Wedding Photography FAQs St. Charles & Chicago
Frquently asked questions
Do you have experience shooting at my venue?
Yes! Over the last 20 years, I’ve photographed hundreds of weddings at a wide variety of venues, including:
Blackstone Hotel, Drake Hotel, Hotel Baker, Rookery, Monte Bello Estate, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, University Club of Chicago, Peninsula Hotel, DC Winery, City Winery, private estates, and backyard weddings. I also shoot destination locations and have gone as far as Italy, Dominican Republic, and coast to coast in the United States.
No matter the location, I scout every venue in advance and adapt to the lighting, space, and flow to ensure everything is captured flawlessly. With decades of experience, I know how to make any space work beautifully for your story.
What is your editing and post-processing like?
Every image is meticulously backed up twice in-camera with dual memory cards, and then again the night of your wedding. Each photo is individually reviewed and hand-edited for accurate color, lighting, and detail.
I do not use AI, presets, or filters—the goal is to honor the moment as it happened. If you ever want adjustments, I’m happy to refine them further.
No batch processing, no shortcuts—every single image is individually crafted for a final, outstanding result.
Do you guarantee you will be the photographer at my wedding?
Yes! I, Joe Nowak, personally photograph every wedding, accompanied by a highly skilled second shooter of my choice. You will never receive a substitute. Your wedding is too important to entrust to anyone else, and that's why you're here!
What happens if you’re sick or something unexpected occurs?
Emergencies are rare, but I am prepared. I have a trusted network of professional photographers I work with in the unlikely event something happens. To give you peace of mind, I’ve photographed weddings with a dislocated knee and even a broken hand—and delivered exceptional results. I will be there for your wedding.
What kind of equipment do you use?
Canon all the way. I shoot professional Canon camera bodies, lenses, and flashes, with full backup for every piece of equipment. I also bring a mobile studio for on-site setups, ensuring every shot is possible.
When will I see my images?
You’ll receive next-day selects to view and share with friends and family. Your full, fully edited gallery will be delivered within three weeks.
How do I get my images?
All images are available to download and print directly from your private gallery. You can order prints, create albums, or use any print lab of your choice. However, I highly recommend the one through your gallery to match the outstanding quality of your photos. You’ll also receive a custom USB drive with all of your files, delivered right to your door.
