wedding photography
The wedding experience
i believe in capturing authentic LOVE and real moments
Capturing Authentic & Genuine Memories with True-to-Life Color
wedding photography
The wedding experience
elevated wedding photography elevated pricing
not
award winning wedding and portrait photographer with 20 years of experience in carmel, big sur and monterey
Capturing Authentic & Genuine Memories with True-to-Life Color
No awkward posing, just real beautiful moments
ALL REAL SESSIONS AND NO STYLIZED OR EDITORIAL IMAGERY
weddings are $850 per hour
1500 +
21 +
500 +
350 +
documented
368
Define the Style That Speaks to You
Dark & Moody – Dramatic shadows, dark/rich tones, darker skin tones, dramatic contrast, warmer/earthly colors. Skin tones can sometimes appear altered, and details may be lost in darker areas of the image.
Bright, Light & Airy - Light, overexposed, soft colors, romantic feel, pastel colors. Bright whites and sometimes lose detail in dresses and skies. Pastel and muted tones with slightly desaturated look. Skin tones may also appear lighter or slightly washed out.
Which style speaks to you? Photography is an art, and it’s subjective — choose what you truly love.
Your photos should reflect your vision and still feel beautiful decades from now.
Before comparing photographers, it’s important to understand the most common photography styles you’ll see — and decide which one truly resonates with you.
Timeless & True-to-Color - Heidi's Style – Skin tones that feel real, balanced color, and accurate representation of the scene. Blues stay blue, skin looks as it does in real life, and details are preserved. Rather than following trends, this approach creates images that feel classic, honest, and enduring — images that remain relevant and beautiful for generations.
lighting: the difference between
good & Great photography
step one - the most important step
Are they transparent in what they offer?
What do they deliver?
Before choosing a photographer, it’s important to understand exactly what you’ll receive.
• Are high-resolution digital files included, or are they an additional purchase?
• Are all of the images edited that you receive or will you have to choose which one's you want edited?
• How many images are delivered per hour?
Some photographers deliver as few as 50 images per hour, while others deliver significantly more.
What is their stance on posing/prompts?
Natural and Gentle Guidance is Key
When choosing a photographer, it’s helpful to understand how much direction you want during your session. Some clients love being gently guided, while others prefer a more hands-off, candid approach. True candid moments happen when there is no direction at all, and that choice naturally shows in the final images. Over the past 20 years, most all of the couples/people I’ve worked with have enjoyed light prompting and thoughtful guidance into natural poses that reflect their connection and relationship with one another. Posing is a skill developed over time through experience, communication, and creating a relaxed atmosphere—understanding a photographer’s approach helps ensure your images feel authentic, comfortable, and true to you.
Do they live on the Monterey Peninsula?
Local Knowledge Matters
Local experience makes a meaningful difference. Understanding weather patterns, traffic, seasonal events, and beach or park closures allows for quick, calm decisions — whether that means adjusting timing or having a solid plan B.
All state park locations (beaches) require photography and event photography permits. If you work locally here, your photographer can guide you.
A photographer’s website should provide clear, upfront information. You shouldn’t need multiple phone calls or video meetings just to understand starting pricing, what’s included, or how coverage works.
Transparency respects your time and helps you determine early on whether a photographer aligns with your needs and budget.
Phone calls should be about connection and priorities — not basic clarity. When expectations are clear from the beginning, conversations become more meaningful and the experience feels easier and more professional.
step two
step three
Have you seen full wedding galleries of the venue or location you are getting married at?
This is especially important: make sure you’re viewing real wedding days, not just editorial or stylized shoots. Styled imagery is often carefully curated and doesn’t reflect the pace, timelines, or lighting challenges of an actual wedding day.
Real weddings unfold quickly and unpredictably. Knowing how long things take at a venue, how light changes throughout the day, and how to work seamlessly with venue staff plays a major role in keeping the day running smoothly. Photographers who are trusted by venues and planners — and appear on multiple preferred vendor lists — have typically earned that trust through experience and professionalism.
step four
step five
step six
Three most Common
Photography Styles
dark & moody
Bright, light & airy
Bright, light & airy
Timeless, true to
life color
adorama image
SLR Image
storm santos - vogue
jaypeg photo
via one fab day
before with no lighting to show example
- by heidi
after with proper balanced lighting
- by heidi
lighting: the difference between
good & Great photography
Your wedding day unfolds in real-world conditions, not a controlled studio. Lighting changes constantly — from bright midday sun to shaded ceremonies and dimly lit receptions. A skilled photographer knows how to adapt seamlessly in every situation.
Some photographers rely solely on available light. Others use external lighting selectively, when conditions call for it — as I do. And some use artificial lighting at all times. There’s no single “right” approach, but how a photographer works with light directly affects clarity, color accuracy, and the final look of your images.
