Frequently Asked Questions

ABOUT

Who is  Jason Kaczorowski Photography?

I am an award-winning wedding photographer with nearly two decades of experience photographing extravagant events in the most incredible destinations worldwide. I’ve been fortunate to have been heralded as the “Best Wedding Photographers in Chicago” (CBS News), have been named one of the “Top Wedding Photographers in Chicago” (BrideBox; ZankYou Magazine),  awarded the title of “Best Wedding Photography of 2010” and “Best Wedding Photography of 2012” by the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP), honored with the Wedding & Portrait Photographers International’s (WPPI) “Accolade of Excellence”, in addition to receiving many awards from Fearless Photographers and the Wedding Photojournalist Association  (WPJA). I’ve consistently received the “Best of Weddings” award by The Knot,  the Wedding Wire “Couple’s Choice Award” year-after-year, and am incredibly blessed to have over 100 all 5/5 reviews. In 2020 I was inducted into The Knot’s prestigious “Best of Weddings Hall of Fame”. The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame award recipients represent the top 1% of local wedding vendors in the world – less than 1,000 inductees in 2020 out of more than 250,000 local vendors featured on TheKnot.com.

Who is  Jason Kaczorowski?

I am a husband, a brother, a middle son, an animal lover, a traveler, a music aficionado, an art collector, an entrepreneur, a force of optimism and a beacon of good vibes.

I fell for my wife, Debbi, while we were traveling around the country catching concerts. We got engaged at a concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City on New Year’s Eve and were married barefoot on a beach at sunset in Jamaica in 2005.

ourwedding2

Things I love: good vibes, sunny days,  traveling, hiking, cooking, gardening, cold brew coffee
Things I don’t love: negativity, cloudy days, vinegar, cotton balls, judgemental people, humidity
Things you might not believe about me but are 100% true: I have taken over one million photos. In my wedding vows, I guaranteed to give my wife all my pickles and tomatoes for the rest of our lives. I have attended over 1,000 concerts and music festivals around the world. I’ve walked inside the underground tunnels of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom as a Cast Member airbrushing caricatures while working at Walt Disney World. I’ve never seen the movie Star Wars though I have seen every episode of Survivor and have watched Breaking Bad too many times to count. I published my own magazine in high school. I’ve photographed for the Grateful Dead and my photos appear in their CD, DVDs, Books, and Merchandise. I have traveled to Mexico, the Caribbean, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Monaco, Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro, and I photographed sunrise and sunset in Santorini, Greece on my birthday in 2017. In 2021 I visited my 50th state in the United States by checking off Hawaii. I’ve since returned several times and explored 5/7 of the inhabited islands. St. Lucia (June 2025), Bali (2026), Bora Bora & the Maldives (2027) are next on my bucket list!

Santorini Greece(above) Celebrating another trip around the sun with a glass of Cristal in Santorini, Greece

DCIM100GOPROGP__0988.JPG(above) Hiking the lava rock Hoapili Trail in Makena, Hawaii on the island of Maui

DCIM100GOPROGP__0769.JPG(above) Hot Air Ballooning at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico

sedona(above) Hiking Boynton Pass in Sedona, Arizona

Did you study photography or art?

I received my formal education in photography from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I graduated with academic honors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Photography & Film with a minor in Art History. I was nationally selected to intern at Walt Disney World in Florida where I developed my incredibly high standards for customer service.

Why Jason Kaczorowski Photography?

Because you are worth it.

STYLE

How would you describe your style?

I characterize my photography by its rich, vibrant contrast and bold, saturated colors that ooze emotion and strike with dynamic, cinematic lighting.

I believe the relationships with your family and friends are the most critical aspects of your wedding and that is what my team and I will constantly be scanning to capture. I always strive to photograph in a classic style, so I’ve developed a timeless feel to my work that will never fade like a fad.

What do you love about wedding photography?

I consider wedding photography to be one of the most challenging and demanding genres of photography. To be a great wedding photographer, you must master many different aspects including documentary photojournalism, portrait, editorial, still life and macro photography, while being effective at time management, patient among pressure, and calm under stress. There is no room for mistakes and there are no do-overs. I thrive under pressure and love to challenge myself and my creativity, which is one reason I love wedding photography.

It’s an honor to be a fly-on-the-wall during the most emotional and joyful moments of my clients’ lives and share those memories with those who place tremendous trust in me.

Do you work with a Second Photographer?

We always capture every wedding with an assistant second photographer.

Can I see an entire gallery of photos from start to finish?

Absolutely! I take pride in the consistency of my work. It’s common for photographers to only post their best photos on their websites, making it hard to determine how well they will perform throughout your wedding day. This is why I always encourage anyone considering trusting me as their wedding photographer to review several complete galleries featuring all of my photographs from an actual wedding that I’ve delivered to my clients. I invite you to visit our gallery to enjoy complete galleries of all the recent weddings, engagement sessions and proposals I’ve photographed.

Have you shot at my venue before?

I have photographed weddings at hundreds of venues, so there is a good chance that either my associate photographer or I have photographed at your wedding venue before. However, if we have not, we will arrive at your wedding venue early on your wedding day and perform a thorough walk-through to scout for the best photography locations and lighting. I also performed extensive online research before your wedding and consulted colleagues who have worked at your wedding venue before to gain insight into tips and tricks. If you would value having me attend a walk-through of your venue, I am pleased to offer up time to meet with you and/or your event planner at your ceremony/reception location(s) and perform a thorough assessment of all locations and lighting for a nominal consultation fee. I recommend scheduling your venue visit during the time of day your ceremony/reception will occur to accurately gauge equal lighting conditions.

Should we provide you a list of our must-have shots?

Thirty days before your wedding, you will receive my Update Questionnaire which asks you to remit the names of all of your family’s important family members, wedding party and special guests who will play an essential role on your wedding day. I’ll also ask for your Must-Have Moments including anything special happening during your preparation (First Look, Father/Daughter First Look), pre-ceremony (Tisch, Talmud, Bedeken, Ketubah), ceremony (Readings, Musicians, Singers, Hand Ceremony, Sand Ceremony, Unity Candle, Encircling the Groom, Betrothal, Sheva Brachot Blessing, Roses to Mary, Bagpipes), on-location portraits and reception (Special Introductions, Shabbat Blessing, Cake Cutting, Speeches, Toasts, Krenzi, Mizinke, Horah, Mitzvah Tantz, Birkat Hamazon, Slideshows, Tributes, Bouquet and Garter Toss, Special Dances). Additionally, I’ll ask if there are any exceptional circumstances my team and I should be aware of, such as any family members who shouldn’t be paired together in portraits. Finally, I’ll ask you to use a checklist I’ve created to mark the most popular portraits of you, your family, and your wedding party, which you’ll want captured. This traditionally consists of your immediate family, grandparents, and wedding party. If there are additional groupings you’d value having captured (extended family members, cousins, out-of-state family or friends, sorority sisters, fraternity brothers, work colleagues, teams or social organizations), you may add these groupings to your special requests. It is unnecessary otherwise to provide a list of photos you wish to have captured. It is best to simply enjoy your wedding while trusting that my team and I will capture all the essential details, décor and spontaneous moments that occur throughout your day.

