Crafting Your Perfect Wedding Photography Package: What to Consider

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event filled with moments you'll want to cherish forever. Your wedding photographer plays a crucial role in capturing these memories, so it's essential to choose the right photography package that suits your needs and preferences. Today, we'll explore the key details and options you should consider when crafting your ideal wedding photography package.

Coverage Hours

One of the first decisions to make is how many hours of coverage you'll need. Consider the duration of your wedding events, including pre-ceremony preparations, the ceremony itself, the reception, and any post-wedding festivities. Most photographers offer packages with a set number of hours, so choose one that aligns with your schedule. SM Wedding Photo works with you to develop a timeline to fit both your wedding day plans and photographic wants and needs. This helps us to not over or under determine the amount of hours of photography you will need.

Photographer(s)

Will you need one photographer or a team? Having multiple photographers can provide different angles and perspectives, ensuring no moment is missed. At SM Wedding Photo during out discussion and planning sessions we listen to your photographic desires, look through the timeline planning and offer the best advise as to the true need or not for adding additional photographers to your wedding day package.

Engagement Session

Many wedding photography packages include an engagement session. This pre-wedding shoot not only helps you get comfortable in front of the camera but also allows you to bond with your photographer. It's an excellent opportunity to capture beautiful, relaxed photos that showcase your relationship.

High-Resolution Images

Ensure that your package includes high-resolution digital images. These files allow you to print your photos in various sizes and formats without compromising quality. Discuss the number of images you'll receive and any restrictions on usage.

Photo Editing and Retouching

Professional editing and retouching can enhance the overall look of your wedding photos. Clarify the extent of post-processing included in your package. Discuss any specific editing requests you may have, such as black and white conversions, vintage filters, or other special effects.

Print and Album Options

Consider whether you want prints, albums, or both included in your package. High-quality prints and albums provide tangible memories that can be passed down through generations. Discuss your preferences for album style, size, and customization options.

Online Gallery and Sharing

A convenient online gallery allows you to view, download, and share your wedding photos with friends and family. Some photographers also offer password protection and the ability to order prints directly from the gallery.

Travel Expenses

If your wedding is at a location that requires your photographer to travel, discuss travel expenses and arrangements. Be clear about any additional costs that may be incurred.

Backup Equipment and Insurance

Professional photographers always have backup equipment in case of technical issues. Ensure that your photographer is adequately insured, covering any unexpected mishaps. We always have at least two cameras and a wide selection of lens’s to cover any photo idea or in case of damage keep shooting.

Timelines and Delivery

Discuss the timeline for receiving your edited photos and any milestones along the way, such as sneak peeks. A clear understanding of the delivery process will help manage your expectations.

Customization and Add-Ons

Every couple is unique, and your photography package should reflect that. Ask your photographer about the possibility of customizing your package or adding specific services that are important to you. SM Wedding Photo now only offers fully customized wedding photo packages!

Crafting the perfect wedding photography package involves careful consideration of your preferences, budget, and the moments you want to treasure forever. Open communication with your photographer is key to ensuring that your package includes all the essential details and options tailored to your unique wedding day. With the right package, you can relive your special day through stunning photographs for years to come.

Katelyn and Jacob get married on the family farm!

I had the honor of photographing the most beautiful union between two amazing souls, Katelyn and Jacob. Their May 27th, 2023 wedding at PromiseLand Winery in Guttenburg, Iowa was an absolute dream come true! The love and joy radiated from every corner, filling the air with warmth and happiness. 💕✨

Read More

Celebrating the Unforgettable Wedding of Whitney and Riley!

Love was in the air on June 17th, 2023, as family and friends gathered in the picturesque town of Sublette, Illinois, to witness the enchanting union of Whitney and Riley. This joyous occasion marked the beginning of their lifelong journey together. From heartfelt vows to captivating moments, their wedding day was filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Read More

A Little Love in Little Havana. An engagement session for Michelle & Marco

Michelle and Marco strolled through the vibrant streets of Little Havana, Miami, hand in hand. The sun bathed the colorful buildings in a warm glow as they embarked on their engagement photo shoot. Their love had blossomed like the flowers that adorned the windowsills.

Read More

Wedding Videography Trends in Packages and Pricing for Iowa and Illinois

Wedding videography has become an increasingly popular choice for capturing and preserving the memories of a couple's big day. In Illinois and Iowa, there are many options available when it comes to wedding videography packages and pricing. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the current prices and packages offered in wedding videography in Illinois and Iowa.

Read More

The White Wedding Dress

The white wedding dress is a timeless symbol of purity, elegance, and tradition. However, the tradition of wearing a white wedding dress is relatively new, and its history is not as straightforward as one might think.

Read More

Engagement Photo Sessions

Engagement photo sessions are an excellent opportunity for couples to capture the excitement and anticipation of their upcoming wedding. Not only do these photos serve as a visual record of this special time in a couple's life, but they also provide a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day.

However, planning an engagement photo session can be overwhelming, especially for couples who are new to the process. To help simplify the planning process and ensure a successful photo shoot, here are some tips for couples to consider when planning their engagement photo session.

2. Coordinate Your Outfits

Your engagement photos are a great opportunity to show off your personal style as a couple, but it's important to coordinate your outfits to ensure that your photos look cohesive. Choose colors and styles that complement each other, and avoid wearing clothing with logos or distracting patterns.

4. Consider the Time of Day

The time of day can have a significant impact on the lighting and overall mood of your engagement photos. Consider scheduling your session during "golden hour," which is the hour before sunset when the lighting is soft and warm. Alternatively, early morning sessions can also produce beautiful lighting.

5. Bring Props

Props can add a fun and personalized touch to your engagement photos. Consider bringing items like a chalkboard with your wedding date, a bouquet of flowers, or props that reflect your shared interests.

In conclusion, planning an engagement photo session can be a fun and exciting process for couples. By considering the location, coordinating outfits, hiring a professional photographer, considering the time of day, bringing props, and being yourselves, you can ensure a successful and memorable photo shoot that captures the excitement of your upcoming wedding.

  1. Choose the Right Location

    The location of your engagement photo session can set the tone for your photos, so it's important to choose a location that's meaningful to you both. Consider places like your favorite park, the spot where you first met, or a location that reflects your shared interests. Keep in mind that some locations may require permits or have time restrictions, so be sure to do your research ahead of time.

3. Hire a Professional Photographer

While it may be tempting to have a friend or family member take your engagement photos, hiring a professional photographer is worth the investment. A professional photographer will have the experience and expertise needed to capture high-quality photos that you'll cherish for years to come.

6. Be Yourself

Finally, it's important to be yourselves during your engagement photo session. Relax, have fun, and don't be afraid to show your personalities. The more comfortable and natural you feel, the better your photos will turn out.

What to expect from your wedding planner.

When hiring a wedding planner, you can expect them to provide guidance on all aspects of the wedding, including venue selection, vendor selection, budget management, and timeline creation. They should also be able to negotiate contracts with vendors and handle all logistical arrangements on your behalf. A good wedding planner will listen to your vision and work with you to bring it to life, while also providing helpful suggestions and solutions along the way. Ultimately, your wedding planner should help to alleviate stress and make your wedding day as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Whether or not you need a wedding planner depends on your personal preferences and budget. A wedding planner can provide invaluable assistance with planning, coordinating, and executing your wedding, but if you are comfortable with taking on these tasks yourself, then a wedding planner may not be necessary.