Author: Capture Your Events

Cypress Creek Farmhouse Wedding Photo & Video

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Cypress Creek Farmhouse Wedding Photography & Videography | Astatula Florida

Audri + Nico

Welcome to Audri & Nico’s wedding blog! 

I am beyond excited to share with you all the amazing moments we captured on their special day. From the moment I met them for their Engagement Session at at the stunning grounds of the Cypress Creek Farmhouse, I knew their wedding day would be nothing short of magical! 

Audri & Nico Exchanged vows with loved ones at the beautiful lakeside… Clouds were lingering but the sun broke through and was shining on them for the moment they said ‘I DO’

After the ceremony, it was time to party! The reception was held in a beautiful barn Ballroom ballroom decorated with colorful purple and teal touches and dazzling sparkle. And let’s not forget about the cake- It was a masterpiece and the moment the cut it was such a sweet peek into the love Audri and Nico share.

The party was lively, and the dance floor was full. It was evident how much they loved each other, and their warmth and kindness towards everyone around them was truly inspiring. The Sparkler Exit was truly magical with friends and loved ones sending blessing through the twinkling lights!

As a wedding photography & videography team, we have worked with many couples, but Audri and Nico’s love for each other was truly special. It was an honor to capture the moments of their wedding day and be a part of their journey. Not to mention, the vendor team was fantastic, and everyone worked together seamlessly to make their day unforgettable.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Cypress Creek Farmhouse

Coordinator: Mrs. Linda

Photography + Videography: Miranda, Julian & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Hair + Makeup: 

Photo Gallery
Extended Footage

MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS WEDDING

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SELBY GARDENS Downtown Sarasota, FL

Katie + Austin Brown

Welcome to Katie and Austin’s wedding blog! 

In the world of wedding photography, there are love stories that seem destined to be, and Katie and Austin’s love was truly fate. On February 19th, 2023, at the breathtaking Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida, the couple sealed their love in a sweet and romantic wedding ceremony surrounded by fragrant white roses and twinkling candles that set the perfect mood. As their wedding team, we had the honor of capturing the magic of their special day, and every moment was filled with the kind of love that truly stands the test of time.

Katie’s entrance down the aisle was nothing short of magical. As the sun began to lower over the water, casting a golden hue across the venue, she appeared in her elegantly stunning dress, looking like a vision of beauty. The love and adoration in Austin’s eyes as he saw his bride for the first time were heartwarming and touching. The atmosphere was filled with love and excitement, and it was evident that this moment was the culmination of a love story written in the stars.


Katie and Austin’s love story began while they were in middle school, on a shared summer beach vacation, where they found themselves engaged in a sweet rivalry among their friend groups. Little did they know that this playful competition would lay the foundation for a love that would last a lifetime. Fate intervened, and their paths crossed again in Florida, where they both found themselves living separate lives. However, it was during a literal storm—a hurricane—that they weathered together, that their love truly blossomed. From that moment on, they knew they were meant to be together, and their journey of love began.

The wedding ceremony was intimate and heartwarming, surrounded by lush greenery and the serenity of nature. As Katie and Austin exchanged their vows, it was evident that they were promising each other a lifetime of love, support, and joy. Their love story was truly one for the books, and it was an honor to witness such a powerful connection between two people.

After the ceremony, the celebrations continued into a romantic and fulfilled reception. The twinkling candles and fragrant roses set the perfect ambiance as guests danced the night away. Laughter and joy filled the air, and the love that Katie and Austin shared was infectious, spreading to everyone present. It was evident that their love had touched the hearts of all those who were lucky enough to be a part of their special day.

As a member of the Capture Your Events team, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Katie and Austin. Your love is a shining example of what true love can be, and it was an absolute privilege to capture the essence of your love through my lens. May your love continue to grow and flourish with each passing day, and may your journey together be filled with endless happiness and cherished memories.

