Destination Wedding Photographer in Milwaukee

Photography is very important to many people when planning their wedding. It is one of the few things from your big day that will still exist long after it is over. It only makes sense that when you invest in a destination wedding at the place of your dreams, you should consider what your photos will look like.

We sat down with two Milwaukee photographers, Dennis Felber and Andy Stenz, to chat about their experience as a destination wedding photographer.

When meeting with both Dennis and Andy, I was amazed at all the advice they had when considering photos for a destination wedding. Here’s lowdown for you as well as some amazing images from them both:

1. In-Person Meeting

As mentioned in our previous destination wedding tips article, meeting in person with your wedding planner is a huge bonus for hiring local. The same holds true for using a local Milwaukee destination wedding photographer.

Dennis and Andy both talked about the benefits of an in person meeting and engagement session as a way to get comfortable in front of the camera and get to know your destination wedding photographer. Per Dennis, this meeting also allows him to listen to what your plans and vision are for your wedding day and he can even help with photo location research.

2. Use Caution With Resort Photographers

Note that if you use a “resort-provided” photographer or you find one on your own, you will likely not meet them prior to your wedding day or be able to verify the quality of their images. While not always the case, resort photographers may not be trained photographers and your images will reflect that.

3. Check Your Resort’s Rules

Some resorts don’t allow outside photographers at all because they have their own staff photographer. Others require an extra fee or permit to bring in your own “outside” photographer.

Make sure to check these restrictions before your book your wedding – especially if photography is very important to you. Your travel agent can help sort through the rules (and maybe even bend them a little). Thanks to Natalia from Travel By Design for that tip!

4. Costs

Additional costs will be incurred when hiring a Milwaukee destination wedding photographer, but many times can be worth it. Things such as travel costs, meals, airfare, hotel stays, insurance, etc. could all be included.

It’s important to discuss how these are covered with your photographer. Options are to include them in the overall cost of your photography, as an itemized list, or incorporated with the travel arrangements and resort reservations for your guests.

Here’s a few additional tips about costs.

Travel arrangements. This varies by photographer. Some will make airfare and/or hotel reservations through your travel agent. Others will arrange travel on their own.
Hotel stay. Anticipate your photographer arriving at least two days prior to your wedding. This is to ensure they get there on time in case of travel delays and allows them to scout the destination location for photo opportunities and planning for your ceremony shots. If you have a day after photo shoot, expect an additional night stay.
Insurance. Photography equipment is extremely expensive. Some photographers will insure the equipment should anything happen en route to your destination.
Assistant or second photographer. Many photographers work with an assistant or a second photographer to help them capture all the moments throughout your wedding day. This can obviously increase some costs related to meals, airfare, etc.

5. On-Site Destination Photos

One of the advantages to having a destination wedding is the awesome photos that can result from being in a unique location. From Italy to Costa Rica, Thailand and Punta Cana, your photos can really turn out to be spectacular. Check out some below from Andy Stenz and Dennis Felber:

Destination Wedding Photographer Photos by Andy Stenz

Destination Wedding Photographer Milwaukee Photos by Dennis Felber

6. Photo Ops Outside the Resort

Many destination wedding locales have great photo opportunities located outside of your resort or hotel. Some require a fee, similar to some locations that require photo permits here in Milwaukee. Be sure to also consider travel time. Check with your resort to get some advice and make sure to let your photographer know what you find out.

7. Day After Photos

Since you are already at the location of your dreams, why not have a fun “Day After” photo shoot. Both Andy and Dennis recommend this option. It can be a great way to take some awesome photos without worrying about what your wedding dress will look like for the remainder of your wedding day.

Here’s a few more stunning destination wedding photos from Dennis and Andy that were taken the day after the wedding:

Milwaukee Destination Wedding Photographer Above photos by Dennis Felber