“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou

One of my main goals as a wedding photographer is to create a feel-good experience for my couples. 

Because you can find a hundred people to give you good photos, but what kind of experience will they provide you? How are you going to feel when it’s all over? 

I want to make my couples feel like they are the most important people in the world on their wedding day. I want there to be a good connection between us. Because when you feel good, you’ll look good in your photos. And you’ll have great memories to attach to them. 

So when you start searching for a wedding photographer, and you get analysis paralysis because everyone’s style seems to blend together, look at their personalities, and think about how they’ll make you feel.

Here’s how I set myself apart by creating a feel-good photography experience.

I Do the Little Things

Relationships are built on the little things. The big things are important, sure. But it’s the little things that stick in a person’s mind – that go the distance. 

So, from the moment you first reach out, I’m working to create an experience you will look back on and be happy with. 

What does this look like? Well, it doesn’t look like me just showing up and taking photos on your wedding day. I’m not that kind of guy. I AM the kind of guy who will get back to you in a relatively short amount of time. 

It baffles me how people just don’t get back. When you send me something, I might not send you all the info right then, but I’ll shoot you a quick email or text to at least let you know I got your message. 

On wedding day, I get there about half an hour before my scheduled time to get myself in the zone. And I’m not going to pinch pennies about being early. This is more about me settling in, introducing myself to people, and not just showing up as some random dude with a camera. It’s about making a connection.

I Foster a Comfortable and Trusting Environment

One of the biggest common concerns I hear from clients is that they’ve been to weddings where the photography sucked because the photographer had a bad attitude or the photos took forever or whatever, and they’re nervous about that happening at their wedding. 

Another concern I hear a lot is the whole being nervous in front of the camera. That’s a pretty normal thing. 

I have a business, and I’m providing a service, but I don’t ever want anyone to feel bummed or awkward or negative about their experience in any way. Above all, I want you to feel comfortable and laid back, just like, this guy’s cool – he’s got us. I want you to feel good. And feel good about your decision.

So, to address the first concern, I never go to work with a bad attitude. I’m a laid-back, goofy guy who can make fun of myself. And if that’s what it takes to get people smiling, so be it. Also, photos won’t take forever or be unorganized because we’ll have a timeline to work off of. A solid but flexible timeline that keeps everyone on track and things running smoothly (I’m looking at you, family portraits). 

To address the second concern, models are paid to be models for a reason – it’s a skill. And not a lot of people have ever taken professional photos. Maybe you got dressed up and went to Sears for family portraits at some point. Or senior photos. But that’s probably the extent of it. 

Just know that no one on my Instagram or portfolio is a model. They are all people who came into sessions with the same fears and anxieties. But we worked through them. I acted like my usual self and kept things relaxed to help them let their guard down. I was never like, “Hey, you two need to kiss immediately.” That’s just weird! 

Instead, we work our way towards the kiss. IF that’s what’s comfortable. Maybe you just want to hold hands and cuddle. And that’s okay too.

I Don’t Try to Control Everything

I’ve reached a point in my career where I realize certain things are not in my control, and I don’t try to control those things. 

I’m flexible, laid back, and couple-focused, so I’m not going to take you away from your wedding day if I see that you’re mingling with guests and enjoying yourselves. I’ve learned to treat every wedding day differently because they’re not a formulaic thing.

And it’s not just about the photography. Again, it’s about how you feel on your wedding day. Not about me or my portfolio or anything like that.

I tell my couples that I know there are photographers out there who do make it about themselves, and they have their portfolios in the back of their minds. I’ve got my portfolio pieces. I’m not at the point in my career where I need to beef it up. Sure, I can always use more. But I’m not thinking about that. I’m thinking about your experience.

Truly, I just want you to know that when you book me for the day, I’m yours. We’ll work off a timeline, but I’m also not going to be like, we can’t get this or that shot because it’s not on my list. If you see a group of friends and want a photo with them, grab me! I’m there for you. And I’m here for you now. Just reach out, say hey, and let’s talk about how I can help you have an amazing photography experience.