortable. Do you like to go on walks together? I’ll help you choose the perfect outdoor spot. Maybe there’s a city you both love, or a district you frequent for date nights. Or if you like to hang out and lay low, your home or yard might be the perfect spot. No matter what the details of your love story are, your photos should reflect the looks and places that make you happy. 

5. Communication is Key

This may go without saying, but never assume anything goes without saying! Couples photos are a two-person thing, and being on the same page can make a huge difference in the final product. Talk to your person. Make sure you’re both comfortable with the session, the clothing and the locations. Make sure you’re both hoping for the same types of photos, and figure out shared comfort zones. 

Then, share that information with your photographer! We’ll come prepared with ideas and tips from other successful shoots, but knowing what works best for you personally, and what will best tell your unique story, will help us create the most authentic and joy-filled images. You deserve an unforgettable experience — one that culminates in stunning, timeless photos that will make your heart swell! 

Ready to book your couples session? Check out some of my work over on Instagram, and read more about the couples experience here.