What to Expect as an Alyssa Joy Photography Client

You might have a strong vision and clear priorities for your wedding day. But when it comes to your wedding photography, things aren’t quite as clear. You can imagine what you want in your mind, and you’ve seen photos that you like in the past. But you haven’t been able to put your finger on precisely what it is you are looking for. 

Maybe it’s that you haven’t found the photographer for you. Or perhaps it’s been an “I’ll-know-it-when-I-see-it” issue for a while. But so far, you don’t see what you want as you scroll through Instagram. In fact, all the photos you’ve come across are either too dark or too light. You’ve seen a lot of trends and overly posed photos. And you don’t love what you’re seeing!

Welcome to Alyssa Joy Photography.

If you’re reading this, I’m going to assume that something in my work resonated with you. Enough to head over to my blog anyway. So, first of all, hello! I’m thankful you’re here! 

Secondly, aside from amazing photos, I thought I’d take a moment to get you thinking about what you do and don’t want from your photographer. Because while it’s important that you love your photos, it’s essential that you love your experience, too. 

Without further ado, here’s what you can expect from me: 

Timeless Photographs

Because I believe your wedding photos should be a constant reminder of the first day of your marriage, with me, you can expect photos that look natural. Photos where you actually look like you! And images that you’ll love as much in 30+ years as you do today. I shoot in both film and digital mediums, and I thoughtfully edit to maintain flattering skin tones and the real, vibrant, and rich colors of your day.

Steady Communication

Planning a wedding can be a lot! As a fairly new newlywed, I understand what an overwhelming time this can be. That’s why I try not to add any confusion or stress to an already stressful situation. Instead, bring a sense of peace and calm to your wedding day, and all of the days leading up to it. You can expect good communication and preparation. To me, those are key to eliminating as much stress as possible. 

First, I’ll ask you questions to help me understand what’s important to you and what you truly need. And I’m more than happy to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have too.  Once I know your priorities, I’ll put together a thorough proposal that includes exactly what you need (and nothing that you don’t). 

And don’t worry — I won’t drop off the face of the planet after you’ve signed the contract. You can expect regular contact and communication throughout the planning process — ensuring you know what to expect at every stage.

Comfortable Guidance

Trust me. It’s not just you who feels awkward in front of the camera. *raises hand* I’m not afraid to admit that I feel awkward being photographed too, which is why I don’t want to put you through a lot of unnatural poses and prompts.

Many photographers will tell you they’re experts in posing you “perfectly” — or getting you to respond to some strange scenario or vulnerable prompt. And while some posing ties in — don’t expect me to move your fingers exactly where I want them or to tell you exactly what to do at all times. Instead, I focus on doing what I do best, taking a ton of really great photos! 

And because I know that getting natural photos requires a level of comfort and connection, I try to interact with you as much as possible before the wedding day. And through our chats and time together, we’ll come to learn more about each other, and you’ll get a better sense of how I work.  

Enjoyable Experience

You have a lot going on: work, wedding planning, life in general. So the last thing you want is to work with a stressful (or stressed-out) photographer.

You can expect that no matter what concerns you have, we’ll work through them together. Because I want to make the process as enjoyable as possible. Don’t exactly feel like taking photos every second of your wedding day? Are you worried about getting photos of your family and friends actually celebrating with you? Stressed about those family photos? (Oh yeah, I’ve heard that before!)

Can I be real with you for a minute? Family photos can be really stressful! It might suck (a little). But we’ll get through it together — and I promise to make it all as enjoyable (and quick!) as possible. Even before you book me, I’ll send you a sample photo timeline so you can see how your wedding day might play out. Then, I’ll walk you through all the possible people, combinations, and photo opps you won’t want to miss.

On the actual wedding day, you can expect me to work quickly while also helping you navigate time alone with your partner. And because I usually have a second photographer with me, I’ll have them capture the details while I focus on getting pictures of you with your wedding party.

As a result, you’ll end up with photos of everything and everyone you want — without the added stress of staging moments or hours spent taking photos. Instead, you’ll be celebrating with friends and family and soaking in the experience of your day. 

Qualified Second Photographer 

As mentioned above, I often have a second photographer by my side, but unlike many photographers, I only source second photographers who have extensive experience photographing weddings. I don’t only consider if they can take good photos. I want to know if they understand the dynamics of a wedding, the timing, lighting, and working well with vendors.

So as my client, you can expect me and a qualified second photographer to show up on your wedding day. This not only eliminates stress but helps us capture all the beautiful photos you hope for.

More Than Just A Photographer 

Last but certainly not least, you can expect me to be more than just your wedding photographer. Because so much goes into being an excellent photographer beyond a good eye and great equipment.

I often (and happily) play the role of wedding planner, friend, and therapist. And come wedding day, I’ll roll with the punches and go with the flow – doing everything in my power to absorb the stress of any obstacles that may come your way. 

I’ll do whatever I can to make sure that you can just remain in and enjoy the moments – on your wedding day and all of the days leading up to it too!

If natural photos and a joyful, caring experience are what you hope for, let’s chat!