From the entire Capture Your Events team, we wish you both a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. May your love story continue to inspire others, just as it has inspired us. Congratulations on your beautiful union, and may your love shine as bright as the sun setting over the water on your wedding day.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Selby Gardens

Coordinator: Jaime | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Photography + Videography: Richie & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Caterer: Selby Gardens

Hair + Makeup: 

DJ: Omar | ODizzle

Florist: 

Rentals: 

Cake: 

Photo Booth: Capture Your Events

Embassy Suites Tampa Wedding

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Tampa Wedding Photography | Brandon, Florida

MaryLeidy & Stephen

Welcome to MaryLeidy and Stephen’s wedding blog! 

As a wedding photographer, I have had the pleasure of capturing the most precious moments of couples in love, and MaryLeidy and Stephen’s wedding was one that will forever be imprinted in my heart. They were referred to us by a dear friend of theirs whose wedding we had captured last year, and our team was honored to be a part of their special day.

The wedding was held on January 7th, 2023, at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Brandon, Florida, with close family and friends in attendance. AND Capture Your Events Live Streaming made the presence of many more loved ones a possibility. The wedding ceremony was a beautiful testament to the couple’s love for each other, and the joyous atmosphere was palpable as MaryLeidy and Stephen exchanged their vows.

After the ceremony, the couple made their way to the Embassy Suites By Hilton Tampa for their reception. The reception hall was beautifully decorated with elegant white roses and eucalyptus touches, which added a touch of sophistication and elegance to the ambiance. The guests were greeted with a surprise performance by a talented mariachi band, which brought everyone to their feet and added to the festive atmosphere of the occasion.

As the reception continued, there was a lighthearted moment that brought smiles to the faces of everyone in attendance, as dancing dinos made their way onto the dance floor. The joy and laughter were contagious, and everyone had a great time celebrating the newlyweds.

Throughout the day, I was struck by the beautiful love that MaryLeidy and Stephen share. The way they looked at each other, the gentle touches, and the loving words they exchanged were a testament to the deep connection they share. It was clear to everyone present that they were meant to be together, and their love story is one that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.

From the entire Capture Your Events team, I want to wish MaryLeidy and Stephen all the happiness in the world. It was an honor to be a part of their special day, and we are confident that their love will only continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May their lives together be filled with love, laughter, and endless joy.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Embassy Suites Tampa

Photography + Videography: Miranda & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Caterer: Embassy Suites Tampa

Hair + Makeup: Monica Franxo from LaMoon Beauty Agency

DJ: Sebastian | I Rock Your Party @irockyourparty

Photo Booth: Capture Your Events

Live Stream Events

Wedding Ceremony

Reception

Bridal Oaks Barn Wedding

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Bridal Oaks Barn Wedding Photography | Deland Florida

Rizza + Noel

Meet Rizza and Noel… NOW Mr. & Mrs. H the high school sweethearts who have stood the test of time and distance to make it to their wedding day. 

They met through gaming and have been in a long distance relationship with Noel in New York and Rizza in Florida. Their relationship is a testament to the strength of love when nurtured with the power of sacrifice and dedication. It’s clear that they were meant to be together.

 

On December 8th, 2022, Rizza and Noel tied the knot at Bridal Oaks Barn in Deland, Florida. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and the day was perfect for this beautiful couple. Rizza chose baby’s breath and lavender flowers to add a delicate elegance to the occasion. Rizza and Noel exchanged personal vows in a quiet, private moment just before walking down the aisle.

The ceremony was attended by their loved ones and captured by Capture Your Events. The Capture Your Events Team also provided wedding live-streaming for all those who were unable to be there in person. It was a special touch that allowed Rizza and Noel’s distant loved ones to be a part of their big day.

After the ceremony, it was time to celebrate. Mr. and Mrs. H had a specially planned and cultivated reception with DJ Julian from Capture Your Events. There were games, entertainment, and plenty of dancing to keep everyone on their feet throughout the night.

