There are an infinite amount of details a couple must consider before their big day such as guest count, venue, the dynamics in the ceremony, the reception, the details such as flowers, the wine and beverage choices, the invitations, the wedding attire for groom and dress for the bride [and the bridal parties] and the other dresses, and most important of decisions to make is your vendors, amongst them your wedding photographer. 

Then, makes sense that your photographer will be the one person you will closely work with. 

As you learn more about them, they will learn about you both and all the family dynamics for the day. Making sure that person is the right fit is important.

When planning such a special day, you may run into an opportunity to explore your taste in photographs a bit further -  During this time. is great to do some research, indulge, and understand how you will value what your vendors offer.

An extraordinary photographer will lead you with confidence and comfort in front of the camera, while you continue to be YOU, and in this process, they will craft the story of your wedding day.

Questions You May Want to Ask

Do you want that rehearsed, invasive approach, or nah? Posed or Candid?

There is always a time and place for all and perhaps, you may want to pretend the camera isn't there, or possibly prefer a more documentary approach or maybe a bit of both, accordingly... Not too in your face; however, well-versed and adaptive. 

Real Fact:  
Best wedding photographers will listen to what matters the most to you both and will make adjustments according to the needs and dynamics of the timeline, regardless of whatever is presently happening in the present space, I will be here to listen!

Should they know the venue?

Truth, you can still hire a photographer, even if they have not shot at your venue -

Something, I have learned in the past 15 years, as part of the job.  A good photographer should immediately think about learning about the venue, even as the inquiry comes in, also, scouting the area before the date of coverage, is very important - Doing that research must be 'due diligence', even for destination weddings - I know there are infinite resources to explore  

How do I know this? I know this personally because if in case it is a new venue for me, and my team, we will first research the inter-webs and also, connect and follow with a short visit/introduction on site - if it is all possible. We will do a walk-through before your day!

Real Fact: 
I have been known to travel to the venues - I am passionate about the experience I will deliver.

How about moments missed? 

This is a bit tricky, but either way, your photographer should NOT make you re-enact 'the' KEY moments.  They may guide and advise through some of the poses and such, or probably a quick portrait just because - But,  re-doing any FIRST LOOKS - It's not OK!  

Well, in my opinion - Weddings can be fast-paced, and a seasoned professional will document based on the real moments as they happen and that should be the center of attention - Let's not interrupt sans logical approach - The real MOMENTS, should stay as REAL as possible!  

Real Fact:  

My team and I will document the day from the moment we arrive on site, starting with your preparations leading to the ceremony, and following professional formal portraits to the reception, all speeches, various dances, and other activities in the timeline.

We might interfere [with a plan] before sunset time [if allowed] to create your creative portraits [10 mins max] and we get back to reception and after, to continue the party as well as your last dances and farewell exit.  

However, we are adaptive to the dynamics and changes that may occur. We will work very closely with your planner and coordinator to accomplish it all smoothly.

How about Digital-Proofing delivery times? 

Honestly, a couple should NEVER wonder when their images will be delivered and communication is key! I have heard the stories of the lengthiest of deliveries [ 4 months and above!] Therefore, it is essential to have the best rapport with your photographer and feel utterly comfortable asking all and any of the questions -  In our industry, average delivery times range between 6-10 weeks - 

Real Fact: 

I aim to have your digital-proof album in 45-60 working days - And, I deliver about 200+ sneak peeks from the day's fun within 24-48 hrs [most times the same day!] to kinda make your heart a bit happier, plus a LINK to the Journal so that you can share with friends, family and those who may not have made it... 

All this while your day is still vivid! -  As soon as we leave the venue - Images are uploaded to be color-corrected and then retouched and ready for LINK upload and delivery!

Is there such a thing as being OVER-PREPARED?

The answer is NO!  Any seasoned photographer should have ALL the information needed at least 1.5 weeks before the big day - These include your formal lists, adjusted timelines, additional details for the day, and all the plans! And above ALL - Working and reliable equipment -

The preparations are not just limited to what they use during the day... But, backup equipment. Also, their second shooter should be as prepared and able to LEAD along with Camera Bodies, Lenses, SD/XD cards, Flashes, triggers, Batteries, and all other peripherals.   

Real Fact:

In the real world, YOUR wedding happens only ONCE - We pride ourselves in being over-prepared - Not only we will have a call 2 weeks before making adjustments and getting all our ducks in a row for the timeline. 

Part of my 'white glove experience'  is to deliver the most personal approach, so keeping up with my couples in as many ways as possible via social media, text, calls, and emails allows me to assess all wedding-related matters assertively. I will never be too busy!  and, I will follow up with the planner, coordinators, and the venue to avoid unneeded surprises.

On the day of your wedding - I will carry 2 Full camera bodies, my gear bag which stores 4 additional FULL camera bodies, analog camera equipment 1- PRO-35mm FILM camera with loaded 36exp film, and 1- 120mm camera with additional lenses.  I will have 8 flashes, 4 Triggers, etc., and endless peripherals and stands [ We are gear geeks at heart ♥ ]  

As mentioned, my second LEAD carries the same amount of equipment as well.

LIABILITY INSURANCE - Should they have one?

YES! Valid and current Commercial General Liability Business Insurance is essential to a professional business providing services - Because you cannot be too careful or too prepared.  

Any professional business operating and selling services MUST have one.

Real Fact:

Allie Miller Weddings carries $2,000,000 to provide peace of mind not just to our clients, but also to the venue in which we will be working - COI certificate is always available upon request. 

*All our equipment and team are insured as well.

And, We Are Joyfully Ready!

I am so glad you are here and I am here for all the planning, the portrait sessions & obviously YES! to A FULL Wedding Day EXPERIENCING all the excitement that will follow even after delivery has been made! Looking forward to all the questions, and to connecting with you!

Cheers,

Allie + The Team