First, we start with a fun conversation. Whether it’s a wedding, a family session, or even a headshot you’re planning, I want to know who the important people are in your life and why they are essential. I want to learn about your passions and how they have helped create the person you are right now. My goal is to capture your best possible self. I want you to see that in each photograph. Get ready. You may learn some more things about me!
People and families give me a drive. I find the passions I have now because of others. Humans are curious and want to understand people’s unique points of view. That mentality drives my creativity; the better I know you, the better I capture you.
I started photographing weddings as a second photographer in Key West, Florida, in 2015. In 2016, I went solo and gained fast exposure due to some publishing in a few top wedding publications. I then began shooting destination weddings.
In 2017, I joined Fearless Photographers and the Wedding Photojournalism Association and began learning and competing in wedding photojournalism and moment-based contests. I was also invited to join the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers. I continue to compete in these top associations each year.
My style is creative wedding photojournalism. To most, it’s called candids and real moments. I started in photojournalism in high school and a few free papers in my late 20s—early 30s. I use that same vision to photograph your wedding day as it unfolds naturally without interference. I add artistic elements to what I document and put a lot of energy and time into creative portraits of the two of you. I also like to be on the dance floor!
In addition to all your creative and documentary photos, your parents can rest assured I will also produce beautiful, traditional wedding and family photos and bridal portraits. I’ll even get photos of your food, flowers, and fashion to do justice to all the fantastic design details you worked so hard on!
With the amount of Zoom meetings I did in 2020, I am a professional at them, too. I have quarterly meetings via FaceTime or Zoom. You can also send me emails or texts for quick questions.
I will book my own airfare, hotel, and transportation, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Once booked, we just add that to the total. If your planner arranges shuttles or prefers to book my room for me, great! I just ask that they speak to me before booking.
Yes, I’ve photographed engagement sessions worldwide, and I am happy to come to your town or meet you somewhere special. Just reach out and get the conversation started.
Absolutely! I take all the photographs you would expect from a wedding and go beyond to give you photographs that you never even imagined and that have storytelling value.
The only time you really notice a camera is during the family group photos and creative portraits. During this time, I keep you relaxed and am there every step so you can be yourselves while I capture the magic.
Because my imagery is more than a wedding photographer taking an image, I make a point to talk with each of you quarterly, and even your parents, if possible, a month or so before your wedding to get to know you better and build that trust. We will feel like old friends when we meet on our wedding day.
Want to take it a step further? Opt-in for photography for your rehearsal dinner or welcome party. You can form quick relationships with your fiancé and guests before your wedding. Just that tiny fraction of time can be the difference that creates EPIC images.
I adapt to any situation and have already discussed a backup plan with you before the wedding in case of rain. You just worry about yourself as a couple who is happy and in love, which will show in your photos. That is why my favorite wedding photos have much more to do with your personalities and chemistry as a couple. I’ve taken some of my best images in a gas station parking lot. Backgrounds don’t ruin my images; they serve as filler content.
When you contact me about photographing your wedding, I will send you a full gallery of a real wedding. My coverage includes photos of your dress, jewelry, shoes, flowers, food, and reception décor. A shot list is excellent for family group photos, so I don’t miss anyone important. For all the rest of the photographs any bride would expect, I have your back!
The second photographer is chosen from a short list of talented people I work with regularly. I also shoot for them. The second photographer helped photograph the getting-ready time and details, provided a second angle on the ceremony and reception, and provided me with lighting.
I will have a first sneak peek of your images ready one week after the wedding. The editing process for your entire gallery takes 10 weeks. Once that is ready, I will produce an album layout and slideshow and then send your personal online gallery.
You can use the contact tab to reach me with questions about pricing and availability, or you can use the contact form below.
Once we have spoken about your wedding, I will send you a password-protected site where you can sign your contract and pay your retainer. Everything can be done online in less than five minutes. As soon as your date is booked, you can count on me to be there, ready to capture the most anticipated day of your life.
Your wedding day only happens once, so lets get to know each other. Tell me about your favorite coffee shop, how good/bad of a chef you are, your favorite vacation and anything else that makes you unique as a couple.
Drop me a line. No Destination Too Far!
-Michael Freas
