Wedding Hive Podcast
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Wedding Hive Podcast
049 - How To Choose A Wedding Photographer
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We talk with wedding photographer Taryn Schae about what makes wedding photos feel real, how she captures emotion without becoming a third wheel, and why the best photographers protect your peace as much as they protect your files. We also break down pricing, editing, timelines, and the guest habits that can wreck ceremony photos in seconds.
• photo dash pros and cons based on crowd energy
• how many weddings a photographer can take while keeping quality high
• the career path from exercise science to wedding photography
• what to watch for all day: tears, laughter, and natural body language
• how photographers stay present during emotional moments while staying respectful
• what wedding photography pricing really includes: experience, gear, insurance, business costs
• why photography and videography deserve budget wiggle room
• editing workflow, fast sneak peeks, backups, and gallery organization
• real vendor red flags from DJ horror stories
• how photographers save the vibes during delays and family photo pressure
• handling timeline conflicts with planners through collaboration and buffer time
• what guests do that photographers hate: phones and aisle blocking during the ceremony
If You're Looking For Taryn, You Can Find Her At Tarynschaephotos.com.
She Is Also On Instagram, TikTok, Um, Taryn Schae photos!
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Meet The Photographer Guest
SPEAKER_03Hey Queens, welcome back to another episode of the Wedding Hive podcast. Today is gonna be a fun episode. We're gonna be talking about one of the most uh important vendors to book on your wedding day, which is your photographer. And not only do we have a photographer here today, we have my photographer who did my own wedding, Tyron Shea.
SPEAKER_00Hello. Welcome. So full circle seeing you like now in the wedding industry. Literally. When I was photographing your wedding. It's so it's so special.
SPEAKER_02So, serious question like, was she a good bride or was she like a breast bride?
SPEAKER_00The best. And funny story, I don't think I ever told you this, but I was like a bajillion years pregnant at her wedding. Oh, and it was hot. Yep. And I was like, Brock was with me too, and my second shooter was out there for our sunset bridals, and all of a sudden I was like, I'm getting dizzy. So I had to run to go get a diet coke, but I played it off so well. I didn't know I'm about to die. And like my son inside is like, hey, mom, we need to get some sugar right now. Please begging.
SPEAKER_03So yeah. Oh my gosh. Well, you're just a rock star. I literally didn't know.
SPEAKER_02So she got married in September. When was your son born? December.
SPEAKER_03Okay.
SPEAKER_00So I was large and in charge. Yeah.
SPEAKER_03Yeah.
SPEAKER_00She didn't she was like, Lady was nice and cooking in there and needed to keep cooking in there. I mean, yeah.
Photo Dash Decision And Vibes
SPEAKER_03He's like, actually, it's kind of hot in here. He's like, I just can't. But hello. Let me out. Yeah. So this episode is very special to my heart. So we always do a yes or no for all of our guests. Um, as a photographer, yes or no to the photo dash.
SPEAKER_00It depends. I think if your energy is with it, yes. If you think that your guests are going to enjoy it and be fun and lively with it, and you think it's something for you, then yes, it can be fun. If it's like we just want this as a way to get a photo with everyone, but it's not quite your vibe or your group is not as like raging on the dance floor, it can be a miss. Okay. So it really has to be something that you think like this crowd would be so fun. And mind you, like, this photo is not the regular formal photo. This is like a funny one where everyone's like jumping up, doing crazy things. Yeah. It is a cool way to get that stuff. I'm I love everything fun. So I'm like, if this is something that would be energetic and fun, I'm all for it. But there's been a couple of times where the bride and groom at the end were like, this is not what I thought it was gonna be. And it's like, maybe, maybe TikTok led you in the wrong direction just for your day. Yeah. So I would say 50-50. Okay.
SPEAKER_03I like that. I agree.
SPEAKER_00I accept that answer.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, I think too. I've I I feel like I've seen it like where it's kind of awkward and people are like slowly getting up, and it's like, no, this is supposed to be fast. And then it's like, I feel like you have to have good vibes, and the guests have to be for it, and like a good DJ playing good songs to like get the hype going, like, yay, like listen to it.
SPEAKER_02And I can only listen to like the Mission Impossible song for so many minutes before I'm like, all right, wrap it up. Those tables don't get it.
SPEAKER_03And especially if you have like a big guest count, I'm sure you're like, okay, it's been 10 minutes of this. Yeah, yeah.
SPEAKER_00Got me out of this simulation. Yep, yeah, it literally needs to be rapid fire. If it's not rapid fire and like everyone's ready to go, it's just gonna keep going. It's just gonna keep going. All right, case closed.
SPEAKER_02I'm here for it.
SPEAKER_03All right.
SPEAKER_02You have our first question.
Workload Balance And Travel
SPEAKER_03Yes. Okay, so as a photographer, how many weddings do you typically do a year?
