What Does A Wedding Photographer Do?

Norfolk, Virginia

Hey, I’m Karlie! A Lifestyle and Wedding Photographer based in Norfolk, Virginia. I travel all around the East Coast for weddings, and would love to travel to you! Are you getting married in Virginia, Maryland, or any other surrounding states and in search of a photographer? You found the right place! Reach out to me here!

SO WHAT DOES A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER REALLY EVEN DO? YOU KNOW… BESIDES JUST CLICKING A BUTTON.

From the moment you say “I do” to the planning stages and throughout your special day, a wedding photographer plays an important role that extends far beyond just capturing images. Our work begins with creating a deep connection with you, understanding your vision, personalities, and the unique elements that make up your love story.

Once a wedding couple inquires with me about a date and they have received the wedding package information, a time is setup for a phone call in order to discuss all of the wedding day details and engagement session dreams. An engagement session is a great way to meet in person with your wedding photographer prior to their wedding day. You are able see how the photo process works, and get comfortable posing in front of a camera; so come wedding day, you’ll feel like an absolute pro! Each of my wedding packages include a complimentary engagement session because of the amount of benefits. The connection we create is so important because it allows us to capture your relationship and the emotions of the day in a way that feels authentic and deeply personal.

Here is one of my amazing 2023 wedding couples, Lane and Brooklyn! To the left is a photo from their engagement session in Virginia Beach, and to the right is a photo from their wedding day at Valley Road Vineyard in Afton, Virginia.

During their engagement session, they were able to get familiar with various poses, helping them understand what felt and looked the most natural. They even did some of the exact same poses and prompts again on their wedding day! Having an engagement session with your photographer is incredibly beneficial, as it makes the process familiar, comfortable and stress free.

YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER IS BASICALLY A PART-TIME WEDDING PLANNER

In the lead-up to your wedding, photographers become part-time wedding planners. Although we are not responsible for the full planning of your big day, your photographer plays a helpful and important role in the planning process. The moment a couple books with me, they receive a 70+ page guide called “The Wedding Experience Guide,” which is jam-packed with helpful planning advice, detailed lists, and overall ‘what to knows’ for your wedding day. I work with my couples to create the timelines and shot lists, ensuring no moment is missed. This is not only to stay organized; it’s also about making space for the real magic of your day to happen naturally. We work with you to understand which moments and details matter most, from the exchange of vows to the small glances and the laughter shared between loved ones. Our experience in the wedding industry also allows us to anticipate and adapt to the day’s flow, making sure to manage times while capturing the best possible light and emotion. Often, the photographers are the ones keeping the day on track, guiding you from one moment to the next.

YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER WILL IMPACT YOUR WEDDING DAY EXPERIENCE

On your wedding day, a photographer is more than just a vendor; we are your shadow, your friend, and sometimes, your calm amidst the storm. We are with you at every step of the wedding day. We’re there for the first look, the first kiss, and the first dance, but we’re also there for the reassuring smiles and tears in between. Your photographer is there to offer support and ensure that your day runs smoothly. By being by right your side, we not only capture memories you’ll cherish forever, but also contribute to creating the very experience of your wedding day. In the end, a wedding photographer enhances your wedding experience, making it more memorable, not just through the photos we deliver but through the role we play in making your day truly unforgettable.

I once heard this quote from a photographer mentor of mine, and it has stuck with me ever since:

Having a friendship with your photographer allows for comfortability, which leads to trust; and trust is something every wedding couple needs to have with their wedding photographer.

Are you ready to take the next steps? Inquire with me right here!

I would love to have the pleasure of talking with you and your partner, and to capture your wedding day while supporting you during the wedding planning process. Learn more about my wedding photography packages here!

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Photos by: Karlie Whitt Photography