ABOUT
To say that I am excited that you are considering me to be your photographer is an understatement. I truly believe that each love story is unique and it is my main goal to capture it authentically. You have put lots of thought, energy and let's be honest, money, into a very special occasion and it is only fitting that it be documented in a way that perfectly reflects your vision. I make it my mission to not only be a resource throughout your planning stages, but also someone that you can heavily rely on during the wedding day. I come into the wedding day prepared and knowing everything there is to know. You can be confident that you are taken care of and can soak in every moment with intention, as it goes by pretty fast. At the end of it all, you will be able to relive those moments through the photographs that tell the story of your day.
On a more personal level - A few things about me:
My husband, Dylan, and I have been married for 5 years and he is truly the best decision I ever made. Our wedding, while simple, was one for the books; and it really inspired me to start photographing weddings and to this day, it inspires my work. We have formed a little family with our gorgeous dog, Atlas. He is our baby and we adore him along with every other dog on the planet. My dream travel destinations are Switzerland and Iceland, but we are ready to travel anywhere! So far our favorite places that we have made it to are the Bahamas, Panama, Colorado, Maine and Hawaii. I do love staying in and watching my comfort shows, but we absolutely love spending time with our family and close friends. If you ask them, they will tell you that I am the planner of all things. I love hosting and as a group we love putting together intimate themed gatherings and we cherish the time we spend eating and laughing.
 
THE COLLECTIONS
From the getting ready photos, to the first look, to the first dance, and even your grand exit.
Your love will be celebrated for years to come.
Ranging from bare essentials to all-inclusive coverage, these packages have been carefully curated to make sure all the moments of your special day are captured.
All Collections Include:
In-Person or Facetime Consultation
Personalized Wedding Day Timeline
High Resolution Online Gallery
Print Release
USB Loaded with Images
Payment Plans Available
ADD-ONS:
Additional Hour $300
Second Shooter $600
2-Hour Local Bridal Session $450
3-Hour Rehearsal Dinner $600
I am a wife, a dog mom, a friend and a woman of faith. I cherish the memories that we create with our families and close friends. And helping others preserve their memories is truly a great honor.
I am inspired by all the thought, energy and love you put into your special day and it's only fitting that it be documented in a way that perfectly reflects your vision. I am not only a resource throughout the planning stages, but also someone that you can heavily rely on during the wedding day. You can be confident that you are taken care of and can soak in every moment with intention.
Thank you for being here.
COLLECTION 1
$4500
2 Photographers
8 Consecutive Hours of Coverage
Complimentary Local Engagement Session
2-Hour Local Bridal Session or Rehearsal Dinner Coverage
COLLECTION 2
$3800
2 Photographers
8 Consecutive Hours of Coverage
Complimentary Local Engagement Session
COLLECTION 3
$3000
1 Photographer
8 Consecutive Hours of Coverage
BRIDAL SESSIONS
What is a bridal session?
It is a photo session that takes place days, weeks or months before the wedding day. Like the engagement session, it is a great opportunity for us to connect one on one. With so many moving parts on the wedding day, it is sometimes easy to default to generic poses so that we can move on to the next part of the day, but a separate session allows us to really get creative shots.
Why should I consider adding one to my package?
We can get those dreamy bridal images without the pressure of time and nerves.
It gives you a chance to enjoy more time with your groom and guests on the big day. You can actually enjoy cocktail hour!
It can take place at an entirely different location than your venue. A great scenario is if your venue is perfect in all ways except that it is in the heart of the city, but you want trees and lush greenery in your photos and there no nearby locations that we could go to the day of the wedding.
How should I prepare for the session?
Take advantage of your hair and makeup trials by scheduling them on the same day of the session. The location can be your venue, a studio, or anywhere else of your choice.
Can the groom be a part of the session too?
Yes, if you are comfortable with him seeing you in the dress before the wedding! If you would still like have a session with your groom in your wedding attire, we can schedule it up to one month after the wedding.
