FAQ

ABOUT

Stacey and Brandon Poirier, a dynamic husband and wife team, are the creative forces behind Poirier Wedding Photography, a renowned photography and videography company specializing in capturing beautiful moments of love and joy on couples' special day. With over 10 years of invaluable experience in the wedding industry, they have built an exceptional reputation for their exceptional skills and unparalleled commitment to excellence.

Based in South Florida, Stacey and Brandon have also expanded their services to include the picturesque landscapes of the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and the vibrant city of Nashville. Their ability to adapt to diverse settings and capture the unique essence of each location sets them apart as versatile and highly sought-after photographers.

With an impressive portfolio of over 500 weddings, Stacey and Brandon have honed their craft to perfection. Their passion for photography shines through in every shot, ensuring that each couple's love story is authentically documented. They possess an innate ability to capture candid moments filled with raw emotion, as well as skillfully orchestrate stunningly composed shots that will be cherished for generations to come.

Stacey and Brandon understand that a wedding day is one of the most significant events in a couple's life. They approach each project with meticulous attention to detail, taking the time to understand their clients' vision and desires. Their friendly and personable nature puts couples at ease, allowing them to relax and be themselves, resulting in truly natural and captivating photographs and videos.

Poirier Wedding Photography's commitment to excellence extends beyond their artistic skills. They pride themselves on providing a seamless and stress-free experience for their clients. From the initial consultation to the final delivery of the meticulously edited photographs and films, Stacey and Brandon ensure exceptional professionalism and a personalized touch at every step of the process.

If you are seeking the best in the wedding industry, look no further than Stacey and Brandon Poirier of Poirier Wedding Photography. Their talent, expertise, and unwavering dedication to capturing your love story in the most beautiful way possible make them the perfect choice to document your cherished wedding memories, whether in South Florida, the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, or the vibrant city of Nashville.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you expect from Poirier Wedding Photography + Films? Wedding photography + films that look like art but feel like you.

You can expect photos that look like you. As an expert with over 10 years of wedding experience, we can anticipate interactions to capture natural emotions. During portraits, we’re prompt and direct in posing so you feel comfortable and look like the best version of yourself. We know when to step in and direct for incredible photos and when to step back and capture the true emotion.

A custom wedding day timeline to ensure your day runs smoothly. We offer a hands on approach to creating your perfect wedding day timeline.

We want you to be fully present with your loved ones on your wedding day knowing that you have your own subtle paparazzi (The Poirier’s) that will blend in with your guest to capture the real emotion of your day so you can relive those timeless memories for years to come.

What primary photographic style do you identify with? Our style is a fusion of photojournalistic along with a modern casually posed flair. We approach each wedding as a love story waiting to be captured. We believe in preserving all the beautiful details of your wedding to complete your story. We love to photograph everyone having the time of their lives celebrating your love as a married couple. Real reaction and real emotions are what we strive to capture. We also understand there is a time during the day to direct and lightly pose you both, along with the family for those must have family formals. We would not want any upset parents and we stay true to the immediate family portraits; that we all have come to love over the years. Our images are fun, authentic and timeless.

Do you have experience shooting in various lighting situations? Yes, we are skilled photographers and can work in all types of lighting situations. Whether rain or shine, day or night a wedding must go on and we pride ourselves in the ability to capture amazing images regardless of the elements presented to us. We love natural light photography but what do you do when there is no light. As wedding photographers, we need to be fully prepared to work in any type of lighting condition because you never know what you may encounter on the wedding day. Therefore we are considered full-gear wedding photographers meaning we will bring all the proper equipment to each event we photograph. Do not make the mistake and just trust any photographer for your wedding day. Choose an experienced and equipped photographer because you only get one shot to capture your wedding day. Make sure to visit our blog to view our most recent work: http://blog.poirierweddingphotography.com

How long have your been a wedding photographer? We began our wedding adventure in 2010 and over the last 9 years we have had the honor of photographing over 450 weddings. Our wedding experience is priceless. We approach each wedding with advanced technical know-how and we are able to individualize our approach to ensure we capture your wedding story that is unique to you.

Can we see an entire wedding from start to finish? Absolutely! This is one of the most important things you can ask your photographer. Wedding photographers need to work fast and be able to shoot in any type of lighting situation. We are seasoned, experienced wedding photographers and know the ins and outs of the unpredictable moment driven nature of weddings. We love it and are happy to showcase any love story you would like to see.