SPEAKER_00So I typically do about 24 to 25 a year. Okay. Um, some do more, some do less. I found this number to be great because beyond just photos and like my time, I'm also a mom and I want to have a lot of like quality time with my family. I don't want to have like too much of a workload where I'm just like drowning and editing. But at the same time, like this number seems great for me because now I can like give each one of my couples like a curated experience. Like I can get to know them. It's not like another wedding, just you know, okay, cool, thank you. Moving on. You know, like I can, yeah, I can actually get to know their story and like, you know, just going, I've been in business for seven years now. It's my seventh birthday this year. So just like learning over time that this number is like a perfect balance for me to deliver the experience I want and then also be able to live the lifestyle I want as a mom and a wife.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, I like that. I think I feel like some vendors can try to over like book. They're like, oh, the more bookings I get, the more money, but then it's like all you're gonna do is lose out on the experience. Exactly. Yeah.
SPEAKER_00And more money is nice, but yeah, you also have to have a quality of life.
SPEAKER_03Yeah.
SPEAKER_00And editing is where the bulk of the work actually is. And for me, I'm just like, I don't sitting at my computer hunched over for ever. Like I'm gonna get scoliosis. Exactly.
SPEAKER_03You're like, if I have more than 25, I'm gonna get scoliosis. I'm gonna look like a shrimp.
SPEAKER_00If I have 27, I will be a shrimp.
SPEAKER_02Do you primarily just work here in like Arizona? Have you done any destination weddings?
SPEAKER_00I have done a couple destinations. I did Lake Tahoe, which was stunning. That was like a micro elopement or little elopement. Gorgeous. And then I flew out to New York and did a wedding in Rochester. So I do travel. Okay. So that's out there. I will travel. She will travel, okay? Any excuse. Yes, but primarily in Arizona, obviously, it's easier. Again, I have my babies, and I just I love Arizona. It's so easy to photograph here. Yeah. That's what I know.
SPEAKER_02So, did you always know you wanted to be a wedding photographer, or did you start somewhere else? I started elsewhere.
SPEAKER_00So I always had the love for it. Like when I was a kid, I had my little point and shoots, and I was I was always going out on like vacations and getting the shot or what I thought was the shot. And I loved my little you're like on your little tiny ass here. But I never really thought, I thought when I was younger that the only way to be a photographer was like not geo, which amazing, right? But that I would have to travel way more for that.
SPEAKER_02You know, now I'm do you not want to go take pictures of all the birds?
SPEAKER_00Do you not want to like go to like Antarctica and like go see the penguins? I mean, yes, but probably not all the time. No. Um, so I actually went to school. My degree is in exercise science. I was going to go um and continue my education to be an occupational therapist. And then for years, I worked with special needs adults and kiddos. I was a health coordinator for them and I got to run all their workout classes and um outsource all of their like healthcare, bringing in dental students and stuff like that. So that was super fulfilling. But when you work for a nonprofit, can imagine the money's not always there. Yeah. So I loved what I did, obviously, because the people I worked with and for were just phenomenal people. Um but then I was like, I don't, I just don't feel like this is really, I didn't want to go back to school. And I was like, this isn't just gonna be it for me. So when Jake and I got married, um, we were searching for photographers and we did our engagement session and all of that, and I kept saying, I want her job. I want her job. And then it finally clicked to me like, you can be a photographer without being that geo. Yeah, I don't have to go chase crocodiles, I can actually do pretty things with this. So I kept telling Jake, I was like, I, you know, I kept bugging him about it. He's like, maybe, maybe. So I took a couple courses before I even bought my professional camera. And I really wanted to just see like if this was something that I truly felt called to do, or if it was just kind of like, uh, maybe it's I'm bored or whatever. And uh I really got a liking for it. I took several courses just to like get knowledge on it, and then I finally was like, okay, I think I think I want to do this. And so seven years later, it's the best decision I've ever made.
SPEAKER_03Aw.
SPEAKER_02You were like this close to being Steve Irwin. Steve Irwin.
SPEAKER_00I wish. I also wanted to be a marine biologist back in the day, you know, as all of us did. But yes. Are you about to talk about Steve Irwin?
SPEAKER_03Yes, yes, no, no, no, Steve Irwin. So my best friend, she's a flight attendant, and the week in the Super Bowl, he was flying back from San Francisco and she was there, and he was on her flight.
SPEAKER_02The son?
SPEAKER_03No, Steve Irwin. Or no, or Robert Irwin. Okay, I was like, I'm like, he's back from the dead. He's back from the dead. He's alive, he's alive wearing a Steve. Not the dad. Um, his son, Robert Irwin, was on the flight. And I was like, oh my god. I was like, we all were in the group chat, all the girls were like, please get a picture. She's like, I just can't, like, he's closest to the window, and like he hasn't got up once. And we're like, just get a picture. Just take a picture.
SPEAKER_02She didn't, but yeah, she relocate the middle seat in the city. I'm so sorry.
SPEAKER_03Emergency exit. Just this row, though. Yeah. Andy want a picture. While we're at it, while we're at it, since you're like already up, like you're gonna have some extra peanuts for me to take the sweetie comment. Just take a picture of it.
SPEAKER_00Okay, him on Dancing with the Stars, though.
SPEAKER_03That's what I'm saying. He just finished and he won, and I was like, girl, you had to get a picture. And he is like the sweetest kid. He's so nice.
