Hiring a wedding photographer is about more than checking off a vendor on your list—it’s about choosing someone to tell your love story through timeless images. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I believe the experience should feel effortless, personal, and even fun. From our first call to the day you open your finished gallery, here’s what you can expect when working together.

From Inquiry to Booking

Your journey begins the moment you reach out. You can expect:

• Prompt communication: I’ll respond quickly to answer questions, share package details, and help you decide what coverage feels right.
• Personal consultation: We’ll talk through your vision, priorities, and wedding day timeline so I understand what matters most to you.
• Clear contract & retainer: To secure your date, you’ll sign a contract and pay a retainer (typically 25–50%). This ensures I’m fully committed to your day.

Many couples also choose to schedule engagement photography in Chicago before the wedding—a relaxed way to get comfortable in front of the camera while capturing memories in your favorite city spots.

Pre-Wedding Planning

Once booked, we’ll stay in touch through planning:

• Questionnaire & timeline guidance: I’ll send you a pre-wedding form to gather details about locations, family groupings, and special requests. Together, we’ll build a wedding photography timeline that keeps everything stress-free.
• Shot list essentials: We’ll talk through must-have family photos and unique details you want documented. A simple list helps ensure no one important is missed without over-scripting your day.
• Ongoing communication: I’m available to answer questions, give tips, or adjust plans as your wedding day approaches.

What Happens on Your Wedding Day

On the big day, I arrive early, ready to capture the story as it unfolds. You can expect:

• Blending in: I’ll move quietly in the background for candid storytelling, stepping in only when gentle direction is helpful.
• Natural posing: For portraits and group photos, I’ll guide you with prompts that feel comfortable and authentic.
• Timeline support: I’ll coordinate with your planner and vendors, giving subtle cues to keep the day flowing smoothly.
• Problem-solving: From pinning boutonnieres to finding the best light, I’m there as a calm, supportive presence.

You’ll barely notice me during candid moments, but I’ll be there for every laugh, tear, and spontaneous dance move.

After the Wedding: Editing & Delivery

The story doesn’t end when the last song plays. After your wedding day:

• Backup & culling: I immediately back up your images and carefully sort through thousands of frames to select the best.
• Thoughtful editing: Each chosen image is edited for tone, color, and clarity consistent with my artistic style.
• Sneak peeks: Within a few days, you’ll receive a handful of previews to relive the magic right away.
• Full gallery delivery: Expect your complete gallery within 6–8 weeks (industry standard ranges from 4–12 weeks). Your gallery is delivered online in high resolution, ready to download, print, and share. Albums or prints can also be designed if you’d like a tangible keepsake.

Tailored for Chicago Weddings in 2025

Chicago weddings are unique—whether you’re planning a grand ballroom celebration, a rooftop party with skyline views, or an intimate gathering by the lake. Together, we’ll plan around local details like seasonal light, unpredictable weather, and iconic backdrops. And if rain shows up, don’t worry—some of the most romantic rainy wedding photos I’ve ever captured came from unexpected showers.

Conclusion

Choosing your wedding photographer means trusting someone to preserve the heart of your day. With open communication, gentle guidance, and a storytelling eye, I’ll make sure your experience feels easy—and your gallery feels timeless. At the end of it all, you’ll have photographs that bring you back not just to how your wedding looked, but to how it felt.

When you’re ready to begin, let’s talk about how we can capture your story. Visit Chicago wedding photographer for packages and inspiration, or explore engagement photography in Chicago to start the journey now.