Capturing the image is only part of the process. Each photographer also edits their images with a specific intention and style — and those styles can change over time. My approach to both lighting and editing has remained consistent for over 20 years, allowing me to deliver images that feel natural, clear, and true to life, regardless of the conditions.
How do you FEEL when you talk to them?
Trust your instincts. After your initial conversation, you should feel comfortable, understood, and at ease. You’ll spend many hours together on your wedding day — choosing someone you genuinely like and connect with matters.
Consider:
• Did they respond promptly and clearly to your inquiry?
• Do they seem easy to work with?
• Do they feel calm, friendly, and reassuring?
• Does their energy feel similar to yours?
• Do you trust them, based on reviews and conversation?
• Are they comfortable speaking confidently in front of large groups?
Professionalism also shows in presentation. Your photographer is a visible part of your wedding day, interacting with guests, vendors, and family.
step seven
true story
If accurate, true-to-life color matters to you (see Step One above), choosing a photographer with the right experience is essential. True color means blue skies stay blue, skin tones look natural, and your surroundings appear exactly as they did on your wedding day.
A simple—but important—question to ask is this:
Can your photographer photograph you in bright sun, with the ocean behind you, and still show your faces clearly while keeping the sky blue?
A Real Wedding-Day Scenario - saw this happen first hand at a wedding on the Monterey Peninsula
Imagine spending $10,000 on altar florals, choosing the perfect ceremony location, and then being told immediately after the ceremony that you’ll need to move to a shaded area for portraits because the sun is “too bright.”
Unfortunately, this happens more often than couples realize. It’s usually not because the light is impossible—but because the photographer doesn’t have the proper equipment or experience to work in bright, backlit conditions.
With professional off-camera strobes, it’s absolutely possible to photograph in full sun without sacrificing image quality or relocating you away from the moment. These lighting tools allow me to balance bright skies and strong sunlight while keeping skin tones natural and faces beautifully lit—right where your ceremony actually took place.
The only limitation is when the camera lens is positioned directly into the sun itself. To resolve this, I simply shift an inch or two to one side or the other, preserving your location while still capturing clear faces and beautifully blue skies.
I’ve never had to move a couple away from their altar after a ceremony due to lighting challenges. With high-end professional lighting and an assistant to help manage equipment, I work with the sun, not against it.
Your wedding happens once.
Let’s capture it exactly the way it looked—and the way you remember it.
Heidi Borgia Photography
Timeless, true to
life color
last extra step for good measure...
Reviews matter because they show the experience behind the photos.
They tell you how a photographer communicates, handles the day, and makes clients feel—things you can’t see in a portfolio. They also show consistency and help you feel confident in your decision.
It’s also a good idea to ask for references from past clients—a professional photographer should be able to connect you with couples they’ve actually worked with. If they can’t, that can be a red flag.
In short: photos show you what a photographer can do—reviews show you what it’s actually like to work with them.
Also ask for references from other local vendors. Planners, florists, makeup artists, videographers and the like. People in the industry know who actually show's up, is professional and reliable.
Reviews are everything... do they have them and what do they say?
If they tag venues and wedding publications, but never the planner, never the couple, and never anyone who can verify the wedding was real.. be wary.
A legitimate photographer will have no problem answering any questions.
Look at their socials - pay attention to who they tag and ask questions...
CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER
DOES HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT
Once you understand what to look for in a wedding or portrait photographer, it becomes much easier to recognize the right fit for you.
not
why
heidi
Define the Style That Speaks to You - Mine is true to color & Classic
step one - the most important step
True-to-color photography is created at the time the image is taken, using intentional lighting rather than heavy editing after the fact. By working with professional-grade cameras and lighting, portable strobes, softboxes, and an assistant at my side, I’m able to preserve natural skin tones and accurate color in every setting—from open blue skies to darkly lit candlelit receptions. Because the images are captured correctly in camera at the start, only minimal editing is needed, allowing for a more efficient, quicker and thoughtful delivery process. While my wedding collections outline in the contract a 6–8 week turnaround, most full wedding galleries are delivered within 3–4 weeks, with portrait sessions completed in two weeks and proposals delivered within just a couple/few days. The result is timeless imagery that feels natural, balanced, and true to the day as it unfolded.
I value clarity and openness, which is why all pricing and collection details are thoughtfully shared on my website since 2005. This allows couples to explore everything in advance, so when we connect, our conversation can feel relaxed, comfortable, and focused on whether we are the right fit.
I deliver high-resolution digital files and a generous, thoughtfully curated collection of images. While my wedding collections outline an estimated delivery of approximately 80–110 images per hour shot, most couples receive closer to 200 images per hour - well above industry norm. This is made possible by the way I work—photographing with two cameras and lenses (via a harness), always having an assistant at my side, and using intentional lighting techniques that allow images to be captured beautifully in camera (less editing time). This approach creates a relaxed, efficient flow throughout the day and results in a cohesive gallery that reflects the full story of the wedding with care and consistency.
