Wedding Formals: the couple close beneath her veil in the last of the sun, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

Editor’s note: This guide first ran as a seven-part series in early 2025. We’ve combined all seven parts into one post for ease of reading.

There is a lot to think about when planning for your wedding day. From venues to florals, the list can seem endless. With all of the time and effort put into celebrating your magical day, you want to make sure you get the perfect photos to document it.

We are here to help! In this post, Love & Story shares the perfect questions to ask your photographer to ensure you share your vision and make the most out of your wedding experience.

Wedding Formals: the two of them inside the ring of pastel flowers, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss under the veil with the sun behind them, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Getting Ready: the bride fastening her own shoe against white, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple on the rocks above the falls, during their engagement session at Vickery Creek in Roswell, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them in the vine rows as the sun drops, at their wedding at Yonah Mountain Vineyards in Cleveland, GA

Understanding the style of your photographer is a must! This ensures that each of your visions are aligned.

The first question you should ask your wedding photographer is:

1. What’s your signature style, and how do you bring a couple’s personality into your photos?

At Love & Story we specialize in three styles – Romance, Signature and Cinematic. If your style is a little lighter and brighter, the romance style could fit your vision. Or maybe you like classic and bold colors, like our Signature style.

Feeling moodier and looking for earthier tones? Our Cinematic style is a good fit.

Aligning your vision with your photographers is a great place to start your wedding photography planning journey. By asking this question you can get a great idea of how your big day will be captured on camera.

Wedding Ceremony: the first kiss at the flowered arch below the ridge, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

At Love & Story, we want to make sure your wedding day is stress-free. From over 10 years in the business, we have learned a thing or two about making your wedding day go smoothly.

Wedding Ceremony: a dip kiss on the chapel steps by the stained glass, at their wedding at the chapel at Simpsonwood Park in Peachtree Corners, GA
Processional: the groom watching her come up the aisle past the hoop, at their wedding at Meadows at Mossy Creek in Cleveland, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the vows on the terrace, guests either side of the aisle, at their wedding at Ivy Hall at the Roswell Mill in Roswell, GA

Your first kiss as a married couple is one that you don’t want to miss. Confidence that your photographer can navigate those moments will ease those wedding day jitters.

The next question to ask is:

2. How do you handle once-in-a-lifetime moments, like the first look or the kiss?

At Love & Story, we capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments perfectly. By taking photos from multiple angles, we make sure the photo portrays the emotion of this precious moment.

Asking this question will ease your anxiety because you can see what your photographer is capable of. Having a well-prepared photographer is something that is a must on your wedding day!

Wedding Ceremony: the ceremony at the timber arbor with the mountain behind, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the draped arch seen past the guests in the trees, at their wedding at Ivy Hall at the Roswell Mill in Roswell, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the vows at the flowered hoop above the valley, at their wedding at Meadows at Mossy Creek in Cleveland, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss under her veil with the valley behind, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

We’ve covered the basics of style and ensuring your photographer can capture once-in-a-lifetime moments. Now that you have an idea of what your photographer is capable of, you are likely asking yourself, “Well this all sounds great, but I want to see proof!” At Love & Story, we understand the importance of seeing our work before you decide to work with us.

Wedding Details: the groom's shoes, watch, tie and vow book laid out, at a wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Details: her heels, perfume and vow book on the veil, at a wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Getting Ready: the groom straightening his bow tie in his plum tuxedo, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Getting Ready: the bride at the window in silhouette, in black and white, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Reception Details: the embroidered cocktail napkins on the wooden table, at a wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

Seeing an entire gallery can be helpful for a couple looking for wedding photographers, so the next question you should ask your photographer is:

3. Can you share a complete wedding gallery, not just a highlight reel?

Our answer is, of course! We want you to get a sense of how we photograph a whole session or wedding but with the knowledge that every wedding is different and if there’s something you’d like to see at your wedding all you have to do is ask.