ENGAGEMENT SESSION
The engagement session allows us to get comfortable with each other. Most people agree that being in front of the camera can feel awkward at first. However, a more relaxed environment with much less pressure than the wedding day will help us connect and I promise you will feel more confident being in front of the camera by the end of the session.
Although I do provide a more in-depth guide on engagement sessions that include location suggestions, what to wear, and more...
Here are some quick tips for these sessions;
- Choose a location that is meaningful to you, or I can suggest beautiful locations if nothing comes to mind.
- The background really determines the look and feel of your images. Keep that in mind when deciding on the time of year that you wish to have your session.
- Neutral and earthy tones photograph best. I recommend avoiding bright colors and busy patterns if you wish to achieve the style that is shown in my portfolio.
- Use that day to do your hair and makeup trial runs.
- Let's make it fun! Bring champagne (or better yet, your dog!!) for some fun images.
- Plan your session with enough time so that you can use your photos on your save-the-dates.
Engagement sessions include the following:
90 minutes
1-2 outfits
1-2 locations
Online gallery with a minimum of 60 high resolution images
Gallery delivery timeframe is 2 weeks and as a result of the short turnaround, I do not send sneak peeks for sessions.
SESSION GUIDE
WHAT to wear:
- Your clothes should be non-distracting. Bright colors take away from the timelessness. Neutral colors, earthy tones and pastels photograph best.
- Logos and busy or "loud" patterns such as polka dots or stripes can be distracting. I recommend keeping them to a minimum. Small floral prints are a good example of patterns that don't distract.
- Matching denim and white shirts for everyone are a thing of the past (unless you have a specific vision). Instead, wear colors that complement each other.
- I recommend two outfits; one that is dressy & glam and one that is cozy & romantic or more casual.
With that being said, wear something you feel confident in.
WHEN:
- The background really determines the look and feel of your images. Keep that in mind when deciding on the time of year that you wish to have your session. For example, fall is by far my favorite season and photos can feel very cozy and warm, but if you are wanting a more high-end look to your photos, perhaps the red and orange trees in the background may not be the best option.
- Speaking of seasons, obviously remember to consider the weather. No one wants to take photos drenched in sweat!
- The time of day that we shoot is critical. Good lighting is crucial to make a dreamy photo. The best lighting of the day is typically early in the morning or later in the day. Bright midday sun can be a vibe, but it usually causes harsh shadows that are not very flattering.
WHERE:
- Choose a location that is meaningful to you. Perhaps a beautiful backyard that you've spent lots of time in, or the location of your first date, or where he proposed. A backdrop that is non-distracting is the best option.
- A location centered around an activity can also be a great way to not only infuse your personalities into your session but also ease the nerves.
- If you love ice cream or coffee, we can hang out at a cute shop or cafe with a patio.
- If a lot of your dates consist of going out for drinks, we can go to a nice bar such as one in a hotel.
- If you enjoy going on bike rides, bring your cute cruiser bike as a prop and we can set up a picnic.
- Maybe you just LOVE being cozy in the beautiful home you've made for yourselves. Invite me over and I'll take cute pictures of you cooking, baking, playing board games, reading, soaking in the pool or having a bonfire in your backyard!
- The possibilities are endless!
- I can also help you find a location if nothing comes to mind.
Here are some location ideas around Kansas City that clients love!
- Nelson Atkins Museum
- Kauffman Center
- Downtown Kansas City & Rooftops
- Loose Park
- Burr Oak Woods
Please note: Some of these locations may request a call for a heads-up, and some require a photography permit, you are responsible for the cost of it. I can assist in obtaining it if you need help.
EXTRA TIPS:
- Use the engagement session day to do your hair & makeup trials.
- I understand the nerves that lead up to a photo session. I get nervous being in front of the camera too! But something that helps is going into it with the mindset of it being just a date. You are are just going on a date with me as a third wheel lol.
- Bring champagne and we can do a celebratory champagne pop. Or better yet, bring your dog!
