I am based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, but I am more than willing to travel anywhere and everywhere to meet your photographic needs. I am so passionate about traveling and meeting new people, so there is no limit to where I will go.
About Abbey
Hi! I’m Abbey and I believe in genuine connections, artful photography and working with people who aren’t afraid of vulnerability.
My name is Abbey and I am so thankful you’re here. I’m a wedding photographer based in Grand Rapids, MI and I’ve been photographing weddings since 2010. I still can’t quite believe that I’m lucky enough to have my dream job.
Although I am definitely categorized as a perfectionist, I’ve found a deep love and appreciation for the imperfection of wedding days. I will show up at your wedding with the timeline we create together tattooed in my brain, but when it comes to the photos I much prefer silly faces, freshly trimmed grass clinging to the wedding dress and your Dad’s ugly cry as he walks down the aisle. I adore photographing a home full of items and notes and “mess” that showcase the heart of the person who lives there. I love the things that make a boring photo look exciting and unique. And I love a photo that instead of being perfect – makes you feel like you were there. More than anything, I want to tell the truth of you and your life.
I can sit in front of an old box of photographs for hours at a time, reading old notes from high school friends and watching every second of a home video – no matter how many times I’ve seen it. The past fascinates me – and it also creates a perfect little escape from reality. Since the future is completely out of my control – taking photos gives myself an outlet to escape to when things get too scary. How many times have you looked back at your parent’s or grandparent’s wedding albums and been given a tiny glimpse into a past that is a part of you? It’s hard to realize at the time – but the photos that you will get for your wedding will be the vehicle that your family uses to get a glimpse of what life was like for you.
I want to provide you with the gift of looking back. When things get hard and life changes and people go away and kids grow up – you will have this collection of photographs to use as a time machine. You will have these photos to sit in and get comfortable with – just like your favorite book.
So what’s it like? I’m going to ask you to drop some of your security blankets and get vulnerable. I’m going to ask you to show me what your relationship is like and what’s important to you. Because the real magic happens when collaboration is present. I’m going to encourage you, reassure you that your life today is perfect even with its imperfections and that your story deserves to be preserved and photographed. And it will be fun too, I promise. Because getting your photo taken is one of the most incredible ways to preserve your incredible life. I can’t wait to laugh with you, cry with you and tell your story.
I was born in 1989 and came out as a very pale, Irish gal who loves the beach. I am probably wearing 100SPF in this photograph. And I probably still got sunburned. This photo could be taken today and it would literally look identical.
This is my brother and I clearly enjoying having our Christmas card taken. These are the kind of photos I will cherish forever and want to give you.
I went to Michigan State University and graduated with a degree in Journalism and Dance in 2011. I learned a lot about story-telling and making connections these four years. I wouldn’t trade my four years in college for anything.
I went to prom with Jake (my husband) in 2008 and began what would be the first (and last) big relationship in my life. He’s my best friend.
After graduation in 2011, I moved to Wisconsin for a job doing graphic design. It was an incredible growing but sometimes lonely year for me. I met lifelong friends and really discovered that I wanted to be a photographer. I edited photos when my boss wasn’t looking.
I just need you all to know that I love Harry Potter so much. I re-read the series once a year and just truly cannot get enough. If you are having a Harry Potter themed wedding, please oh please hire me.
This is a poorly edited photo of me photographing my first wedding ever in the summer of 2011. I had one camera and one lens. I’m so thankful to this couple for completely changing my life.
On the snowiest of days in Rocky Mountain National Park, Jake made my jaw drop to the floor when he proposed. It was the best day! I love being able to put myself in the shoes of my bride’s and groom’s and understand how exciting and magical this time is.
In July of 2015 I married my best friend. He races cars, he changes my tires, he cooks the best fried chicken and he’s like a human space heater. Our smiles were so aggressive this day – because it was really one of the most fun days of our lives. Getting married myself completely re-shaped the way I treated wedding photography and I’d love to tell you more about that when we talk.
This is our dog-child McCoy. He has the biggest head and the weirdest mannerisms. He enjoys eating rotisserie chicken, peanut butter filled kongs and also has anxiety over the sound of women coughing. He’s a weirdo and we love him so much.
My family means more to me than anything. Things haven’t always been easy – but we’re the strongest group I know. My brother is 28 and has autism. My parents are divorced – but have always taught me that you can still be an incredible parent even if you’re not together. The memories I have with these humans are my most cherished.
And here’s me today. I’m constantly trying to figure out and dissect what photos make me feel alive and what drives me to do this job. I’m always watching either Shameless, Game of Thrones or repeats of The Office. I’m really excited that one-piece bathing suits are in fashion again and I’m also embracing the high waisted mom jean trend. I love people and I truly honestly cannot wait to get to know you.
