Catriona photographing an engaged couple during a golden hour session in Edmonton

Wedding Photography Guide

Discover how Catriona Hope Photography supports you through every step of your wedding journey.

From engagement sessions to final image delivery, this guide outlines what to expect—offering insight, structure, and the peace of mind that comes with having two photographers who care deeply about your story.

Wedding Photography Guide: What to Expect with Catriona Hope Photography

At Catriona Hope Photography, I believe that wedding photography is more than just capturing beautiful images—it’s about building a relationship of trust and comfort with you from the very first conversation.

This guide walks you through what to expect before, during, and after your wedding day, and highlights the thoughtful steps I take to ensure every moment is documented with care, creativity, and professionalism.

Photographer Catriona Hope sitting with engaged couple during planning session

1. Communication & Planning

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and your photography should reflect that. Explore our wedding photography packages, pricing, and the unforgettable moments we’ll create together.

From the moment you inquire, I make connection and clear communication a top priority. Whether we’re chatting by email, phone, or text, I stay in touch to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Every wedding package includes a pre-wedding consultation and a detailed questionnaire. Not only does this help me understand your vision and timeline—it also helps you visualize your day and avoid surprises. You’ll think through logistics, timing, and family dynamics long before the big day, so everything feels relaxed and intentional.

All of my wedding packages include an engagement session, which is a fantastic way for us to get to know each other before the big day. And if you’ve selected my Timeless Elegance package, you’ll also receive a 1-Year Anniversary Session—a perfect way to celebrate and document your first year of marriage.

Couple dancing in the rain during engagement shoot on bridge

2. Engagement Session: Building Trust

Engagement sessions are included in all of my wedding packages, and they’re a perfect opportunity for us to connect and for you to feel more at ease in front of the camera.

We usually spend the first few minutes just laughing, relaxing, and having fun. By the time your wedding day arrives, it’ll feel like we’re old friends—which makes for natural, joyful photos and a more enjoyable experience overall.

Bride and groom embracing at sunset during their outdoor wedding in Sherwood Park

3. Gear Check & Preparation

The night before your wedding, my husband and I go through a full gear check: we clean our lenses, charge all batteries, clear memory cards, and pack backups for everything. I personally use two cameras with different lenses throughout the day to allow for both sweeping overviews and intimate close-ups without wasting time switching gear. Our cameras all have dual card slots for extra peace of mind, and we bring a laptop and external hard drives to back up images onsite during the reception.

We also like to scout the venue if possible or connect with the venue team in advance. Knowing the layout, lighting conditions, and any flash restrictions allows us to plan ahead and come prepared—especially in dim venues or places with dramatic windows and natural light.

We’ll also ask about any details that affect logistics and timing, like sparklers, bubbles, flower petals, or special entrances. And if you’re hoping for those magical Alberta golden hour portraits, we’ll plan for that, too.

Bride and bridesmaids in satin robes with gold lettering before wedding

4. The Wedding Day Timeline

Every wedding is unique, but here’s a look at how the day typically flows with us:

Morning Prep:

  • I’m usually with the bride, capturing the excitement of hair and makeup along with all the little details—your dress, bouquet, rings, invitations, and anything sentimental.

  • Meanwhile, my husband is with the groom and groomsmen. He captures authentic, relaxed moments—buttoning jackets, tying ties, goofing around. We keep things light and candid, only directing when helpful..

First Look (Optional):

We’ll chat ahead of time to decide whether you’d like to include a first look. Some couples love the intimacy of a private reveal; others want to save the moment for the ceremony. We support whatever feels right for you.

Ceremony Coverage:

We arrive early to connect with the officiant and review lighting conditions or photography restrictions.

Having two photographers isn’t just a luxury—it’s a strategic advantage. With two photographers, we capture both wide-angle scenes and intimate expressions: one of us can focus on sweeping overviews while the other hones in on emotional close-ups. This also means we can be in two places at once—capturing both partners getting ready, candid reactions from guests, and different perspectives of the same moment. It eases the schedule, reduces stress, and gives you a more complete story of your wedding day—from the processional and the exchange of vows to the kiss and the joyful walk back down the aisle.

This dual coverage also gives us redundancy. If one camera fails or a card gets corrupted, we have backup files and peace of mind. It’s a safety net many couples don’t know to ask for—but one that truly makes a difference.

Outdoor wedding ceremony with officiant and groom wearing black cowboy hats
Bride and groom smiling with their bridal party in the church after the ceremony

Family & Group Portraits:

Thanks to the questionnaire, we’ll already know who matters most to you and how best to organize group photos efficiently. We’re sensitive to family dynamics and make sure no one is missed.

Wedding Party & Couple Portraits:

After the ceremony, we head to a scenic location—somewhere peaceful and beautiful. We photograph your full wedding party, and then give you space for intimate portraits as a couple. These are often the most romantic, emotional moments of the day.

We also love when couples plan something extra, like bubbles, sparklers, or a golden hour escape. If Alberta gifts us with one of its signature sunsets, we’ll sneak you outside for those breathtaking portraits.

Bride and groom dancing with guests at indoor wedding reception

5. Reception & Evening Coverage

We like to arrive early to photograph the reception space before guests arrive—capturing everything from decor and place settings to floral details and the cake.
Once the grand entrance kicks off the celebration, we capture each moment as it unfolds:

  • Grand entrance

  • Toasts and speeches

  • Cake cutting

  • First dances (couple, parents)

  • Dance floor celebrations

When dinner is served—typically beginning with the wedding party and immediate family—we use that time to quietly back up our files and grab a quick meal ourselves, just before the rest of the guests are called up. This helps us stay energized and fully ready to capture all the key moments to come.

We document everything with care—from joyful tears to spontaneous laughter and wild dance floor moments.

Bride and groom share an intimate black‑and‑white portrait beneath the bride’s veil during their Edmonton wedding

6. After the Wedding

Within three to six weeks, you’ll receive a beautifully curated online gallery of fully edited images. We also send out a sneak peek within seven days so you can relive a few favorite memories while the rest are being perfected. You’ll be able to download your high-resolution photos, share with family and friends, and order professional prints directly from your gallery.

7. Final Thoughts

Wedding photography isn’t just about beautiful images—it’s about confidence, calm, and connection. As someone who’s guided countless couples through their wedding day, I bring more than a camera. I bring structure, gentle leadership, and an eye for the moments that matter most.

Many couples are surprised at how much time can be saved—and how much more relaxed they feel—when someone is there to keep the day flowing. I know how to organize people quickly and kindly, keep things on track, and make sure everyone is included. That means you’ll spend less time posing and more time soaking in those once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Whether you’re planning a rustic countryside wedding, a multicultural celebration, or a cozy backyard ceremony, I’d be honored to tell your story.
Let’s start planning together. Reach out today—I can’t wait to hear from you.