Who will be photographing my wedding? The photographers are always either Stacey or Brandon Poirier.

Do you offer video? New adventures for the Poiriers! We are pleased to announce that our team now offers video. Over the years during our wedding adventures, we have discovered that weddings are fast paced with lots of emotions at every turn. You plan your wedding many months and sometimes years in advance and before you know it, the day is over in a blink of an eye. Our goal at Poirier Wedding Photography + Films, is to make sure you enjoy every moment while in the moment. We believe your wedding is an intimate celebration with your family and friends, and should not be a production with a large team pulling you in all different directions to capture the moment or make you repeat the moment for the camera. Our team works flawlessly together to beautifully capture your day without being obtrusive or competing for the shot. Visit our website: https://www.palmbeachweddingfilms.com

What do the wedding collections include? Our wedding collections are la carte, which gives you the freedom to custom design the collection that will best suit your needs.

Do you provide the digital files to the client? The high-resolution files (the digital equivalent of negatives) are included with all wedding coverage. The files are delivered via a private online gallery that is viewable worldwide and compatible with PC's, MAC and smartphones. From the gallery you are able to download directly to your computer.

How many images will we receive? Most couples receive about 700 to 1000 images. We do remove duplicates, test shots, images with eyes closed ect...

Do you have liability insurance? Yes, we do and we will be happy to provide your venue with a proof of coverage if needed.

Do you Travel? We do! We are based in Nashville Tennessee and Palm Beach, FL. Although many of our weddings are in Florida and Tennessee, we love to travel wherever you would like to take us. We have photographed weddings in Maine, Cape Cod, The Bahamas, The Keys, and our most favorite magical location Disney World Wedding Pavilion. Please contact Stacey for more details.

Have you photographed at my venue? We have photographed at many venues over the past 9 years so there is a good chance we have. However, if not, we always arrive extra early on your wedding day to do a walk through to find the best locations based on backdrop and lighting. We also research your venue online prior to your wedding day.

Do you travel to meet clients? Due to our busy wedding schedule, I am unable to travel to meet with clients. If you would like to set up a meeting, I am available for a video chat and/or phone call. Please text me at (561) 801- 3201 or email me a time that is best for you. I am looking forward to discussing all of your wedding details.

What kind of equipment do you typically bring with you on the day-of? We carry over $20,000 in professional Sony digital camera equipment to every event we photograph. We use all Sony camera bodies and carry a full line of Sony professional lenses. Too many to list! We are full-gear wedding photographers and bring all the proper lighting to skillfully document your wedding. We have multiple lenses and camera bodies as back ups in case of a malfunction.

Are you available to shoot extra hours? Of course, we are. All wedding coverage begins with 8 hours. This coverage fits us best to properly capture your wedding and not miss any priceless moments. We offer a hands-on approach to photography and work with you very closely to design a perfect schedule for your wedding day. If more wedding day coverage is needed we will be happy to add it on for an additional fee.

Can you hold the date for me? I am sorry but we can not hold the date or pencil you in without a non-refundable retainer and a signed contract. This is to ensure we are fair to everyone. We accept bookings on a first come-first served basis.

How do I save my wedding date with Poirier Wedding Photography? Once you have decided on the right collection for your wedding day. I will send you the contract. The total contract amount is broken into three payments. The first is due with the contract, the second is due 60 days before your wedding day, and the final payment is due about a week before your wedding. This fully secures your wedding date with Poirier Wedding Photography. In the event the wedding is canceled, the retainer and all monies paid are non-refundable because once we have a signed contract we do not accept any other commissions for your wedding date.

Do you photoshop the images? We develop and edit every image so they are print ready once you receive your online gallery link. Your images are hand developed for color, contrast, and vibrancy. We want each image to be timeless and we stay true to the colors and lighting on your wedding day. Your images should spark a beautiful memory from your wedding and bring you back to that same feeling for years to come. We do not photo-shop images in terms of removing items from an image or skin softening. We are not photo shop photographers. We capture images and document your wedding the best we can in camera. If you have any special photoshop requests there is an additional fee.

Can I send you photos from Pinterest or any other websites? We prefer not. The only photo list we work from is for the family photos. We approach each wedding photographically as it naturally unfolds. We will miss too many priceless and unique moments if we are photographing from a list. We do not copy other photographers work. The photos you will receive on your wedding day will be consistent with our portfolio. Please visit our blog to view our most recent work.

