Next up in our Meet the Photographers series is the one and only Meredith Benton of Meredith Benton Photography. Meredith's stunning work has been featured in publications such as our very own Arkansas Bride and she's been sought after photograph weddings all across the South.
Before she became a full-time photographer in 2017, Meredith worked as a registered nurse working in pediatric mental health. Even though she's a full-time photog now, she still works as a nurse one day a week because she says she just loves it too much.
We sat down with Meredith to talk all things inspiration, her advice for brides-to-be and her passion for The Project Zero.
How would you describe your photography style?
I would describe my photography style as bright, joyful, genuine and timeless.
What are must-have moments you make sure to capture at each wedding?
I always prioritize capturing interactions between the bride and groom and their relatives. I just think weddings are such a sweet time for families, and I know that my clients treasure photos of those they love most on their big day. Moments like the mother of the bride zipping up her daughter’s dress and the father of the groom adjusting his son’s tie are must-haves for me.
What do you love about being a wedding photographer?
I adore developing lasting relationships with my clients. It is such a privileged position to be invited into the most intimate moments of their wedding day. It’s crazy how, when it’s all said and done, I feel like I’ve somehow become part of the family!
What’s your favorite part of the wedding day?
Oh, goodness. This is such a hard question! The honest truth is… I love SO many parts! The joy, the breathtaking details, the tears, the groom’s first glance of his blushing bride, the dances with daddy… it’s just all so good!
What price points can brides expect?
My brides typically spend somewhere between $3,800-$4,500.
What piece of advice would you give to brides on their big day?
Resist the urge to sweat the small stuff! This will likely be one of the most cherished days of your life, and in 5 or 10 years, you won’t care if your flowers weren’t just right or your dress had a tiny spot on the bottom. You’ll want to look back on this day and remember being overwhelmed with JOY, not frustration.
When you’re not shooting weddings, what do you like to do with your spare time?
When I’m not shooting weddings, one of my favorite ways to fill my time is by [photographing] foster kids. I’m a volunteer photographer for an incredible organization called The Project Zero. They raise awareness for waiting children in the state of Arkansas, and I have the honor of capturing the sweet faces of amazing young people who hope to be matched with a forever family.
How do you like to unwind after a busy wedding weekend?
My typical post-wedding routine is nap, snack, snuggle with my mini Goldendoodle, Millie, repeat!