SPEAKER_00I expected nothing less from Steve Irwin's child. Yeah. But I'm so glad that he is that way because then he really is a legacy of him. Yep.
SPEAKER_03Genuine, genuine person.
SPEAKER_00Well done, mom. Round of applause.
Capturing Emotion Without Intruding
SPEAKER_03Yeah, all clap for them. I know, I love that. Okay, we'll get back to the questions. Um, what are some of the moments you're always watching for throughout the day?
SPEAKER_00Like to capture I would say a lot of the emotion. So the reason why building an experience and a relationship with my couples is so important is that I get to know a little bit about them. So um I just had a call with a potential bride, and she told me her dad was a big crier. And I was like, okay, so if we get to work together, I'm gonna automatically be paying attention for your dad. Um, and so like that's like just things that I learn over time. Like, and I'll ask them throughout the day, like, oh, do you think he's gonna cry during their first look? And just like kind of building up that anticipation, but always watching for those little moments. And then another thing that I've always really prided myself on is like watching how the couples naturally interact. So I can't go into a wedding day and put everybody in the same pose and expect everyone to look beautiful in it. I mean, to an extent, yes, because that's like the art of posing, but a lot of people are gonna feel more natural in different ways. So, like learning their body language, learning how they interact, what's important about their relationship, and like what if they're more of like a goofy, cuddly couple, like I want to embrace that. So just kind of like reading the room more than anything, and like always watching for the tears and the laughter, all of it. I'm always watching. Oh, yeah. You said I'm always watching you.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, like you're saying, I'm always watching. You're like, I have to get all the moments. No, I like that that you take the time to figure out what the couple's like your relationship with them and what means most to them. Because I feel like some photographers come in and they're just like, yep, let's stop the pose photos and call it a day.
SPEAKER_02But it does happen. It does. So speaking of emotions, um, what goes through your mind during the really emotional moments, like those first looks and ceremonies?
SPEAKER_00Um, one, I'm trying to clear my own tears. I am such an empath and such an emo person, especially after now having kids. I'm just like everything hits my heartstrings. Um, so one, getting the tears out of my own eyes to make sure that my camera's in focus, obviously. Um, but I'm just I'm in it with them, you know. Like I when I show up on wedding days, I'm like, these are my besties. Like when I showed up in Europe, so it's like, Chris and John, hi. Like I don't show up and it's not like I think our photography is here. It's like, no, like Karen's here, you know, and it's like we're ready to go. So just like I just feel so invested in the day where I'm just like I'm watching them have their biggest moments, and I'm like, those are like my little bestie babies. Like, you know, I'm just so invested. So I think I feel it deeper because of that. And I'm like, I'm just a sap, anyways. So listening to like the private vows and stuff, I'm just like, Are you great?
SPEAKER_03You're like, all right, yeah.
SPEAKER_02So I have a follow-up question, and it just popped in my head because I had this conversation with a couple yesterday. They said, We there she first of all, the bride is so nervous about walking down the aisle, she does not want the attention on her. I let her know this is pretty common. Every bride kind of gets these nerves. Um, so we were talking about like private vows because she doesn't want to talk more than she has to. Um and the question came up about like, so the photographer takes the photos of this and is in that moment. Can you speak into how special it is to be in that moment with couples? Also keeping distance to make sure it's them and you're not the third wheel, but also capture, like, can you speak into those moments?
SPEAKER_00Yes. So a lot of times I am pretty close for the first look, getting those reactions and stuff. And then I've had couples that are like, we don't want literally an ear shot of I don't want anyone to hear this. And so we've gone way back to where we can't hear anything. Um, so it kind of just depends. And I ask them, like, do you want to be completely private? Are you okay with people being there? Some people, you know, moms sneak out and they want to hear it, which is fine, right? Like it's everybody's day too. But if they really want it private, then I am respectful of that and we'll back up far enough to where we can't hear because it is intimate. Like, I don't want everyone listening to my private conversations with my husband, you know. So it just depends. And I get a I get an understanding of their con their comfortability level and you know, wherever they want me to be, then I will. But I typically back up where I don't need to hear those things. Yeah. That's not, and you can't hear them in the photos anyway. So like I really don't she's like, I'm trying to like lead into like what you were saying. Yeah, I really don't need to be that close. So after the first look happens and those emotions are high, we hand them their Val books, and then we kind of just take a step back and like let them have their true moment because that's you're the only time you're like alone on your wedding day is when you're one-on-one with your photographer. So I will give all of the space needed.
SPEAKER_03Yeah. I feel like, I mean, obviously, like you having photographed my own wedding, like I feel like you don't even realize like they're there, at least in my opinion. Yeah. Always there. I like, and I think people might get more nervous and think, oh, like I don't really want anyone there. But it's like, at least when I feel like you're with your partner in that special moment, that it's like not like you black out, but it's like you're there with them in that moment, and it's like, I'm not like, oh, Terrence right there. Yeah, you do get tunnel vision. Yeah, you know, you get tunnel vision, and it's like I feel like people get worried, but I feel like you kind of just are in the zone with your partner.