Do you require that the client provide your meal? We are so grateful when our clients feed us. This ensures we stay alert, happy, and do not get weak and tired from hunger. We prefer to be feed while you are eating and not after, because once you are finished the party continues and we do not want to miss any moment. Plus, you are not your most photogenic while eating.

Do you reserve the right to publish the photos? Yes, for promotional purposes we may feature your wedding on our blog or the business social media. The links can be found on our website. We are respectful with the images we select to feature. As the artist, we do hold the copyright because we are the creators of the images. We do include a release with the high-resolution files. This will give you permission to make reprints by any lab you prefer to use. The release will give you the ability to share your images with whoever you choose as well.

Do you blog every wedding and engagement session? We would love to showcase every wedding and engagement shoot on our blog, but due to our high volume it just is not possible.

Do we need a wedding album and what kind of albums do you offer? There is something about holding a photograph in your hands. It connects you physically to the feelings of a time and place that an image on a screen cannot. Your wedding album is important because it is a tangible link to your wedding day. Yes, digital files are a must have but a beautifully hand crafted album is a permanent heirloom you will enjoy and pass down. You will cherish it more and more with each passing year. We carry top of the line handcrafted Italian wedding albums with options of covers, paper, and coordinating accessories for you to choose from.

What do you do for photos if it rains on our wedding day? First, we grab the umbrella to capture some really cool images of you both. Then we search for a location inside your venue that will make for a beautiful backdrop for your wedding images.

As self proclaimed National Park Nerds! We are proud to announce that we are authorized wedding and engagement photographers for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Let the great outdoors adventures begin! For more details visit our on Smoky Mountain website: https://www.smokymountainweddingphotographer.com

The Wedding Experience

The Wedding Experience

Hello Bride-to-be and Welcome! This is such an exciting time for you! I’m sure your mind is racing with all that needs to be planned. It’s all very exciting but it can also be somewhat overwhelming. You’re planning the day that you’ve been anticipating your whole life and yet you only get one shot at it! By the time you get the hang of it, the planning is over! My goal as your wedding photographer is to make this one aspect of the planning process simple. Photography is more than just images, it’s a real part of your day. Not only do you deserve beautiful images, you also deserve an amazing photographic experience. The goal of the Q+A below is to help clear up any possible questions you may have, and to help you plan your wedding day in a way that will allow me to provide you with the BEST experience possible. Here’s to an amazing time of planning and excitement!!!

When should I hire my wedding photographer? The best time to book a photographer is right after you book your venue. You want to get comfortable with your photographer and allow time to have a conversation about your vision and specific needs for your photography. When you hire a professional photographer for your wedding you are not only hiring someone to take pretty pictures but also a person who is a storyteller. A professional photographer takes the time to really listen to you and your love story.

Do I need an engagement shoot? Most people aren’t used to being photographed professionally so this is a wonderful opportunity for the bride and groom to get comfortable in front of a camera. Think of this as a trial run with the end result being gorgeous photographs of the two of you leading up to your big day. This is also a fantastic time to do a test run for hair and makeup. Your engagement session can be scheduled anytime before your wedding day. I normally suggest booking at least 3- 6 months in advance to avoid stress. Because our weekends are filled with weddings, I shoot engagements on weekday evenings normally 5-7pm depending on the light and time of year. In the winter months, 3-5pm is a normal time frame.

What type of room would you recommend for getting ready photos? A room with a window that allows in natural light. By having just one window in the bridal prep area, we are able to create beautiful portraits with soft light. We prefer natural light so the more the windows, the better!

Do I need the wedding rings with me during bridal prep? The most common detail missing when I arrive are the rings! Moms, officiants and planners will tell you to hand over your wedding bands to the best man before the day begins. However, it’s actually better to hand it over during the bridal party portraits so that I can shoot some great ring shots during bridal prep. If you forget, no worries, I can always shoot the ring shot at the reception if there is extra time!

Do I need any other details while I get ready? Sometimes, depending on the theme and “look” of the wedding day, there may be some extra elements that you could include when you gather your details. For eample, if you’re having a country themed wedding, you could include a piece of burlap or lace. If you’re having a rustic themed wedding that includes some wooden elements, maybe save a small piece of wood for me to use when I’m shooting your rings and jewelry. This REALLY makes for beautiful, consistent album spreads!

