CHICAGO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER: WEDDING AT THE MORAINE HIGHLAND PARK, IL. CAM + EMILY

Of course, we’ll get your must-have shot list. The big iconic events you’ve been picturing for years? Absolutely. The little nuanced, candid moments that unfold between them? Always. But here’s something couples don’t usually dream about—or even know to think about: how the unplanned time gets used. And that thoughtful use of “in-between” moments can make all the difference, not just for your photos, but for your entire day.

Like this wedding at The Moraine in Highland Park. My second photographer arrived early, but the building wasn’t open yet—not by a few minutes, but by hours. It was crazy muggy, beyond hot, and later the skies were going to open up in a wild downpour (which they did!). She could’ve easily found some air-conditioning, scrolled her phone, and enjoyed a surprise break. But instead, because she knows exactly how we operate here at MMP, she chose to use her time. She hiked the grounds, scouting option after option of beautiful little corners, noting how the light might fall at different points of the day. She built a library of “just in case” gems.

Fast forward: it’s time for the bride and groom’s first look. The sky? Pouring buckets. As much as I love a dreamy rainy shot, I wasn’t about to have them drenched before walking down the aisle. So, we pivoted. Portraits indoors. Ceremony as planned. Afterward, the rain stopped—but we were left with flooded lawns, and almost no buffer for bonus portraits. Here’s where her earlier thoughtfulness made the magic happen. Because she had already scouted the property, we knew exactly where to go to maximize those few precious outdoor minutes. No guessing, no wandering, just walking straight into dreamy portraits that looked like they had been planned all along.

So yes, the obvious photography moments will always be covered. But what makes the experience seamless—and your photos unforgettable—is the intentional thought put into the moments you don’t plan for. My recommendation? Always think through (or let me think through) how to use the time you’re not spending. It can truly change everything.

And a quick bonus tip? If your venue has sprawling grounds like The Moraine, rent the golf cart. Trust me.

Cam & Em, way to pivot and "soak" in every moment on your incredible wedding day!! We loved capturing you guys!