Booking Process
Simple steps to book your photography session
How to Book Your Photography Session
Our booking process is straightforward and transparent. Here's what to expect from your first inquiry to booking confirmation.
Our 6-Step Process
Step 1: Inquiry
Start by contacting us via email, WeChat: Love_Journal, WhatsApp, Instagram message, or visit our studio. Please provide:
- Your names and contact details
- Preferred photo date
- Type of photography service (wedding or pre-wedding)
- Your preferred package
We will check our availability and suggest suitable packages for you.
Step 2: Booking
When you decide to proceed:
- We create your booking file
- You pay the deposit to secure your date
- You decide on the photo date and package
Once the deposit is received, your date is officially booked.
Step 3: Photo Schedule
7-10 days before your photo shoot, we will send you:
- Detailed schedule of your photo shoot
- Location details and directions
- Preparation tips and checklist
- Information about gowns selection and makeup timing
Step 4: Photo Day
On the day of your photo shoot:
- Visit our studio for gowns selection
- Professional makeup service
- One-on-one photography service
- Our team will guide you through poses and moments
Step 5: Photo Selection
After your photo shoot:
- Proof photos: Delivered within 3-5 days
- Fine edited photos: Delivered within 25-30 days
You will receive an online gallery to view and download your images.
Step 6: Album / Enlargement
If you have ordered albums or enlargements:
- Album production: 6-9 weeks from your selection
- Fine art enlargement: 3-5 working days
When to Book
We recommend the following lead times to secure your preferred date:
| Service Type | Recommended Booking Time | Peak Season |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding Photography | 6-9 months before | September - May |
| Pre-Wedding Photography | 2-3 months before | September - May |
| Commercial/Portrait | 2-4 weeks before | Flexible |
What's Included When You Book
- Professional photographer: Experienced, award-winning photographer(s)
- High-quality images: 60+ edited digital images per hour of coverage
- Online gallery: Private gallery for viewing and downloading
- Backup equipment: Professional-grade cameras and lighting
- Travel: Within Melbourne metropolitan area (additional fees may apply for locations beyond)
- Timeline planning: Detailed shot list and schedule coordination
Payment Information
Payment Structure
- Deposit: 20% due upon booking to secure your date
- Wedding Photography: 80% balance paid 7 days before the photo shoot
- Pre-Wedding Photography: 80% balance paid on the photo day
Payment Methods
- Bank transfer
- Cash
Tips for Your Photo Shoot
Weather Condition
If the forecasted weather for your day is not ideal, we will contact you 1-3 days before the photo shoot and work with you to reschedule to the nearest available day.
For Groom
- Wash your hair and cut/clean nails on the morning of photo day
- Shave or style mustache on the morning of photo day
- Bring black/white socks
- Bring dark colour leather shoes, belt, and sunglasses
For Bride
- Get a manicure at a beauty salon 3 days before
- Shave hair off any exposed skin 3 days before
- Use moisture mask and wash your hair the night before photography day
- Bring nubra (adhesive bra)
- Bring white undergarments
- Bring light colour stilettos and runner (slippers) for the day
Photography Day
Don't be late on the photo day. Punctuality ensures we capture all planned moments.
Ready to Book?
We'd love to hear about your photography needs. Get in touch to start the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking wedding photography 6-9 months before your wedding date. Pre-wedding photography should be booked 2-3 months in advance. Peak season is September to May, so earlier booking is recommended.
What happens after I submit an inquiry?
We will check our availability and suggest suitable packages. Once you decide to proceed, we will create a booking file and collect the deposit to secure your date.
How do I secure my date?
To secure your date, we require a 20% deposit payment. For wedding photography, the remaining 80% is paid 7 days before the photo shoot. For pre-wedding photography, the 80% balance is paid on the photo day.
Can I meet the photographer before booking?
Yes, we welcome you to visit our studio or contact us via email, WeChat: Love_Journal, WhatsApp, or Instagram to discuss your requirements before booking.
What if I need to change my date?
For pre-wedding photography, you can reschedule for free with at least 48 hours notice. For wedding photography, you can reschedule for free with at least 30 days notice.
What should I bring on the photo day?
We will send you a detailed checklist 7-10 days before your shoot. Generally, grooms should bring dark socks, shoes, belt, and sunglasses. Brides should bring nubra, white undergarments, stilettos, and slippers.
Service Consultant
If you need any future information, contact us at:
service@lovejournalphotography.com.au