We have shared with you moments from Joel & Brittany’s wedding day to give you a better idea of what our galleries include!

We would love to share more with you. Feel free to reach out to us on our socials, website, or via email!

Getting Ready: the bridesmaids raising their glasses together, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Getting Ready: the groom alone at the tall windows, the fog beyond, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Reception Details: the long table run with red and blush flowers, at a wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them under a clear umbrella in the mist, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Details: the gown hanging from the timber pavilion, at a wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
First Look: her hand on his shoulder as he waits, facing away, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
First Look: the couple holding each other after he turns round, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss under the umbrella in the rain, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Party: the groomsmen crowding round him, all laughing, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Party: the whole party cheering with their arms up, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Processional: her father bringing her up the aisle indoors, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the ceremony below the chandelier and the glass gable, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the vows at the flowered arbor, the mountains beyond, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the first kiss, dipped low, as the guests applaud, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Reception: glasses meeting over the table, in black and white, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Reception: their entrance to the reception, both mid-cheer, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Reception Details: the couple pouring champagne down the tower of glasses, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
First Dance: their first dance in front of the tall windows, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Reception: the two of them lifted up on chairs by their guests, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Send-Off: the exit through two rows of cold sparks, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Send-Off: the groom lifting her in the falling sparks, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the groom twirling the bride along the garden path, at their wedding at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA

So far, we’ve explored questions about Love & Story’s photography style, our approach to capturing important moments, and our ability to share a full wedding gallery with you. Now, let’s dive into another crucial consideration for finding your dream photographer—our experience with your venue and how we prepare to capture stunning shots in new locations.

Wedding Formals: a dip kiss in front of the dinosaur statues, at their wedding at Fernbank Museum in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the groom in a purple tuxedo on the brick steps, at their wedding at the Foxglove in Marietta, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple together under the white gazebo, at their wedding at Cator Woolford Gardens in Atlanta, GA

There is a lot to think about when it comes to wedding photos, and you want to make sure your photographer has the experience to capture your vision at any venue. You may be asking,

4. Have you worked at our venue before, or how do you prepare for new locations?

While it would be great to have visited and familiarized oneself with every venue, it’s just not always possible. But that doesn’t mean we aren’t exceptionally well equipped to handle any situation and location. We have over 10 years of experience photographing every kind of couple around Atlanta in countless scenarios and lighting situations. We’ve developed expert strategies to create timeless images. We’re here to bring your wedding day to life through our lens, no matter your style or setting. Do you have a vision? We’re here to execute it.

Wedding Formals: the two of them in the vine rows, her veil laid out, at their wedding at Yonah Mountain Vineyards in Cleveland, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple under the timber trestle by the water, at their wedding at Ivy Hall at the Roswell Mill in Roswell, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss framed in the white gothic arch, at their wedding at the Wildflower 301 in Greensboro, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them kissing under the big tree, at their wedding at Bold Monk Brewery in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple climbing the stone steps in the woods, at their wedding at Cator Woolford Gardens in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: walking the garden path with her veil flying, at their wedding at the Wildflower 301 in Greensboro, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple among the glasshouse planting, at their wedding at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them on the painted crossing in the street, at their wedding at the White Bull in Decatur, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple with her sunflower bouquet, in a blue suit, at their wedding
Wedding Ceremony: two brides facing each other with their bouquets, at their wedding at Wahoo! Grill in Decatur, GA
Wedding Formals: him kissing her hand on the terrace, at their wedding at the Wildflower 301 in Greensboro, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple framed in the stone archway, at their wedding
Wedding Ceremony: the vows before the officiant in the marble hall, at their wedding at Decatur Square in Decatur, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them walking the lawn as the sun drops, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: him turning her by the paddock fence, at their wedding at Three Birches in Alpharetta, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the ceremony in the trees with the guests close around, at their wedding at Wahoo! Grill in Decatur, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them at last light over the hills, at their wedding at Swan Lake Overlook in Dawsonville, GA

Let’s be real—weddings are full of surprises. Maybe the forecast called for sunshine, but the clouds had other plans. Maybe golden hour turned into “uh-oh, where’s the sun?” Or maybe the timeline is suddenly running an hour behind, and you’re wondering how to fit everything in.

