FAQ's - Frequently asked questions
planning your wedding
How far in advance should we book our photographer?
There's no general rule as to how far in advance you should book your wedding photographer. The cool thing about doing it in Las Vegas is that we do so many weddings here that you can book your basic vendors for a quick little bit in Las Vegas within a week of the day. You will find someone available. However the basic rule of thumb is the bigger the more elaborate and the more complicated your wedding is (i.e. multiple locations, more than 100 guests, over half a dozen vendors, multiple days) the more time you should give yourself and your vendors while planning our wedding. The big weddings usually take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to plan. The smaller developments can be as quick as a week. If there is a vendor that is in high demand it's very important that you booked that vendor as quickly as possible.
For waiting for photographers since we were one of the few vendors that stay with a couple for the whole day. We can only service one couple per day. That gives us only around 50 Saturdays or weekends to work a wedding. That doesn't include vacation times and personal time off.
For waiting for photographers since we were one of the few vendors that stay with a couple for the whole day. We can only service one couple per day. That gives us only around 50 Saturdays or weekends to work a wedding. That doesn't include vacation times and personal time off.
How many hours of coverage do we need?
that's completely up to the couple. Traditionally photography starts as early as pre-Ceremony or hair and makeup. Getting pictures of the bride and bridesmaids getting ready and the groom and groomsmen getting ready is one of those details that people love to relive years after their wedding. It shows the buildup of the excitement for the ceremony. As you get older it shows a version of your younger self before the day that changed everything happened. It's also an intimate window to the interaction that you'll have with your loved ones especially your parents as you get ready to start a new life with your partner. I've seen many weddings where the most emotional moments were during pre-Ceremony photos. Where the Father sees his daughter for the first time in her dress. Where the mom helps her son puts on a tie for the first time, and maybe the last time before he gets married.
It's also important to know that photography not just about the Ceremony. The group photos and family photos that follow the ceremony is as important. In my opinion being able to gather your loved ones, extended family, grandparents, while they are in their best Sunday clothes is a gift that sometimes we only get ones in our lives. This is one of the few photos where you are able to combine both sides of the family in one giant picture. This can be the picture that will hang in your home for a long time. I've been shooting weddings long enough to know that this is one of the most important ones to have because I've had messages from couples where they shared that one of their loved ones had passed away after the wedding. And this is the only one photo that they have of them together with everybody.
Whether you're getting married in Las Vegas, on the strip, or off the strip - you always need to find time for a portrait session with your new spouse. If it's 10 minutes or one hour, this is one of the times where you both get to slow down and enjoy each other's company before you jump into your wedding reception or dinner. You're able to enjoy getting photos taken in your dress and your suit. A good photographer would give you space to have fun with each other, flirt with each other, and look good with each other. If you'd like to see the different options I have for weddings and elopements. Check weddings here and elopements here.
As for the reception, there's always been a debate whether the photographer should stay until the end. Now this is always a couples call. Depending on the program of Phtohographer can leave early. This allows the guest so just let their hair down the last few hours of dancing on the floor. Now if it's very important for the couple to capture every moment when her family and friends are letting lose then let the Phtohographer stay. If the grand exit is also important, then the Phtohographer should stay for that as well.
It's also important to know that photography not just about the Ceremony. The group photos and family photos that follow the ceremony is as important. In my opinion being able to gather your loved ones, extended family, grandparents, while they are in their best Sunday clothes is a gift that sometimes we only get ones in our lives. This is one of the few photos where you are able to combine both sides of the family in one giant picture. This can be the picture that will hang in your home for a long time. I've been shooting weddings long enough to know that this is one of the most important ones to have because I've had messages from couples where they shared that one of their loved ones had passed away after the wedding. And this is the only one photo that they have of them together with everybody.