With over 17 years of experience photographing weddings locally, I share full wedding galleries from start to finish so couples can truly see what it’s like to work together throughout an entire day. Having lived and worked on the Monterey Peninsula for decades, I’ve built long-standing relationships with many local venues and wedding professionals and am grateful to be included on numerous preferred vendor lists. Over the years, many of these professionals have become trusted friendors—people I genuinely enjoy working alongside. That familiarity creates an ease on wedding days, as we work seamlessly together behind the scenes—anticipating needs, solving small problems before they’re noticed, and keeping everything moving smoothly—so couples can remain present and enjoy every moment of their celebration.
Do they live on the Monterey Peninsula? - Yes, have lived here for over 32 years.
step five
Having lived and worked on the Monterey Peninsula for decades, I bring a level of local awareness that goes far beyond familiarity with venues alone. From understanding how light and tides affect beach ceremonies, to anticipating coastal weather patterns, traffic flow, and unexpected local events, preparation is an essential part of my process. There have been wedding days where adjusting the timeline—sometimes even moving the ceremony earlier—was necessary due to incoming weather patterns that only become clear when you’re closely following local radar and conditions. This is the kind of insight that comes from being here, watching the weather in real time, and knowing how quickly things can shift along the coast. I also stay connected through local resources such as Nextdoor, allowing potential issues to be anticipated and quietly handled. Combined with long-standing relationships with venues and trusted friendors, this local knowledge helps ensure that everything flows smoothly behind the scenes—often before couples ever realize there was something to manage—so they can remain present and enjoy their day. I personally am a 20 minutes drive to anywhere on the peninsula from my office.
What is their stance on posing/prompts? Candid or posed? - I promise you, you will not feel awkward and posed. I always use natural prompts that gently guide you and allow you to be in the moment and perfect behind the camera.
I offer gentle guidance and subtle prompts designed to help couples feel comfortable, relaxed, and truly themselves in front of the camera. Your connection with your photographer plays a meaningful role in this—when you feel at ease, you’re able to stay present, enjoy one another, and let moments unfold naturally. My goal is for you to live fully in the moment while I quietly support the story as it’s happening. This balance of guidance and freedom allows real connection and emotion to come through, something many couples reflect on in their reviews as they describe how natural, joyful, and authentic their images feel.
step seven
How do you FEEL when you talk to them?
step seven
How do you FEEL when you talk to them?
step seven
How do you FEEL when you talk to them?
How do you feel when you talk to them? - They say...Easy to work with, Super Responsive, Friendly, kind, calm and knowledgable
Many couples have shared that my calm presence and experience helped them feel at ease throughout our conversations and on their wedding day. Every wedding is unique, and moments of uncertainty can naturally arise, but years of experience creating and guiding timelines—along with a deep familiarity with local venues and trusted friendors, and the support of an assistant by my side—allow me to move through the day with steadiness and care. Together, we help keep everything flowing naturally, making quiet adjustments and thoughtful backup plans when needed, so couples never feel the weight of those decisions. With clear communication, an efficient approach with families and large groups, and a professional presence throughout the day, my goal is to help couples stay present and enjoy their celebration—something consistently reflected in the kind words shared in my five-star reviews.
one thing I get asked is "what do you wear on our wedding day Heidi?". I wear classic outfits with slacks/jackets and blouses. My assistants wear the same. We don't want to "stand out" on a wedding day by wearing something that would make you or your guests uncomfortable (shorts, t-shirts, crop tops). This my take on a wedding day and not everyone's... I dress as appropriately as possible for the event.
Here’s how my approach on the seven questions posed above on what you should consider before hiring a photographer
step two
Are they transparent in what they offer? - Everything is on my website. No gatekeeping ever.
What do they deliver? - For over 20 years, I have exclusively delivered all edited - high resolution digital JPEGs with photo release with private online gallery for sharing.
step three
Have you seen full wedding galleries of the venue or location you are getting married at? - Just ask me!
step four
step seven
step six
few things to consider
Your wedding photographs are too important to leave to chance. Beyond style and connection, there are professional standards that should never be optional.
Here’s what truly matters behind the scenes.
Every photographer should work with two professional camera bodies throughout the day, ensuring smooth coverage and no missed moments if equipment needs to be switched.
Each camera should also record images to two memory cards at the same time. Memory cards are used constantly and, like any technology, can occasionally fail. Recording to two cards provides immediate backup and peace of mind.
Your wedding photographs should never rely on a single camera or a single card. These moments happen once—and they deserve to be protected from the start.
professional equipment and image protection
A wedding photographer should understand their equipment intuitively, without hesitation or second-guessing.