- I strongly encourage you to really think about what would best showcase your relationship. Come to me with a vision and we can make it happen!
- We can do two locations, so you can bring two outfits and we can create two different and unique vibes.
SECOND SHOOTERS
What is a second shooter?
A second shooter is an extra set of hands and another point of view on the wedding day. It is someone who I trust to take beautiful photos and can assist with other parts of the day while I am 100% focused on you.
Do I need one?
I don't automatically include a second shooter in all of my packages because, although I do find it very helpful to have a helper at weddings, not all weddings are created equal.
If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may need to consider adding one to your package:
Are you and the groom getting ready at different locations?
Do you want photos of the same moment from different angles, such as your groom's reaction and the back of your dress walking down the aisle?
Do you have a large bridal party?
Do you have a fun cocktail hour planned for your guests?
Is your reception space set up going to be finished during said cocktail hour and want photos of the space before all the guests enter?
What jobs do they fulfill?
Taking photos of the groom and groomsmen while I take photos of the bride and bridesmaids.
Logistics. Making sure you don't accidentally see each other until you're ready.
Running to grab the forgotten bouquet or the stray family member that wandered off during family photos.
Focusing on your loved ones, while I focus on the "big" moments.
Getting candid shots of your guests during cocktail hour while we are taking other photos.
and so, so, so much more.
What value to they add to my package?
As I mentioned before, it basically allows me to be in two places at once. They help the day run smoothly and relieve any stress. A gallery with a second shooter usually allows for over 200 extra images.
If your budget does not allow for a 2nd shooter at the moment, but you change your mind, you can add it later (up until 1 month before the wedding).
DETAILS
I arrive onsite about an hour before you are finished getting makeup done to be able to take time and document details. You have spent so much time designing the invitations and picking the jewelry to match your dress. You deserve to have all the work you put into your vision documented.
Items that I typically photograph:
- Invitation suite
- Gown, shoes, veil
- Rings, jewelry & other accessories
- Aesthetic perfume/cologne
- Small mementos from parents/grandparents
- Polaroids & sentimental keepsakes
- Vow books
- Bow tie, tie clip & cufflinks
- Bouquet & boutonniere
- Reception props
Extra, loose florals can really elevate your flat lay, so please be sure to include a handful if possible. I usually bring items such as ribbon and tiny dishes that match the aesthetic of your wedding to complement your details and I look for textured spots around the venue for a variety of backgrounds. I highly recommend having all of your details in a box ready to go at your getting ready location. Then, I'm happy to deliver them where they are meant to go after I photograph them.
PRE-CEREMONY
I recommend that the guys and girls get ready at the same location. A lot of the time when the bride and the groom get ready at different locations, the bride gets priority on photos. The groom deserves his photos too, since it is also his big day! If that is just not feasible, I would recommend adding more hours of coverage and/or a second shooter if that was not part of your package.
Along with your details, I also love capturing the memories created when you give gifts to your bridal party, your parents and each other. Reading your vows semi-privately (with me and my silent camera) or completely privately (while I capture the moment from afar) is such a meaningful moment that you are sure to remember for the rest of your lives. And what better way to remember than with a beautiful photo that can stir up emotions even years down the road.
Some couples choose to take bridal party and family photos before the ceremony which saves a lot of time, allowing you to fully enjoy your time after the ceremony with your guests. If you consider this option, make triple sure that everyone knows where to be and at what time so that things run smoothly and on time.
RECEPTION
There is a ton of work that goes into receptions. From the chairs to the centerpieces, the cake and even the food; you have poured your heart into executing your vision. Know that to me, no small thing goes unnoticed. You surely want all that hard work to reflect in your gallery. I recommend allowing ample time in the schedule of the day for me to take a variety of shots of the reception space (this applies to the ceremony space as well) before the guests enter.