Whether you're getting married in Las Vegas, on the strip, or off the strip - you always need to find time for a portrait session with your new spouse. If it's 10 minutes or one hour, this is one of the times where you both get to slow down and enjoy each other's company before you jump into your wedding reception or dinner. You're able to enjoy getting photos taken in your dress and your suit. A good photographer would give you space to have fun with each other, flirt with each other, and look good with each other. If you'd like to see the different options I have for weddings and elopements. Check weddings here and elopements here.
As for the reception, there's always been a debate whether the photographer should stay until the end. Now this is always a couples call. Depending on the program of Phtohographer can leave early. This allows the guest so just let their hair down the last few hours of dancing on the floor. Now if it's very important for the couple to capture every moment when her family and friends are letting lose then let the Phtohographer stay. If the grand exit is also important, then the Phtohographer should stay for that as well.
When should our ceremony start for the best photos?
If you're booking the venue for majority of the day or the afternoon into the evening, many venues time the ceremony right before sunset or golden hour. This ensures that you're able to get portrait photos during the best light that photographers love shooting in. And as the evening starts and it gets darker, the reception whether it's outside with Moody string lights or indoors with gorgeous curtains, photography can continue while the party and the formalities happen.
Now if you're getting married here in Las Vegas - we have a very unique wedding industry here where wedding Chapels have shorter ceremonies and can book up to 50 weddings per day. Weather is the main factor to consider when getting married in Las Vegas especially during the hot months. In the hottest months where our temperature is during the day can be over 100°F, there is really no comfortable time to get married except around sunset and after that. The good news is since you're not spending the whole day for a full wedding then you don't have to be in it the whole time. However if you plan on doing photos after your ceremony then you have to make extra plans to keep yourself comfortable. A good photographer will be able to suggest locations that allow for brakes, shooting and shade, and even indoors where there's air-conditioning. A good photographer will also consult with a couple asked to what their tolerance are when it comes to the situations.
Here's one of the tools that I use for checking. LINK
Now if you're getting married here in Las Vegas - we have a very unique wedding industry here where wedding Chapels have shorter ceremonies and can book up to 50 weddings per day. Weather is the main factor to consider when getting married in Las Vegas especially during the hot months. In the hottest months where our temperature is during the day can be over 100°F, there is really no comfortable time to get married except around sunset and after that. The good news is since you're not spending the whole day for a full wedding then you don't have to be in it the whole time. However if you plan on doing photos after your ceremony then you have to make extra plans to keep yourself comfortable. A good photographer will be able to suggest locations that allow for brakes, shooting and shade, and even indoors where there's air-conditioning. A good photographer will also consult with a couple asked to what their tolerance are when it comes to the situations.
Here's one of the tools that I use for checking. LINK
How long should we set aside for portraits?
For a full day wedding I would say up to one hour. For a quick elopement around Las Vegas if you want pictures at different locations a good average is about two hours after the ceremony. The two hours will allow you to get photos in different places around Las Vegas Vegas. Majority of the people love taking photos around old Vegas/Fremont Street, The Las Vegas sign, and even the heart of the Strip - from Bellagio to Venetian.
Do you help create our wedding timeline?
Yes absolutely! I am heavily invested in the wedding timeline. Since I will be with you majority of that time, it's very important that I know where I need to be and when. I insist on this because I want a couple to not worry about photography while they're going through their wedding day. The Knot has a great write up about WEDDING TIMELINES that you should check.
Do you work with wedding planners?
I love working with Wedding Planners and even Wedding Coordinator's. They are very essential to the wedding day.
What if we're planning from out of state?
You can even be planning it from out of the country! This is not unusual. We get a lot of couples from different parts of the country and the world.
booking and pricing
How much does a Las Vegas wedding photographer cost?
There's a wide range of prices that you can find in the Las Vegas market. There are photographers that are priced at Luxury levels and there are also photographers who are a lot more affordable maybe because they are newer in the industry and our building their portfolio. So the range can be from $1500 a day to $15,000 a day. For elopements you will find that there are photographers who start out at $500 and some can go all the way up to $3000 for development photography between two hours to four hours. Many of these are customizable, so I suggest that you consult with the Phtohographer whose work you really love.