My wedding reception venue is like a dungeon – but darker. Are you able to photograph in low lighting conditions?

I have photographed in dark chapels and candlelit wedding reception venues and always know how to create light when needed. My team and I always travel with additional lighting such as off-camera strobes, flashes, video lights, LED lights, and reflectors to ensure our photos are adequately lit and always in focus. Particular churches and wedding venues do not allow flash photography, so we always use only the highest quality professional camera equipment and low aperture lenses, which offer outstanding low-light performance thanks to higher ISO. ISO measures the sensitivity of the camera’s image sensor. The same principles apply to film photography – the lower the number, the less sensitive the camera is to light. Higher ISO settings are employed in darker situations to get faster shutter speeds.

VIDEOGRAPHY

Do you offer wedding videography?

My team and I specialize in photography, but I am always pleased to recommend other videography professionals who I have personally worked with and consider to be the best in the business:

CHARLIE HILBRANT FILMS | Charlie
DIAMOND PEAK FILMS | Derrick & Steph
HIGHWAY 61 FILMS  | Jason Monroe
LEAP WEDDINGS

PROCESSING

Do you deliver every image you capture?

We always eliminate test shots, duplicate images, failed focus photos, bad expressions and other images that may dilute the overall impact of your delivered gallery. You can trust in my expertise to only provide the most stunning photos that showcase the very best moments from your day.

Do you correct every image in our delivered Digital Downloads?

Absolutely! Every image is always selected and corrected. Your edited corrections always include fundamental post-processing of global adjustments including adjustments to exposure, levels, color, white balance, contrast, highlights, shadow recovery, clarity, vibrancy, hue, saturation, noise, grain, sharpening, lens correction, cropping, and post-cropping vignetting.

What is Enhanced Image Development?

“Enhanced”, sometimes referred to as “Retouched”, Image Development results in superior corrected photographs delivered in books, albums, and artwork 11X14 and larger. Enhanced processing may include blemish removal such as moles, pimples, scars, cysts, freckles, flakes, sun damage, discoloration and pores, removal of double chins, whitening discolored teeth, adjusting the size or shape of a subject’s face, eyes, nose, lips, cheeks or ears, as well as reshaping of the subject’s figure such as reducing weight on arms or legs, smoothing skin and removing cellulite. Distracting elements such as leaves, trash, fire extinguishers, fixtures, sprinklers, speakers, stands, and signage may also be removed, and vertical distortion of architecture will be significantly reduced.

Do you offer image retouching or enhancement?

We offer image retouching which can be arranged once you’ve had an opportunity to proof your gallery.

What are Highlights?

Highlights are my favorite photos from your wedding that I select, enhance, and post on my social media (Facebook  & Instagram) and my website, which you are always encouraged to tag and share.

Do you shoot in Raw or JPEG?

My team and I always capture, back up, and edit from RAW digital image files. You will receive processed JPEG files suitable for creating your prints and products if you prefer.

Do you offer RAW or unedited outtakes?

We take tremendous pride in delivering only the most flattering, best-of-the-best photos from your Proposal, engagement session, and wedding. We do not offer the opportunity to receive our unedited work. RAW files are unfinished images. Unselected work is traditionally redundant test shots, out-of-focus images or unflattering moments caught between the moment we genuinely wish to showcase. You wouldn’t expect your florist to deliver the stems trimmed off your flowers or for a chef to offer their ingredients and not their delicious plated meal, so why would you want your Photographer to provide their discarded or unfinished efforts?

PROPOSALS

What is Proposal Photography?

What once was an intimate moment has become something couples are capturing and sharing as much as their engagement pics and wedding photos.

Whether you are visiting The Windy City or are a native Chicagoian, planning to pop the question in Chicago might seem a little overwhelming.

I can help ease your anxieties by helping plan, orchestrate, and photograph your picture-perfect Proposal in Chicago.

I have helped plan and photograph over 400 proposals throughout Chicago and the world and would be honored to capture your “Yes!”

Should I hire a photographer to photograph my Proposal?

According to The Knot 2017 Jewelry & Engagement Study, which surveyed more than 14,000 engaged or recently married people across the US — 47% of couples (nearly half!) hired a photographer to capture the special moment.

45% of proposals occur in a public place such as a scenic spot, garden, park or zoo — signifying a shift away from the typical private Proposal.

According to The Knot, the top three spots women said they’d prefer to get engaged were (1) on vacation, (2) at the site of your first date, (3) or at a landmark. Perhaps that’s why so many contact our studio to photograph their Proposal while visiting Chicago on vacation.

Where is the best location to get engaged in Chicago?

Check out my list of the Top 15 Locations to Propose in Chicago

One of the most popular locations to propose in Chicago is in front of Gibsons Italia (233 N Canal Street) at River Point Park, where the Chicago River bends at N. Orleans Street, W. Lake Street, & N. Canal Street; across from Wolf Point West and the Merchandise Mart.

If there’s rain or snow in the forecast, I can always help secure permits for indoor locations like The Rookery. This historic Chicago icon from 1888 was designed by famed Chicago architects Daniel Burnham and John Root and reimagined by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1905.

How much does it cost to photograph my Proposal in Chicago?

Your Proposal includes the time and talent of your Principal Photographer, in addition to selection and correction of all of your images, along with your processed, full resolution, unwatermarked, Digital Files.

Your photos arrive with the ability to reproduce and share your Digital Files, and you may enjoy and download your files from the Cloud anywhere in the world.

Your Photographer will arrive 15 minutes prior to your Proposal, photograph your Proposal either candidly or “coached”, and will capture establishing portraits (Vertical & Horizontal Close-ups, Three Quarter Length & Full Length Portraits) following your Proposal of you two, along with details photos of your ring.

