Cara Bartelme Portrait Design

We have gotten to know so many of our wonderful photographers in this series, and now we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Kristen Gann from Kristen Gann Photography. Kristen photographed her first wedding in 2010, and in 2016, she devoted herself to the profession full time.

Here's a little peek into the life of Kristen.

What did you do before?

I attended school while waiting tables, managing a restaurant, honing my skills by second shooting and photographing weddings during the summer.

How would you describe your photography style?

My formal education background is in journalism, fine art and documentary filmmaking. I love storytelling through visual images, and I love to capture life as it happens. My style is natural, joyful and bright.

What do you love about being a wedding photographer?

The friendships I've made, being around happy people in love. Being a wedding photographer is so much more than just showing up on the day of and doing a job. I love the challenges and inspiration of various lighting situations and new settings. It allows for a lot of creativity, and it is never boring. It's also an incredibly personal and beautiful experience  my couples and their families treat me like family. I'm a total sap and a romantic at heart. There's a lot of bad in the world, but it makes my soul happy that real love still lives. I still get choked up at every wedding.

What's your favorite part of photographing a wedding?

That moment when the couple forgets about all the butterflies, the stress, and realizes "we did it!" Throughout the wedding planning process, the engagement session, the bridals, I really get to know my couples and their loved ones. It's amazing to get to be part of one of the most joyful days of their lives. I love seeing all the planning come to fruition and documenting all those gorgeous moments and details.

What price points can brides expect?

Most of my couples spend between $2,000-$3,500 on their wedding day photography, custom art, albums and framed prints for their homes.

What's one piece of advice you like to give brides on their big day?

Delegate! Seriously, outsource all day-of duties to your bossiest family member/friend or wedding planner. You want to spend the day enjoying yourself, not being stressed by having to make a thousand decisions. Also, one of those battery operated fans is pretty handy for Arkansas weddings!

When you're not shooting weddings, what do you like to do with your spare time?

I love traveling, kayaking, playing the ukulele, creating and spending time with friends. I am an artist, and I have about a million hobbies, so I'm always into something.

What's your favorite way to unwind after a busy wedding weekend?

I'm gonna crack open a good book or graphic novel, a beer, and give my dog head scritches while those pictures are uploading.

To see more of Kristen Gann on Arkansas Bride, click here!