Planning a wedding comes with a lot of questions, and I love answering them! I'm Jennifer Michelson, a San Francisco-based wedding, SF City Hall and portrait photographer with over 15 years of experience and more than 350 weddings under my belt.
Below you'll find answers to the questions couples ask me most, from pricing and coverage to what happens after your wedding day. Don't see yours? Reach out anytime. I'm always happy to chat.
Hi, I'm Jennifer!
Let's Answer Your Questions
Everything You Want To Know
Questions & Answers
Photography FAQ
Everything You Want To Know Before You Book
How much does wedding photography cost?
SF City Hall weddings and elopements start at $1,800. Full wedding coverage starts at $5,100. Every couple's day is a little different, so reach out and I'll create a package that fits your day best.
Do you photograph San Francisco City Hall weddings?
All the time! City Hall is one of my favorite places to shoot. I know the best spots, the best light, and how to work around the crowds. My guide to getting married at SF City Hall walks you through the whole process.
Do you photograph elopements?
Yes. Elopement coverage starts at $1,800, whether you're saying your vows at City Hall, on a Marin hilltop or along the Big Sur coast.
How many hours of coverage do I need?
For City Hall, about 2 hours gives us plenty of time. For full weddings, my typical package is 6 to 8 hours.
Will there be a second photographer?
Yes for larger weddings, and usually not for smaller ones. A second photographer means nothing gets missed. For example, while I'm taking family portraits, they're capturing cocktail hour and the details.
How far in advance should we book?
For peak season, 9 to 12 months ahead. Bay Area vendors book up fast, so I recommend reaching out as soon as you've chosen your date.
Do you charge travel fees?
It depends on the location. For most places within the Bay Area, I don't charge a travel fee.
Weddings & Elopements
Do you offer engagement sessions?
Yes! Engagement sessions are fun, relaxed and great practice if you're camera-shy, so you'll know exactly what to expect on the wedding day.
When should we schedule our engagement session?
If you're using the photos for Save the Dates, book your session at least a month before you plan to send them. Think about the look you want, too. We do have seasons in the Bay Area, so spring flowers or fall leaves? Weekends fill up fast during wedding season.
How do we choose a location?
Pick a spot that feels like the two of you and means something to you. It's best to avoid busy spots and crowded landmarks. If you need ideas, I'm happy to brainstorm with you, and I'm open to traveling for the right location.
How much is a family or portrait session?
Digital file packages start at $699. Bring your family, your furry kids, or just yourself!
Do you offer boudoir sessions?
Yes! Digital file packages start at $749. Boudoir sessions are a celebration of confidence, beauty and, most importantly, you.
We're awkward in front of the camera. Is that okay?
Totally! Nine out of ten couples tell me that. How you feel matters more than how you look, so I'll help with posing and keep things relaxed and fun. Most people forget the camera is there.
What's your photography style?
Artistic, authentic and timeless. I focus on real, candid moments, like the high fives, long hugs and happy tears, and I'll give gentle direction when you need it. Every image is hand-edited.
Engagements & Portraits
Where are you based, and where do you travel?
I'm based in San Francisco and work all over the Bay Area, including SF City Hall, Marin, Napa, Sonoma, Carmel and Big Sur. I love to travel and have photographed weddings around the world, so just ask. I might already be headed your way!
How do we reserve our date?
Once we've worked out the details, I'll send over a contract to sign. A 50% retainer holds your date. I book on a first-come, first-served basis and can't hold dates without a signed contract and retainer.
How does payment work?
The 50% retainer is due when you sign, and the remaining balance is due 30 days before your wedding. I'm happy to set up a payment plan if needed. I prefer Zelle or Venmo, but I also take credit cards and checks.
When will we get our photos?
For City Hall weddings and engagement, portrait and boudoir sessions, your photos are ready 1 to 2 weeks after your date. For bigger weddings, it's 6 to 8 weeks. Your full gallery is delivered online, where you can download your images and share the gallery with family and friends. Print orders take 1 to 2 weeks, and albums take 3 to 5 weeks.
How many photos will we get?
For weddings, you'll receive at least 70 to 100 images per hour of coverage, and usually more. Engagement, portrait and boudoir sessions include 70+ images.
Will my photos be edited?
Yes. Every image is edited for exposure, contrast and color tone and is print-ready. You'll get a mix of color and black and white.
Do you have backup gear?
Always. I bring multiple camera bodies, lenses, batteries and extra memory cards to every wedding. Your images are duplicated on-site and stored in a separate location afterward, so they're always protected.
What if you're sick on our wedding day?
In the rare case that something keeps me from your wedding, I have a trusted group of experienced professional photographers I've worked with who can step in. I'll still edit all of your images myself.
Have you been featured anywhere?
Yes! My work has been featured in Style Me Pretty, Rock n Roll Bride, Wedding Chicks and 7x7. I was also voted The Knot Best of Weddings eight years in a row.
How do we get started?
Fill out the form on my contact page or send me an email. We'll set up a time to chat and make sure we're a great fit.
Booking & More
- elizabeth + david
“Jennifer knows SF City Hall. She took us to all the spots and was so patient. We couldn't be happier with our pictures and process.”
WORD ON THE STREET
CONTACT ME
Whether you're planning a full celebration, a City Hall ceremony or an elopement somewhere wild, I'd love to hear about your day.
As a San Francisco wedding photographer, I'm here to help you preserve every beautiful moment, from the first look to the last dance.
Ready to start? Click below to reach out, and we'll set up a time to chat about your plans.