That confidence comes from years of experience, thousands of images captured, and real wedding-day conditions—allowing them to work calmly and efficiently even when timelines shift or the unexpected happens.
Your photographer’s knowledge should support your day, not slow it down.
complete technical confidence
Weddings are beautifully unpredictable, and an experienced photographer expects that—and knows how to adapt without stress.
From lighting changes to timeline adjustments, real wedding experience allows your day to be documented smoothly. That’s why it’s important to review full wedding-day galleries, not just highlights, so you can see how a photographer handles an entire day from start to finish.
Just as important, your photographer should know how to help build a realistic wedding-day timeline that allows space for real moments without feeling rushed.
Experience isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Experience With Real Weddings - not just stylized shoots
A professional wedding photographer recognizes great light instantly—knowing how to position you naturally within it and how to use their equipment to capture it beautifully in-camera.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked past an ordinary hotel hallway—nothing special at first glance—only to notice incredible directional, unexpected light. With the right eye and experience, even the most “bleh” surroundings can be transformed into something truly magical.
Great light isn’t accidental—and it should never be missed.
understanding light
Your photographer should carry a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance, which is the industry standard. Reputable venues and state parks require this coverage, and any legitimate professional should be able to provide proof of insurance and a certificate upon request.
Accidents can happen. Proper coverage protects everyone involved—and most importantly, it protects you.
proper insurance coverage
negotiables when hiring a wedding photographer
non -
complete technical confidence
proper insurance coverage
what are stylized shoots and why you should care
pricing and investment
Coverage built around your day & needs and NOT a preset package
Wedding photography has become more expensive in recent years for many of the same reasons everything else has—higher business costs, advanced equipment, insurance and permits, and the significant time and care required behind the scenes. Today, it’s about far more than showing up with a camera; it’s experience, preparation, consistency, and the responsibility of preserving moments that can’t be recreated.
At the same time, I believe in balance. My pricing reflects the level of care and professionalism I bring, while remaining thoughtful and fair. My goal is to offer meaningful, high-quality work at a price that respects both the importance of your wedding day and the investment you’re making.
my thoughts on pricing
Every wedding is different, and what’s important to each couple is different too. Charging by the hour allows us to talk through what really matters to you and build coverage around that—rather than fitting your day into a preset package with time you may not actually need.
I’ve been building wedding-day timelines for over two decades and because we plan intentionally, it’s rare that couples ever need to add extra time on the day itself. My goal is for you to feel confident that you’re paying for coverage that truly reflects your priorities—and nothing more than that.
I refer to all weddings simply as weddings. Whether someone calls it an elopement, micro wedding, or simple ceremony, it’s still a meaningful commitment worth documenting with care. Even if coverage is just an hour instead of eight, the importance of the day doesn’t change. Pricing by the hour allows you to choose coverage that fits your plans, while giving every wedding the same level of care and attention.
A Wedding is a wedding
Time, Thoughtfully Planned
As your guest count grows, so does the time needed for photos — more people, more moments, and a bit more coordination. Extra coverage helps everything flow smoothly without feeling rushed.
Number of Guests
Photography Time Required
up to 10
11-20
20-40
more than 40
one hour
1.5 - 2 hours
2 - 3 hours
4 or more hours
Thoughtful planning leads to the right amount of coverage
THE DETAILS
For couples who want every detail covered plus an album credit, content creation, video book, slideshow, quick image delivery and more...
collections at a glance
Wedding day coverage is offered at $850 per hour.
Collections beyond five hours include additional services and thoughtfully curated inclusions, such as a second photographer and an engagement session.
Weddings on average are 6-8 hours, translating to $4,950-$6,600.
One hour minimum booking required. See TIME, THOUGHTFULLY PLANNED on left hand side for details.
As your guest count grows, so does the time needed for photos — more people, more moments, and a bit more coordination. Extra coverage helps everything flow smoothly without feeling rushed.
Number of Guests
Photography Time Required
up to 10
11-20
20-40
more than 40
Coverage & Experience
• 7 hours of wedding day coverage
• Second photographer
In addition to Heidi for up to four hours on the wedding day
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 700 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 1,400
• High-resolution edited imagery. Included personal-use print release which allows you to print when/where you wish.
Preview & Gallery Delivery
• Initial highlights
A small preview of your wedding images delivered within 5–7 days
• Full gallery delivery between 4-6 weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for two years
Storytelling & Media
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval (if album ordered a la carte)
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
Print Value Credit
• $250 print credit
Your choice of albums, wall art, fine art prints, and more
pricing subject to change at anytime
Number of Hours
Investment
1 hour
2 hours
3 hours
4 hours
5 hours
6 hours
7 hours
8 hours
10 hours
Full Story 10 hours
$850
$1,650
$2,550
$3,400
$4,250
$5,950
$6,800
$7,650
$8,500
$11,550
Coverage & Experience
• Up to 10 hours of wedding day coverage
• Second photographer
In addition to Heidi for up to five hours on the wedding day
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 1,000 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 2,000
• High-resolution edited imagery. Included personal-use print release which allows you to print when/where you wish.
