my philosophy

Photographer Checklist

Wedding planning is crazy, overwhelming and can just be a headache at times. I don’t want that to be your experience with our business! Each vendor needs 1,000 things and to keep it all organized is nearly impossible. We are going to make this super simple for you, below is a checklist of items we will need before your big day. Don’t worry, there are only seven items and half can be done in under five minutes! Next to each one there is a description and everything you need to know. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at any time!

Deposit- We require a 50% deposit to reserve your date. If you need to work out a payment plan, please let us know. This is due ASAP. We accept all payment types, but credit/debit have a 3% transaction fee. Checks can be mailed to:
Mikenzie Bean
3263 Wren Brook Dr.
New Braunfels, Texas 78130

Contract- As soon as a you decide which package you’d like, I will write up a contract for you! It is super simple, and you will be able to sign electronically online via a program called SignNow. Please remember to save a copy for your own records.

Meeting- I have learned that meeting couples, and getting to know their personalities, before the wedding day, helps me portray that in their photos. Whether we meet for happy hour, coffee, or at the venue for a walk through, I love to hear how you met, what you love most about each other, and all your cute quirks. Normally I like to meet twice before the big day, once after we sign a contract, and once more about 30 days before your event.

Questionnaires- After our first meeting I will send you two different questionnaires using the same program as the contract. One to learn about you and your significant other, and another to learn more about your wedding day. These are fun and really simple, so don’t look at it as boring homework!

Family List- Right after your ceremony I normally recommend shooting about 15 minutes of family photos. I ask you to make a list of up to 10 groups of people you want to get shots with. I will keep up with this on the day of your wedding so that way you can focus on what really matters! It looks a little something like this:
B=Bride G=Groom
B&G & B’s Parents
B&G & B’s Siblings
B&G & B’s Parents and Siblings
B&G & G’s Parents
B&G & G’s Grandparents
B&G & G’s Aunt and Uncle

 

Vendor List- A vendor list is just a document that has a slot for every vendor you are hiring for your big day. I love to know who I will be working with, and always want to reach out before the event. This one is pretty simple, and I encourage my couples to get this done pretty early just so you can mark it off your list! This will be sent to you with your questionnaires.

Itinerary- Normally your planner will have you do this about 30 days before your wedding. When you begin making your itinerary, I would love to help! I can tell you when the best time for photos is as far as lighting, and how I typically shoot wedding. After all, I feel like I’ve been married a million times! Just as a rule of thumb, here is how long I recommend for photos on the day of. Please remember this is an outline, and if you have any special traditions, large bridal party, etc. you will need extra time.
Bridesmaids- 15 minutes
Groomsmen- 15 minutes
Bridal portraits- 15 minutes
First look- 10 minutes
Family photos- 20 minutes
Bride and Groom portraits- 20-30 minutes

Planning a wedding is hard work. Don’t let anyone tell you different! If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or shoot me a quick email.

Cheers,
-M