What It’s Like to Work with AwestrucKen Photography

Preserving your love story to pass down for generations. That’s not just my tagline, it’s how I approach everything I do. From the first message to the final gallery delivery, I want you to feel confident, supported, and honestly, kind of excited the whole way through.

If you’ve never worked with a professional photographer (or even if you have), this post will give you a look at what it’s actually like to work with me so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Your Inquiry Hits My Inbox

You fill out the Contact Form, hit “Check My Availability,” and boom, I get the notification!

Within a few hours, I’ll email you back to set up a time for a quick Zoom or phone chat. If you gave me your number, I’ll likely shoot you a quick text too. Jjust a warm hello and to let you know I saw your message.

There’s zero pressure. No hard sales. Just a real conversation about your vision, your date, and what matters most to you on your wedding day.

Step 2: Booking Made Easy

After our chat—where we talk through collections, coverage, and any questions you have—I’ll send over a simple online proposal. It includes your custom package, contract, and invoice all in one spot so booking is smooth and stress-free.

If you choose a collection that includes an engagement session (2 out of my 3 do), we’ll start planning that next. And if you don’t need an engagement shoot? I’ll work with you to swap it for something else of equal value — like a second photographer or extra coverage time.

At this stage, my goal is to take things off your plate, not add to them.

Step 3: Planning Your Day with Intention

Over the months leading up to your wedding, I’ll stay in touch. We’ll email, chat, and bounce ideas back and forth, especially as your timeline starts to take shape. You’ll also receive a wedding day questionnaire from me (no rush—I just ask that it’s returned at least six weeks before your date), which helps me fine-tune your photography timeline and tailor everything to your unique day.

Yes, I absolutely help with timelines. In fact, here’s a full guide I created to walk you through the process. I’ll also personally make suggestions based on your venue, lighting, and priorities. Whether you’re planning a 200-person bash at Starved Rock or a cozy ceremony in the city, I’ve got your back.

This part of the process is where I focus on the feel of your wedding, making sure you’re never stuck in front of the camera all day, but still get the images you’ll love forever.

Step 4: The Wedding Day: Calm, Present, and On Your Team

On the big day, I show up early, camera-ready, and fully in sync with your schedule.

Clients often say I bring a sense of calm to the room — which means a lot, especially during those emotionally charged pre-ceremony moments. I’m part fly-on-the-wall, part cheerleader, part timeline ninja. I’ll step in when you need direction (like wrangling family for portraits), and melt into the background when you’re soaking in the moment.

I focus on documenting real, unfiltered joy, not stiff poses or fake smiles. Think of me as your quiet sidekick with a camera, preserving those fleeting moments you didn’t even know were happening.

Here’s how one couple put it:

“Ken kept us laughing and the day running seamlessly. He was incredibly responsive, listened to our ideas, and made us feel calm and supported the entire time.”

That’s the kind of experience I aim to give every couple.

Step 5: Sneak Peeks, Full Gallery & Your Legacy

Within a few days after your wedding, you’ll get sneak peeks, around 5 to 10 hand-picked images to relive the magic while the day is still fresh.

Then, within 3–4 weeks (often sooner if my schedule allows), you’ll receive your full digital gallery. You can download, share, and print with ease.

This final stage is more than just image delivery — it’s where your legacy takes form. These are the photos your family will treasure. The ones you’ll pass down. The story you’ll be able to relive for decades to come.

Final Thoughts: Your Story, Told with Intention

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a set of beautiful photos. You’re getting a thoughtful, calm, and personalized experience from start to finish. One designed to help you actually enjoy your wedding day while I capture every meaningful moment.

If that sounds like the kind of vibe you want on your wedding day, let’s talk.