Preview & Gallery Delivery
• Initial highlights
A small preview of your wedding images delivered within 5–7 days
• Expedited full gallery delivery
Your complete gallery delivered within three weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for two years
Storytelling & Media
• Cinematic slideshow set to music
A thoughtfully curated highlight of your wedding day
• Wedding Photo Video Book
Coffee table book to have your slideshow and imagery
• Content creation
Behind-the-scenes video for social sharing, including two reels and one highlight reel
• Keepsake USB
A physical keepsake of your wedding day
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval when using the included print credit
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
Additional Session
• One additional one-hour session of your choice held locally
Engagement session, rehearsal dinner coverage, or day-after session
Print Value Credit
• $500 print credit
Your choice of albums, wall art, fine art prints, and more
Expanded Coverage with a Second Photographer
& Engagement Session
signature collection 1 • $6,800
7 hours of wedding coverage
Full Story Experience • $11,550
10 hours of wedding coverage
VIP expedited gallery delivery - $200-$600
a la carte additions available
drone services - starting at $350 per hour
additional half hour - $425
second photographer - $150 per hour (must be hired by Heidi)
Content Creation - $95-$145 per hour
One hour engagement, rehearsal dinner or day befor/after session
• if booking more than 8 hours - complimentary
• if booking 5-6 hours - $250
• if booking 3-4 hours - $350
• if booking 1-2 hours - $450
sessions normally $675 per hour
heirloom albums 12x12 with 30 pages and custom design - starting at $1,050
prints and wall art - please inquire
movie highlight slideshow - $350
wedding video book with slideshow and imagery - $595
Coverage & Experience
• 1 hour of wedding day coverage
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 100 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 200
• High-resolution edited imagery. Included personal-use print release which allows you to print when/where you wish.
Gallery Delivery
• Full gallery delivery between 4-6 weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for one year
Storytelling & Media
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval (if album ordered a la carte)
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
signature collection V• $850
1 hour of wedding coverage
Coverage & Experience
• 3 hours of wedding day coverage
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 300 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 600
• High-resolution edited imagery
Includes personal-use print release
Preview & Gallery Delivery
• Initial highlights
A small preview of your wedding images delivered within 5–7 days
• Full gallery delivery between 4-6 weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for one year
Storytelling & Media
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval (if album ordered a la carte)
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
signature collection III • $3,400
3 hours of wedding coverage
Coverage & Experience
• 5 hours of wedding day coverage
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 500 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 1,000
• High-resolution edited imagery. Included personal-use print release which allows you to print when/where you wish.
Preview & Gallery Delivery
• Initial highlights
A small preview of your wedding images delivered within 5–7 days
• Full gallery delivery between 4-6 weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for one year
Storytelling & Media
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval (if album ordered a la carte)
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
signature collection II• $4,250
5 hours of wedding coverage
1/2 hour increments
a la carte
$425
8 hours at $6,800 to include above 7 hours and:
9 hours at $7,650 to include above 7 hours and:
Preview within 5-7 days
complimentary one hour engagement session in Carmel
$350 print value credit
10 hours at $8,500 to include above 7 hours and:
Preview within 5-7 days
complimentary one hour engagement session in Carmel
$400 print value credit
Preview within 5-7 days
complimentary engagement session
$500 print value credit
6 hours at $5,100 to include above 5 hours and:
Preview within 5-7 days
4 hours at $3,400 to include above 3 hours and:
Preview within 5-7 days
Coverage & Experience
• 2 hours of wedding day coverage
Planning & Preparation
• Planning and preparation support
Timeline guidance, trusted vendor list and coordination, and helpful planning guides
Editing & Artistic Approach
• Heidi's Signature Photo Capture
• Heidi’s Signature Edit
A timeless, natural edit guided by light and true-to-life color
• A thoughtful selection of black & white images, chosen by Heidi
Selected for contrast, emotion, and timeless impact
• Heidi’s advanced retouching
Applied to select images
Image Volume & Quality
• A thoughtfully edited collection, often up to 200 images and frequently more—sometimes as many as 400
• High-resolution edited imagery. Included personal-use print release which allows you to print when/where you wish.
