What a Wedding Photographer Really Does: Behind the Lens Before, During & After the Big Day
When couples hire a wedding photographer, most imagine someone showing up with a camera, snapping a few beautiful shots, and sending over a gallery a few weeks later.
But what happens behind the scenes?
As a full-time wedding photographer, I can tell you—the real work starts long before I arrive at your venue and continues long after the last dance. In fact, the average wedding day involves 30–50+ hours of work from start to finish. Here’s a look at what really goes into capturing your once-in-a-lifetime moments.
💍 Before the Wedding: Planning, Scouting & Precision Prep
1. Initial Consultation & Discovery
We begin with a chat—either in person, over Zoom, or via phone. I don’t just want to know the venue and date; I want to understand you. Your story. Your style. What moments matter most.
Key steps:
-
Discuss your wedding vision, must-have shots, and timeline
-
Review sample galleries, album options, and packages
-
Talk through lighting challenges, backup plans, and special requests
2. Venue Research & Logistics
If I haven’t photographed at your venue before, I’ll do deep research—or even visit in advance.
-
Sun tracking for golden hour portraits
-
Ideal photo locations (rain or shine)
-
Lighting conditions throughout the day
-
Travel routes, parking, and gear access points
3. Gear Check & Backup Prep
The week before the wedding, I inspect every piece of equipment and prepare for redundancy:
-
Dual-camera setup
-
Extra lenses, flashes, batteries, and memory cards
-
Multiple backups and storage plans
👰 On the Day: A Calm Presence & Creative Director
This is when most couples see me at work—but even then, it’s about more than pressing a shutter.
1. Early Arrival & Detail Shots
I usually arrive before the bridal prep begins. This allows time to photograph your dress, rings, invitations, flowers, and any special items.
2. Storytelling, Not Just Posing
Throughout the day, I balance storytelling and direction:
-
Candid shots during prep and first look
-
Coordinated portraits that still feel natural
-
Family photo organization (efficient and painless!)
-
Capturing emotions: laughter, tears, proud glances, quiet moments
3. Lighting Mastery
As light changes throughout the day, I adjust settings, switch lenses, and use flashes or reflectors to ensure flattering, professional results.
4. Discreet, Not Distracting
During your ceremony and speeches, I work silently—always present, but never in the way.
💻 After the Wedding: Editing, Backups & Artistry
Once the party ends, the real work begins.
1. Photo Curation
I carefully go through thousands of images to select the most powerful, flattering, and emotion-filled moments. It’s not just “deleting the bad ones”—it’s choosing the best narrative.
2. Professional Editing
Each selected photo is color-corrected, balanced, and gently retouched. I maintain natural skin tones and preserve the authentic emotion of your day. No heavy filters, no fake trends—just timeless edits.
3. Backup & Delivery
I store multiple backups on hard drives and cloud storage. Your final gallery is delivered via a secure online system, and if you’ve chosen an album, I’ll guide you through the design process for a custom heirloom piece.
4. Optional Sneak Peeks
Many couples receive a small highlight gallery within 48 hours—a perfect way to relive the magic while the energy is still fresh.
So, What Are You Really Paying For?
| Service | Time Investment |
|---|---|
| Pre-wedding planning & meetings | 3–5 hours |
| Venue research & gear prep | 2–4 hours |
| Wedding day coverage | 8–12 hours |
| Culling & editing | 15–30+ hours |
| Album design & delivery | 5+ hours |
| Total: | ~30–50+ hours/wedding |
This is why choosing a professional isn’t just about nice photos—it’s about trust, storytelling, and commitment to your day from start to finish.
Final Thoughts 💬
Your wedding day goes by in a flash, but your photos last forever. My mission as your photographer is simple: to preserve your story in the most beautiful, genuine, and stress-free way possible.
If you’re planning your big day and want a photographer who goes beyond the basics, I’d love to chat.
📩 Contact me today to book your consultation or ask any questions.
Leave a comment
0 Comments