When should my flowers be delivered? Have the bouquets and boutonnières delivered to the bride + groom before the first look so that they will have their flowers for photos. No worries, if it’s hot, we’ll be sure to keep it in water as much as possible before the ceremony!

What time should the ceremony start for the best lighting? Ceremony lighting is really important. I suggest planning an outdoor ceremony 2 hours before sunset if you are having a FIRST LOOK. If you are not interested in sharing a first look, then I would suggest having your ceremony 3 hours before sunset to ensure that you will have plenty of time for all of your portraits afterwards. If you are having an indoor ceremony, it is always best to have EVEN lighting at the altar.

Should we do a First Look? First Looks allow you to be TOGETHER and alone on your wedding day. When you both see each other, not only is it intimate, it is your only time to be alone… the whole day! You will cry and laugh and cry some more… and that puts you in the PERFECT mood for romantic portraits. Normally portraits are a little rushed after the family formals and it can be hard to really get back into that “lovey dovey” mode…. especially with family around! When you have just shared your first look, you’re READY to love on each other and we always capture some super sweet images during those moments! Most brides don’t realize that when you come down the aisle and totally SHOCK him with your gorgeous-ness… he can’t even tell you how amazing you look. He can’t touch you, embrace you or even SPEAK to you. You have to wait until 40 minutes later when the ceremony is over for him to react and tell you how amazing you look. And after 40 minutes of the ceremony, the reaction isn’t the same as the initial first glance. Also, you get rid of the nerves. I’d say, literally 1/2 of our couples who have done a first look, the grooms were not fans of it at first. However, because they have never experienced their wedding day before, they didn’t know how nerve racking it can be. I have testimonials from so many grooms that initially weren’t a fan of the first look... but afterwards admitted to being SO much more relaxed and ready for the ceremony!

How do I plan the reception? Much like the ceremony, you have the freedom to make your reception your own! It’s your party, it should be exactly how you want it to be! Here is a list of some key events that happen often at receptions:

- First Dance - Father|Daughter Dance - Mother|Son Dance - Traditional Religious Dances - Welcome by Father of the Bride - Blessing - Cake Cutting - Toasts - Bouquet and Garter Toss - Large group portraits with friends - The exit of the Bride and Groom

Make it your own! If you want to have a special dance with your grandparents, do it! Make your reception a reflection of who you are and don’t feel tied to traditions. The fun has begun! It’s time to relax, dance and celebrate!! Your reception will be a BLAST! Your coordinator and DJ should take care of making sure that everything stays on schedule so that you can enjoy your night.

Enjoy this season of planning but also remember that your MARRIAGE is more important than the wedding. The wedding will come and go in a matter of hours but your marriage needs to stand the test of time. Continue to make time for one another, even with all that needs to get done. As you continue to plan, please feel free to contact me with ANY questions you may have along the way! Depending on your date, our next step would be to finalize an engagement session date! Also, as your wedding photographer, we will help you in creating your wedding day timeline. With over 10 years of experience we can guide you through the process. So, about 60 days before the wedding, you’ll receive an online questionnaire that will provide me with everything I need to know for your big day to create your timeline!! I hope some of these tips have been helpful as you continue to plan and prepare for your wedding day! With love, Stacey

Elopement in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Tips for planning your Smoky Mountain Elopement

Create the wedding of your dreams that truly reflects who you are. By eloping you are free to focus on each other and celebrate your love. Your elopement can be just the two of you or you can bring a few family and friends and still call it an elopement. Our focus at Poirier Wedding Photography is about the two of you and your adventurous wedding experience. To start your wedding adventure contact Stacey at poirierphotography@yahoo.com Nashville: (615) 992-0914 or Palm Beach: (561) 801-3201

What is needed to get started in planning your elopement in the Smoky Mountain National Park:

Wedding Permits: You must obtain a Special Use Permit from the park for your ceremony and time. Visit the Smoky Mountain National Park for more details and the application process.

Marriage License: Contact the Sevier Country Clerks office for more information about obtaining your marriage license. A marriage license pre-application is available on their website. Both participants must appear in person with a valid driver’s license, state issued ID, or certified birth certificate to pick up the marriage license.

Poirier Wedding Photography is licensed and authorized to capture your event in the Smoky Mountain National Park.

www.SmokyMountainWeddingPhotographer.com