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Home | Planning Process | Everything You Need to Know From a Wedding Photographer

Everything You Need to Know From a Wedding Photographer

Planning Process, Planning Questions, Wedding Vendors

Searching for your wedding vendors can be overwhelming, but we’ve got ya covered!  We know there are a lot of questions racing through your mind as you google search and hunt Instagram for ideas and inspiration.  Reading reviews, praying they are available for your date, and wondering what in the world to discuss and ask before you book.  It’s a lot to juggle.

When it comes to picking vendors and what you need to know, we are here for ya.  There’s a whole list of people who will help bring your day to life, and there’s no doubt it takes a team.  But what do you ask?  What is it that you need to know before you book?   What should you consider?  Look no further.

Photo credit: Heather Marie Photography

One of the key players on your wedding day will be your wedding photographer.  We all know how important your photographer is!  Raise your hand if you’ve already been thinking about your first wedding anniversary.  Can you picture yourself sitting down with your forever love reminiscing about the sweetest day?  When this comes around, it may seem like your wedding day was so long ago and what remains from that day is your love for each other and the photos.  Flipping through your photo album, you remember the smiles, the bold laughter, the tender first kiss, and all the moments in-between.

All this is great, but in order to get to this point, you have to actually find the photographer for you.  You have questions and we have answers.  We reached out to our friend, Heather of Heather Marie Photography to give us the skinny on everything you need to know about your wedding photographer and things to consider as you make this ever important decision.  Here’s what she had to say (and check out some photos from her weddings (we can’t claim credit) along the way):


1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you become a wedding photographer?

Hey all! I am Heather with Heather Marie Photography. I am a wedding and senior photographer based in Lancaster, PA but serving up and down the east coast. I am obsessed with ice cream and my two puppies! I officially became a wedding photographer in 2018, but fell in love with it almost immediately after my own wedding day back in 2016. I had a minor in photography from college but never ever thought it would go anywhere. It wasn’t until my wedding day when I was turning around during my first dance that it all hit me. I know that sounds cheesy, but it is so true. I was looking at all my guests standing around us, and then my photographers came in to view. Instantly I thought how special it was that they were able to capture these memories of all the people the bride and groom love in one place at one time, and it will most likely never happen again. That was when my love for wedding photography began. I wanted to give those same memories to each of my couples so they could cherish them for years to come.

2. What is your photo editing style?

I am a light and airy wedding photographer. I love the true to color feel while still adding a little bit of brightness to the day. It just feels like a timeless style that can last for generations!

3. What’s your favorite thing about shooting weddings?

My favorite thing about shooting weddings is my COUPLES! Seriously, they make my job the absolute best. It is no joke when I say that I want to feel like one of your best friends by the wedding day. I try to get to know my couples as much as I can and be there for them in any way possible! It is your special day and I want to help make it as perfect as possible. You shouldn’t have to feel uncomfortable with me around, I want to feel like we have been friends for years so that you can feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera and get all the incredible photos you deserve. On a wedding day, I would have to say my favorite time of day to photograph would have to be sunset. The way the sun changes to a soft orange glow is just beautiful and creates epic sunset photos!

PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

4. How far in advance should a couple book you as their photographer? 

To be honest, almost right after you nail down your venue. Or, if there is a photographer you absolutely LOVE, I would even encourage you to reach out to them before you officially nail down your wedding date. That allows you to make sure the photographer is available before you lock it in. Then you can work with the venue and photographer to find a date that works for everyone. The earlier the better no matter what. I am already booking out for 2023 and it’s barely even 2022! I absolutely hate having to say no to a couple because their date it already taken, it breaks my heart. So please reach out ASAP!

5. What should a couple look for when selecting their wedding photographer?

This is an absolutely great question and I could probably write a novel on it. My two biggest things would be style/end product, and personality. Style and the end product are very important. Do you love the way they edit their photos? In five years, will you still love it? All great questions to ask yourself as you look between photographers. There are tons of different styles out there so make sure it is one you can fall in love with over and over again. Also, see what is included in their packages as the deliverables. Are you getting the photos in an online gallery, or a USB? Does it come with a wedding album? I am a HUGE fan of wedding albums. Your photos deserve to live outside of your computer screen and a wedding album is a perfect way to retell the story and pass the memories on to your kids and grandkids! The other side of it is do you like their personality. It is crazy to think, but you will be with your wedding photographer longer than you will even be with your spouse on your wedding day. So you deserve to find someone that you get along with easily and that they just fit into your family and friends perfectly. It makes a world of a difference when you feel comfortable around them!