I have been shooting for almost two decades now and I pride myself with having good will and great relationships with many people in my industry. So my pricing is far from what it was when I started. I bring so much more to the table apart from the photos that you see online. Included in that is the experience I've earned from years of shooting small elopements and giant big production weddings. My pricing is above the average, but not. nearly touching luxury yet. Here's my PRICING. Lets set up that call for more of your questions.
I have been shooting for almost two decades now and I pride myself with having good will and great relationships with many people in my industry. So my pricing is far from what it was when I started. I bring so much more to the table apart from the photos that you see online. Included in that is the experience I've earned from years of shooting small elopements and giant big production weddings. My pricing is above the average, but not. nearly touching luxury yet. Here's my PRICING. Lets set up that call for more of your questions.
What is included in your wedding packages?
What's always included in my package is editing, use rights and online gallery. If you count my charming and pleasing personality and my jokes on the day of the wedding I guess you can say that that's included. But I usually just throw that in for free. You might also find me talking about my wife and my son and our dogs during our photo shoot.
Do you offer elopement packages?
Yes! You will find them here. We can also tailor one specifically for you day. Just ask.
Is a deposit required?
I do ask for a retainer. This is 50% of the total upon signing of the contract. This allows me to block out the date and time. If you have other arrangements in mind feel free to ask.
Can we customize a package?
Absolutely!
Do you charge travel fees?
I do yes. It all depends on time and location.
wedding day
What happens if we're running behind schedule?
I'm not a big stickler with time. I usually just rolled with a punches. But if you were in a venue where you have a Wedding Coordinator or planner, I usually rely on them for keeping us on track and getting us back on time. I will help as much as I can.
What if it rains?
It's happened before. But doesn't happen often. We are in Las Vegas where it rarely rained during the year. However when it does, I think it's a great opportunity to get unique photos anyways.
How many photographers do we need?
I would always say the bigger the wedding the more Photographer you'll need. Personally I can handle a wedding up to about 60 to 80 guests. After that I will be suggesting a second Phtohographer. If you have more than 80 guests there will be a lot of things that are happening especially during the ceremony that a single Phtohographer might not be able to capture. It would defeat the purpose of having someone tell the story of your wedding day through the photos. There will be a lot of important things that we might miss. You as a couple will typically miss many of the things that happen around you. You'll be so focused on the Ceremony and on each other, that you might not realize that you have your grandmother crying in the background. Or your dad clutching your mom's hand during the ceremony. Those things sometimes you'll only see in photos after all is said and done.
Do you photograph getting ready?
Yes I think it's a very important part of the storytelling process.
Can you photograph multiple locations?
Absolutely as long as your timeline can accommodate it.
Can we request specific family photos?
I would highly encourage you. This is one of the few times where you'll be able to get everyone together looking good in one setting with a professional. Any opportunity to get family photos especially of different sides should be welcomed.
Will you help us pose?
Of course. That's part of the job. I additionally would coach you through the process to make you comfortable as soon as possible. So this way the photos would look more natural and you guys are actually having fun while we're taking photos.
photos and delivery
How many photos will we receive?
It really depends on how many hours you'll have me for. But honestly, in my experience if the couple is having fun and it's very comfortable while they have a Phtohographer around them, they will get a lot of really good photos. Ultimately it boils down to not really the quantity but the quality of each moment captured. If we were to talk numbers a good rule of thumb would be around 30 to 50 photos an hour.
When will we receive our gallery?
Calories are usually delivered anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks. The busy season is very different from the slow season. The size of the wedding also affects how long it'll take to process the pictures and upload them to the gallery.
Can we download high-resolution images?
Yes you'll be able to download high resolution photos and also web optimized photos. Great for sharing online.
Will our photos be edited?