As their Wedding Photographer, Wedding Videographer, Wedding DJ and Wedding Live-streaming Provider we were honored to be a part of Rizza and Noel’s special day at Bridal Oaks Barn. It was a joy to capture the love between these two and to help them share their special moment with distant loved ones through live streaming. We wish them all the happiness in the world as they start their new life together as husband and wife.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Bridal Oaks Barn

Coordinator: Desiree | Heartwood Events 

Photography + Videography: Miranda, Ariel & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

DJ: Julian | CaptureYourEvents @captureyourevents

Hair + Makeup: 

Florist: 

Rentals: 

Officiant: 

Cake: 

Photo Booth: CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Florida Barn Weddings and Events Videography

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Florida Barn Weddings and Events Videography | Sebring Florida

Laurita + Ekerd

As a wedding videographer, it’s always an honor to capture the most special moments of a couple’s big day. And let me tell you, Laurita and Ekerd Smith’s wedding was a day that will go down in history as one of the most memorable events I’ve ever had the pleasure of capturing. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and let me take you on a journey through their special day!

From Pranks to Pumpkins, Capturing Memories and True Love:
Behind the Scenes of Laurita and Ekerd's Wedding Video

Laurita and Ekerd have been friends since 2005, spending countless hours on the phone and hanging out occasionally. But life had different plans for them, and they went their separate ways. However, in their time apart, they both gained valuable life experience and two beautiful children. Despite the challenges they faced, they found their way back to each other, and it was clear that they were meant to be together forever.

Their wedding was held at the stunning Florida Barn Weddings and Events in Sebring, Florida, and let me tell you, it was the perfect setting for their special day. The sunset was absolutely breathtaking and nearly as beautiful as the love they shared with all who attended. The fall chic décor was perfectly done, complete with pumpkins and warm seasonal floral touches that added a touch of elegance to the barn setting.

Before walking down the aisle, Laurita and Ekerd shared an intimate first touch. But before they could do so, Laurita and her BFF pulled an epic prank on Ekerd that had everyone laughing and created a light-hearted mood for the rest of the day. Laughter is truly the best medicine, and it was a joy to see how much these two could make each other laugh.

Laurita’s dress was fit for a queen, and she was glowing with love. Her beauty was unmatched, and it was clear that Ekerd was smitten with his bride-to-be. Every detail was thought of, from the flowers to the cake, making this wedding a true reflection of their love for each other.

The night was filled with love and joy, with an authentic Latin band and steel drums that had everyone dancing the night away. It was truly a celebration of love, and it was clear that everyone in attendance was happy to be a part of such a special moment.

As the wedding videographer, I was honored to capture these precious moments on film. It’s a privilege to be able to preserve memories that will last a lifetime. And it’s even more special when the couple is as amazing as Laurita and Ekerd. They are truly beautiful inside and out, and it was a joy to capture their love on film.

From the entire Capture Your Events team, we want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Laurita and Ekerd. We are grateful to have been a part of your special day, and we wish you a lifetime of happiness and love. You both have such beautiful kind spirits, and it was evident in the love you shared with all who attended your wedding. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Florida Barn Weddings and Events

Coordinator: Berta | Everlasting Occasions, llc 

Videography: Miranda & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Hair + Makeup: Glammed up by Jeanette

DJ: Jose | DJLatinStyle

Catreing: S&J BBQ

Officiant: Pastor Wiggins

Margaritaville Wedding

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Margaritaville Resort Wedding Photography | Kissimmee Florida

Andrea + Gabe

Welcome to Andrea and Gabe’s wedding blog! 

I am beyond excited to share with you all the amazing moments I captured on their special day. From the moment I met them for their Engagement Session at Lake Eola, I knew their wedding day would be nothing short of magical! Gabe and Andrea’s meeting feels like fate MUST have had a hand in it. They had a serendipitous encounter at work in the Orlando Regional Medical Center. Gabe was transporting patients to Andrea’s floor and used it as an excuse to initiate a conversation. There was an instant spark between them, but it took a few more chance encounters for them to finally exchange numbers. They talked on the phone for hours and became good friends and after a year, Gabe finally confessed his feelings for her in March 2020. Andrea agreed to give their relationship a chance, and they’ve been together ever since.

Gabe proposed to Andrea in Marco Island in front of their close family on December 11, 2021. And now, here we are, at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, celebrating their special day! As their wedding photographer, I can tell you that they are the perfect match. They are so in love and are having a blast with all of their family and friends.