Wedding Reception: the couple lit by sparklers beside the pool at night, at their wedding at Three Birches in Alpharetta, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them close on the terrace, in black and white, at their wedding at the Trolley Barn in Atlanta, GA

5. How do you manage the unexpected, like bad weather, tricky lighting, or timeline delays?

We’ve seen it all. With over 10 years of experience, we’ve built a heavy toolbox of skills to make sure we capture your wedding beautifully, no matter the situation. And we don’t just make it work—we bring creativity and confidence to every unexpected moment. Don’t stress about the problems; let us turn them into stunning, story-filled memories.

At Love & Story Photography, we believe the unexpected isn’t something to fear—it’s part of the adventure. Let’s dive into how we embrace the unpredictable and keep your wedding photos looking flawless—rain or shine, early or late, bright or moody.

Wedding Formals: the couple by the creek with an aurora over the barn, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple with her bouquet on the hillside at dusk, at their wedding at Swan Lake Overlook in Dawsonville, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss on the path under the strung lights, at their wedding at the Trolley Barn in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them at the hexagon arch, reflected in the water, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the ceremony under the purple dome of the gallery, at their wedding at Fernbank Museum in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple under a clear umbrella in the mist, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Reception: the two of them kissing inside the trolley, at their wedding at the Trolley Barn in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: her veil blowing across them both, the ridge behind, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Ceremony: the vows at the flowered arch under the purple light, at their wedding at Fernbank Museum in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple on the lawn as the sun drops behind the hills, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating love—not stressing over the little hiccups. No matter what comes our way, Love & Story Photography is ready to adapt, problem-solve, and create stunning images that reflect the joy of your day. Rain or shine, tricky lighting or tight timelines, we’ve got you covered. So take a deep breath, soak in every moment, and trust us to make it look beautiful.

Engagement Portraits: the couple close together on the orange footbridge, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA

We know that stepping in front of the camera isn’t something most people do every day. Maybe you’re worried about what to do with your hands, or you’re afraid of looking stiff or awkward. Trust us—you’re not alone! Most of our couples start their session telling us, “We’re so awkward in photos,” but by the end, they’re laughing, moving naturally, and wondering why they ever felt nervous in the first place. Our job isn’t just to take pretty pictures—it’s to guide you, hype you up, and help you feel like your most natural, confident self.

Engagement Portraits: the two of them at a coffee table on the patio, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: the groom-to-be dipping her on the bridge, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA

6. What’s your process for helping us feel natural and comfortable in front of the camera?

First, we always recommend scheduling the engagement session that’s included in your package. Think of it as a fun, low-pressure way to practice before the big day. You’ll get to experience our style, see how we direct and pose you, and most importantly—get comfortable in front of the camera. By the time your wedding day arrives, we won’t be strangers—we’ll be friends, and you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Engagement Portraits: the couple sitting together on the steel walkway, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: the two of them against the brick wall in the sun, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: a hug among the planters on the loading dock, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: her laughing as he holds her from behind, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple walking away hand in hand under the lights, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: a kiss in the freight elevator, in black and white, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA

During your session, we focus on movement and natural interactions instead of stiff, forced poses. We’ll guide you with fun prompts, playful directions, and little moments that bring out your personality. Whether it’s whispering inside jokes, dancing to your favorite song, or just taking a deep breath together, we promise you won’t feel like you’re being “posed” at all.