Yes. I do go through all the photos to make sure that they are acceptable and quality. Both in lighting exposure temperature and composition. I do reserve a certain amount of photos from the photo shoot that I spent extra time on. These are our highlight photos. This is where I will apply the signature look that you'll find on my portfolio and social media. This will look a little different from the general gallery.
Do you remove blemishes?
From time to time I do accept editing or Photoshop of certain things. But it's not usually something that I offer. Especially if there's a giant volume of photos. But just ask, don't worry we can always accommodate requests.
How long do you keep our photos?
Before I archive them I usually have the gallery up for a little over a year. In archive usually five years is when I start deleting some of the larger albums. After that I will be left with a handful of photos from your day that is going to be included in my wedding collection folder. This is what I use for marketing photos and showcasing to future couples.
Can we order albums later?
Yes, I use Pic-time to host my galleries. And you are also able to download photos from that gallery and order Prince enlargements and Photo books.
What is the same day edit slideshow?
It is a unique product that we offer that allows us to showcase key photos from the day on a slideshow that we will show during the reception. Its an amazing surprise for guests and family. They love seeing themselves on a video before they even left the party.
Las Vegas Weddings
Do we need a marriage license?
Yes! Especially if you are getting married to each other for their first time. You may apply for a marriage license at the Clark County marriage license bureau. They have a fee that you'll have to pay and when you pick it up they will need both parties to be there with government ID's present. If you are just renewing your vows, you don't need to get a marriage license. If you plan to just do a commitment Ceremony, you don't need a marriage license. The efficient or the wedding Chapel will explain to you that the commitment ceremony is not a legal binding marriage rather just a ceremony between two people that's not recognized by the government through a marriage license.
Where do we get a marriage license?
You may go in person to the Clark County marriage license Bureau on 201 Clark St. That's in downtown Las Vegas. They're open seven days a week 365 days a year. From 8 AM to midnight. You can pay via credit card or cash. But you will need to bring your government issued ID and both parties need to be present. You may also apply online for your marriage license. But you still will need to pick it up in person when you get into Las Vegas BEFORE your scheduled ceremony.
Can we get married the same day?
Yes. You can get your license and also get married in the same day. There is no waiting. In the state of Nevada or blood test tests.
What are the best wedding chapels?
This is a very tricky question since I have very good relationships with many of the chapels here in Las Vegas. But if you were to ask me for a top three then it will be, in no order, The Little White Chapel, The Chapel Of Flowers, and The Little Church of the West. These three are the OG wedding Chapel and have the most history behind them. They probably comprise of the largest share of weddings held in Las Vegas Vegas as well. Other favorites are A Sure Thing Wedding Chapel and The Flamingo Hotel Wedding Chapel. And for a less traditional venue I really love the Neon museum.
Full transparency: I used to work at both the Little White Chapel and the Chapel of Flowers. I was the Head photographer at Little White and one of the Lead Photographers at Flowers.
For venues Off the Strip, I recommend The Doyle, in downtown Las Vegas. Adorn at the Dell and A Simple Affair are also great places to book for larger weddings and receptions.
Full transparency: I used to work at both the Little White Chapel and the Chapel of Flowers. I was the Head photographer at Little White and one of the Lead Photographers at Flowers.
For venues Off the Strip, I recommend The Doyle, in downtown Las Vegas. Adorn at the Dell and A Simple Affair are also great places to book for larger weddings and receptions.
What are the best outdoor locations?
My top outdoor wedding locations are:
- Red Rock Canyon
- Valley of Fire
- Bellagio Fountains (On Las Vegas Boulevard)
- The Nelson Ghost Town
- Dry Lake Beds
Can we take photos on the Strip?
Absolutely! That's what it's all about. The picture ask landscape of Las Vegas Blvd. with all the lights and the buildings offer a unique and amazing way to get beautiful wedding photo taken. A lot of my photo shoots on the strip almost feels like a tour of it. I do have many different locations that I take my couples too. One also has to understand that the trip isn't ever evolving place. Some places are good for a time and some places go away after some time. So I always recommend to consult with your Phtohographer for any updated locations. There are also events that affect availability when taking photos on the strip in downtown. So I always recommend talking about that with your Phtohographer.