Fast forward to November 4th, 2022, at Margaritaville Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. The day was perfect with the Florida fall weather providing a gentle breeze and the sun shining bright. Their wedding was decorated in a romantic style with white and pink roses everywhere and palm trees swaying above, creating the perfect backdrop for the ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the anchor with a stunning and symbolic view. Andrea walked down the aisle in a beautiful lace gown, and Gabe’s eyes lit up as he saw his bride. They exchanged heartfelt vows in front of their closest family and friends, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

After the ceremony, it was time to party! The reception was held in a spacious ballroom decorated with colorful flowers and elegant centerpieces. The food was to die for, with latin inspired flavors that added a unique twist to the traditional wedding menu. And let’s not forget about the desserts, which included both Andrea and Gabe’s favorites – tres leches cake and chocolate lava cake.

The party was lively, and the dance floor was never empty. Andrea and Gabe danced the night away, surrounded by their loved ones, and the joy on their faces was infectious. It was evident how much they loved each other, and their warmth and kindness towards everyone around them was truly inspiring.

As a wedding photographer, I have worked with many couples, but Andrea and Gabe’s love for each other was truly special. It was an honor to capture the moments of their wedding day and be a part of their journey. Not to mention, the vendor team was fantastic, and everyone worked together seamlessly to make their day unforgettable.

Andrea and Gabe’s wedding day was a beautiful celebration of their love for each other. From the stunning venue to the delicious food, and the lively party, every detail was thoughtfully planned and executed to perfection. I wish them all the happiness in the world as they embark on this new journey together, and I am grateful to have been a part of it all.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Margaritaville Resort

Coordinator: Melody Rosa | Taylor Rae Events @melworksevents

Photography + Videography: Miranda, Richie & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Caterer: Margaritaville Resort

Hair + Makeup: Asteria Beauty Studio @asteriabeauty

DJ: Sebastian | I Rock Your Party @irockyourparty

Florist: Pixies and Petals @pixies_and_petals

Rentals: EventWorks @eventworksrentals

Officiant: Pastor Mike

Cake: Cake& Bake @cakeandbakefla

Photo Booth: Capture Your Events

Dance Floor: Letz Dance On It

Paradise Cove Wedding

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Paradise Cove Wedding Photography | Orlando, Florida

Darcy + Josh

A Hurricane Couldn’t Stop Their Love: Darcy and Josh’s Paradise Cove Wedding

Hey there everyone, Welcome to Darcy & Josh’s wedding blog!

I’m so excited to share with you about the wedding of Darcy and Josh! They were such a fantastic couple, and I had the pleasure of being their photographer for their special day. While our Capture Your Events Team Provided Wedding Coordination, DJ services, Magic Mirror Photo Booth and Videography. Let me tell you, they had been waiting for this moment for a long time… 1267 days to be exact, and it was so magical to be there to capture their unshakeable love, even through a hurricane.

Darcy and Josh’s love story was truly one for the books. They originally met years ago as teenagers working at McDonald’s and reconnected 20 years later through a Facebook friend request. Josh proposed to Darcy at Mabel’s restaurant in Las Vegas. I we first met Darcy and Josh in person for their sunrise engagement session on the pier at Daytona Beach just a couple months before their big day and let me tell you their love, and bond was so strong and natural it shined through every moment with them.

As we were all counting down the days to their wedding, Hurricane Ian had other plans. With their wedding date set for October 1st at the Plaza Hotel in Daytona, Hurricane Ian was expected to move through Orlando, Florida, and continue upward and away. However, just two days before their wedding, the storm unexpectedly turned and headed straight through Daytona, devastating the Plaza Hotel and leaving beaches closed and widespread damages.

Despite the impending storm and widespread travel cancellations, Darcy and Josh’s family made alternate arrangements and were steadfast to make it for this momentous moment in their relationship. Some even drove as flights were canceled.

 

With just 15 hours before they were scheduled to walk down the aisle, we were able to connect with the hotel events team, and the news wasn’t good. But Darcy remained unshaken. This was going to be their wedding day, and we just needed to come up with a new direction. So, our Capture Your Events team chatted with Darcy and Josh, and we flew into action to find a new venue, new guest accommodations, new catering, and move all the vendors.