Gallery Delivery
• Full gallery delivery between 4-6 weeks
• Private online photo gallery
Unlimited downloads, hosted online for one year
Storytelling & Media
• Priority album production
Album delivered within one week of final approval (if album ordered a la carte)
• Preferred Print & Album Pricing with Custom-Designed Heirloom Albums
Enjoy 50% savings on online store items and 30% savings on heirloom albums for one month after gallery delivery—personally designed by Heidi.
signature collection IV• $1,650
2 hours of wedding coverage
1.5 hours at $1,275
wedding pricing at $850 per hour
how I am unique and different from most other photographers
before
and
after
I often get asked why and how my images look like they do. Words like "clear", "no shadows"... and "these look like they should be on a cover of a magazine"...
in 20 years I'd like you to look at your walls and your album and not wonder what the day actually looked like around you. I shoot in a timeless style you’ll be proud to pass down for generations to come.
As I always say—photography is subjective. In the end, it’s all about what speaks to you.
no flash used
dark, hard to see faces
muddy
no flash used
dark, hard to see faces
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless.
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
contrast in background,
no flash used
dark, hard to see faces
sky washed out and not blue
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
contrast in background,
blue sky
no flash used
dark, hard to see faces
sky washed out and not blue
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
hazy sunset in image, hard to see faces
lack of definition in foreground and background
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones, faces are clearly seen,
contrast in background,
sunset obvious
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
cannot see dress dimensions
no contrast
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
dress dimensions seen
bolder real life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
face coloring is flat
no contrast
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
can easily view facial dimensions, bolder real
life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
face coloring is flat
background washed out
no contrast
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
can easily view facial dimensions, bolder real
life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
face coloring is dark
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
can easily view facial dimensions, bolder real
life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
flat contrast
face coloring is dark
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
can easily view facial dimensions, real
life colors
depth in image
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin tone washed out
flat contrast
washed out
dull colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
skin tones perfect
dimensional, depth in image
true to life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
fill flash used
evenly balanced tones,
can easily read sign, real
life colors
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash
no contrast or depth,
cannot easily read sign,
dull colors
no flash used
skin colors off
color of dress is gold and not purple hue shown
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
real color of dress
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin colors off
clothing colors off
muddy looking
no contrast
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
balanced background
perfectly contrasted
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin tones off
clothing colors off
background sky blown out
no contrast
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
balanced background
perfectly contrasted
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin tones off
clothing colors off
background sky blown out
no contrast
bland colors
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
balanced background
perfectly contrasted
sky not blown out
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin tones off
clothing colors off
background blown out
no contrast
bland colors/muddy
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
balanced background
perfectly contrasted
background not blown out
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
no flash used
skin tones off
sky washed out
no contrast
bland colors/muddy
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
sky as it was on the day
perfectly contrasted
before
after
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
fill flash used
evenly balanced skin tones,
fills shadows
balanced background
perfectly contrasted
sky not blown out
portable lighting
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional. If I did not have an assistant and shot in this manner, the amount of time it would take me to document your session would be much more substantial.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
taken with assistant and portable strobe
Using an assistant with portable lighting allows me to give you the best possible lighting in any situation. Whether it’s full sun, partly cloudy, or completely overcast, I can create beautiful, flattering images. Even in dimly lit spaces—like indoor ceremony sites or dark reception rooms—my lighting setup ensures your photos still look crisp, vibrant, and professional.
This also helps me maintain my true-to-color editing style, so your images stay natural and timeless—just as the day truly looked and felt.
portable lighting
taken with assistant and soft box
signature edit (always included in pricing ) by editing out in post processing
Frequently asked questions
for weddings
do you include engagement sessions in your collections?
Engagement sessions are complimentary with wedding coverage of seven hours or more. For weddings with fewer hours of coverage, engagement sessions may be added based on the following:
• 1–2 hours of wedding coverage: $450
• 3–4 hours of wedding coverage: $350
• 5–6 hours of wedding coverage: $250
• 7+ hours of wedding coverage: Complimentary
Engagement sessions are valued at $675 and include one hour of coverage. Sessions take place in Monterey, Carmel, or Big Sur (Garrapata area only).
will you work with our planner?
I’m more than happy to work closely with your planner on your timeline and any details needed to keep the day flowing smoothly.
do you provide a second photographer? have you worked with them before?
A second wedding photographer is complimentary with wedding coverage of more than seven hours and will be present for up to four hours on your wedding day. If a second photographer is not included in your collection, one of Heidi’s trusted second photographers may be added for $150 per hour.
We work with a dedicated second photographer to ensure a cohesive experience and a seamless wedding gallery. From framing and styling to how we interact with you and your guests, our approach is aligned and intentional. On the wedding day, both photographers are in the right place at the right time—working together through a proven rhythm built on experience and in-depth training.
In our experience, a second photographer is most valuable earlier in the day, when there are more moments happening at once. A more streamlined approach during the reception helps keep the experience natural and unobtrusive.
would you recommend a second photographer for our wedding?