If you value adding more extensive and artistic portraits to your Proposal coverage, many clients invest in an extended portrait session following your Proposal by adding additional coverage.

Your portraits may include multiple locations throughout the City or Suburbs, along with unlimited outfit changes.

Includes

• Planning Consultations
• Location Recommendations
• Permit Acquisitions
• The Art of Proposing Guide
• Pre-Proposal Consultation

• Early Arrival & Wait Time
• Highlights within Hours
• Online Sharing Gallery
• Social Media Highlights
• Full Resolution Digital Files
• Digital Download Gallery
• Guaranteed Next Day Delivery *
* – Traditionally delivered Same-Day

Costs

600
Proposal Coverage

Option to Add

150
30 Minute Portrait Session
75-100 Additional Photos

300
60 Minute Portrait Session
100-150 Additional Photos

Inquire
Post-Proposal Party Coverage

Do you have a backup team in place in case you get sick or are already booked for my Proposal date?

I work with a dedicated team of associate photographers, so even if I am personally already booked for your date, I can always assign the honor of capturing your “Yes!” with my trusted team of photographers.

Even if I am unavailable, I will work with you every step of the way in planning your Proposal and will be the one processing and perfecting your images. Hence, they share the same quality and consistency you admire about my portfolio.

How do you photograph Proposals?

We offer variations of capturing your Proposal: Candid, “Coached” or “Selfie” approach.

Candid” simply means that your Photographer will pretend to photograph the skyline and then pivot quickly to capture the moment in a photojournalistic, hands-off approach.

Equally, your Photographer may hide from plain sight and capture your Proposal from a hidden vantage point.

Coached” means that your Photographer will stand in plain sight and await your arrival with their lighting equipment visible upon your approach, so they are easily identifiable. You will share your location with your Photographer, along with a selfie of what you’re wearing that day, and your Photographer will await your arrival and your predetermined location. Your Photographer will track your arrival and know what you look like, so as you approach, your Photographer will pretend to ask you to help them by saying, “Hi. Are you Jason & Deb?” Naturally, you’ll say No, you are not. Your Photographer will respond with, “Oh, I’m so sorry. Could I please ask for a favor? I’m waiting for a couple of clients I’ve never met before to arrive. I’m not from around here, and I’ve never photographed at this location before, so I am so nervous. Could you help me real quick by helping test my lighting so I don’t look like a fool when my couple arrives?” You will coyly agree to allow them to test their lighting as they’ll say, “If you don’t mind… it’ll only take one second… and I promise to send you these shots!” You’ll say “Sure” and agree to pose for a quick photo while your Photographer ‘tests their lighting‘. Once your photographer thanks you, after completing a couple of phony ‘test‘ photos, they’ll say the words, “I got it!” and give you a thumbs up. That’s your cue to launch into action! Your Photographer will take a few steps back and allow you to say the words your significant other has been dying to hear.

Selfie” approach means that your Photographer will stand in plain sight and await your arrival with their lighting equipment visible upon your approach so they are easily identifiable. You will share your location with your Photographer, along with a selfie of what you’re wearing that day, and they will await your arrival at your predetermined location.

You’ll pause to capture a “selfie” within a few feet of your Photographer. Your Photographer will spot you two taking a selfie, approach you, and ask if they can capture one of you two for you. You’ll agree. They’ll then say, “I’m waiting on a portrait couple to arrive and can take one with my “real” camera and lights and then send it to you.” You’ll say, “Sure. Why not” and your Photographer will proceed to capture a few portraits with their professional camera equipment. Once they snap a few, they’ll say, “These look amazing! Thank you” and that’s your signal to turn and take your fiancé’s hand, drop to one knee, and pop the question.

No matter which approach you choose, following your “Yes!”, your Photographer will congratulate you two then ask to take a couple of portraits for posterity at the location your got engaged including a Full Length, ½ Length, ¾ Length and Close-Up in both Vertical and Horizontal along with a close-up Ring Shot. If you opt to add additional portrait coverage to your Proposal, your Photographer will inform your fiancé that you’ve invested in our best package and that you’ll be capturing portraits together to commemorate the moment even further.

The majority of our clients choose the “Coached” or “Selfie” approach because A.) It guarantees your Photographer will lock down your location before you arrive, and nobody will accidentally be in the background of your images. B.) It guarantees you’ll be able to find your Photographer and you are assured you’re in the best location for your photos. C. It ensures the best lighting for the occasion and D.) It’s a no-brainer. You don’t have to worry about anything except being at the agreed upon location and time.

And don’t worry… Your Photographer will always arrive at least 15 minutes early and await your arrival for up to 15 minutes following your agreed upon meeting time in case you are running late.

Why trust Jason Kaczorowski Photography to photograph your Proposal?

These are the moments in life that you are worth investing in.

I’ve been photographing proposals for over a decade and capturing weddings for 19 years as a Full Time, Professional Photographer. My team and I have photographed over 750 proposals since 2005. We have photographed more proposals in Chicago than any other photographer in town!

Contact Me today and I will send you “The Art of Proposing: A Guide to Planning the Logistics for Asking the Biggest Question of Your Life” just for reaching out.

ENGAGEMENT SESSION

What is an Engagement Session?

Your Engagement Session includes the time and talent of Principal Photographer, Jason Kaczorowski, along with the aid of a location lighting assistant. Your Session may include multiple locations throughout the City or Suburbs and unlimited outfit changes. Each Session arrives with selection and correction of all your images in addition to your processed, full resolution, unwatermarked, Digital Files. Your photos arrive with the ability to reproduce and share your Digital Files, and you may enjoy and download your files from the Cloud anywhere in the world within 72 hours of your Session.

How much does it cost to photograph my Engagement Session in Chicago?

Your Engagement Session includes the time and talent of your Photographer, in addition to selection and correction of all of your images, along with your processed, full resolution, unwatermarked, Digital Files.

Your photos arrive with the ability to reproduce and share your Digital Files and you may enjoy and download your files from the Cloud anywhere in the world within 72 hours of your Session.

Includes

• Planning Consultation
• Location Recommendations
• Pre-Session Consultation
• Location Lighting Assistant
• Principal Photographer
• Selection and Correction
• Same-Day Highlights
• Full Resolution Digital Files
• Reproduction Licensing
Sharing Licensing
• Guaranteed 72 Hour Delivery

Costs

500
0.5 Hour

750
1 Hour

1,000
1.5 Hour

1,250
2 Hours

1,500
2.5 Hours

 

What days and times do you offer Engagement Sessions?