SPEAKER_00So and I think it's different too with your photographer. You have this comfortability level, like knowing that they're gonna be involved in a lot of these vulnerable moments, but it's different because I'm not in their everyday life. Like it's not one of their regular people listening in that's gonna be like, oh my gosh, can you believe what they said? Like, I'm probably not gonna remember what they said for one. And two, like, I just think it's a really sweet moment that I'm there to capture, but I'm not in their lives. So it's not really gonna, it's not, I'm not a key person. It's like not like a parent or a sibling or whatever being there watching, where you're just like, hey, can I can you just go over there? Give me some space. So it's kind of like an unbiased homie watching, you know? If that makes sense. Like, I'm just staring to the back and like, yeah, love so cute. At the end of it, I'm like, period.
Pricing And Where The Money Goes
SPEAKER_03You're like, honestly, love. That was great, Baba. That was great. But yeah, cool. Okay, I love that. Uh, okay, so let's get into the next big thing. Um, pricing. Um, when it comes to photography, that's usually one of the biggest investments people are gonna make on their wedding day. But what goes into the pricing of wedding photography that couples might not realize?
SPEAKER_00So, number one is experience. Um, someone's talent, anyone can take a pretty photo, and I don't mean to discredit that in any way, but the experience. So, how many weddings they've done, have they been able to be in the thick of a crazy, chaotic wedding day? Were they able to handle it well? Um, you know, just knowing that they have X amount of years, and the years don't necessarily matter as much as like, do you trust that they can handle these things? So I think a lot of that goes into the investment of yes, you're paying for the art, you're paying for their gear, and gear is expensive. Y'all, it is expensive. And also to run a legal business, it's expensive. Yeah. So that's the those are the things that you're looking at when you're investing in somebody. A legal business that runs properly because insurance and all of that is very important. Um, experience that they've had with handling wedding days. So, you know, how many have they done? Have they been in this for a couple years? Like, do they can, you know, do you consider them having enough experience for your comfortability? Because that's different to everybody. And, you know, obviously all the art that goes into it. Do you trust them to care for your photos post wedding day? Like, you know, they show up on your wedding day. Do you trust the experience they're gonna give you? And then the the final product you're gonna get back. There's a lot that goes into that.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, I like that because I think a lot of people just think, oh, they're just there to take photos, but it's there's so much like your own business, and you have to buy stuff and you have to travel and pay for gas and tax, like the list goes on and on. So it's not just the one day.
SPEAKER_02And I don't think couples realize how important it is until they get a cheap photographer and their wedding pictures are please don't skimp out on photographer and begging.
SPEAKER_00On the topic of budget, so obviously you know, you're spending a ton on weddings, right? But at the same time, like I think there are certain areas that need to have wiggle room, photography being one of them. So when you're looking for a photographer, I think that like set your budget that you're comfortable with spending. Obviously, you should have a full wedding budget so that you know, like, this is our parameters. But if you're gonna have wiggle room, I think it needs to be in photography or videography because at the end of the day, uh, the only thing you're gonna have is photos and videos. So investing in someone that you really, really love, you really, really trust, and their style, all of the things are like really vibing with you. So you might find somebody that's in your price point that you're like, okay, I like them, but I'm not getting like the oh my gosh, yes, let's go for it. Maybe you found somebody else that's let's say a thousand dollars more, but you're like, wow, I love them, I want to work with them. Like that should be the wiggle room because your gut is telling you, like, this person is probably going to give me the experience I'm looking for and wanting. So there needs to be like a little bit of built-in wiggle room for those important vendors. Yeah.
SPEAKER_03Yep. Well, I think too, if you think about it, like after the wedding day, the flowers are gone, the cake is gone, the food is gone. But like photos and videos are what's gonna help you to remember that day forever.
SPEAKER_00So like your grandkids are gonna be looking at like you want to make sure they're looking at you looking fine, top. Literally.
SPEAKER_02This is what grandma looked like. This is what grandma looked like. She had your parents. Yeah.
SPEAKER_03This is more the kids' era for sure. No, literally.
Editing Workflow And Delivery Numbers
SPEAKER_02Yeah. Um, can you talk about the editing process? Um, what does that look like after weddings?
SPEAKER_00So I deliver sneak peek gallery within 48 hours just because I'm a very impatient person. And if you're gonna post that you got married, I want it to be the professional photos. So as soon as I get home after a wedding day, I will back up the photos on a couple hard drives and then I will start going through. So I typically comb through the gallery, pick out a couple hundred of my favorite, edit those, send those out, and then post that, you know, I'm going through your whole gallery. I am an overshooter, so I take a lot of photos, but a lot of them are duplicates because you know, you're taking lots of stuff shots of the same thing to make sure everyone's eyes are open. There wasn't Augusta Wynn and the hair went all over the place, you know. Like, so I fine-tune and pick, I hand pick, I don't do any AI stuff because I just am a control freak and I have to do it myself. Um so I'll go through that and pick all of my favorites and all of the ones I say are worthy of your eyes, and then I edit those out and then again just kind of fine combing them and bringing them in, and then I send galleries that I feel proud of. She does. I can attest.