If the wedding has over 100 guests and/or multiple moving parts, then yes.
how quickly will we receive our images? Sneak peak?
Your full wedding gallery is delivered within six to eight weeks, though most couples receive their gallery within approximately four weeks.
A sneak peek of around 20 images is typically shared within one week of your wedding.
For couples who would like their full gallery sooner, a VIP Expedited Service is available with delivery within 72 hours of your wedding. Please inquire for details and pricing.
do you recommend a first look?
It is truly a personal decision. Approximately 50% of my couples opt for a first look.
what is your editing style? What is a "clean" edit?
True, accurate color is always our starting point. Blues should look blue, blacks should look black, and skin tones should feel natural and true to life. While there’s plenty of creativity in our work, the colors in your images should reflect what your day actually looked like.
From there, every photo is edited individually. We pay close attention to composition, cropping, and skin tones, and we remove small distractions that don’t belong. That outlet right behind your shoulder during the first look—despite the rest of the frame being perfect? Gone.
“Clean” images aren’t just about editing style—they start while we’re shooting. Weddings are busy, with lighting stands, equipment, and vendors often just outside the frame. As we photograph your day, we’re always aware of what’s happening around you and intentionally frame images to avoid clutter, so nothing pulls attention away from the moment.
The result is photos that feel natural, polished, and timeless—focused on what matters, without giving away the behind-the-scenes.
how are our photos edited?
ALL IMAGES ARE EDITED BY HEIDI personally and not sourced out to a third party service.
All images are edited for color, tone, and contrast, with light, natural skin smoothing. The editing style you see in my portfolio reflects the overall look you can expect in your gallery.
Additional retouching—such as body reshaping, heavier skin editing, teeth whitening, clothing wrinkles, or blemish removal—is considered separate from standard editing. Most couples don’t feel this is necessary, but retouching is available upon request for those who would like extra refinement.
are you ok if we bring our dog to our wedding?
Yes!
what is the minimum amount of time we can hire you for?
One hour is the minimum. If you choose to use less time, that’s absolutely fine — however, the session rate remains the same.
can we hire you for just an hour?
Please see the minimum requirements below. The amount of time needed is predicated by how many guests you will have at your wedding.
We're awkward in front of the camera - can you help us?
Most couples feel this way. I use gentle guidance rather than stiff posing, giving simple direction while letting natural moments happen. I’ll step in when you need help and step back when things feel natural, so you can relax, be yourselves, and forget about the camera.
will i need to provide you with a shooting list?
We don’t require a general shot list. Having photographed hundreds of weddings, we know exactly what needs to be captured—from meaningful details to the most important moments throughout the day—while still allowing room for spontaneity and creativity.
Family photos are the exception. For that portion of the day, we gather details through a questionnaire and create a custom family shot list and timeline for you to review and approve in advance, including family names, so everything runs smoothly.
can you build us a timeline?
Yes. One of the first things we do when we chat is talk through what’s most important to you and how much wedding photography coverage you’ll realistically need. Every wedding is different, and priorities vary—some couples love getting-ready photos, while others prefer to focus on the ceremony and celebration.
I build timelines based on how the day naturally flows. I typically don’t stay long into open dancing, as those images can become repetitive. Because I work quickly and efficiently—with an assistant by my side—and capture images correctly in camera, I usually only need about 30 minutes for couple’s portraits.
My goal is to help you plan photography coverage that feels thoughtful, efficient, and aligned with your day.
ARE YOU FLEXIBLE ON OUR WEDDING DAY AS FAR AS OUR TIMELINE?
Of course. Wedding days naturally evolve, and I’m very comfortable adjusting as things unfold so everything stays relaxed and on track.
If it looks like a little extra coverage might be helpful due to unexpected circumstances, I’ll always check in with you first. Additional time can be added in 30-minute increments, only if you’d like, so there are no surprises.
Number of Guests
Required Coverage
up to 12
13-20
21-30
31-40
41-50
1 hour
1.5 hours
2 hours
2.5 or 3 hours
4 or 5 hours
how many images will we get on average per hour of shooting?
Rather than limiting images by the hour, our focus is on documenting your day fully and thoughtfully. That said, contractually couples receive 80–100 fully edited images per hour of coverage.
In practice, most couples receive significantly more—often close to double that amount, which is well above the industry standard. Every image delivered is carefully edited and intentionally selected to tell the full story of your day, without filler or duplicates.
Do you have liability insurance? Permits?
Yes. I carry $2 million in liability insurance, which is the industry standard, and my policy is already on file with most local venues and state parks.
I also hold annual active permits to photograph at Garrapata State Park and Carmel River State Beach, valued at approximately $1,000. These permits are required for wedding and portrait photography in those locations.