Engagement Sessions are subject to availability and are scheduled Monday-Thursday at Sunrise and 90 minutes before sunset outdoors April 15 – October 15. Indoor sessions are offered October 16 – April 14 due to climate, location, and equipment considerations.

What is the “Golden Hour” and why is it important to achieve?

The “golden hour” is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, during which daylight is more colorful and softer than when the sun is higher in the sky. The bright overhead sun can create strong highlights and dark shadows in the middle of the day. This harsh lighting problem is particularly important in portrait photography, where a fill flash is often necessary to balance lighting across the subject’s face or body, filling in strong shadows that are considered undesirable. Because the contrast is less during the golden hour, shadows are less dark, and highlights are less likely to be overexposed. The warm color of the low sun is desirable to enhance the scene’s colors. It is the best time of day for capturing Engagement Session photos since the light is diffused correctly and warm.

What happens if rain is predicted during my Engagement Session?

We will schedule a session date & time along with a backup session date & time at the time of your initial scheduling. To feature you in the most flattering conditions, outdoor Engagement Sessions are always rescheduled 24 hours before your Session due to the threat of precipitation more significant than 50%, overcast skies or temperatures below 34 degrees or greater than 86 degrees.

Do you capture Engagement Sessions outside in Winter?

Sunny blue skies, green grass, colorful flowers and changing trees help add pop to your photos and my style relies on the colors of Spring, Summer and Fall.

I’ve found that late Fall and Winter sessions prevent many clients from feeling and looking their best. Wearing multiple layers adds weight to your body and cold temps will make your skin look pale or red.

Operating equipment in the cold can be complex as well. Batteries tend to deplete faster, and it’s often challenging to change lenses and focus while wearing gloves.

For these reasons, I recommend we capture indoor sessions October 16 – April 14 due to climate, location, and equipment considerations.

When should we schedule our Engagement Session?

I recommend scheduling your Session 6-12 months before your wedding. This allows time to create Save The Dates, Invitations, a reception Sign-In Book or Artwork to display in your home.

When and Where do you recommend capturing our Engagement Session in Chicago?

I recommend beginning your Engagement Session at Sunrise along Lake Michigan with the spectacular Chicago Skyline in the background of your portraits. I propose sunrise because of the incredible golden morning sunlight, the ease of driving and parking at various locations throughout the city, the lack of pedestrians in the background of your portraits, and the milder temperatures. Centrally located North Avenue Beach, Montrose Avenue Beach in the North and Promontory Point on Chicago’s South Side are all great settings to begin your Session. From these starting points, you may consider visiting locations in Lincoln Park such as the Lincoln Park Zoo’s popular South Pond Nature Boardwalk with its landmark “Honeycomb” structure (known as the People’s Gas Education Pavilion) which faces south and predominately showcases the John Hancock building and Chicago skyline through its arch.

If you’re considering capturing your Engagement Session in Chicago in the Winter, you may opt for an indoor location for your Engagement photos. Antique shops and vintage furniture stores such as Salvage One and Architectural Artifacts rent their locations and offer a variety of locations throughout their multi-story indoor industrial settings.

For more inspiration for the best engagement session locations in Chicago, I invite you to visit my list of the best Chicago engagement session locations.

When and Where do you recommend capturing our Engagement Session in the Chicago Suburbs?

Several of the best engagement session locations in the Chicago suburbs are in the Western and Northwestern Suburbs. I prefer this area and love capturing portraits in forest preserves, farms, and fields during sunset. Naperville offers a serene River Walk with wooden covered bridges and paths that follow the stream down tree-covered walkways while downtown Naperville features murals, hidden alleyways, sculptures and fountains. Lisle is home to the Morton Arboretum with over 1,700 acres of trees, gardens, tallgrass prairies and ponds. Note: The Morton Arboretum requires a photography permit, which must be obtained at least 3 days before your session. You may also consider Cantigny Park in Wheaton for your Engagement Session, which features ponds, formal gardens, rose gardens, arbors, gazebos, reflecting pools, fountains, and a Tank Park.

For more of the Best Engagement Session location inspiration in Chicago, I invite you to visit my list of the Best Chicago Suburbs Engagement Session Locations.

Do I need a permit for my session location(s), and where do I purchase one?

As of July 1, 2019, the Chicago Park District – which includes Buckingham FountainGrant ParkMillennium ParkLurie Garden – has begun requiring professional photographers photographing commercial photography (for-profit photography, which provides for weddings, engagement sessions, and family portrait sessions) to purchase a photography permit.

Many of the most popular locations throughout Chicago and the Chicago suburbs are also now requiring photography permits including the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Garfield Park Conservatory, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Zoo South Pond Nature Boardwalk (the “honeycomb”).

I invite you to explore this article I’ve written, which will help you navigate Which Chicago locations require a Permit to photograph your Wedding and Engagement Photos.

What do you recommend I wear to my Engagement Session?

Rule #1 of what to wear and what not to wear for your Engagement Session: Don’t try to look too matchy-matchy. Please stick to your style but perhaps plan to kick it up a notch. I suggest buying new outfits for your engagement session – you’ll look and feel confident in your new clothes! If you like color, try something bold. Be warned however that bright colors draw instant attention to whoever is wearing them. Wear seasonally-appropriate clothing. Spring and Summer are great for bright colors but Fall and Winter work better in earth tones. Avoid anything with logos or visible tags. Colors should blend harmoniously among subjects. Patterns will date clothing much more quickly in terms of fashion changes. Multiple layers and light colors will add weight whereas dark colors subtract and work best for black and white portraits. Darker colors blend seamlessly into the background, emphasizing the subjects more. Earth tones and light colored clothes add a more casual feel. Remember to leave accessories and props at home along with your purse, phone and other objects that might add bulk to your pockets or distract you from being in the moment.

Regarding jewelry, please keep it simple and avoid anything shiny or reflective. Avoid running shoes, white socks, and heavy footwear. Consider fashionable boots, sandals, or bare feet for casual photos.

Can we change into multiple outfits throughout our Session?

Absolutely! Many couples change outfits during their Session, two or three times.

Depending on the time of day and location of your Session, it’s not uncommon that restrooms may be closed. This may mean changing behind a bush, in your car, or even with your fiancé and I surrounding you while holding up a sheet.

You may value dressing in layers as we’ll likely start at sunrise when the temperatures can often be a little more chilly than later in the morning. As the sun heats up, you can peel those layers off or swing a jacket over a shoulder.

Can I bring my pet to my Engagement Session?