SPEAKER_03She also, what I want to say, what, maybe six months after our wedding?
unknownYeah.
SPEAKER_03She sent us a hard drive with all the photos on it, and then custom coasters with the roses on it.
SPEAKER_00Yeah.
SPEAKER_03And it was so sweet.
SPEAKER_00And I was like, I'm such a gift giver. Such a gift giver. And that way, if you like, for whatever reason lost your laptop, then put a download on it. I'm like, I have at least sent you another physical copy that you have. Yeah, exactly. Yeah, I was running a little behind on those thank yous. Oh no.
SPEAKER_03Well, no, and I remember I think John kept getting, and oh my gosh, my sweet husband, he's just a boy. So at our old spot, like if the package was too big, they put it in like the different one, you know? And he kept getting a message that like there we had to go pick it up from the locker, and it's like it stays in there for a week. And he was just like, Oh yeah, like didn't pick. He's like, I didn't order anything. And then it got sent back to Taryn, and then she sent it again. I think twice a day. I think I sent it twice. She sent it to my own. I was like, and I was just trying to send you a cute gift. And I was like, babe, did you get like a text for like the locker that we need to go pick? And he's like, Yeah. And I'm like, okay, well, Taryn's been trying to send us a gift. I didn't know anything. He's like, oh, well, I didn't order anything.
SPEAKER_02I'm like, he cannot be in charge of the mail. Oh no, I I don't think I don't think he's gotten the mail since.
SPEAKER_03Oh my gosh. You're not touching the mail because you're I don't even know what you're gonna do. You shouldn't let him use the coasters. I know. They're my coasters, they're just my parents. Yeah. But it was sweet because his parents were over the other day and she's like, she's like, oh, I love the like and didn't realize like the uh engraving on them. And I was like, yeah, they say they're roses, like our photography's like, no, they're even cuter.
SPEAKER_00Your Roses' day obviously was special for a number of reasons, but yeah, your name plural, Roses, is my maiden name, Roses. Yeah. So I was like, every time I would see the roses, I was like, oh, I know.
SPEAKER_03It's like a little tribute. I know, it really is. Um, okay. So speaking of photos, how many do you typically go through after wedding day?
SPEAKER_00Like, how many do I take or how many do I deliver? I want both. I want both. Um, between my second shooter and I, there's probably around six to seven thousand. That's again, duplicates, crazy things. You know, like some hours on the end, though, like eight, like yeah. Yeah. A lot of those are dancing photos, and you know how those go. Everyone's drunk. Yeah. So then when I go through everything and get rid of all the bloopers or the ones where, like, you know, no one was looking or whatever the case is, I typically deliver about I would say on average, like 1500 photos.
SPEAKER_03Okay.
SPEAKER_00So not too many where it's like overwhelming, like, oh my gosh, what do I do with all of this? But enough to where all of the bases are covered. You don't feel like anything's like missing.
SPEAKER_03No. And I like how I've seen, I'm not hating on your photographers, but when you send yours, you have them like categorized by like the section basically, like reception, ceremony, bridals. And I've seen ones where it's just like your wedding day, and they send it. And I'm just like, how do you even like sift through all this?
SPEAKER_00Like so my brain I feel like it's easier to it's it's kind of selfish on my end because when I go to post weddings, I'm going through the galleries. And like a lot of times I'm not gonna post all the getting ready. So when I'm going to get the photos to post them, I'm like, okay, I just want to go to this section, this section, this section. So as much as I love a good organization, yeah. Obviously, the gallery, it's also so it makes posting easier. I'm not gonna sit there and scroll forever to try to find the pictures. I'm like, oh, bridals, perfect. There's the one I want. Oh, yeah. No, well, so it's a win. It makes the client happy as well. Perfect. I love this. Noted. I'm not gonna complain. I do like it. I shall continue.
DJ Horror Stories And Vetting Vendors
SPEAKER_02Yes, continue that, please. They're organized. Yes. Um, so you've been doing this for seven years. So um, what's the craziest thing that's ever happened at a wedding?
SPEAKER_00I am very fortunate to say that a lot of my weddings are smooth, happy, peaceful, sunshine, and rainbows. However, and this goes into picking the right vendors. Yay! Um, there was two instances I had run-ins with DJs. Um, and it's not anyone I've worked with since. So, you know, not trying to like say anything. But, anyways, um, the DJ was absolutely hammered, like toasted, and he played the wrong song for the grand entrance, and it didn't make sense. Like, you know, some songs could make sense. This one made absolutely no sense. It was like a very slow ballad. I think it was the father-daughter dance now that I think of it. And then he played their first dance song during their first dance, but then played it like four or five more times on the dance floor, just randomly. And one time it was like back to back. And then he was like out on the dance floor, like dancing with everybody, but it was it was just a mess. No, and he started drinking like ceremony time. And it was like how can people think he was at the bar, so it wasn't like a secret, like he was there and doing it. He's like, I am drinking, yes, and it I think it got a little carried away. And then one other one, yeah, and then another one was that the the DJ had done the sister's wedding and all night called the bride the sister's name. All night, no, all night, no, like down to introducing Mr. and Mrs. but said like the sister's name, not the bride's name, the sister's name, and then every time he was like referring on mic to the to the bride, it was the sister's name.
