Kate Grace Photography: 10 Questions with Katie Yoon

Photographer - Katie Yoon

Business: Kate Grace Photography
Location: Washington, District of Columbia DC
Experience: 12 Years
Photography Types: Engagements, Family, Weddings
Profile: Kate Grace Photography
Website: www.kategracephotography.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

I’m Kate, a wedding photographer, because even though other photography pursuits have pushed my creativity, it's because of couples like you that inspire and show me every single day, the gift of love and relationships.

It truly is an honor to tell every story–each couple is uniquely different, and with so many amazing venues around the world, nothing ever gets boring.

I first got into photography in a high-school class, which then led to multiple opportunities for training, internships, and ultimately a creative studio job with all the camera's, studio lights, and photo software one could dream of. After a short bit, a friend who was getting married asked if I would help photograph her wedding–I was nervous but said yes. And I completely fell in love with the wedding day hustle and bustle of photography. The opportunity to document love stories is something that I will never take for granted. Life is short, and these relationships are what it is all about.

2. How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?

I've been photographing weddings for the last 6 years–and most recently left my office job to pursue this full time in 2020.

On average I photograph 15-25 weddings a year. I think it's important to not overbook myself so I can stay creatively fresh for each of my couples and give you the best wedding photography experience possible. I love being able to grab a drink or coffee with my couples. Have a favorite place? Let's go meet!

3. How would you describe your photography style?

Romantic & Timeless. I don't like stiff photos, and I'm pretty certain you don't either. ;) With years of experience in helping couples feel at ease in front of the camera, I'll make your session time fun and memorable. I recently had a groom tell me that he didn't want his engagement session to end because they were having so much fun! My approach is to have your sessions infused with your own personality–real, authentic YOU. Nothing pretentious, but just your friendly and fun self that your family & friends adore.

4. How well in advance should couples book their wedding photographer?

For those who want a Spring or Fall wedding date, the sooner the better, since those are the most frequently asked dates. Most couples book out 12-18 months prior. This allows plenty of time to plan your engagement sessions, and discuss your wedding day timeline, to relieve any stress prior to the wedding month. With only a 25% retainer due at contract signing, the earlier you book the better so you lock in your package rate!

5. What are the different packages that you offer and which one is your most popular package?

My most popular package is 8 hours of coverage, with two photographers, an engagement session, and high-res edited images delivered with 4 weeks of your wedding date. Depending on the logistics of the ceremony and reception, I occasionally recommend that we add two additional hours, to ensure that your getting ready, portraits, and reception time don't get cut short. But these are always details we can go over and add during your timeline call.

6. Are you the wedding photographer who will be shooting on the wedding day? Who else is there in your team?

I am the lead photographer for Kate Grace Photography, and have a handful of local photographers that I work with regularly. These second photographers have years of wedding experience on their own, and I completely trust them to handle the day on their own–but they don't, because we're the dream team together! :) I occasionally may add a photography assistant to your day, but they will never be the second photographer, as they are still learning the ropes of how I approach my couples, naturally pose them, and communicate with all the vendors involved–and that is something that should not be at the expense of you and your day.

7. Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

I'm always ready to travel for destination weddings–and have reasonable fees for that. This varies by location, and travel needs (ie. fuel & drive/flight/hotel) If you're dreaming up a location–let's chat and I can give you a custom quote for your wedding day including travel.

8. Are albums or prints included in your packages?

Albums are a la cart, but highly recommended! Nothing replaces the feeling of turning the pages on your own heirloom wedding album.

9. How long after the wedding will the couple receive the images? How will they be delivered?

You'll receive a sneak peek within 48 hours, and your full wedding gallery within 4 weeks. You'll receive them via an online gallery (available for 1 year), which you can share with your family & friends, and also backed up on a USB for ease and one less thing you need to think about doing.