I love pets! If you’d like to bring your furry friend to your Engagement Session, I’m always happy to devote a quarter of your Session capturing photos of your other best friend. I request that you bring a pet-sitter to your Session who will take your pup for a walk after we’re finished so they don’t become the emphasis of your Session or distract us from capturing photos of just the two of you.

Can I bring props (a chalkboard, cutout letters, balloons, sparklers, an old suitcase, an antique bicycle, a giant birthday cake to jump out of) that I’ve seen in other photographers’ photos to my Engagement Session?

Fads come and go. You will want to enjoy your photos for years to come and have them stand out as timeless as the day they were captured. Don’t let gimmicks date your photos and make you feel embarrassed when your kids see them.

Can I send you photos I want to recreate that I saw another photographer capture?

Let’s create unique portraits that will inspire others together! I’m dying to capture images that speak to your unique personalities and why you fell in love with one another. If we’re attempting to recreate other photographers’ work, you will constantly be comparing yourself to others. You deserve better than to be compared to others. Your relationship is unique! Let’s show the world that together!

I am uncomfortable in front of the camera. Will I enjoy having my Engagement Session photos captured?

Practically every couple I’ve ever photographed has said they were nervous or felt awkward being photographed before we began photographing their engagement session. It’s natural. I even feel uncomfortable standing on the other side of the camera! All of my couples, however, tell me at the end of their Session how much fun they had and often say they can’t believe their Session is over already.

I don’t want to feel like I’m posing during my engagement session. Can we create portraits that don’t feel too posed?

The emphasis of your Session is on your unique relationship. Though I will gently coach you to create subtle poses, I really want to capture the moments of recoil from those poses – your natural, spontaneous laughter! I will minimally instruct you to look at the camera for portraits because I value the opportunity to capture your natural moments of spontaneous interaction, which is why most of your Session will be captured from a distance, giving you space to breathe and feel relaxed.

How many photos do you typically deliver from an engagement session?

I often deliver 50-75 photos +/-  per hour depending on the number of locations we visit, the number of outfits you bring and the complexity of the lighting needed to create your portraits.

When and where can we view and download our engagement pictures?

Highlights from your Engagement Session will be posted on my website and social media often within 48 hours of your Session. Your entire Engagement Session is usually processed and delivered within 72 hours. You will receive a link to an online gallery where you can view and download your Digital Files to your computer immediately.

WEDDING DAY

How many hours do you suggest we set aside for our wedding photos?

With the diversity of various cultural aspects of every wedding and the variance in each wedding’s unique timeline, wedding party size, number of requested family portraits and differing level of details and decor to capture, it’s impossible to replicate a precise timeline template for every wedding. Many weddings often run slightly behind schedule, so allocating adequate time for each moment will make your wedding day feel more relaxed and take the stress out of your wedding planning. Here is a list of my suggestions based on the activities scheduled throughout your day. These will naturally vary based on the size of your wedding party, number of guests in attendance, the willingness and timeliness of portrait subjects, and the substance of details and décor to capture throughout your day.

Detail Photos

15-30 Minutes
Dress, Shoes, Purse, Flowers, Rings, Invitation, and more all require time and talent to artistically capture. Allocating 15-30 minutes will ensure time to capture the perfect photos of all of your details. Tip: Making sure these items are all gathered in a tidy area of the room will help save your Photographer’s effort time so we may devote more time to capturing photos of you.

Preparation Photos

15-30 Minutes
I recommend 15-30 minutes of time to capture your last moments of hair and makeup as well as candid preparation of your wedding party getting ready. These photos often equate to some of the most emotional moments from your day.

Bridesmaids Photos

5-15 Minutes
Do you want shots of you and your bridesmaids in your matching robes sipping champagne and having fun before you jump in your dress? If so, I recommend setting aside a few extra minutes to gather the girls, pour the perfect glasses of bubbly or discover the best spot to capture those shots.

Getting Dressed

15 Minutes
How long it may take to get in your dress is dependent on how elaborate the buttons on your dress may be. I have seen some clients take a few minutes while others have spent over an hour. I’ll often wait just outside the room where the bride is getting dressed and step back in once I get an OK from the maid of honor that it’s time to button up the back of the bride’s dress. It’s also always important to provide a few minutes during this time to capture in natural window light before leaving her preparation location.

First Look

5-15 Minutes
I recommend a minimum of 5-15 minutes to orchestrate and capture not only the First Look but also a few portraits following of the couple after they’ve embraced for the first time. While the First Look itself may only require a few minutes to coordinate and capture, leaving time for variables such as waiting for pedestrians to pass if we’re capturing your First Look in a public location will make a significant difference in the memories of that moment.

Wedding Party Portraits

45-120 Minutes
Depending on the size of your Wedding Party, the number of locations we may visit and the style of portraits we will capture (natural lighting VS editorial-style portraiture), providing a minimum of 45 minutes up to 120 minutes on location to capture a variety of poses with each member of your wedding party individually, along with an assortment of grouped portraits, is essential. I often begin with classic poses focused on great expressions and proper lighting and move into creative poses and experimental group shots. Tip: If you’re planning on visiting multiple locations throughout Chicago, depending on the number of locations, the distance you may need to walk from the drop-off point of your transportation and the amount of traffic which may be dependent on other events happening in town on that date and time, 60-120 minutes is an average amount of time needed to capture an average wedding party of 10 at 2-3 locations in a variety of classic and artistic poses.

Immediate Family Prior to your Ceremony

15-30 Minutes
It is absolutely critical to have portraits captured with your parents, grandparents, and siblings on your wedding day. I recommend allotting 30 minutes from the moment we begin setting up our lighting until the time required to pack these lights away and move to the next activity or location to capture your immediate family portraits. I recommend 2 minutes per grouping, so for example, if you have 10 groupings, I suggest a minimum of 20 minutes, plus 5 minutes to prepare, and 5 minutes to pack our lighting equipment.

Ceremony Details and Décor

15 Minutes
Dedicating just 15 minutes to capture your ceremony location or church with no guests or vendors at the location or in these photos is strongly recommended. Often my associate photographer can capture these moments as we are photographing your Immediate Family Portraits prior to your ceremony.

Formal Portraits

30 Minutes
Following your ceremony, we will dedicate time to capture both the bride and groom together with each new family. This is also a great time to gather grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives for portraits. Please plan on 2-3 minutes per photo for larger groups. Tip: Being organized and assigning a specific member of the family to assist with helping round up people and call names will relieve the stress and burden you may feel standing at the altar waiting for guests to hurry up.