Do we need permits at Red Rock?
Officially, and for the record, yes you do need a permit to do weddings at Red Rock Canyon. There are certain locations where you can take photos with Red Rock Canyon as your background. Discuss with your phototgrapher.
Can we photograph at the Bellagio fountains?
Taking photos on public streets with the Bellagio and the fountains in the background is completely legal. And you will not need a permit. There are certain places in and around Casino property where photography is not allowed. And there might be a chance that security will ask us to stop and leave the premises. I always recommend that you discuss plans with your Photographer. So you will have backup plans and set expectations.
What are the best months for a Las Vegas wedding?
Weddings happen in Vegas all year round. However the hottest months are in the summer. Between July and September is when we typically experience temperature succeeding or hovering around 100°F. So if you're not comfortable with this, I suggest you have a conversation with your photographer so you can plan your shoot even if it's hot and still have fun and be comfortable.
How hot is it during the summer?
It gets very hot during the summer. It is a dry heat, as locals would say. But it can hover around 100°F or more. So planning accordingly and preparing is essential.
What happens if it's windy?
It can't get super windy here in Las Vegas. Guests have gone up to 50 miles an hour. And normally that's not suitable for photography. The good news is a highly experienced photographer will be able to have backup locations for photos just in case this is the situation and we are not able to move our time or date.
Are you a photographer for the little white chapel?
As of July 2026, The Little White Chapel allows outside photographers to operate in and around the chapel and during the ceremony. They do have rules that photographers have to follow.
I personally have worked at the Little White over 15 years ago. I was their head photographer until 2013. I was with the Little White for almost five years. Since leaving the Little White, I've gone back as an officiant in summer of 2017. I got my feet wet in the officiant space and really loved it. After that year, I've always brought couples back to the Little White more than a couple of times a month for almost 10 years now as their outside photographer. I've kept a good relationship with the Little White Management and staff. My dad Wally, is actually one of the officiants there.
I personally have worked at the Little White over 15 years ago. I was their head photographer until 2013. I was with the Little White for almost five years. Since leaving the Little White, I've gone back as an officiant in summer of 2017. I got my feet wet in the officiant space and really loved it. After that year, I've always brought couples back to the Little White more than a couple of times a month for almost 10 years now as their outside photographer. I've kept a good relationship with the Little White Management and staff. My dad Wally, is actually one of the officiants there.
Destination Weddings
We've never been to Las Vegas. Can you help?
Yes of course! I love being an ambassador for my city. I've been here in Las Vegas for almost 20 years. And have been a professional photographer for 18 of those years. I highly encourage all my couples and potential clients to lean on my experience.
Can you recommend hotels?
I can. Depending on how you want to design your day, there are many different choices and locations to choose from.
Can you recommend restaurants?
I do have my favorites. But there are some that I would recommend over others depending on how you have your day planned.
What other vendors can you recommend?
I've work with many different vendors and there are many who I keep working with overtime. I have Videographer recommendations DJ recommendations florist and venue recommendations and even Limo recommendations.
Engagement Sessions
Should we do an engagement session?
Absolutely. I always recommend this is possible because this is when we are able to work together first before the big day. In my experience doing an engagement shoot helps a couple learn how to work with a photographer. That also gives him the confidence to know that they will look good in their pictures for the wedding day.
Where should we take engagement photos?
The possibilities are endless! If Vegas is a destination wedding for you, photos on the Strip and Downtown will be great to get your family, friends and guests excited about the trip. If you would prefer something not vegasy, theres always Red Rock, Mt Charleson, Valley of Fire and many other locations around town.
What should we wear?
Engagement sessions are different. This is is where you can let your hair down and wear something casual. Your sunday best is also a good choice - but it has to show your fun side to juxtapose it from the formal photos you will be taking during the wedding.
Should we bring our dogs?
YES.
What time of day is best?
