Jackie and Spring of Wagner Photography

Coffee Talk with Jackie and Spring of Wagner Photography

WC: How did Wagner Photography get started?

J&S: After being co-workers for many years at a studio in the city we discovered that we worked really well together. Our photography styles complemented each other and we realized that we could offer our couples more as a team, so we started our own studio with our own brand of photography.

WC: Why wedding photography?

J&S: We love the challenge of giving brides and grooms the best images possible on their day. We want them to love their photos. Being personally responsible for documenting such an important day for our couples is very rewarding.

WC: What style are you known for?

J&S: We created our own brand of photography by incorporating both candids and classic images. We're crazy about hot, poppy colored candids and beautiful naturally lit romantic images. We are laid back photographers who like to be well organized on wedding days but are totally flexible when plans change.

WC: Do you photograph in black and white, color or both? Which do you like more?

J&S: Our images are captured in color but we also proof black and whites. We like both and are careful to present our images the way we feel they look best.

WC: What advice do you offer to couples searching for a wedding photographer?

J&S: Base your selection on the photographer's style, the finished product offered, and personality. We know most couples are on a budget, but try not to make it your primary concern. Great photos are no longer great if every time you look at them you only remember how much you hated your photographer. Couples who enjoy the photo experience will love their images more. That also goes for the finished product, if you love the style of your photographer's images but dislike the actual album they are presented in... what's the point of that?

WC: While planning a wedding what can the couple do to help maximize the value of the photographer at a wedding?

J&S: Consider during the beginning stages of your planning whether it is important to not see each other before the wedding. This could change what time you plan your ceremony to begin. (For example, a 6:00pm ceremony with an reception immediately following does not allow for much time to get photos of the bride and groom together, unless they see each other before the ceremony.) Also the time of year and how much daylight is available if outside photos are really important you.

It is also a good idea to let your photographer get to know the two of you and your dynamic together. It will make you both more comfortable on the wedding day. That is why we offer our couples engagement sessions. It is like a trial run and makes everyone less nervous about being photographed.

WC: Do you photography weddings outside of St. Louis?

J&S: You bet. New places are exciting new challenges but we also love our city and the points around.

Read other interviews at the Club Cafe.