Short answer: Yes, definitely.

Long answer:

I love photographing weddings at venues I’ve never worked at before. Why? It keeps me on my toes with fresh ideas that are completely unique to each couple. The details and circumstances of wedding days vary wildly!

For example, there are a handful of venues I’ve worked at 5+ times each. While it seems like a benefit that I know the layout of the property and the “best spots” to take photos, I never want to limit my couples. I view each wedding as a blank canvas and keep my eyes open to the endless opportunities of each wedding. Lighting, time of day, weather, ground conditions, accessibility, other vendors working that day - all these things play a role in creating a completely unique experience. Besides, I always arrive early on your wedding day to check out the situation at your venue. I'll even come the day before if you’ve hired me to photograph your rehearsal dinner. So the fact that I may have photographed a wedding there years prior is mostly irrelevant.

Also, a venue’s “preferred vendors” are often on that list because the venue gets kickbacks if you hire them. Essentially, it’s paid advertising and doesn’t necessarily equate to the best vendors for you. Food for thought! Please let me know if you have any questions about this!