It is best to schedule your big events of your reception within the first hour or two - toasts, cake cutting, first dances, etc. A good portion of wedding guests tend to leave a little bit after the meal so having the main events while guests are still around looks best for photos, and of course allows you to share those events with those who have to leave early, especially if you have a Sunday wedding.
When the bride and groom stay on the dance floor, the guests are more likely to join and keep the party alive! Some other tips for a poppin' dance floor is having a DJ that knows how to keep the crowd engaged, having the bar close to the floor, and providing your guests with props such as glow sticks.
GRAND EXIT
A lot of people tend to have left already when couples wait until the end of the reception for the formal exit, so sometimes the couple ends up having their exit shots with only a few people around. If you are okay with that, then you do you!
But if you want a big grand exit, you'll want to do it when your guests are already together or can be easily gathered. So here are a few great alternatives for a "grand exit" along the types of props you can supply your guests with:
- As you walk down the aisle as husband and wife (flower petals, bubbles)
- Right after your ceremony. Have your guests line up and wish you off. You ride off in your classy transportation to the reception, or circle around and come right back to the ceremony site to complete photos (biodegradable confetti, streamers)
- A faux exit with the bridal party and close family. The bride & groom and bridal party sneak outside during the reception for some celebration photos (champagne, sparklers, glow sticks)
If the exit takes place after dark, you will definitely want to have at least one light source, but you can have more than one kind of element if you want!
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU
I am the first person to say I am the luckiest human to have the job that I have. Documenting people in love on the most special day of all and in beautiful locations, being a part of intimate moments, witnessing things that I know will have a lasting impact on them and their families - it is not something that I take for granted.
So thank you, truly, for even considering me to be the one who has the honor of documenting such a special occasion. I understand the importance and weight of the job.
More than anything, I want my presence there to be one that makes you feel at ease and makes the day feel a little bit more like a dream because you know you will be taken care of.
Enjoy this time planning and dreaming, while I look forward to walking in to your wedding morning, bright eyed and ready to document photos that will let you relive how it felt over and over for years to come.
All my best,
Mirsa
HOW DO WE WORK TOGETHER?
I always want couples to feel solid about working together. There are so many wonderful wedding photographers out there, and you should really go with your gut. Your photographer is going to be with you on the most important day and you should feel confident and comfortable with them.
We can schedule a call to get to know each other and to answer additional questions you might have. The call also gives me a better insight of your wedding vision and how I can make it come to life. I know no one likes to be put on the spot, so some of the things we cover are your love story, what you love to do together, the experience you want to provide for your guests on your wedding day and we talk about the people that mean the most to you.
You can click on my scheduling link HERE to set up a time that works for your schedule. If you are not available at any of the listed times, please email me and we can work something out!
I'm looking forward to connecting with you,
Mirsa Gage
FAQ's
What does a payment plan consist of?
I require a non-refundable retainer (40% of the total cost) to secure your date. You may then choose to pay as much and as often as you'd like as long as payment is received in full 30 days before the wedding day.
Do you offer any discounts?
At this time, I do not offer discounts.
How and when will we receive our images?
I deliver around 50 images per hour of shooting. I want to make sure you get the best of the best! I will send you an online gallery of fully edited images within 3 weeks of your engagement session and 6 weeks of your wedding. On that gallery, you will be able to favorite, download, and even order prints.
Can you photoshop us?
We've all heard the phrase "Can you photoshop me to look skinnier?" The answer in short, is no. I do, however, remove blemishes and distracting background objects/people as I see necessary. Trust that I put a lot of effort into making your images beautiful without altering how beautiful you look that day.
FAQ's
Can I remove the engagement session and get a discount?
No, the engagement session is complimentary.
How does travel work?
You will receive a quote for travel. This will then be included in the final amount of your wedding package. I will arrange for my own travel and accommodations thereafter so that is one less thing for you to worry about, and I can handle any issues that may arise.
What if we need to cancel or reschedule?
Sometimes unexpected events happen and we must change the plan. I completely understand! I have included clauses in my contract that cover a variety of scenarios. You will be able to review these before you book your date.