Trick question. Any time is best. I can make you look amazing anytime of the day - however, if I can pick, its best when the sun is lower on the horizon and its softer on the surroundings and shadows.
Families & Guests
Can you photograph large family groups?
Yes of course. The bigger the better. I typically start with every family member and friend that you want included in the photo. This way, I can also thank them for being there and give them any additional instructions and what to expect after this photo is taken. This allows me to keep things somewhat organized and orderly.
Can children participate?
Yes. I don't mind if you don't mind. I'm pretty good with kids and have some magic tricks up my sleeve to get their attention. I'm somewhat of a dork that way.
How do you organize family portraits?
This starts as early as the first consult. I usually remind my couples to make a list of the groups they want. I usually start with the biggest group photo. Typically all the members from both sides of the aisle. Then we go down one side and then the other.
How much time should we allow?
Family photos can be anywhere from 10-30 minutes depending on the size and number of groupings. Sometimes, if we have time, we open it up for requests from the rest of the guests.
Image Rights
Can we print our own photos?
Yes. The contract we have and the use rights thats included allows you to print your own photos. You can even order the photos directly from the gallery your photos will be delivered in.
Will we receive printing rights?
Yes, it is included in all my shoot packages.
Can vendors use our photos?
Vendors involved in the wedding typically ask for photos to be shared. I normally ask you, my client, first if you're ok with it. After that, I can create a vendor gallery with photos that they can use.
Can we share them on social media?
Absolutely. I would also appreciate it if @lifeinvegasphotography is tagged and mentioned on the posts.
About Life In Vegas Photography
How many weddings have you photographed?
I am not exaggerating when I say I've shot over 10,000 couples. I have worked at two of the busiest wedding chapels from 2008-2017 and the average wedding I shoot during a shift is six weddings. I've also shot hundreds of weddings and elopements after my time with the chapels and also hundreds of larger local weddings in and around Las Vegas. So my number is quite up there.
How long have you been photographing weddings?
Ive been shooting weddings almost 20 years now. I still enjoy shooting weddings up to now. I know I'm getting up there - but I wont stop any time soon. Slow down, maybe, but Im still very good at it. So I will keep going.
Why do couples choose you?
Most couples when they reach out, they do mention my work, the look of my photos and how they look natural and fun. I have a formula that I always share with my couples as early as the first consult. I share with them that taking good photos is the easy part. A big part of my job is making them comfortable in front of the camera. So thats where much of that work is done. Couples who want to hire me need someone who is highly experienced and mature in the work. If they are spending a lot of money on a wedding, then they want someone who's got the track record, experience and demeanor to deal with the high stakes day of the wedding. Most reviews also mention that Im easy to work with and I can be funny.
What camera equipment do you use?
I've always used Nikon in my career and have stuck with them with the ebbing and flowing of the market. It's mainly because of the investment I've had in its lenses and the relationship that I've kept with Nikon Professional Services. The people who I run into during trade shows and conferences have always made me feel part of the Nikon family. I also have never had to send my cameras back for repair and service that much. So as far as Im concerned, I have full faith and trust in my gear. My equipment is almost all digital and mirrorless. My lenses include telephoto lenses, zoom and prime lenses and specialized lenses the highest quality results.
Are you insured?
Yes. I have always kept a general liability insurance as required be many if not most of the venues, properties and locations in town,
Do you have backup cameras?
Always.
What happens if you get sick?
Knock on wood - I have never had to not shoot a wedding because I've gotten sick. In my experience, since most weddings are scheduled ahead of time, I am able to see ahead of time if I need to do something to be prepared for a wedding. If I do need to be replaced because I am unable to shoot it, I will discuss it with the couple first and make sure that my replacement photographer is someone I would trust to shoot my own wedding.
Have you earned any awards as a photographer?
Yes, I have consistently been voted as The Knots Best of Wedding eventually leading to winning The Knots Hall Of Fame.
what should we (the couple) should know about Jab buhay?