SPEAKER_03Okay, I can get like one mishap, like the whole time, but the whole time is actually a crazy word.
SPEAKER_02Could you imagine if your sister's name was called out the entire time of the body? Oh, yeah.
SPEAKER_03I'd be like, I'd be like, actually tell this bitch to go home. That's what I mean.
SPEAKER_00I'd be like, bye.
SPEAKER_03I'd be like, actually, it's not even your fault, but just get out of here.
SPEAKER_00And it's funny because like she wasn't even like I mean, obviously she was in the area, but it wasn't like in eyes of you. Yeah, because there's been times I've done that where I've been like, oh Grace, I was looking at you know what I mean.
SPEAKER_03But this was like all night. Oh my god. I would get second hair embarrassment so bad. Yeah, I'd be like, please stop, please stop. I would let it go up and be like, stop even speaking anyone's name at all.
SPEAKER_00That person doesn't exist. I don't know who that is. Yeah. Oh my god. Yeah, those are those are probably like the two that come to mind.
SPEAKER_03That's that's pretty bad.
SPEAKER_00So pick your vendors wise. Pick your vendors wise. This is why you should get on a call with everybody. Yes, exactly. Everybody, and make your expectations clear. Like a lot of venues do not allow their vendors to drink. It's your discretion if you do or don't drink at weddings. I personally don't. I get invited to all the time, but I'm like, I gotta drive home. And for a while there, I was, you know, breastfeeding. So I'm like, this is a chore, anyways. And it's just like, I don't know, it just doesn't feel right for me to each their own. Again, but yeah, that your vet your vendors, pick your pick your team wisely for sure.
Saving The Vibes With Boundaries
SPEAKER_03Okay. Yeah, that's crazy. Um, okay, what's a moment where you had to think quickly to save the day? Um a lot of times.
SPEAKER_00And I don't know if it's so much as saving the day, but it's like saving the vibes. Okay. So I think when things run behind, or you know, family, we love our family, right? We love you. I love you. But I ask for a shot list for a reason. Yeah. So it's to these are the shots you're wanting, these are the combos we're getting, everything outside of this. You blink twice and we're done. You know, like you give me one of like these, like we're done. Right. You know, so it's like, I think for me, it's more protecting the peace of my couples. So I'm like their little bodyguard. Yep. And I think I my personality just has a very polite, sarcastic, funny way of being like, no, you know, and like telling people no politely so that it's just like keeping the bride and groom happy. Like that is my main goal. It's like these are my people. Yeah. Everyone else, thank you so much for being here. But these are my people, and if their smiles go from this to we're then we need to move to into something else. So I think just like constantly being aware of their piece and you know, hyping them up, if they start to get stressed about something, it's like look at how gorgeous you look. Look at the camera. Hello, who's this? You. Who is this? This is you.
SPEAKER_03You slay. No, that's that's I love that. She's your personal hype woman. I am here for it. I know.
Timeline Conflicts With Planners
SPEAKER_02Um, can you talk a little bit about the timeline? Because sometimes planners make timelines and then you have your photo timeline. What how do you handle it when both of those timelines don't add up? Have you ever gotten into like a sweet kind dispute with a planner? You're like so. Do you handle it before wedding day? Yes. Like all of those things. I want to hear all the timeline tea because when photographers show up and we do have the previous conversation, this works for you, you're the one shooting cameras, I'm not the one touching the camera, you know the camera. And then I pass it on. It's like, all right, now you have the baton to run this timeline. So absolutely. Can you speak into that?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, I think obviously there are a lot of amazing, wonderful planners. I love planners. Planners are fantastic, right? They keep all of the chaos wrangled and they make my life easier. Um, I think the best timelines that I've found when working with planners is when we can do like the meeting together and kind of go over in the planners, like, hey, how long do you think you need for this? Here's the shot list. How much time do you think you need for this? This is what the couple's wanting. What does this look like? When's the best lighting? Blah, blah, blah. Like when they really care about all the moving parts, I think that's really important. So when I'm not working with a planner, I make the timeline with my couple. So we do a call, as you know, we go through all of it, walk through, hey, are you doing first look, no first look, all of that stuff. Yeah. And basically, I know how I operate. So I know how much time I need. And I always build in buffer time because things run behind, right? And the last thing I want is for anyone to feel rushed or pressured, like, oh my God, I gotta get to this. Like, no, we don't. We're good. What do you mean? We're fine. There's no stress. So I think the biggest thing is when planners are hard pressed on not changing things, it's kind of up to like, okay, well, we're just gonna have to go with the day, and I'm not gonna put extra pressure on my couple if we're not at this at 207, we're not approximately in this spot. You know what I mean? But a lot of the times when I get to work with other planners and stuff, it's a very harmonious little thing. So I think trusting getting the photographer's in point input, like how much time do you need for these things? And where can we put in a little bit of wiggle room so that we're not stressing anybody out?
