The FAQ
Do you Travel?
Absolutely! I'm based in Wilmington, NC, but regularly photograph throughout the Carolinas. Travel fees may apply, depending on the distance; however, I'll always be upfront and transparent, avoiding surprises.
Standard Travel Fees:
0–40 miles → included
41–75 miles → $50 travel fee
76–120 miles → $100 travel fee + overnight lodging fee for a full wedding day
121+ miles → custom quote + lodging fees
How long have you been doing this?
I started my photography journey over ten years ago, as a fun hobby. Eventually, I took a photography course at Cape Fear Community College where I gained much knowledge on how to execute the tricks of the digital camera and (Not to brag, but to brag) I was one of two students who received a perfect overall grade in the class. After taking this course, I soon began my Registered Dental Hygiene journey, which occupied most of my time. After graduating and working as a dental hygienist, I was finally able to start my photography business professionally in 2021, when Golden Glimpses Photography, LLC was established.
How many photos do we get?
The Photos you receive will depend on the package you choose - SEE SESSION INFORMATION BELOW.
How do we get our photos?
All of your photos are delivered through a private, personalized online gallery. From there, you can view your images, download high-resolution files, share with friends and family, and order professional prints if you’d like. The gallery is easy to access on both desktop and mobile, so you can relive your memories anytime, anywhere.
Would there be any other fees other than the session fees?
Yes, there may be additional fees, such as travel fees for locations more than 40 miles away, as well as potential parking fees, insurance fees for weddings (if required), and entry/location fees (if required).
This may also be necessary for persons using e-gift cards.
Standard Travel Fees:
0–40 miles → included
41–75 miles → $50 travel fee
76–120 miles → $100 travel fee + overnight lodging fee for a full wedding day
121+ miles → custom quote + lodging fees
Parking: Client is responsible for any required parking fees associated with the chosen session location.
Downtown, Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. → ~ $6 for The Glimpse session, $3/hr
Wrightsville Beach, March 1st - October 31st → ~ $14 for a The Glimpse session, $7/hr
Ocean Isle Beach, April 1 to October 31st 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. → $5 per hour (up to 3 hours)
Holden Beach, Year-round 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. → $5 per hour (up to 4 hours)
Sunset Beach, April 1 to October 31st 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. → $5 per hour
For clients choosing to do The Glimpse, The Story, or The Legacy sessions with groups or families larger than five persons, including children, a $30 fee will be applied per additional person.
Wedding Photographer Insurance - Some Venues Require - Please check to see if your venue requires and notify me → ~ $50 - $100/day
Entry/Location Fees - Some Locations require entry or location photography fees, such as farms or Airlie Gardens → ~ $20 - $100/hr
Do you retouch photos?
Yes, I retouch all photos prior to delivery. My standard editing includes skin smoothing, blemish removal, teeth whitening, removal of background distractions, and adjustments that enhance natural beauty while keeping your images timeless and authentic. If you’d like additional custom retouching beyond this—such as more advanced edits—it can be done upon request for $20 per photo.
Whats your turn around time?
For portrait sessions, your full gallery will be delivered within 6 weeks.
Weddings take a bit more time due to the larger number of images and detail involved, so galleries are delivered within 16 weeks. I also send sneak peeks within 48 hours so you can relive a few favorite moments right away while you wait for the full collection.
What Is required at booking to secure a spot?
Once you inquire and a mutual date, location, and time is set you will be required to sign a contract, fill out a questionnaire, and pay a 20% non-refundable retainer fee to secure and officially book your photography session. If these items are not completed, you will not be booked for that date and time.
Can I get my retainer back if I cancel?
Retainers are non-refundable under any circumstances. Once your date is reserved, it’s fully yours, meaning I turn away other inquiries and begin the planning process right away. The retainer secures my time, preparation, and commitment to your day, which is why it cannot be returned even if plans change.
If you need to cancel, your retainer may be applied toward a future session (based on availability) if rescheduled within the same calendar year. This helps ensure your investment still goes toward capturing something meaningful, even if plans shift.
Can you help us with planning?
Absolutely! I know planning can feel overwhelming, so I provide helpful resources to make things simple and stress-free. Every client receives access to my custom guides, including tips on what to wear, suggestions, and advice for making the most of your session.
There is also a bunch of helpful information within my BLOG. Take a look at the BLOG with the link below.
Wedding clients also receive a detailed client guide and a custom photography timeline to ensure your day flows smoothly and every moment is captured beautifully.
How far out do you book?
Currently, I am booking for year 2026 and 2027.
What should we do for an engagement session?
Your engagement session should feel like you! Whether that’s a golden-hour walk on Wrightsville Beach, a cozy downtown date vibe, or a quiet moment in nature, I’ll help guide you toward locations and styling that fit your story. I also share an engagement session inspiration blog with ideas for outfits, poses, and settings to help spark creativity—perfect for planning a session that feels authentic and fun.
