Tracy Carolyn Photography

Wedding planning and I did not get along.  I procrastinated a lot.  I got frustrated and confused.  I cried (more than once, I’ll admit.)  Not everyone has a dream for exactly how their wedding should look, myself included.  I wasn’t sure what I wanted for anything, which made planning feel like a lot of pressure and stress.  Now that I’ve been through a wedding as the bride (and not just the photographer), I understand that more than ever.  Below are just a few small slices of advice I can give to those who are starting the planning process, and might not be entirely looking forward to it.

Focus only on what you care about. There are a lot of elements to a wedding.  Just because something is “always done” doesn’t mean you have to do it if you don’t care.  We didn’t have programs, favors or a guest book.  Why?  Because we didn’t care.  As a result, I didn’t have to spend any time overanalyzing decisions for things that were not important to me.  If it’s not important to you, let it go.

Avoid meetings for the sake of meetings. Every bridal magazine will tell you to meet with 3-5 different people for each vendor category.  Who has time for that?  If you like the first DJ you meet with, can afford their prices, and trust they’ll do a good job – book them.  There’s no need to meet with four other DJs just to say you did your due diligence.  Your time is probably worth more than that.

Hire people you like. Price is an excellent reason to choose a particular vendor, but it isn’t the only important thing.  Regardless of the type of vendor, you’ll have to meet with this person at least two more times.  And they are going to be present at – or privvy to details about - one of the most personal and intimate days of your life.  View full post »

I struggled in 2010, and I’m not ashamed to admit it.  Having moved to Denver in November of 2009, I spent most of 2010 trying to settle in my new/old home, trying to become known in a city filled to the brim with highly talented photographers.  My place in the St. Louis photography world had been quite cushy up until my departure in 2009, so this year of struggle to find work hit me kinda hard.  But as I look at the year in review, I am full of gratitude that even in a year I call a struggle I was still able to do what I love full-time.  I met and photographed amazing people in 2010, and I only hope that 2011 will bring more of them into my life.  Am I starting to get too gushy?  Perhaps that’s what New Year’s does to you :)

I’ve never posted a year in review before, but I figured why not?  If nothing else it serves as a reminder of all the wonderful people who invited me into their lives this year.  And so I bring you the Best of 2010 Part One – Weddings and Engagements.  I had a difficult time narrowing it down, but these photos represent some of my favorite moments of 2010.  Look for Part Two – Portraits tomorrow!