Pricing
It sounds cliche, and I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but besides your actual spouse the only thing that you get to take home from your wedding is your photos. So why not invest in something that has meaning, won’t go out of style and is such a blessing to your future family members.
Wedding coverage starts at $3500.
Portrait sessions start at $600.
Please inquire for detailed pricing and package information. Please use contact form or e-mail abbeymoorephoto@gmail.com. Located in Michigan and available for travel worldwide.
Kind words from happy clients These words are real and I didn't even bribe them.
I’ve never paid for advertisements and I’ve never bribed any of these people to write me a review. If you care to see what any of my past clients have thought about my photos or my presence at their wedding, click one of the links below and read away!
Questions?
How far do you travel for sessions?
How many photos will I get in my package?
I will give you anywhere between 600 and 1000 photos of your wedding day. This all depends on the length of coverage as well as the type of wedding you have. For portrait sessions it depends on the type of session and time – but it will always be plenty of photos.
How do I book a date with you?
When you book a wedding with me, you will send me a 50% deposit. This deposit holds your spot and is non-refundable. The rest of the money will be paid a month before the wedding. You will also e-sign a contract as soon as I receive your verbal agreement. The most important step – is e-mailing me and filling out a contact form on my page!
If you are interested in just a portrait session – we will discuss availability as soon as you decide to move forward with pricing. Most portrait sessions are shot in accordance to the best light – which is usually the first two hours after sunrise or the two before sunset. Portrait sessions are also done on weekdays.
Do you take posed family photos on a wedding day?
Of course! These are super important. However – they can also be the most stressful time for the couple. I try to limit the time frame on these for no more than 15 – 30 minutes. Typically these are limited to immediate family and grandparents and if it its necessary to take a large group photo – we will take care of that as well. The legacy of your family is very important to me.
How long until I can see my photos?
For weddings, your photos will be available 6-8 weeks after the event. I personally sort through thousands of photos to choose your collection as well as edit every single one. Once they are complete I will send you the link to your gallery and send them immediately. For other sessions, you can assume a shorter time period – something closer to four weeks.
What is a “first look” and should we consider doing one?
A “first look” is seeing your fiancée before the ceremony and shooting your portrait session. It can be incredibly beneficial to ensuring that you can also enjoy our wedding day. So often – when photos get pushed to after the ceremony, my couples have to miss their cocktail hour. My goal is for you to be as present as possible – and sometimes being able to see each other prior to the ceremony can rid yourself of the pre-wedding anxieties and jitters. In the over 150 weddings I’ve photographed I’ve never felt that a first look as lessened the importance or beauty of the moment someone walks down the aisle.
What is your approach to photographing a wedding?
First and foremost, I consider myself a truth teller. My background is in journalism – and so much of that has shaped who I am. The day is such a whirlwind, and my goal is to capture the moments that are fleeting and fast. I never want to alter your wedding day reality, instead I want to appreciate and find beauty in the things that make you unique. The little details, the faces your family members make, the hugs your friends give you. All of these things are so important to me.
It’s also important to me to stay true to the fact that your wedding day is not a photoshoot. It’s a day of celebration and joy – and I want to enhance that – not hinder it. My goal is to capture your day, give you images that provide you with a portal to the past and be there for you as support.
Do you work with a specific shot list or a description of photos that I am looking for?
I find that the beauty of wedding photography is in the surprise and the uniqueness of each event. What keeps me in the wedding business is the fact that every wedding is so different. I prefer not to work off of a shot list you found somewhere on a wedding website (The Knot, Wedding Wire, etc) but instead focus on giving you images that are authentic to your story.
I will however work with you prior to the wedding on recognizing who is important, a list of family formals as well as other important aspects of the day that need to be photographed.
How do I prepare for working with you?
I just want you to know that it’s completely okay to be yourself. I love authentic humans – and I don’t ever want you to feel like you need to be a certain way to be photographed. I want you to be vulnerable, let go and know that I’ve completely got you. There really is no preparation – other than that you are willing to have fun.
The best part about being in this business for several years has been the opportunities to teach others. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for the guiding hands of others before me. I teach one-on-one mentor sessions to newer photographers all of the time – and would love to get to know you! To find out more information – click here.
I also offer group Fearless Sessions that are perfect for bachelorette parties or any other get together with your best gals. Fill out an inquiry and ask for information on special group pricing! Also subscribe here to get the latest information on the next group session!
I’m also a huge Grey’s Anatomy fan. My BFF Bri and I have started a Grey’s Anatomy podcast this year (yup – we are that serious) called The On-Call Room. We’ve started the series from the beginning and are rewatching and commenting on each one. Each episode is a little bit of Grey’s and a lot about real life. You can find us on iTunes here!
Let's Chat
Please fill out the form below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Feel free to send an e-mail to abbeymoorephoto@gmail.com if there is a problem!
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