We made several calls to the Daytona area, but nothing seemed to be working out. So we turned to some of our friends here in Orlando to make magic happen. We reached out to Kayli at Paradise Cove, and due to a hurricane cancellation, they had some space on their venue schedule. And she was able to reach out to Alycia at Cocktails Catering, who pulled together an awesome menu. We also needed to move 25 rooms of family members from the heavily damaged Plaza Hotel. Theresa at the Caribe Royale came through in a pinch and got everyone accommodations in the beautiful resort just minutes from Paradise Cove.

Despite all the twists and turns, the wedding day came, and Darcy and Josh were showered with so many blessings. The love of the people who showed up for them, both in person and virtually on their live stream, could be felt. They were married at twilight as the sun set over the water on their wedding day, beautifully symbolic of their new beginning as husband and wife.

The party was a blast, with everyone dancing away all their hurricane blues. It was an honor to be there to help make it all happen. Darcy and Josh are an amazing couple, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of their special day. Congratulations, Darcy and Josh!

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Paradise Cove @paradisecoveorlando

Coordinator: Jaime’ & Ian | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Photography + Videography: Miranda, Richie & Esteban | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Catering: Cocktails Catering

Hair + Makeup: Camery Barden

DJ: Julian | CaptureYourEvents @captureyourevents 

Florist: Rachel Kasie Designs

Officiant: CLF Wedding Ceremonies | Pastor Matt Sanders

Cake: Lina Dukes

Photo Booth: Capture Your Events

Accommodations: Caribe Royale @cariberoyaleorlando

Moss Estates Wedding

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Moss Estates Wedding Photo & Video | Eustis Florida

Genesis & Andrew

Welcome to Andrea and Gabe’s wedding blog! 

I am beyond excited to share with you all the amazing moments I captured on their special day. From the moment I met them for their Engagement Session at Lake Eola, I knew their wedding day would be nothing short of magical! Gabe and Andrea’s meeting feels like fate MUST have had a hand in it. They had a serendipitous encounter at work in the Orlando Regional Medical Center. Gabe was transporting patients to Andrea’s floor and used it as an excuse to initiate a conversation. There was an instant spark between them, but it took a few more chance encounters for them to finally exchange numbers. They talked on the phone for hours and became good friends and after a year, Gabe finally confessed his feelings for her in March 2020. Andrea agreed to give their relationship a chance, and they’ve been together ever since.

Gabe proposed to Andrea in Marco Island in front of their close family on December 11, 2021. And now, here we are, at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, celebrating their special day! As their wedding photographer, I can tell you that they are the perfect match. They are so in love and are having a blast with all of their family and friends.

Fast forward to November 4th, 2022, at Margaritaville Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. The day was perfect with the Florida fall weather providing a gentle breeze and the sun shining bright. Their wedding was decorated in a romantic style with white and pink roses everywhere and palm trees swaying above, creating the perfect backdrop for the ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the anchor with a stunning and symbolic view. Andrea walked down the aisle in a beautiful lace gown, and Gabe’s eyes lit up as he saw his bride. They exchanged heartfelt vows in front of their closest family and friends, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

After the ceremony, it was time to party! The reception was held in a spacious ballroom decorated with colorful flowers and elegant centerpieces. The food was to die for, with latin inspired flavors that added a unique twist to the traditional wedding menu. And let’s not forget about the desserts, which included both Andrea and Gabe’s favorites – tres leches cake and chocolate lava cake.

The party was lively, and the dance floor was never empty. Andrea and Gabe danced the night away, surrounded by their loved ones, and the joy on their faces was infectious. It was evident how much they loved each other, and their warmth and kindness towards everyone around them was truly inspiring.

As a wedding photographer, I have worked with many couples, but Andrea and Gabe’s love for each other was truly special. It was an honor to capture the moments of their wedding day and be a part of their journey. Not to mention, the vendor team was fantastic, and everyone worked together seamlessly to make their day unforgettable.

Andrea and Gabe’s wedding day was a beautiful celebration of their love for each other. From the stunning venue to the delicious food, and the lively party, every detail was thoughtfully planned and executed to perfection. I wish them all the happiness in the world as they embark on this new journey together, and I am grateful to have been a part of it all.

