everything your'e wondering...
Wedding Photography FAQ | Planning Tips for Texas Couples
Planning a wedding comes with a lot of questions, and after photographing weddings throughout Ellis County and the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, I've heard just about all of them. Whether you're wondering about first looks, second photographers, travel, how many photos you'll receive, or what to expect after your wedding day, you'll find the answers below. If your question isn't here, just reach out—I'm always happy to help.
Where are you based?
I'm based in Ellis County, Texas, and photograph weddings throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex and across North Texas. That includes venues in Waxahachie, Midlothian, Mansfield, Dallas, Fort Worth, Ennis, Cleburne, Red Oak, and plenty of places in between.
Travel within about two hours of DFW is included. If your venue is farther away, I charge a flat $150 travel fee to help cover the extra time and mileage. Planning something even farther—or a destination wedding? I'd love to hear about it.
How far in advance should we book?
Whenever you're ready! Some couples book a year or more in advance, while others reach out the week of their wedding. If your date is still available, I'm happy to photograph it. It never hurts to ask.
How many photos will we receive?
I don't believe in putting a number on your memories. You'll receive every image that meets my quality standards. The only photos I leave out are duplicates, accidental shutter clicks, lighting tests, missed focus, or anything that doesn't help tell the story of your wedding day. The total number of images depends on things like:
-How long I'm photographing your wedding
-Whether you choose to add a second photographer
-How many events and moments are happening throughout the day
My goal has never been to hit a certain number of photos. My goal is to tell the complete story of your wedding.
Do we need a second photographer?
If your budget allows for it, my answer is almost always yes. A second photographer lets us capture more of your day without having to be in two places at once. While I'm photographing one partner getting ready, your second photographer can be with the other. During the ceremony, one of us can focus on your reactions while the other captures your family and guests. We also get multiple perspectives during moments like your first kiss, grand entrance, and reception.
A second photographer is especially valuable if you're having:
-Separate getting-ready locations
-A larger guest count
-A large wedding party
-Multiple events happening at the same time
-A full wedding day with lots of moving pieces
Adding a second photographer is $750 for the day. It's completely optional, but it's one of the upgrades that consistently gives couples the most value in their final gallery.
Should we do a first look?
There isn't a right or wrong answer—it's entirely about what feels right for the two of you. I've photographed weddings both ways, and they can both be incredibly meaningful.
Reasons to have a first look:
-You get a private moment together before the ceremony.
-Most of your couple's portraits can be finished before guests arrive.
-Many couples feel more relaxed once they've seen each other.
-You'll usually spend more of cocktail hour celebrating with your guests instead of taking portraits.
Reasons to wait until the ceremony
-You get the traditional aisle reveal.
-The anticipation builds throughout the day.
-Many couples love the emotion that comes with seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony.
-If you've always imagined that moment happening at the altar, there's absolutely nothing wrong with keeping it that way.
Whichever option you choose, I'm happy to answer any questions about how it might affect your day. Beautiful photographs are possible either way.
Do you help us pose?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest things I hear is, "We're awkward in front of the camera." Almost every couple says that. You don't need modeling experience, and you don't need to memorize poses from Pinterest. I'll guide you with simple prompts and natural direction so you always know what to do without looking overly posed.
Some of my favorite images happen between the poses anyway—the genuine laughs, quiet moments, and reactions that can't be planned.
How long should we book our photographer for?
Every wedding is different, but here's a general idea:
6 hours is great for smaller weddings or celebrations where everything happens in one location.
8 hours covers most traditional wedding days, including getting ready, the ceremony, family photos, portraits, and a good portion of the reception.
10+ hours is ideal for larger weddings, multiple locations, cultural celebrations, or couples who want the entire day documented from beginning to end.
If you're not sure how much coverage you need, I'm happy to talk through your plans and help you figure out what makes the most sense.
Do you travel for weddings?
Absolutely.Whether you're getting married in Dallas, Fort Worth, a small Texas town, or somewhere much farther away, I'd love to hear about it. I've photographed weddings in a variety of venues and locations, and traveling is one of my favorite parts of this job.
What is your photography style?
I aim for photographs that feel timeless.
My editing stays true to life with natural color, and I focus on real moments over stiff poses or trendy effects that may not age well. I want your photographs to look just as beautiful twenty years from now as they do the day you receive them.
What happens if it rains?
We make the best of it.
Rain rarely ruins a wedding day—it just changes the plan a little. I'll look for covered locations, beautiful indoor light, and opportunities you might not have considered. Some of my favorite wedding photographs have happened because the weather forced everyone to slow down and embrace the moment.
Are you insured?
Yes. I carry professional liability insurance and can provide proof of coverage if your venue requires it.
How do we book?
Just head over to my contact page and tell me a little about your wedding.
I'll confirm whether your date is available, answer any questions you have, and we'll see if we're a good fit. If everything looks good, I'll send over your documents and invoice. Once those are approved, your date is officially reserved.