Check out my Engagement Session Inspiration Blog below
What should we wear?
Luckily, I provide all my session clients with a What To Wear Guide. This guide includes lots of information on how to pick out your perfect outfit for your session.
I don't want an engagement or bridal session with my wedding package, Does this mean I get $325 off?
A Glimpse engagement or bridal session is included as part of the overall experience and isn’t itemized for removal or discounts. Even if you choose not to use them, the package price remains the same.
Can You customize the photography packages?
My collections are thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a complete photography experience, so I don’t offer custom packages. This ensures consistency and allows me to give each client the best possible service.
Is there a cancellation list?
Currently, there is no cancellation list. Please keep this in mind for booking. Dates fill up fast, especially on the weekends, so it is crucial to book months in advance if possible.
Do you do discounts or specials?
Discounts are provided to military and first responders of 10% off any sessions. Please notify me if you are military personnel or a first responder.
Discounts may be provided to anyone booking for my current Bucket List Locations - SEE BUCKET LIST BELOW.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS BAD AND MY SESSION IS SCHEDULED OUTSIDE?
If the weather isn’t cooperating, don’t worry—we’ll adjust! For portrait sessions, we can reschedule to the next available date that works for both of us. For weddings, I’ll work with your planner or venue to create a backup plan and adjust the timeline so every moment is still beautifully captured. My goal is to keep things stress-free, no matter the forecast.
DO YOU HAVE A STUDIO?
While I do not currently operate out of a personal studio space, studio sessions are still available upon request. There are beautiful, professional studio rentals in the area that can be reserved for your session. If you'd prefer a studio setting, I’m happy to coordinate the rental for you. Please note that an additional rental fee will apply. SEE BLOG for studio options.
What gear do you use?
I photograph with Canon’s professional mirrorless cameras — primarily my R5, along with my R6 Mark II paired with a selection of high-quality lenses such as my 35 mm (My fav for portraits) and my 24 - 70 mm. One of he features I love most is their ability to record to two memory cards at the same time. This means every image is instantly backed up as I shoot, giving you peace of mind that your memories are safely preserved with an extra layer of protection.
Do you do videography too?
I specialize in photography and do not offer full videography services. However, for weddings, you may add on a simple ceremony video to capture your vows and key moments. For portrait sessions and mini sessions, a short highlight video can also be added to complement your photos. These options are designed as add-ons, not full video coverage, so your experience stays focused on timeless photography with a little extra motion magic.
SEE ADD-ON OPTIONS BELOW.
If you have a second shooter for my wedding, do you still edit the photos?
Yes, the second shooter will help capture additional angles and moments. I personally edit every image to ensure the final gallery is cohesive and consistent with my style. This way, your photos tell one comprehensive story, polished, timeless, and true to you.
do you do sneak peeks?
I only provide sneak peeks for weddings at this time. You should have at least five sneak peeks within 48 hours after your wedding day.
Do you have props we can use for a session?
Absolutely! I have an array of beautiful props that you may can choose from such as stools, chairs, cake stands, baskets, and back drops. SEE MORE IN MY BLOG - CREATING YOUR UNIQUE PHOTOSHOOT IN WILMINGTON, NC
Any other additional props, such as florals, food, drinks, decor, boats, vehicles, etc., can be provided upon request with fees, including a service fee of $100.
I have a special service request for my session, Can you do that?
If you have a special service request, such as the photographer providing you with additional accommodations beyond what is specified in the signed contract, selective services may be provided upon request, with fees including a service fee of $100.
as your friend, can I do a free session with you?
I love when friends and family want me to capture their memories! Out of respect for my work and business, I don’t offer free sessions outside of specific giveaways or projects I choose to gift. Even if you only want “just a couple of photos,” I still treat every session with the same professional care, which means it falls under my regular packages.
If you’re looking for a smaller option, my mini sessions are the perfect way to get a few seasonal images at a lower investment while still enjoying the full Golden Glimpses experience.
I completely understand how it might look like photography is just the time we spend together taking pictures, but there’s so much more that goes into creating your final images. Every session involves planning, shooting, culling, editing, and preparing your gallery — hours of work beyond what you see on the day of your session.
Do you have a question?
If you don’t see your question answered here, I’d love to help! Simply reach out through my contact page, and I’ll get back to you with the information you need. Whether you’re curious about sessions, weddings, or planning details, I’m here to make the process simple and stress-free.
WANT TO BOOK?
Emotional & Story-Driven Photography
Learn more about the photographer
Hi, I'm Katherine, the heart behind Golden Glimpses Photography. Based in Wilmington, NC, I specialize in capturing authentic, timeless stories through weddings, elopements, and milestone sessions. With a mix of artistry and genuine connection, my goal is to create images that feel as real and beautiful as the moments themselves.