SHOUT OUT TO THE AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: Moss Estates @mossestatesvenue

Coordinator: Jaimé & Ian CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Photography + Videography: Miranda, Richie & Ariel | CaptureYourEvents @captureyoureventsfl

Catering: Serve All Catering @serveallcatering

Bar Services: Traditions Event Services 

Hair + Makeup: Glam to Geaux @glam2geaux

DJ: Julian | CaptureYourEvents @captureyourevents

Florist: Southern Style Floral Design 

Cake: Sweet Miss V’s

Photo Booth: CaptureYourEvents @captureyourevents

Interviewing Your Vendors

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February Blog Series

Interviewing your vendors...

Photography.

Choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. After all, your wedding photography will not only capture the important details of your big day, but last long after the cake, flowers, and music are gone. Future generations will gaze upon your wedding photos with wonder, so hiring someone you trust, and whose approach fits your style, is a serious task. Read on for our roundup of 20 questions to ask your wedding photographer before you sign on the dotted line.

20 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer

1. Do you have our wedding date available?

While it might seem like an obvious question, it’s easy to get swept up in a photographer’s work before confirming their schedule is free. Since it’s not unheard of for top photographers to be booked a year in advance, the sooner you verify their availability the better.

2. How long have you been shooting weddings FULL TIME, and what inspired you to start working in the field?

For some photographers, capturing a couple’s special day is a longtime labor of love. For others, it’s a side gig they dabble in. That’s not to say a part-time photographer can’t be talented (and they’ll definitely cost less than someone dedicated to the art). But hiring a professional wedding photographer is an excellent investment, so get some background on your prospects in terms of experience and inspiration, and see whose stories you connect with most.

3. How would you describe your photography style?

There’s a range of well-known wedding photography styles, so you need to decide which one fits your desired aesthetic and find a photographer who specializes in it. Here’s a rundown of the most popular styles:

  • Traditional. It’s a lot like your parents’ wedding photography with lots of timeless, posed photos.
  • Photojournalism. It documents the day as it happens, and captures more candid moments than poses.
  • Fine art. It relies heavily on specialized lighting, unique framing, and distinctive composition.
  • Dramatic. It focuses on a dark, moody aesthetic with lots of shadows and complex lighting techniques.

4. How would you describe your working style?

Some photographers have a working style that’s subtle and unobtrusive, while others are assertive so they can get the best shots. Other variances include how much direction they give, their willingness to work with a shot list, and how they tend to interact with a videographer. You want to be comfortable with the person you spend your day with, and an overview of how a photographer works can help you decide if they’re a match.

5. Are you the photographer who will shoot our wedding, or will someone else be assigned?

Many photographers have associates they employ to maximize the number of weddings they can accommodate.

6. If a photographer is assigned, how do I know they will produce the same work?

While most full time professional photographers have associates they employ (and this can be great for stability or in case of emergency or illness) You want to ensure that they study, work and communicate together to be all on the same page as far as style.

7. Can we see a full gallery?

While you might be excited by the images on a photographer’s website, the featured photographs often represent the best shots taken at multiple events — not necessarily from a full wedding. You want to judge a photographer’s work based on how they shoot weddings from beginning to end, so ask to see full galleries of individual events.

8. Have you ever shot at our wedding venues before?

It’s not necessarily a deal-breaker, but a photographer who has experience shooting at your ceremony or reception venue will know the best spots for photos and how to work with the lighting. Plus, you’ll get to see a full gallery of a wedding that took place there. It can be a big advantage, so be sure to ask about their familiarity with your wedding venues.

9. Can you provide references?

As mentioned previously, you likely came across your prospects from recommendations, but it’s always good to get a range of feedback and ask direct questions to clients who’ve come before you.

10. Are engagement photos a part of the package, or are they an additional fee?

Some couples want engagement photos as part of their package, while others want a commitment-free opportunity to test a photographer’s talents. Ask about your options ahead of time, as packaged photos tend to maximize value while standalone shoots offer the freedom to switch professionals.

11. How many hours of coverage are included?

Coverage refers to the total time a photographer spends shooting on the day of your wedding, and the cost isn’t always included in the package. You also want to determine if there’s a separate travel fee for the time it takes to journey to your venue(s), especially if you’re hosting a destination wedding.