Newlyweds Portraits

30 Minutes
In terms of lighting, ideally the best time to capture portraits outdoors is 30 minutes prior to sunset. Often, this might mean that couples may not have an opportunity to enjoy their cocktail hour mingling with their guests. If you value enjoying cocktail hour with your guests, I recommend adding additional time to your pre-ceremony portraits following your First Look.

Reception Details and Décor

15-30 Minutes
Reception venues are often dimly lit and typically feature a flurry of vendor activity such as chairs being arranged, waiters filling glasses, the band tuning up, guests wandering with their place cards in hand grabbing hors d’oeuvres, putting their belongings on their chairs and gathering around your cake to snap a few photos on their cellphones that you’ll never see. This is why I recommend providing 15-30 minutes of dedicated coverage to capture the details and décor of your reception venue prior to your guests’ entrance. This will provide ample time to achieve lighting that complements your décor while also allowing us to test our lights which will be aimed at your wedding party introductions.

Table Shots

???
“Table Shots” are when the newlyweds visit their guests at each table throughout the dinner portion of their reception and have portraits captured of each grouping of guests at each table. If you value photos captured at each table with guests, keep in mind that these often require 3-5 minutes per table. What this means in terms of your timeline is if you spend just 1 minute chatting with each guest during dinner, and you have invited 120 guests to your wedding, you may spend 2 hours of time visiting tables. Keep in mind too that a blessing, Parent’s Welcome Speech, Maid of Honor & Best Man toasts, your cake cutting, and often a Thank You speech also occur during this time. Additionally, centerpieces on tables often restrict visibility across tables, which then require guests to stand up and move to another location. Finally, though I know you want to be a good host, asking guests to capture professional portraits with half-eaten food in front of them isn’t flattering and can often make your guests feel uncomfortable. For these reasons I don’t advocate capturing Table Shots at your reception but am always pleased to capture these portraits if you value the opportunity to visit tables with my assistant photographer and I.

Dancing, Garter/Bouquet Toss, Night Portrait, The Getaway

45-120 Minutes
From the moment you step onto the dance floor for your First Dance until the time my team and I conclude our coverage, we will want to dedicate ample time to capture a variety of both slow dancing and exuberant dancing from your guests to reflect the energy in the room. A great way to cap off an incredible day is to create one final portrait outside your reception venue in the dark. Depending on if you want to keep the party going or value the opportunity to capture one final, tremendous portrait outdoors at night, make sure you dedicate enough time throughout your reception to allow my team and I to capture everyone – including those wall flowers who tend to gather in conversations around tables and never make their way to the dance floor. Finally, if you’re planning a special getaway in a classic car or down an aisle of your guests holding sparklers, make sure to alert my team and I in order to allow ample time to create lighting that complements and captures the excitement.

DELIVERABLES, DIGITAL DOWNLOADS & LICENSING

What are Non-watermarked, Full Resolution, Digital Image Files?

Your processed, non-watermarked, Full Resolution Digital Image Files represent the selection of corrected (.JPEG) image files captured during your engagement session or wedding and are delivered upon commencement of your Online Gallery.

What rights do I have to my Digital Files?

Your Digital Image Files arrive with a license to print and display these images for your personal, non-commercial enjoyment.

You may not sell or publish your images (magazines and for-profit websites such as publications or other commercial entities) without prior written consent.

May I share photos on Social Media?

Absolutely! We love sharing your images on Social Media so much so that you will receive a gallery of highlights featuring my favorite photos from your wedding that I select, enhance and post on my social media (Facebook  & Instagram) in addition to my website which you are encouraged to tag and share.

Show others how cool you are by sharing the love and shouting out Jason Kaczorowski Photography:

@jasonkaczorowskiphotography | Facebook
@jasonkaczorowskiphotography | Instagram
@jasonkaczorowski | TikTok

What is an Online Gallery?

Coverage includes an online gallery featuring all the selected and corrected images from your engagement session and wedding. Your online gallery serves as a convenient way for you to view your photographs anywhere, anytime, and on any device. As an additional benefit, your online gallery allows you to share your images with family and friends after your event. In addition to enjoying your images, guests may also choose to purchase prints, products and even digital files immediately from your online gallery. Prints and products are available at a nominal fee and feature the highest quality professional lab printing.

What is included in Selection and Correction of my Images?

Selected images reflect the best quality and most significant moments from your wedding. Correction includes fundamental processing and global adjustments including adjustments to exposure, levels, color, white balance, contrast, highlights and shadow recovery, clarity, vibrancy, hue, saturation, lens correction, noise, grain, sharpening, cropping and post-cropping vignetting.

How many photos do you typically deliver from a wedding?

This is often a difficult question to answer as the quantity of photos my team and I capture is often indicative of many different factors including the magnitude of locations we’ll visit, the lavishness of your details and décor seen throughout your day and how much emphasis you place on documenting these, the amount of activities to capture throughout your timeline and ultimately, the size of your wedding including the number of your guests and wedding party. As a general idea, two photographers may deliver 75-125 photos per hour.

When will we receive our online gallery of photos?

Your entire wedding gallery is always guaranteed to be delivered within 90 days of your wedding, though it is often processed and delivered closer to 14-30 days following your wedding based on seasonality and shooting schedule. You will receive a link to an online gallery where you, your family and friends can view and order your photos as soon as your entire gallery has been processed. You will receive a dedicated gallery of highlights featured both on my website and social media which you may share immediately.

When will we receive our Digital File downloads?

Your non-watermarked, Full Resolution Digital Image Files are delivered upon commencement of your online gallery. You will receive instructions on how to download your non-watermarked, Full Resolution Digital Image Files once your online gallery has launched.

Can I send you photos I want to recreate that I saw another photographer capture?

I strive to create unique portraits that inspire others. Attempting to recreate other photographers’ portraits will leave you comparing yourself to other couples and we want to capture images that speak to your unique personalities and why you fell in love with one another.

How many images do you deliver in an average engagement session and wedding?

This is often a difficult question to answer as the quantity of photos my team and I capture is often indicative of many different factors including the magnitude of locations we’ll visit, the lavishness of your details and décor seen throughout your day and how much emphasis you place on documenting these, the amount of activities to capture throughout your timeline and ultimately, the size your wedding including the number of your guests and wedding party. As a general rule, one Photographer may deliver 45-75 photos per hour and two photographers may deliver 75-125 photos per hour.

What happens if I lose my Digital Files?