Photo Credit: Heather Marie Photography

6. What practical advice do you have that will help a bride or groom feel comfortable in front of the camera on their wedding day? 

Just focus on your significant other. Laugh together, smile at each other, make memories! In a sense, ignore us once you’re in a pose 🙂 Your photographer will make sure you look absolutely stunning! So just let those thoughts go about how you should stand and what you should be doing every second and just be in the moment. We will direct you if we think anything should be slightly tweaked, so you don’t need to worry about that. We got you! However, if there is something that makes you self conscious, ex. your arms or a certain way your hair lays, let your photographer know before the wedding day so we can pay close attention to it, but you don’t need to me focusing on it on your big day. You deserve to have fun with your spouse and all the people that came to celebrate with you! 

7. Do you have any recommendations that help a wedding day run more smoothly? 

Hopefully your photographer or planner will do this, but have a timeline that breaks down not only the big parts of the day, but also all the different types of photos and how long each will take. For example, getting the dress on, bridesmaid photos, family formals, first look, reception details, etc. laying this all out makes sure that there is enough time built in between the main events to get all the photos in that you would like. Be very open and communicative with your photographer BEFORE the wedding day so that we are aware of all the important photos you want and can make sure their is time for them! We want you to have every memory from the day, so letting us know ahead of time allows us to make a list of the essential photos so nothing gets missed!


In case you didn’t notice, Heather is super helpful! We hope her expertise and helpful hints will make you feel a little more at ease as you prep for your big day 🙂 You deserve to feel confident as you enter your marriage and wedding! Don’t hesitate to reach out to see how we can roll up our sleeves, help you build a rockstar vendor team, and bring your day to life!

And don’t forget to follow Heather and connect with her on her website, Facebook or Instagram.