12. Do you recommend having a second photographer, and how much more will it cost?

The shots in the event galleries you viewed may have been done by more than one photographer. If you want a similar look, you could need a second photographer, so be sure to inquire about the costs before you commit.

13. What are your procedures and fees if the night runs over?

Photographers are often willing to stay beyond their contracted hours to capture an event that’s running behind schedule, but you can definitely expect them to charge for the overage. Find out upfront what the potential costs are, so you’re not surprised by a penalty.

14. Do you bring your own lighting?

Weddings present many different lighting scenarios, and whether any equipment is necessary depends on different factors. This includes indoor vs. outdoor venues, the time of day the wedding events take place, and the couple’s style preferences. Determine under which circumstances your prospects are prepared to work, and if they have lighting equipment solutions to any challenges that may arise.

15. What type of equipment do you shoot on and why?

Cameras are not all created equal… each photographer will have a reason for why the use what the use. Event though you may not know too much about the equipment they list they should hesitate to rattle off the reasons they choose such equipment and this question can tell you leaps and bounds about their professionalism and passion. Key words in professional wedding photography: Full frame Camera, Dual Memory slots, DUAL Camera Bodies & Off camera flash…

16. Do you have backup equipment?

Cameras can break, lenses can crack, and batteries can die, so you want your photographer to be as prepared as possible. Confirm they have a full set of backup tools on hand so an emergency can be handled quickly, with grace, and with minimal interruption.

17. Do you have a backup plan in case you need to cancel?

A photographer’s cancellation can wreak havoc on a wedding. Before you place your faith in a professional, find out how they’d handle it if they can’t fulfill their contract. (this is where going with a full time team is EXTREMELY valuable)

18. What is your turnaround time for proofs, prints, and files?

Timelines vary between photographers and are affected by retouching practices and format (film vs. digital). If timing is a big consideration for you, find out what to expect in advance.

19. What are your policies on file ownership and sharing?

While it may be surprising, the person who presses the shutter on the camera legally owns the rights to the images — even if you’re the subject and paid for them. If you want exclusive ownership, you need to purchase the rights, so ask ahead of time if they’re willing to sell. Otherwise, accept that the photographer can freely share or use your photos in print and online, including on social media.

20. Do you have liability insurance?

Accidents happen. If a guest trips over some photography equipment or a photographer breaks a window with a wayward light, you don’t want to be held responsible for medical fees or repairs. Confirm your potential photographer has liability insurance, and ask about the type of coverage the policy includes.

RECEPTION TIPS

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Reception Tips

The fun has begun! It’s time to relax, dance and celebrate!! Your reception should be a BLAST! The last thing you need to be worrying about is your timeline. Your coordinator and DJ should take care of making sure that everything stays on schedule so that you can enjoy your night. Here are some helpful tips that will help your reception flow smoothly

– GUEST CONSIDERATION : Take your guests into consideration when planning your timeline. If you have a lot of elderly guests that will not be staying until the very end, make sure you schedule the cake cutting at a relatively early time so that they can be a part of it. Grandmas love seeing this sweet tradition!

– KEEP IT MOVING : Chat with your coordinator about how you can plan your reception in a way that will keep guests engaged and moving all night!

– MAKE IT YOUR OWN : If you want to have a special dance with your grandparents, do it! Make your reception a reflection of who you are and don’t feel tied to traditions. Also, make sure you give your DJ or Band a “Do Not Play” list if there are some songs you really don’t want to hear during your reception!

– DON’T GET CAUGHT UP in the formalities and the details. Sure, details are pretty and fun to photograph, but they can steal the joy of the day if you get too caught up in them. Plan your centerpieces, welcome table, etc. well before the wedding date, and teach your coordinator or family friend how to set them up so that you aren’t even thinking about those things the day of!

– RECEPTION COVERAGE : If you haven’t purchased enough coverage time for your photography to last until the exit, that’s ok! I recommend planning your timeline so that you can have at least one hour of dancing photographed. The guests who dance during the first hour will still be dancing in the third hour! One hour of dancing will be enough time to really capture the joy of your reception!