Once your Digital Files have been delivered, all responsibility in maintaining your files belongs to you. Having captured weddings digitally for more than a decade, I recommend certain precautions be taken when storing Digital Files to protect against faulty devices and drive failures. I’ve found that following a few simple tips can give you lots of added protection for very little time or additional money invested. First, backup your images on a separate drive. This could be a thumb drive or an external hard drive, but we recommend choosing a size appropriate for these files as you’ll want to reduce the risk of a drive crashing by limiting the number of times the drive is accessed. In other words, don’t store your photos on your laptop where you play games, browse the internet, and store documents on a daily basis. For even more security, we highly recommend choosing offsite storage for your files. You can do this with a physical drive in a safe or lock box, but most people will find storing these files in the Cloud the most beneficial. Second, test your data and backup frequently. I recommend testing your data and backing up on your wedding anniversary each year.


BOOKS & ALBUMS

What is a Book?

Your 12×8 horizontal or 10×10 square Book arrives with a collection of 50 of the most commanding images chosen by you or your family, then distinctly designed to weave your wedding story. Each photo is richly retouched before arriving printed on silver halide lustre stock and bound in your choice of leather alternative cover. Additional images may always be added for a nominal extra cost.

What is an Engagement Sign-In Book?

Your 12×8 horizontal or 10×10 square Engagement Sign-in Book arrives with up to 25 of the most commanding images you chose, which are designed to allow guests ample space to autograph your Book duBook your wedding reception. Each photo is richly retouched before being bound in your choice of cover material. Additional images may always be added for a nominal extra cost.

What is a Wedding Album?

Your 12×8 horizontal or 10×10 square Wedding Album is a collaborative creation between you and I, developed and designed to include your favorite moments from your wedding day. Each photo receives individual enhanced image development. You will select 50 of your favorite images and receive a private gallery to review and revise your design before production. Your album features a robust construction offering increased durability and longevity, thick substrate core pages which decrease warping due to humidity changes, an actual lay-flat design, UV Coated silver halide lustre stock which protects against fingerprints, moisture, humidity changes and damaging UV rays. Additional images may always be added for a nominal extra cost.

How long does it take to receive my book/album?

Your initial design requires 5-10 business days to create. Once you’ve had an opportunity to review your initial design and make any comments regarding suggested additions or revisions, we will schedule time to meet in person to choose your style and cover. I will collect your balance here, and your book or Album will be moved immediately into production. Books and Albums often require 4-6 weeks in physical production and transit.

Discover Why You Deserve a Wedding Album at https://jasonkaczorowski.com/why-you-deserve-a-wedding-album/

INSURANCE AND ASSURANCE

Do you have insurance, and can you provide a COI for my venue?

Absolutely! Jason Kaczorowski Events Incorporated carries over two million dollars of liability insurance and is always pleased to provide a Certificate of Insurance to you or your venue.

Do you back up our images after our wedding?

I provide the highest security for your wedding photos. Your digital files are always captured in lossless RAW format using cameras that employ two memory card slots. If one of our cards fails during a wedding, we always have a backup card of your data. As soon as I return from your wedding, I will immediately back up your files to two external hard drives and a 40TB, five bay DAS Drobo RAID system, in addition to creating a catalog of your full resolution images in Adobe Lightroom Creative Cloud. Finally, once your RAW image files have been processed and exported as JPEG files, they are uploaded to the Cloud.

Do you have backup equipment in case your equipment fails or is stolen?

Both my team and I always carry two cameras, multiple lenses, and multiple forms of lighting in case our equipment ever fails or becomes stolen at a wedding.

How long have you been in business?

I have been photographing professionally for nearly a quarter of a century. My first paid job photographing was on October 1, 1995. I captured my first wedding in 2005 and began doing business as Jason Kaczorowski Photography in 2007. I incorporated my business in 2009 as Jason Kaczorowski Events Incorporated in Illinois and made wedding photography my full-time career. I’ve since captured over 650 weddings and shot hundreds of thousands of photos in the most incredible destinations worldwide.

Can you provide any references?

I am always pleased to provide professional references and references from previous clients upon request. I also invite you to read my client’s hand-written testimonials and see my WeddingWire, TheKnot, Google and Yelp reviews.

Do you have any online reviews?

We have received all 5/5 star reviews on WeddingWire, TheKnot, Google and Yelp.

Have you ever won any awards for your wedding photography?

Throughout my career I’ve become the most awarded wedding photographer in Illinois on the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP), have been heralded as one of the Top Wedding Photographers in Chicago by several industry-leading publications and websites, and have been named one of the World’s Best Wedding Photographers.

Here’s a list of various awards I’ve been fortunate to achieve throughout my career:

• Best Wedding Photography of 2010 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2010
• 1st PLACE | Fall 2010 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2011
• 3rd PLACE | Spring 2011 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 1st PLACE | Summer 2011 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2012
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2012
• 1st PLACE | Spring 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 1st PLACE |  Fall 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 6th PLACE |  Fall 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 7th PLACE | Winter 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 15th PLACE | Winter 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• Best Wedding Photography of 2012 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• Rangefinder Magazine – People’s Choice Award “Seeing the Light” 2012
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2013
• Best Wedding Photographers in Chicago (CBS News) 2013
• WPPI 16×20 Print Competition Wedding Photojournalism Accolade of Excellence Award 2013
• 18th PLACE | Spring 2013 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• Fearless Photographers April 2013
• Fearless Photographers October 2013
• 19th PLACE |  Winter 2013 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 17th PLACE |  Winter 2013 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 18th PLACE | Winter 2013 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 9th PLACE | Winter 2013 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2014
• Fearless Photographers February 2014
• Top Wedding Photographers in Chicago 2015 – BrideBox
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2017
• 19th PLACE | Winter 2017 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• 17th PLACE | Spring 2017 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2018
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2018
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2019
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2019
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2020
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2020
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2021
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2021
• Vow To Be Chic – World’s Best Wedding Photographers
• Wedding Rule – 10 Best Wedding Photographers in Chicago
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2022
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2022
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2023
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2023
• The Knot – Best of Weddings – Hall of Fame
• Wedding Photojournalism (11) Diamond Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Wedding Photojournalism True Love Captured Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Fearless Photographers Photo of the Week January 2023
• Fearless Photographers Photo of the Week March 2023
• Fearless Photographers April 2023
•  9th PLACE | Summer 2023 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• Wedding Photojournalism (V65) Diamond Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Wedding Photojournalism (V65) Diamond Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Wedding Photojournalism (V65) Diamond Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Wedding Photojournalism (V65) Diamond Award 2023 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• Fearless Photographers – Top 100 Photos of 2023
• Wedding Photojournalism (V70) Diamond Award 2024 | Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)
• 16th PLACE | Engagement Session | Winter 2024 – International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP)
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2024
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2024
• The Knot – Best of Weddings 2025
• WeddingWire – Couples’ Choice Award 2025
• The Knot – Best of Weddings – Hall of Fame

Has your wedding photography ever been published in books or magazines?