Guest Behaviors Photographers Hate
SPEAKER_02Yeah. Yep. Thank you for answering that. Yeah. And so uh can you tell us? Because I'm actually dying to know your answer. What is something that guests do that photographers secretly hate?
SPEAKER_00Her eyes start switching. So I am like very much like enjoy the day. Everybody needs to enjoy the day, right? Obviously, you're at this wedding for a reason, you love these people. I I never mind when people are taking photos not during the ceremony. Just don't do it, don't do it. And if you're on an aisle seat, you I stay in your aisle seat. Yeah. Like that needs to be clear. Sometimes I'll have people that are standing out and like looking, and it's like, I get everyone wants to see, but or if those phones go out, I'm like, dude, no. We just asked about this. Just just no phones in the ceremony. I promise you, I promise you, they don't want your ceremony photo. Some of them are really cute. I've seen a couple that I'm like, all right, that was a good shot. But like I have the shot too. You know what I mean? And like you're paid there to get the shot. Yes. But if I have to edit out, if your hands are like this in my shot, I'm like so tempted to just like put a chicken in the hands. Yeah. And now you got someone holding a chicken during your ceremony. You know what I mean? Like it's fine. Like, I get everyone wants to be there and in the moments and stuff. It is exciting and it's a very special day, but like it doesn't look good. It's not, it's ruining the aesthetic. Yeah. So stop it. And then I think when uh when we have our shot list and we have the family stuff, I'll double check with the couple, like, hey, this is for sure everything you're wanting. Is there anything else? And sometimes, like, if they forget like mom and bride or like them and their their parent, like I'll ad lib some of those. And every time I'm like, I'm always getting a solo with the grandparents because I don't have, I don't have, I only have one of mine left. So I'm like, I know how I just love grandparents. So I'm like, do everything with the grandparents. Yes. Um so but when people at the end are like, oh, can we get all of these people in and let's do this? And I'm like, first of all, we have sunset to catch. So politely, respectfully, no. But it's like then it starts to like make the bride and groom feel like they have to say yes because it's one of their parents requesting something or you know, whatever. So it's just like stick to your shot list, stick to your boundaries, and if they want a big group shot, reception. And again, I am like really good at being redirective of like, hey, look at this light, like we gotta go catch this. Yeah, you know, and just saying it in ways that's like not gonna ruin anyone's or rain on anyone's parade, but also like we got somewhere to be. Correct. This is not about you right now.
SPEAKER_02That is a good reminder. Stop bringing your phone out during ceremonies. Yeah, yes.
SPEAKER_03We just talk about this. We're I we're saying have your phone to take pictures like at the wedding anytime but the ceremony. Yes, it is like nearly impossible to, especially with video, like to edit it out. So don't do it. Yeah, that episode will air next week.
SPEAKER_00Yes, we'll air next week.
SPEAKER_03We'll be talking about this.
SPEAKER_00Yes, video cannot edit out all of the things that I think.
SPEAKER_03Photography can.
SPEAKER_00Yes. So oh gosh, I didn't even think about the videographers.
SPEAKER_02Yeah. And how rough they're yeah.
SPEAKER_03I know I worked with uh um last week in the photographer and videographer there who she was great in the sense of to the videographer. She's like, I can kind of like go wherever because like I know it's easier for like to edit out, but like you, you need to get the shots. So we just like all made it work together.
SPEAKER_00But I'm like just rotate a little bit, you know, make it out work for everybody. But yeah, no phones. No phones. We are all on our phone all day, every day. Just not for 20 minutes, please. I'm begging. This is church, y'all. Put your phone away.
What To Look For Beyond Price
SPEAKER_03Yes, put it away. Yes. Um, okay. Um, my I think our last question before we do some rapid fire at the end, what's the biggest thing couples should look for besides price?
SPEAKER_00Okay, so price should be your starting point. Again, having that little wiggle room because if you find someone you love that's a little bit more expensive, like that should be where you're gonna be like, okay, loved her, let's go with her. Yeah. Um, biggest thing is experience. So, like I was saying earlier, like anyone can take and produce beautiful photographs, but your wedding day is a full experience, right? You want from start to finish, you want to have a great day. So your vendors, and I will say I always say this to everybody, nobody cares about you having a better day than the right wedding vendors. So that's your team that's putting everything together from your planner, your coordinator, the florist, all of those things, like we're the ones that are putting the whole production together. I'm the one capturing it, video's the one capturing it. Everybody's putting your full day together. So it goes further than like, oh yeah, I love their work. Their photos are great. Let's book. It's like, okay, do they have the insurance to back everything up? Do they have backup gear? Are we looking at like, you know, their experience and stuff? Do we love their style? And then getting on a call with them. Do I love them? Like, could I hang out with this person all day long and then go get drinks later? You know, and because I'm on up on brides dresses all the time, fixing things and fluffing their trains and messing. Like, I'm with them all day long. You are with your photographer, probably more than you are your spouse on the wedding day. So just knowing that and like, you know, if things go crazy, are they their your piece? You know, can they handle their stuff? Do you trust them to be like, she's gotta handle? I'm just gonna be here and sip my spicy margarita and have a good time. You know, so I think beyond photos and product, we need to be looking at experience and like who can really align with what you're wanting, your vision, all of that stuff. Like you get on a call and you're like, you get off of the call and you're like, I'm so excited. I feel like we click, I feel like we vibe, I love everything she's giving. And you go and read reviews, and people are saying the same thing to back that up. So vetting your, especially your photographer, making sure that they are checking all of your boxes and then some. Okay.
