In 2016, I finished my BFA in Graphic Design, where I took my very first photography course. I wanted to pursue work that inspired me creatively and allowed me to stay home with my growing family. That's when I considered turning my photography knowledge from school into a wedding photography career, allowing me to use my creative gifts on people's most meaningful days.
Now, as a wedding photographer, I believe my quiet demeanor helps me observe and document your most tender moments in an artistic way that will last for years to come.
When I'm not taking photos, I spend my time at home caring for my family. My husband, Joey, and I now have three kiddos and reside in Ames, IA.
"When I look back at our photos, it's like I'm transported back to our day. That's what it means to hire a documentary photographer — a title Bethany lives up to; her work speaks for itself. She's one of the best vendor decisions we made. Hire her now - you won't regret it!"
Caroline, 2024 Bride
After years of photographing weddings, I've learned to trust my intuition. Being naturally quiet, I photograph my best work the same way. Quiet observation and a calming presence help me capturing moments as they naturally unfold.
While I do take portraits throughout the day, I believe the most authentic photographs come from letting you fully experience the day. I anticipate moments and document what actually happens. Your photos should serve your memory, not run your day.
I invite you to let go of perfection and fully enjoy the people at your wedding. They are only gathered like this once in your life, so be present in the moment with them.
On a technical note, I aim to reflect the nostalgia of film photography in the way I shoot and edit. I carefully curate the final images, leaving you with a gallery of exciting images that uniquely tell your story.
Wedding Collections
10 Hour Coverage
HIgh Resolution Images
Including 1 year of cloud storage
Online Gallery
24-page, 10x10, lay-flat, leather cover
Fine Art Album
Second Photographer
Timeline & Creative planning meetings with me
Consultation Meetings
70% off an engagement session
+ sales tax ($406)
Rehearsal Dinner Coverage
10 Hour Coverage
HIgh Resolution Images
Including 1 year of cloud storage
Online Gallery
24-page, 10x10, lay-flat, leather cover
FIne Art ALBUM
Timeline & Creative planning meetings with me
CONSULTATION MEETINGS
+ sales tax ($294)
60% off an engagement session
8 Hour Coverage
HIgh Resolution Images
Including 1 year of cloud storage
Online Gallery
Timeline & Creative planning meetings with me
CONSULTATION MEETINGS
+ sales tax ($238)
50% off an engagement session
Engagement Session (1HR) - $450
Hourly Coverage - $450/hr
SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER - $650
35mm Film Photography - $300
24-page, 10x10, lay-flat, leather cover
Fine Art ALBUM - $950
Anything over 3 hours away from my home in Ames, IA is considered a Destination Wedding, so if your wedding falls under that category, please request my Destination Pricing Guide! :)
"We chose Bethany because of her authentic-styled approach. She captured our day in its purest form, capturing our true personalities throughout the wedding day."
Allison + Carson
This is your retainer payment to book in your date on my calendar! $1,500 flat fee, non-refundable.
Due on booking day.
This is your final payment, which your remaining balance.
Due 1 month from Wedding Day.
Within six weeks after your wedding, you'll receive all your edited photos in an online gallery. Then, you can choose your favorites to include in your album, where they'll be cherished forever. Additional prints are available for purchase through your online gallery.
Your wedding day is finally here! The days leading up to this moment may have felt long, but tonight will fly by. Savor every second and enjoy!
To save your spot on my calendar, I'll need a retainer fee and a written agreement to confirm our partnership. Your wedding day will be here before you know it! In the meantime, feel free to reach out with any questions. I'll also send you a questionnaire before the wedding to ensure I can serve you in the best way possible.
If you're ready to move forward, check my availability by filling out my contact form. I take on a limited number of weddings each season to ensure each couple gets the attention they deserve. No matter where you are in your planning, I'd love to meet you over a Zoom call. We'll chat, hear your story, and discuss your vision for the big day.
Once I've photographed your wedding, you're a client for life. It's always an honor when my past couples come back again and again for family photos, maternity and more.
Once your photos are ready, I'll send you a link to your online gallery containing all the edited photos from your wedding day. From there, you can order prints directly and download the full-resolution images to keep on your own computer or drive, which I highly recommend!
How do we get our photos?
I often shoot a mix of film and digital photos at weddings. Please note that during peak wedding season, film processing can take a few weeks. However, I guarantee that you'll receive your final gallery within 6 weeks.
When will we get our photos back?
I've collaborated with various videographers, and what matters most is that they understand my approach to weddings. It's essential to choose a videographer whose style aligns with mine and shares the same goal: to be as unobtrusive as possible and let the day unfold naturally.
Do you work with videographers?
Most of my best work has come from shooting solo. However, depending on the details of your wedding, it might be helpful to have a second photographer.
Do you work with a second shooter?
Absolutely! I don't charge for travel within a 2-hour radius of Des Moines, Iowa. If your wedding is outside that distance, I'll provide a travel cost based on the location.
Will you Travel to shoot our wedding?
Depending on the hours of coverage you choose, you could receive between 600 and 1200 photos from your wedding day.
How many PHotos can we expect?
I retouch temporary blemishes like acne, cuts, and bug bites, but I don't edit out the unique features that make you who you are. I believe that birthmarks, freckles, and even those double chins from laughter are all beautiful, raw, and authentic parts of you. Instead of hiding them, I want you to feel beautiful in your skin and be represented in a genuine way.
How much retouching do you do?