January 3, 2022 · Leave a Comment

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springlaneeventplanning

PA Wedding Planner | Lancaster | York | Carlisle | Hershey
It’s Fri-YAY! Cheers to the weekend, friends 🥂
Venue: @thebarnatsilverstone 
Photographer: @heather.marie.leicy 
Florist: @swfloral 
Rentals: @a_to_z_event_rentals & @treasured.events 
Cake: @cakeology.co.lancaster 
Videographer: @shawnfisherproduction 
Installations: @jubileentertainment 
Hair: @beautyunveiledsalon 
Makeup: @makeupbybreannaalexandra 
Stationery: @rsvp_love 
Models: @charlottemastzinn & @sean_zinn 
Dress: @blushbridalpa 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #friyay #fridayvibes #champagnewall #weddingchampagne #cheers #weddingtoast
We love helping our couples take a few ideas or pi We love helping our couples take a few ideas or pictures and building on it to create a full wedding design that’s comprehensive and cohesive!
Cover Photo:
Venue: @thebarnatsilverstone 
Photographer: @heather.marie.leicy 
Florist: @swfloral 
Rentals: @treasured.events & @a_to_z_event_rentals 
Installations: @jubileentertainment 
Stationery: @rsvp_love 
Makeup: @makeupbybreannaalexandra 
Hair: @beautyunveiledsalon 
Videographer: @shawnfisherproduction 
Dress: @blushbridalpa 
Tux: @centralpatuxedo 
Cake: @cakeology.co.lancaster 
Models: @charlottemastzinn & @sean_zinn 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingdesign #weddingdecor #weddingdecoration #weddingflorals #weddingdetails #weddingceremonydecor #weddingreceptiondecor #weddingreceptionideas #weddingrentals #weddingcenterpieces #sweethearttable #coupleshots #pennsylvaniabride #paweddings #paweddingvenue #paweddingplanner #carlislepa #lancasterwedding #hersheypa
Wondering what it’s like to work with a planner? Wondering what it’s like to work with a planner?? Here’s how our day was spent, dreaming up designs and thinking through the logistics for one of our couples!
Venue: @thehotelhershey 
Photographer: @hannahelizabethphoto_ 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingprep #weddingplanning #hersheyweddings #hersheypa #weddingvenue #weddingdesign #weddingdecor #weddinginspo #weddingideas #paweddings #paweddingplanner #weddingplanner #weddingceremony #weddingreception
✨Surrounding yourself with your favorite people ✨Surrounding yourself with your favorite people makes for a great day!
Photographer: @nicolejohnsonphoto 
Venue: @lauxmontfarmsweddings 
Bride: @emplack 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingplanning #2023bride #2023weddings #2024bride #2024wedding #bridesmaids #bridetribe #paweddingvenue #paweddingvendors #stylemepretty #theknotweddings #weddingwire #weddingdayready
Hi, I’m Lauren 👋🏼 And as someone who see Hi, I’m Lauren 👋🏼 
And as someone who sees lots of brides and lots of weddings, I just wanna let you know that here at Spring Lane we value the small things.
When @addieeshelmanphoto was taking these headshots, I asked if we could get a few pictures of me sitting in this vintage, pink chair. My hubby graciously moved it from its place in our home so we could get this picture. And why, you may ask, does anyone care about this pink chair??
Well the answer is simple. Everyone may not. But to me, this pink chair is important because it belonged to my grandmother who went to be with Jesus years ago. And this chair, while maybe not everyone’s style, has meaning to me. Whether or not you like the pink velvety fabric or the antique wooden frame, that’s not really the point. The point is valuing family and holding onto memories for the long haul 🥰
So, friend, if you are getting married and planning your wedding, don’t forget the small things. Don’t forget to include those special details that maybe won’t matter to *everyone*, but they’ll matter to YOU. Because if it brings a smile to your face on your big day, it’s so worth it ❤️
Photographer: @addieeshelmanphoto 
Chair: my sweet grandma
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddinginspo #tiptuesday #weddingplanning #pawedding #weddingdetails #weddingdecor #weddingideas #weddingday #weddinginspiration #weddingplanner #stylemepretty #theknot #weddingwire
This picture speaks for itself ✨ Photographer: This picture speaks for itself ✨
Photographer: @hannahelizabethphoto_ 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #detailshot #detailshots #weddingdayphoto #paweddingphotography #paweddings #paweddingplanner
It’s the beauty and the logistics 🤍 Photogra It’s the beauty and the logistics 🤍
Photographer: @talesandtreesphotography 
Venue: @historickingmansion 
Florals: @weddingsbyjdk 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingreminders #weddingtips #elegantwedding #elegantweddings #timelesswedding #weddingprep #weddingphotography #pawedding #weddinginspiration #weddinginspo #couplegoals #mrandmrs #2023wedding #2024wedding
A moment for something sweet to get you through th A moment for something sweet to get you through the week 😉
Cake: @cakeology.co.lancaster 
Photographer: @heather.marie.leicy 
Venue: @thebarnatsilverstone 
Stationery: @rsvp_love 