Most California state parks—and many cities—require photographers to have both insurance and proper permits in place. Having these secured ahead of time ensures your day runs smoothly and without interruption.
do you travel?
I focus exclusively on weddings on the Monterey Peninsula. I’m lucky to have enough local work that I don’t need to travel, which also means I know the area and venues extremely well.
The only time a travel fee applies is for weddings deep into Big Sur—please feel free to ask for details. Garrapata (Big Sur) does not require a travel fee.
do we receive printing rights?
Yes. You receive personal printing rights to your images, allowing you to print and share your photos for personal use.
Per California copyright law, the photographer retains the copyright to the images, as they are composed and captured by me. This is standard within the photography industry. That said, you are absolutely welcome to print your images and enjoy them however you’d like for personal use.
If you’d like your vendors (planner, florist, venue, etc.) to have access to your images, just let me know—I’m happy to share images directly with them upon request.
what happens if you are sick or have an emergency?
In the extreme rare event of an emergency, you’re fully protected. I work within a strong local professional network and have multiple associates and trusted photographers I can call on if needed. Any replacement photographer would be carefully selected to match my standards and approach.
That said, this situation is extremely rare. Your wedding day coverage—and your peace of mind—are always taken seriously and thoughtfully planned for.
love
notes from this couple...
a simple, stress free
booking experience
Take a look through my wedding portfolio to see exactly what you can expect on your wedding day—natural, beautifully lit images that focus on real moments and genuine connection.
Explore client reviews from couples who trusted me with their wedding day. For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of preserving moments that matter most.
Reach out to start the conversation and make sure we’re the perfect fit.
Full galleries to review sent before next step.
Together, we’ll talk through your wedding day and design coverage that feels right for you. I’ll guide you in creating a timeline that determines the amount of coverage needed and the collection that best fits your day.
Secure your date and know your wedding day will be handled with care. Your date is confirmed with a 50% retainer.
Vendor lists provided and guides provided for planning.
two
five
four
wedding
one
three
connect and customize
confirm
explore the portfolio
reach out
read the reviews
DRONE video and stills
Consider getting an aerial view of your proposal
Learn More
The newest trend you
want to miss out on
Wedding Content Creation
Consider this - a lot of our daily lives are captured casually on our phones. Instead of having your guests do it for you (and they won't be with you all day like we will) on your wedding day, let us take the reigns and capture all of the fun moments of your day.
don't
Consider this - a lot of our daily lives are captured casually on our phones. Instead of having your guests do it for you (and they won't be with you all day like we will) on your wedding day, let us take the reigns and capture all of the fun moments of your day.
so now you have the digital files, what do you do with them all?
learn more
albums , wall art & prints
There are a few common reasons couples hesitate to invest in a wedding album or art: it feels like something they can do later, something they can print themselves, or something they don’t really need beyond digital files.
Here’s the truth—digital files are not permanent. They live on hard drives, cloud accounts, and devices that eventually become outdated, forgotten, or inaccessible. Over time, passwords change, technology shifts, and those images quietly disappear from everyday life. Printed photographs don’t.
Many couples fully intend to print their photos themselves, but life gets busy. Years pass. And more often than not, it simply doesn’t happen. I’ve seen this firsthand—even as a photographer, it took me years to finish my own wedding album. That’s why I believe so strongly in albums created through your photographer.
A wedding album isn’t just a book of photos and wall art you will have forever. It’s the way you’ll remember faces, moments, and feelings long after the day has passed. It becomes something you pull off the shelf, walk past daily in your home, share with family, and pass down—preserving not just how your wedding looked, but who was there and how it felt.
Your wedding happens once. Your photographs deserve a life beyond a screen.
what is it and do you need it?
retouching
Let's talk about
The images you receive in your gallery will already be professionally edited for color, tone, contrast, and light skin retouching. My goal is always to present you in the most natural, flattering way while staying true to the authentic feel of the day.
For your wedding or portrait session, I highly recommend working with a professional hair and makeup artist to help you look and feel your absolute best. The elements—like sun, wind, and even humidity—can affect your final images and may emphasize small imperfections such as shine, uneven skin tones, or stray hairs.
After photographing people for over 20 years, one thing I’ve consistently noticed is how much even skin tone and polished styling can elevate your portraits. Matching tones across the face, chest, arms, and hands makes a subtle but beautiful and noticeable difference in your final gallery.
filter through before/after examples
retouching can include
skin edits
- under eye
- blemish removal
- face shine
- acne
- dark circles
- neck wrinkles
- double chin
- even skin tone
- and more
- even skin tone
- full body reshape
- blemishes
- tattoo removal
body edits
teeth
- whitening
- brace removal
hair
- fill part line
- remove stray hairs
clothing
- wrinkles
© Heidi Borgia Photography - 2026