Frequently Asked Questions

Everything couples usually ask me before booking, all in one place.

Don't see your question? Send me a message and I'll answer it.

Ask me anything

Black and white photo of a bride and groom about to kiss under her veil at their Felt Mansion wedding in Saugatuck, Michigan, by Chrystin Melanie Photography
Bride in a strapless ball gown with her veil flowing in the wind at the Felt Mansion in Saugatuck, Michigan, wedding portrait by Chrystin Melanie Photography

Booking and Pricing

Planning your investment

How much does wedding photography cost?

Wedding coverage starts at $650 an hour with a 4 hour minimum (6 hour minimum for Chicago weddings). You can build your own collection and see your pricing in real time on my Collections page.

How far in advance should we book our wedding photographer?

Most couples book their photographer about 9 to 15 months before the wedding. I've had couples book me two years ahead and others just six months out, so reach out even if your date is coming up soon because I do book out quick.

How do we save our date?

A 30% retainer of the package you choose saves your date.

How do we book?

Fill out my inquiry form and I'll get back to you to check your date and talk through your plans.

Bride and groom embracing on the stone terrace of the historic Felt Mansion in Saugatuck, Michigan, editorial wedding portrait by Chrystin Melanie Photography

Travel

Michigan, Chicago and beyond

Where are you based?

I'm based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I photograph weddings all over Michigan, including West Michigan, Detroit and Traverse City, plus Chicago and destination weddings in Florida and beyond.

Do you travel to Chicago?

Yes! There's no travel fee for Chicago weddings. The only extra is one hotel night, and Chicago weddings have a 6 hour minimum. You can see more on my Chicago wedding photography page.

Do you photograph destination weddings?

I do. I photograph weddings along Florida's Gulf Coast, in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and around the world. Travel costs like airfare and hotel depend on the location, and I'll put them in your quote.

Bride and groom kissing during their ceremony exit as guests toss white confetti at a lakeside wedding in Traverse City, Michigan

Your Wedding and Gallery

What to expect

What is your photography style?

My style is bold, modern and editorial, but it's always built on real emotion. We never sacrifice real memories for static poses.

We're awkward in front of the camera. Is that okay?

Totally! A lot of my couples tell me they're camera shy. I'll guide you through posing so you feel comfortable, and then I let the real moments happen.

How long until we get our wedding gallery?

Your full gallery is delivered within 6 weeks of your wedding, and we always do our best to get it to you sooner.

Is a second shooter included?

A second shooter is an add on. It's great for capturing both sides of getting ready, and for bigger guest counts, so just let me know and I'll add it to your collection.

Do you include an engagement session?

Yes! Engagement sessions are complimentary with 9 hour packages.

Colorful wildflower wedding bouquet with long ribbons raised against the sky at a Grand Rapids, Michigan wedding

About Me

The photographer behind the camera

What awards have you won?

I'm a 6 time The Knot Best of Weddings winner and in The Knot Hall of Fame. I'm also a World's Best Wedding Photo Artist and award winner, an International Wedding Photographer of the Year finalist in 2024 and 2025, a Fearless Award winner, a two time ISPWP Top 20 winner, and Rangefinder Magazine Nominated 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography.

Let's create something beautiful together.

Inquire now