Florals: @swfloral 
Installations: @jubileentertainment 
Dress: @blushbridalpa 
Rentals: @a_to_z_event_rentals & @treasured.events 
Makeup: @makeupbybreannaalexandra 
Hair: @beautyunveiledsalon 
Videographer: @shawnfisherproduction 
Tux: @centralpatuxedo 
Models: @charlottemastzinn & @sean_zinn 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingcake #weddingcakedesign #weddingcakeideas #lancasterwedding #lancasterpa #weddingplanner #pawedding #2023bride #2024bride
Do yourself a favor and make note of these things! Do yourself a favor and make note of these things!! It’s the little things that come together to make your day come together just as you imagined it. 
Here’s a few more things to avoid so you don’t make these common mistakes!
✨Not taking a bathroom break BEFORE getting into your dress.
✨Not breaking in your shoes during the month before your wedding.
✨Not drinking enough water throughout the day.
✨Having wedding party and family not know where to be, when because you forgot to send them the info.
✨Not having another point of contact throughout your wedding day who can answer vendor questions on your behalf.
✨Not cleaning out the bridal and groom suites before the wedding (…so someone has to rush to grab your overnight bag during your grand exit)
👉🏼Give this a save and share with a friend! You won’t regret keeping this on hand!
Photographer: @hannahelizabethphoto_ 
Venue: @glenellenfarm 
Bride: @m.willy_ 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #bridesmaids #bridalpartygoals #bridalpartyphotos #weddingtips #tiptuesday #weddinginspiration #weddinginspiration #weddingblog #pawedding #mdwedding #paweddingplanner #paweddingvendors #theknot #weddingwire
It’s all in the details ✨ @thewillowsatashcomb It’s all in the details ✨
@thewillowsatashcombe 
Photographer: @broadsidevisuals 
Florals: @weddingsbyjdk 
Catering: @thejdkgroup 
Venue: @thewillowsatashcombe 
Cake: @pabakery 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddinginspiration #pennsylvaniabride #pennsylvaniawedding #luxurywedding #luxuryweddingvenue #paweddingvenue #pabride #theknot #weddingwire #bridetips #elegantwedding #sophisticatedbride #blackandwhitewedding #couplegoals #tentwedding
We love that look on the bride’s face when she s We love that look on the bride’s face when she sees her wedding dreams come to life! ✨
Photographer: @mellonberryphotography 
Florist: @laceandpeoniesflora 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingdayready #bridetobe #weddingdecor #weddingdesign #weddinginspiration #weddedbliss #bridetobe2023 #bridetobe2024 #2023bride #2024bride #pabride
But, seriously 💁🏼‍♀️ Being engaged is But, seriously 💁🏼‍♀️
Being engaged is one of the sweetest times. Preparing for your life together and dreaming about your future can make you feel giddy with excitement. And girl, it should!!
So what can you do to keep that enthusiasm up and the stress of planning a wedding down?? We’ve got you! Our planning services allow us to come along side you and guide you through the wedding planning process. There’s no need to go at this alone and take away from this joyful season of engagement ❤️
How did your fiancé pop the question?! We’d love to hear in the comments 👇🏼
Florals: @matternsfloral 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlanecouple #weddingceremonydecor #outdoorwedding #engagement #bridetobe #weddingtips #tiptuesday #weddinginspiration #weddinginspo #elegantwedding #timelesswedding #weddingarbor #weddingflorals #weddingdesign #weddingplanning #weddingplanningtips
It’s that time of year again… Our BLACK FRIDA It’s that time of year again…
Our BLACK FRIDAY SALE is officially on and we can’t wait to work with you 😄
Here’s the details:
📣$150 off any package if your wedding is at a venue where we haven’t been (private property/backyard weddings do not apply)
📣an extra $50 off if you include the code word “GORGEOUS” in your inquiry!
This deal will apply if you inquire before Monday, Nov 28 and book by Friday, Dec 2
Not sure if your venue applies?? Send us a DM or inquire through the link in our bio.
Our sincere hope is that this opportunity is a blessing to you!! We can’t wait to work with ya 🤍
Photographer: @addieeshelmanphoto 
Florist: @jade_florals 
Venue: @whisperingpinesofcarlisle 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #blackfriday #weddingplanning #paweddingplanner #blackfridaysale #blackfridaydeals #paweddingcoordinator #paweddingvendors #bridetobe2023 #bridetobe2024 #pennsylvaniabride #lancasterwedding #hersheywedding #carlislewedding #yorkwedding
Girl, can you imagine your wedding planning being Girl, can you imagine your wedding planning being stress-free, big day running smoothly, and all the hiccups being taken care of while you relax with your besties??
Here’s a look at how we help you do just that 😉
Florals in cover photos: @weddingsbyjdk 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #paweddingplanner #brideprep #bridalbouquet #stressfreewedding #weddingtips #behindthescenes
It’s time for some REAL TALK 💁🏼‍♀️ It’s time for some REAL TALK 💁🏼‍♀️
