Meet Carol DeAnda of DeAnda Photography

Carol DeAnda is the owner and primary photographer for DeAnda Photography which she created in 2010. She prides herself in her classic and timeless photography and providing gorgeous imagery to all of her clients. She specializes in weddings, corporate headshot work, and families and lives in Lake in the Hills in the Northwest Suburbs.

Tell us about you and your story.

What is your background and how did you find your way to the wedding industry?

I went to school for Photography back in 2008 and had known that I wanted to be a professional photographer since high school. I started my professional career working with families and babies and then about two years in I was asked to photogaph a wedding for a friend of a friend. At first, I wasn't sure since I had never photographed a wedding before, but they trusted me and loved my work so I gave it a go. That was over 10 years ago now and I haven't looked back since. I really enjoy photographing weddings and being able to provide couples a way to go back and relive that day, that I know must of went by in a blur.

Share a little bit about DeAnda Photography's history.

When did DeAnda Photography launch? What are you known for?

I launched my company DeAnda Photography officially in 2010 and have now photographed over 100 weddings. I have always been an ally to the LGBTQ community and when marriage finally became legal for same-sex couples in 2014 in Illinois, I knew I wanted to help these couples capture their big day. I had read too many disgusting stories of other wedding vendors refusing service to same-sex couples and I knew I wanted them to look at my website and not have any worry and be able to see that not only have I worked with other same-sex couples, but I celebrate them! Love is love in my book and has always has been that way since day one!

What sets you and DeAnda Photography apart?

What's your secret sauce? What makes you different from everyone else?

I think one of the things that separate me from other photographers is how much experience I have. I have been a professional photographer for 12 years now and it is everything to me. Many clients love how organized I am and how that makes their day run so smoothly; from navigating delays, getting through family photo lists lickety-split, and wrangling wedding parties. My business is my baby and honestly one of the most important things I have and because of that, I want to make sure all of my clients have the best experience possible. I can promise you that everything will be captured beautifully on your wedding day if you decide to work with me.

Tell us about your ideal couple.

Tell us about the type of couple that really clicks with you and your company.

My ideal couple is one who loves each other endlessly and wants to celebrate their love with their friends and family. It is also a couple who is able to roll with the punches, sometimes it rains on your wedding day, and you know what, that is ok! We can still head outside with some umbrellas and make some magic happen. They aren't afraid to laugh, to play, and maybe do something silly to get an awesome photo.

What is the best advice you have for couples currently planning their weddings?

You've seen so many couples go through the planning process. Share your best pearl of wisdom for those just starting out with their planning.

My best advice for couples planning their weddings now is to enjoy it! Don't wait till the last minute when it will stress you out and hire the professionals who will make your day easier.

What's the ONE thing that couples shouldn't forget to ask potential wedding vendors?

Spill! What's the single most important question that couples should ask before booking a vendor for their wedding?

I think couples should ask wedding vendors why they do what they do. When someone is passionate about what they do it shows, and they do better work because they are more invested in it.