(Here’s what happens next)
First off, let me say this: if you’re here because you’re considering working with me—or you already hit “submit” on that contact form (eek!)…welcome! Whether you’re planning a full wedding weekend or an intimate celebration, you’re in the right place.
Because this is the part where I make sure you’re taken care of.
Yes, the photos will be stunning. But what really sticks with people is how easy it all felt. Like, ‘That was actually fun. That felt like us.’
So here’s a peek at what it looks like to work with Kendra Martin Photography:
Step 1: You inquire
You send the little contact form and I receive it. I’ll open it with a smile. Because I know someone’s thinking: “Okay… is this going to be the person who really gets us?”
I personally review your message—not a junior photographer, not a “we’ll get back to you” autoresponder. You’ll get one of three responses:
- “Yes! Let’s chat and I’d love to hear all about your day.”
- “Thanks so much—just a few clarifying questions so I can ensure we’re the right fit.”
- Or, very rarely, “I’m unavailable for your date, but here are some wonderful referrals.”
Why do I do it this way, you ask? Because I believe in showing respect, clarity, and trust from the get‑go.
Step 2: The call
We schedule a discovery conversation. It might be 15 minutes if you’ve got a planner coordinating everything. It might be an hour if we’re diving deep into timeline, venues, guest flow, and “what matters most.”
On that call I listen. And I ask simple questions:
- Who are your people?
- What do you want to remember?
- What part of the day keeps you up at night thinking, “I don’t want to miss this”?
From that call I leave the conversation thinking: I know how to serve them. You. Your story. Then I go away, craft a custom collection or two, and bring back ideas for you.
Step 3: Booking becomes official
Once you pick your collection, I send over the agreement and invoice. 40% non-refundable retainer secures your date. Signed agreement locks it in. Then we celebrate. Because we both know: now we’re really in it together.
This is where the experience really begins—not when the wedding cakes are cut—but when you begin to feel seen.
Step 4: Pre-Wedding Prep
Approximately six weeks before your date, you’ll hear from me with a friendly “hey!” This email covers: your remaining balance, optional add‑ons (night‑before coverage, albums, extra hours, etc.), plus a link to a questionnaire capturing names, people, sentimental moments, and your vision for the day.
Then there’s a timeline check‑in call with your planner or me (whichever applies).
We’ll talk:
- Do we have enough time for portraits?
- When is “getting ready” done?
- Are there guests who should absolutely be in one shot?
I’m not hovering, but I’m in your corner—ready when you need support, quick with answers, and tuned into the little things.
What planners and parents feel
If you’ve got a full-service planner, they usually sigh with relief after our first call. Because they know I’ll show up prepared, timeline-ready, and already synced with their flow. (One planner told me, “You made my job easier just by asking the right questions.”)
And if your mom’s been wondering how it’s all going to come together, she’ll read the final questionnaire and finally take a deep breath. The kind that says, “Okay. They’re in good hands.”
Same goes for your planner—knowing I’m on board means one less thing for them to manage.
Step 5: The Wedding Weekend
You arrive. Your people are gathered. I show up. My camera is ready. But more importantly, my head is in the right place. I’m checking if you had breakfast. I’m silently directing: “five minutes here, move there, breathe.”
My team usually consists of myself and two second‑shooters. And they’re mostly invisible while I ensure you stay centered, focused, and present.
I’ll never forget when I walked into the reception and noticed Grandma Ruth slipping off to the bar. Rather than tug the bride away from her cocktail hour, I quietly captured Grandma Ruth’s moment—because those are the ones your children will love someday. You’ll tell me later, “That photo made me laugh-cry.” That’s the magic.
Couples often tell me: “You caught things I didn’t even remember happening.” That’s my favorite compliment.
Step 6: After the wedding
- Sneak peek: ~75‑100 images land in your inbox within 1‑2 weeks. You’ll probably show it off on IG.
- Full gallery: Delivered within 16 weeks (often faster). Think: beautifully organized, easy to share with family and friends.
- Album design: We work together to pick favorites, layout the story, refine.
- Surprise keepsake: a little surprise coming just for you!
Even when the dust settles, the relationship doesn’t end. I’ll check in on you all now and then and ask how life’s going. Many couples become clients for life—and honestly, I LOVE this part.
If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that feel natural, full of life, and deeply you—with a photographer who’s got your back through it all…I’d love to hear what you’re planning!
Contact Kendra Martin Photography to book your luxury wedding weekend coverage
