Love & Lore

Serves Grand Rapids, MI

35244

Hired 7 times

1 employee

10 years in business

Not yet available

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Credit card, and Zelle.

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Credentials

Background Check

Catyscarlett Oconnell
Completed on 5/3/2024

Introduction

I’m Caty-Scarlett and I am a wedding photographer serving the east coast and beyond! I’ve been shooting for 10 years and have loved every millisecond: I don’t take for granted what an honor it is to preserve your memories. It’s a hefty spiritual blessing, to be one of the only strangers invited into that space of intimacy! I hope to be that stranger turned friend and confidante. To make your day fun and effortless! I have a no posing approach, allowing you to feel relaxed and merely “in love in front of me” as I snap away.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

My pricing is not based on my event time alone (shooting, editing, traveling, etc.), but my TIME ALONE. Creating the images, editing them, sending them, posting them to social media, posting them to my website, working my calendar, and doing my taxes... It takes time! Also, take into account if you need a second shooter for your special day. How much my equipment costs to initially purchase and keep maintained. It all comes together and your photographer charges you their fee to support their livelihood as they immortalize your memories.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

We make contact, schedule a coffee date (in-person or virtual!), we talk shop (after hearing all the fun details of your love story), and then I write up our contract and we’re set once the dotted lines are signed!

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I went to the University of Mary Washington and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Digital Studies. As far as my particular career, I learned 60% through the School of Hard Knocks, and 30% from my college education.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I got my start after I got my senior portraits done. I was enthralled by the idea of wielding such a beauty! I started my business at 19 and have been shooting for six years now.

What types of customers have you worked with?

Anyone and everyone. No lifestyle/dynamic excluded!

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

A few bits of advice... NEVER work with a photographer that asks for the entirety of your investment right up front. Stay away from those that would make you pay per image; I believe that if a shot is beautiful and that memory is vital, it should not be withheld. I’d suggest looking for your photographer based on style first, then the artist’s personality. Are they kind and affirming? Are they responsive to my inquiry? Do they make me feel comfortable?

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

Questions to pose to your potential photographer: How long have you been a photographer? How did you start? I see your work and we love it; why do you charge what you do?/express to me your value. Do you offer payment plans? I don’t see a package that works for me; can we work to create one?