Engagement Portraits: her ring hand resting on his shoulder, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: the two of them either side of the steel staircase, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: their hands joined behind her back, the ring showing, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: foreheads together in the evening light, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: her hand on his face against the painted wall, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple by the apricot and blue florals, her veil out, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Recessional: a dip kiss as the wedding party raise their bouquets, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them behind her veil in the wind, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Reception: the groom opening champagne as she holds the glasses, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the couple walking the lawn with her bouquet, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: a kiss with her veil streaming across the grass, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
First Look: the bride walking up behind him on the terrace, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
First Look: her arms round his neck once he has turned, before their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA
Wedding Formals: the two of them close with her bouquet between them, at their wedding at The Venue at Sharp Mountain in Jasper, GA

Oh, and did we mention? We’re total goofballs, and we love making our couples laugh. Our goal isn’t just to capture beautiful images—it’s to make sure you actually enjoy the process. So come ready to have fun, let loose, and let us capture your love story in a way that feels effortless and true to you.

At Love & Story Photography, we believe that the best photos come from real, unfiltered moments. Whether it’s an engagement session or your wedding day, we’re here to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and most of all—like yourself.

Engagement Portraits: her hands on his shoulder, the ring in frame, during their engagement session at the Millennium Gate in Atlanta, GA

7. Is an engagement session a must-have before your wedding?

Above, we discussed how we help you feel comfortable in front of the camera—and a big part of that is having an engagement session. With so many details to plan for your wedding—venue, dress, flowers, cake—it’s easy to overlook this step. But trust us, it’s more than just another photoshoot. If you’re wondering, Do I really need one?—the answer is a resounding YES!

Engagement Portraits: the couple on the steel staircase in the sun, during their engagement session at Westside Provisions in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: him lifting her on the park path, both laughing, during their engagement session
Engagement Portraits: the two of them walking the golden field at dusk, during their engagement session at Yonah Mountain Vineyards in Cleveland, GA

Engagement shoots are not just fun—they’re a great way to build trust and ease. You and your photographer will get comfortable working together before the big day, helping you feel more relaxed and natural in front of the camera. It’s also a chance to see how you and your partner move together, figure out which poses feel most you, and get used to being the center of attention.

Engagement Portraits: the couple far down the fenced track, during their engagement session at a ranch in White, GA
Engagement Portraits: the two of them by the reflecting pool at the stone buildings, during their engagement session at Berry College in Rome, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple under the trees at the field edge, during their engagement session at a ranch in White, GA

Beyond preparation, engagement sessions are an opportunity to get creative! While your wedding photos will be filled with all the classic, heartfelt moments, your engagement session allows for a more stylized and personal touch. The possibilities are endless, whether you want an elegant, editorial-style shoot, a cozy at-home session, or something completely unique.

Want to do JCPenney-style photos? SURE!

Want to recreate your first date? SURE!

Want something that could be on the cover of a magazine? SURE!

Engagement Portraits: the two of them together in front of the falls, during their engagement session at Vickery Creek in Roswell, GA
Engagement Portraits: a kiss behind the sunflowers at sunset, during their engagement session at Big Hart Farm in Hartwell, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple on the path past the roses, during their engagement session at Sims Lake Park in Suwanee, GA
Engagement Portraits: the two of them against the mountain sunset, during their engagement session at Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple in the shadow of the marble arch, during their engagement session at the Millennium Gate in Atlanta, GA
Engagement Portraits: the two of them stepping along the wooded path, during their engagement session
Engagement Portraits: the couple framed in the covered bridge, during their engagement session at Vickery Creek in Roswell, GA
Engagement Portraits: him kissing her cheek against the pale stone, during their engagement session at the Millennium Gate in Atlanta, GA

Whatever your vision, we’ll work together to make it happen. Your engagement session is more than just a set of beautiful photos—it’s a way to celebrate your love story in a way that feels authentic to you. And when your wedding day arrives, you’ll step in front of the camera with confidence, ready to soak in every moment.

Engagement Portraits: him dipping her in the water below the falls, during their engagement session at Toccoa Falls in Toccoa, GA
Engagement Portraits: the couple kissing in the deep stone archway, during their engagement session at Berry College in Rome, GA

Thinking about booking an engagement session? Let’s chat and create something unforgettable!