What if you can't make it to our wedding?
Again, unexpected events happen to the best of us. If I become ill or other unforeseen circumstances arise, I will make sure that someone trustworthy and experienced can take my place at the wedding. I will still edit and deliver the gallery.
TIMELINE
As you start mapping out the time frame of your day, don’t forget to reach out to me. Blocking out the timing of your wedding day is one of the most important things when it comes to getting the wedding photos that you are wanting. I shared some sample wedding day timelines with you already, so I recommend using that as a guide to map out the day. If you feel unsure about anything, please don't hesitate to ask!
One month before the wedding, when most of the details are in place, I will send you a questionnaire that will help me complete a customized timeline for your day. You will be able to review it and can make changes if needed.
FIRST LOOKS
To have a first look or not:
This is a personal decision and every couple is different so it should be something you decide together. Although there are many benefits to having a first look, there is no right or wrong choice and I fully support what you two want to do!
Here are the pros and cons:
Pros:
• You are together longer on your wedding day because your day together no longer starts at the ceremony.
• The first time you see each other is private and shared just between you two (and me/us with our quiet cameras)
• Adrenaline at the beginning of the ceremony can prevent you from being truly present; a first look will help ease the nerves.
• Helps to ensure that there is enough time for photos of just the two of you.
• You can take bridal party and family photos before the ceremony, and avoid trying to gather people as they wander off to cocktail hour.
• You have the option of actually going to and enjoying cocktail hour with your guests.
Cons:
• Seeing each other before the ceremony goes against tradition.
• You may need to be ready earlier to allow time for photos before the ceremony.
If you want to stick to tradition and share the moment with your guests, but still want to ease the nerves, some couples have opted for "hidden" first look such as standing back to back or on either side of a wall corner and reading vows while holding hands.
the wedding experience:
I. The Inquiry
I hope you've had a chance to look around and I'm sooo happy you're considering me to document your beautiful day. I am currently booking sessions and weddings for 2023 and 2024.
II. The Consultation
I like to get to know my brides and grooms, and have them get to know me to ensure that we are a good fit, before we talk money. I realize this will be an investment and a very important part of your day. So, we will schedule a complimentary, no strings attached consultation. This can be in the form of a face time call or in-person meeting. We will discuss your big day and build a customized timeline so that you can come to a well-informed decision on the collection that will best fit your needs. This is the time where you can ask me any and all questions. I can't wait to hear about all your plans!
III. The Booking
If you come to the conclusion that I'm the photographer for you, I will send you a proposal, invoice and contract for you to review. Once the retainer (40% of the full price) is paid, and the contract signed, I'M ALL YOURS!
IV. The Engagement Session & Planning
We'll start talking about booking your engagement session right away. This will be a great opportunity for you to get comfortable with me and being in front of the camera. Engagement sessions can be taken at the location of your choice (I recommend a place that means something to the both of you), or I can suggest a location. Whether you have chosen a collection with an engagement session or not, there's a lot more to plan. All collections include a personalized timeline for the big day. There will be a questionnaire to help put it all into place, so that your day runs smoothly. You will also receive helpful information and reminders, and I'll be open for any questions or concerns you may have. I want to help make your day as stress-free as possible. If your collection includes a second shooter, I will be choosing a trusted photographer.
V. The Big Day
It's here. Finally! I am so happy and grateful to be a part of such an important part of your lives. Don't you worry, at this point I will know everything there is to know. All you need to do is take a deep breath, soak in every moment with the love of your life and have fun. I will be there helping document these precious moments, not only as your photographer, but as your friend.
VI. The Delivery
You can expect a good handful of images within a week of the wedding so you can share them with friends and family, while waiting for the rest. I will choose and edit the images I feel are the best quality. You can expect about 50 images per hour on the full gallery. I will spend hours perfecting your gallery, so that you can cherish it and remember your wedding day for year and years to come. The full gallery will be delivered within 4 weeks of your wedding day.