You’re booked in, what’s next?
I have created this page for you to refer back to when you need a refresher or are trying to sort through your wedding timeline, family photo layouts, due dates, etc. I have it all covered here! I am excited to learn about you two and your plans for your wedding day as it unfolds during the planning process. I try to stay out of your hair for the most part, but I of course want you to know I am always here to offer help or answer any lingering questions!
QUESTIONNAIRE
I have built a detailed {semi quick} questionnaire that will give me all the info I need to help the day flow in the photo department. Just a heads up that this questionnaire can’t be modified throughout the process, it’s a one time fill in the answers type thing. Which means I usually ask my clients to fill it in about a month or two before their wedding when they know all the finer details
I’ll send a reminder closer to your date incase you forget to fill out, but the link is always here if you need:
CLICK HERE FOR QUESTIONNAIRE
I’VE GOT YOU COVERED..
The biggest tip I can offer is to trust me with the documenting of your day. I am used to the flow and will capture what unfolds :) Sending me a shot list or Pinterest album of posing is not necessary, but if you do have a certain shot or two in mind feel free to add it in at the bottom of the questionnaire and I will do my best to incorporate it!
BUILDING YOUR TIMELINE
**Remember to factor in the drive time between each section {if there is any}.
For example if the bride and groom are getting ready at separate locations, add in the drive time + 5/10 minutes for possible traffic/construction
Bride Getting Ready : 1 hour - 1.5 hours
For getting ready photos, it depends on what you are wanting. Typically I need a minimum of 1 hour if you are wanting dress shots/accessories, finishing makeup, and photos of you getting into your dress. If you want more details such as bridesmaids + you in pj's etc, champagne toasts, dress reveal to your girls or parents then that usually is 1.5 hours
Groom Getting Ready : 30 minutes
From my experience the men don’t require much time with me {nor do they want it haha}. So I find 30 minutes is the perfect amount of time to capture what I need. Typically I will do candids of the groomsmen + groom finishing up getting ready, and then I will pull aside the groom for some portraits
If you choose to have a First Look : 15 minutes
I will set up the groom with his back to the bride and have the bride walk towards him and turn him around. Then I usually ask my couple to go for a short walk to allow for some alone time before things get busier, and it also gives me an opportunity to captured candids of you both together on your walk
Bride + Groom Photos (1 main location) : 1 hour
During this time I will capture a mix of candids and posed with the two of you, individuals of bride, groom, etc. If you are wanting a second location, just make sure to again factor in the time to travel between and how much time you want at each location
Wedding Party : 30 - 45 minutes
This all depends on how many people you have in your wedding party.. If you have 1-3 people on each side then I would say 30 minutes is good. If its 4-6+ on each side, then 45 minutes is ideal. During this time I will capture group photos, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and then depending on time I will try to get photos of each bridesmaid with the bride and each groomsmen with the groom
Family Photos : 30 minutes
I provided a recommended photo shot list below for family photos (which includes parents, siblings, and grandparents). This shot list tends to take 25-30 minutes. If you have a larger family or want to add in more combos with cousins, aunts, etc. Then I would make it 45 minutes +
FAMILY PHOTO LIST SAMPLE
B&G with brides parents, siblings, grandparents
B&G with brides grandparents
B&G with brides siblings
Bride with siblings
B&G with brides parents
Bride with mom
Bride with dad
B&G with groom parents, siblings, grandparents
B&G with grooms grandparents
B&G with grooms siblings
Bride with siblings
B&G with grooms parents
Groom with mom
Groom with dad
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
Let me know if you are interested in doing an engagement session! For any spring - fall sessions, I am available from Monday - Thursday {as my weekends are reserved for weddings and family time}. I shoot about 1-2 hours before sunset time as it’s the best lighting, which means it usually works with most clients work schedules. Booking in sooner rather than later is best so I can prioritize you :)
ENGAGEMENT PHOTO PRICING
$475 for local sessions {Okotoks or Calgary}
which includes 1 hour session + all edited files in online gallery {guaranteed 75+ files}For mountain shoots, there will be a travel cost depending on location.
Typically Canmore area starts at $750
COMMON QUESTIONS
Do we need to schedule a meeting?
Majority of the time my clients will either video chat closer to the date if they need anything clarified or just text/email throughout the wedding planning process. If you book an engagement session with me, then we can usually stay 15-20 minutes after to go through your timeline or answer any lingering questions if you prefer that.
With my work schedule and juggling being full-time mom, it is harder for me to arrange coffee dates which is why I prefer virtual calls.
Do you need to visit the venue beforehand?
No, I always arrive 1-2 hours before the wedding day begins to scout the area. I do this because then I can factor in the weather, current views that I will be shooting with on the day, and also if there are any obstacles that may pop up {i.e. events happening nearby, roads blocked off, etc}.
Do you need me to scout locations for the formal photos?
That is something I would be happy to take care of for you! In my questionnaire, I do ask what type of backdrops you are drawn to such as urban or rural style. That is because I can scout beforehand and pick what would be best in terms of lighting and visuals. If you do have a certain spot in mind, feel free to share it.
When is the final payment due?
The final payment is due 21 days prior {aka 3 weeks before your wedding}. I do my best to notify you the week prior as I know things can get quite busy leading up to the day. For payments, I accept e-transfer or credit card. Please note there is a 3% transaction fee added to any credit card payments.
What if it rains?
I have a handful of clear umbrellas that work as a great option during formal photos.
Depending on the venue, we can of course move indoors if necessary but finding natural coverage from the trees is always a win if you envision outdoor photos :)
LASTLY,
If you need to reach me quicker than email, my cell is 403-993-6020. I am notorious for not answering my phone calls, so text would be preferred and we can arrange a time to call if you prefer that form! I am happy to help build your timeline with you or review your photo list if that helps, so just reach out.
And please know, there is never a ‘dumb question’, all questions are welcomed!