The whole wedding planning process can be crazyyy and overwhelming. And when it comes to the final couple of months, it’s super important to wrap up those final details so everything is perfect and ready for your big day.
So how do we help our couples with that?? One way is that all of our packages include a venue walk through. Here’s what we do during that and why that matters to you 👇🏼
👏🏼 We walk you through every step of the day. Where will you be getting ready? Where’s the groom’s suite and the places the guys can (and can’t!) be so you stay hidden if needed? Where exactly will your guests park, walk, and move throughout the day? We talk through all of these and more so there aren’t any surprises on the flow of your day.
👏🏼 Need help with creating a floor plan that makes sense? No problem! We will discuss all the tables, chairs, rentals, etc. so your layout uses the space effectively.
👏🏼 We think about your vendors! Whether it’s where they should unload or where they need to be set up, we make sure we know what to communicate with your vendor team to eliminate questions.
👏🏼 We remember that every venue is different!! If there are any final questions about when you can drop off decor, what time everyone has to be off property at the end of night, etc. we will talk through those with your vendor staff. It’s important to plan your day according to the requirements of your venue and knowing those in advance will be a life saver!
Let us know what venue you’re considering for your wedding in the comments!!
Photographer: @hannahelizabethphoto_ 
Bride: @m.willy_ 
Venues in order:
@glenellenfarm (first & last)
@historickingmansion 
Private property
@lauxmontfarmsweddings
Need your gal pals by your side?? Here’s a few t Need your gal pals by your side?? Here’s a few things to consider as you plan out your wedding party ✨
👉🏼 Find the friends who will be with ya to the end! They are the ones fully invested in you & your marriage for the long haul!!
👉🏼Ain’t nobody got time for drama! If there’s someone you know who may cause a bit of drama, perhaps it’d be better to involve them in your wedding in a different way. You can always ask them to do a reading during your ceremony, sing or act as a greeter. It helps them know they matter and spares you the possible stress 😅
👉🏼Little known fact — wedding parties are expensive! Think about it. If you are paying for dresses, hair, makeup, transportation and/or accommodations, this will quickly take over a chunk of your budget. Lots of people ask their ladies to cover some of these costs, but traditionally it’s polite to at least cover some of these expenses.
👉🏼Does having a balance between the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen matter too you?? If so, you may want to adjust the number of bridesmaids accordingly.
How many bridesmaids do you want at your wedding?! Tell us in the caption! 👏🏼
Photographer: @tawnyahemsarthphoto 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #weddingparty #bridesmaids #bridesmaiddress #groomsmen #weddingtip #weddingtips #weddingbudget #2023bride #2024bride #bridetobe2023 #bridetobe2024 #pabride #pennsylvaniawedding #paweddingplanner
That’s right! We’re looking to add to the team That’s right! We’re looking to add to the team.
📣Currently hiring a LEAD PLANNER!
If you’re someone who is teachable, flexible and excitable, you may be the perfect candidate to join SL. Skill and heart matters here 🤍
Interested?? Click the link in our bio to contact us for details!
Can’t wait to chat with you!
Photographer: @hannahelizabethphoto_ 
Bride: @m.willy_
This is one of our favs from @talesandtreesphotogr This is one of our favs from @talesandtreesphotography 🤍
Photographer: @talesandtreesphotography 
Venue: @historickingmansion 
Florals: @weddingsbyjdk 
Coordinator: @springlaneeventplanning 
Bride: @lo_marie725 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #romanticwedding #weddingphotography #couplegoals #fallwedding #pawedding
Hi, I’m Lauren, owner of Spring Lane Event Plann Hi, I’m Lauren, owner of Spring Lane Event Planning. And while I’ll miss wedding season, which is quickly coming to a close, I’m so looking forward to more weekends with these two ❤️
Thanks, @addieeshelmanphoto for these sweet moments captured.
#springlaneeventplanning #family #carlislepa #restandrelaxation #familyphotography
I’m not sure there was a dry eye when Lauren & T I’m not sure there was a dry eye when Lauren & Travis exchanged their personal vows this weekend at their intimate gathering of close family and friends. So happy for you both and the love you share ❤️
Venue: @historickingmansion 
Photographer: @talesandtreesphotography 
Florals/Decor: @weddingsbyjdk 
Catering: @thejdkgroup 
Hair/Makeup: @mkupthebeautystudio 
Cake: @pabakery 
DJ: @mixedupdjs 
Transportation: @uniquelimos_ 
Coordination: @springlaneeventplanning 
#springlaneeventplanning #springlane #paweddingvenue #paweddingplanner #pabride #pennsylvaniabride #weddinginspo #romanticwedding #elegantwedding #weddingdayready
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