My photographs have been published on the covers of books, in magazines, on CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray box sets and across the internet on many of the most popular wedding websites in the world.

Here’s a list of where my work has been prominently published:

• CS Brides
• Modern Luxury
• Chicago Wedding Guide
• Martha Stewart Weddings
• Style Me Pretty
• The Knot
• Wedding Wire
• Style Unveiled
• Elizabeth Ann Designs
• Wedding Channel
• Project Wedding
• Rock N’ Roll Bride
• One Wed
• People Magazine
• Rolling Stone Magazine
• Billboard Magazine
• Spin Magazine
• Relix Magazine
• Occasions Magazine
• The Chicago Tribune
• The New York Post
• The Hampton Daily Press
• The Miami Herald
• The Los Angeles Times
• The San Francisco Examiner
• The Huffington Post
• Rhino Records
• Entertainment Weekly
• The Travel Channel
• Workman Publishing
• Algonquin Books

PAYMENTS, TAXES AND TRAVEL FEES

How much is  Jason Kaczorowski Photography?

We work with many budgets and create solutions to provide coverage that’s important to you.

Includes

• Art of I Do Guide
• Planning Consultations
• Two (2) Photographers
• Selection & Correction
• Guaranteed 90 Day Delivery

• Full Quality Digital Files
• Reproduction Licensing
• Sharing Licensing

• Social Media Highlights
• Album Design Consultation

Wedding Coverage
Two (2) Photographers

4,500
6 Hours

6,000
8 Hours

7,500
10 Hours

9,000
12 Hours

Coverage + Engagement
1.5 Hour Engagement Session

5,500
6 Hours

7,000
8 Hours

8,500
10 Hours

10,000
12 Hours

Coverage + Album
12″x8″ or 10″x10″

6,000
6 Hours

7,500
8 Hours

9,000
10 Hours

10,500
12 Hours

Do you offer partial day coverage?

Micro-weddings and elopements may be commissioned Monday through Thursday with at least 3 hours of coverage with one of our talented photographers.

Will I be charged for downtime, travel time, or times when our guests are eating?

My team and I never truly rest during your wedding da,y which is why our coverage is offered continuously from our first shutter acquisition until our last. We are constantly searching for and preparing to capture the next spontaneous moment, traveling to locations and capturing photos along the way, photographing detail and décor at your church or reception venue, and frequently reviewing your must-have moments and preparing our lighting throughout your reception venue to capture your next exciting action.

What happens if we go over the contracted amount of time?

Not every wedding always goes according to plan. That’s why we understand that some clients may want to add additional coverage at the end of their wedding day. We will always ask you at the end of your contracted coverage if you would value receiving additional coverage before we prepare to leave. If you value more time, you may add additional hourly coverage per 15 minute increments, which will be invoiced following your wedding. Once your additional overtime fee has been received, I will begin processing your images promptly.

How far in advance do we need to secure your services?

I often reserve dates 6-18 months in advance but always invite you to contact me to check my availability. If I am unavailable for your date, I will gladly recommend other talented wedding photographers with whom I would trust my own wedding.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept all forms of credit card, Venmo, Zelle, Chase QuickPay, PayPal, cash, and check. Credit Card and PayPal are subject to a 3% processing fee.

Are taxes included?

Your investments always include applicable taxes built into the price of all services.

Do you travel for weddings, portrait sessions, and proposals?

My team and I capture weddings in the finest destinations worldwide. We are available for Midwest (Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota) events with applicable mileage fees 90 miles beyond our studio. Domestic and International travel affords airfare, ground transportation, and lodging in addition to location fees and/or resort surcharges. Though we are primarily a Chicago-based wedding photography studio, we have captured weddings in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, Texas, Wisconsin, throughout the Caribbean and Mexico, and other international destinations.

What are your Travel Expenses?

Domestic Transportation beyond 90 miles of 60604 is billed at $0.50 per mile, per Photographer. Destination Weddings are considered events occurring more than 300 roundtrip miles from 60604. An airfare and ground transportation per diem is provided for Destination Weddings at $600.00 per Photographer, which includes airfare and extra baggage fees for our equipment. A lodging and daily per diem of $500.00 per night is provided in the lower 48 US States and $600.00 beyond. Each wedding requires a minimum of a two-night stay to ensure we arrive the day before your wedding and stay for the entirety of your wedding day and night. As an example, a wedding occurring in Miami, Florida requires two airfare/ground transportation per diems ($600.00/pp = $1,200.00), in addition to 2 lodging per diems of $500.00 per night (2 night minimum = $1,000.00) for a total of $2,200.00 travel expenses. We provide 3 hours of complimentary coverage applicable to rehearsal and/or a day-after session to offset the cost of travel expenses (a $2,250.00 value).

How do I reserve my wedding date?

A 50% non-refundable retainer is required to reserve your wedding date. Your remaining balance of 50% is due two (2) weeks before your wedding.

If we cancel our wedding, will we receive our retainer fee back?

Your retainer is made in consideration of the time, the experience, the reputation, and the skill of Jason Kaczorowski, along with our inability to schedule other clients during this time. Your retainer is non-refundable as it is used to reserve your wedding date. Once we reserve your date, we decline other prospective clients interested in booking your date.

LGBTQIA+BIPOC

Jason Kaczorowski Photography is committed to your inclusion regardless of who you are and how you identify.

We will listen to, and support, you and yours.

COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS

Jason Kaczorowski Photography is committed to ensuring the health and safety of you and your loved ones at your wedding.

If a member of my team or I becomes ill and/or we are forced to quarantine ourselves, I will allocate an equally fantastic photographer to capture your day during any unexpected absence. We are fortunate to have multiple incredibly talented, healthy photographers on our team should the need arise to quarantine themselves from your event.

CLICK HERE to discover how we work with clients to host safe and healthy weddings during Covid-19.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is the meaning of life?

Being kind, giving back, and authentically helping others.

What is love?

Baby don’t hurt me… Don’t hurt me… No more.