Behind the Lens: A Day in the Life of a Chicago Wedding Photographer
If you’re curious about the life of a Chicago wedding photographer and the relationship between her and the bride and groom and their families, you’re in the right place.
As a Chicago wedding photographer, every wedding day is unique and full of moments that need to be captured with care. But the magic of wedding photography goes far beyond just showing up with a camera.
It requires immense preparation before the big day, meticulous coordination during the event, and plenty of post-wedding editing afterward.
While the DJ, planner, and florist bring their talents together for the day, for photographers and videographers, the work truly begins before, during, and continues long after the vows are exchanged.
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A glimpse into the life of a Chicago wedding photographer
The preparation starts weeks, sometimes months, in advance. From consultations with the couple, discussing the timeline with planners, scouting locations, and ensuring gear is ready, all of this groundwork sets the stage for a successful wedding shoot.
Leading up to the wedding day, I review the schedule, touch base with the second shooter, and plan shots tailored to the couple’s vision.
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Actions on the wedding day
On the day itself, the real action begins long before the first photo is snapped. Being on my feet for 10-12 hours, often with heavy gear, is no easy task. Yet, it’s part of the job to stay agile, both mentally and physically.
Capturing every key moment—from getting ready to the ceremony, reception, and all those special candid interactions—demands focus and quick reflexes.
While wedding planners craft a great timeline, it’s ultimately up to me to ensure everything flows smoothly. I’m not just a photographer; I’m managing the entire wedding day.
This includes guiding the bridal party, coordinating with videographers, and making sure the couple feels comfortable. It’s all about balance—keeping things on schedule while ensuring that the moments I capture are natural and authentic.
A beginning at the end of the wedding for the photographer!
Then, after the day ends and the guests have left, the real work begins. Editing hundreds, sometimes thousands, of images takes hours, if not weeks, of dedication.
Creating a cohesive story from the day’s images, each one with its own meaning and emotion is a process that demands creativity and technical skill.
At the end of it all, the final, high-quality images are what the couple receives—a visual narrative of one of the most important days of their lives.
Being a Chicago wedding photographer is demanding, but the ability to preserve these once-in-a-lifetime moments makes it all worth it.