SPEAKER_02Have you ever told a client no because you didn't think the vibe matched?
SPEAKER_00Um, yes, typically, if I don't think the vibe matches, I will just say, like, hey, I'm unavailable for your date. I don't ever want to tell somebody no. But honestly, I get a lot of couples that like really vibe with me. I think I put myself out there enough to where you know you're getting this loud, boisterous, crazy, yeah, funny, goofy personality, and you're like, I love it. Um, but yeah, I think when people are looking for something else or they're wanting me to change my editing style or whatever, it's like I love that you want to work together, but this is my art, this is what is special to me, and this is the experience I give. And if it's not for you, then that's totally fine. Like, I think everyone should pick the right wedding vendors for them, and that's different for every single person. But the couples that I end up getting to work with are just my people. They're yeah, they really are.
SPEAKER_02She sends you packages over and over. Yeah, it's a package because John can't get it together. Extra money on you.
SPEAKER_00I was like, I was like, I'm so sorry, my husband. That's how much I love you that I will I would have honestly driven it down for you at that point.
SPEAKER_02You're like, if it gets it back one more time, I'm knocking at the door and handing it to them.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, she's like, actually, I'm gonna keep all your wedding photos.
SPEAKER_00Remove the apostrophe. Exactly. It'll be it'll be a preference to your your laptop. Yeah, but it's pretty personal. I was like about to drive them down. I was like, if Johnny doesn't get the small, I'm so sorry. I'm gonna drive my ass down there.
SPEAKER_02And I'm gonna beat his ass. Yeah, beat his ass. Remember me, but I know you do. Yes.
SPEAKER_03Yeah, I know you know who I am. Exactly. Uh can't be a good idea.
SPEAKER_00Could you imagine if he answered the door and was like, I didn't order anything? I'm like, I know. Sir, and this is a gift.
SPEAKER_03I know. I'll be like, this is a gift you didn't order with anything. Okay, fucking take it. Correct.
SPEAKER_01Yes.
Rapid Fire Favorites And Wrap
SPEAKER_03Okay. Should we do our rapid fires? Yeah. Okay, you go you do yours, and then I'll do mine.
SPEAKER_02These are just rapid fire questions. Um, favorite wedding moment to photograph.
SPEAKER_00Now, mother son dance.
unknownOh.
SPEAKER_00I'm sobbing the entire time. Um, otherwise, vows. I love hearing how much everybody loves each other. If it's a private vow, obviously I don't see it. So then I would say first look. But mother sun dance, you will always catch me crying because I'm envisioning my life in the future. And then I just love the intimate moments between the couples. I love love. All right, me too.
SPEAKER_02Perfect. Um, sunset photos or sparkler exits.
SPEAKER_00Sunset. I love a golden hour.
SPEAKER_03Oh, me too. I'm a sweet.
SPEAKER_00The dreamy with the veil. Oh.
SPEAKER_03I love at the willow, too. Yes.
SPEAKER_00The sunset has been gorgeous.
SPEAKER_03You know, literally perfect. Um, okay. I feel like you can answer this first look or aisle reaction.
SPEAKER_00Ooh, actually, I love the aisle reaction. Okay. I love it. Because even if you do a first look, the aisle reaction is just so special. Like there's still the chin quiver. There's the little, you know, breakdown moments where they're just like, oh my gosh, you know, and it's just such like a it's such a power move, right? You're like you're walking down the aisle and you're just like, hello, I have arrived. And I guess it is me. Right, exactly. So I would say aisle moment. Okay. Um, indoor or outdoor weddings. Outdoor. Outdoor. Mm-hmm. Even if it's hot, I'll sweat.
SPEAKER_03You said I'll do it. I love I love the sun.
SPEAKER_00I love the light. Yeah.
SPEAKER_03I feel like you can't like go wrong with just like the natural beauty of like the outdoors. Yeah.
SPEAKER_00Well, and honestly, nothing photographs better than like natural light.
SPEAKER_03Yeah. That's true. You heard it.
SPEAKER_02All right. I love it.
SPEAKER_03That's all I got. Okay.
SPEAKER_02Well, Taryn, thank you so much for being on today's episode.
SPEAKER_03Happy you finally got to come on. Thank you for having me. Of course. This is so special.
SPEAKER_02I'm glad you chose her to be your photographer. You too. She's the all of us. I hope that we get to work together soon. Yeah. Um, for those that are looking for you, can find you. Um, if you're looking for Taryn, you can find her at taronshayphotos.com. She is also on Instagram, TikTok, um, Taryn Shea. I'm saying that correctly, right? Yeah, perfect. Um, and that is it for this episode. If you want to find us, we will also be on Instagram and TikTok, and we will see you next week. Bye.