Frequently Asked Questions

FlashPhotos? About 90 seconds after the shutter clicks. Sneak Peaks? — a curated highlight set — are delivered the morning after your wedding for immediate sharing. Your complete edited gallery is delivered within days of your wedding, not weeks. Exact timing depends on your wedding date and season, but fast delivery is a core part of every MDKauffmann commission.

We talk about your day — your venues, your timeline, your vision, and what matters most to you. I’ll explain how I work, answer any questions you have, and we’ll both get a sense of whether we’re a good fit. There’s no pressure and no obligation. If it’s a yes for both of us, we talk next steps. If it’s not, no hard feelings.

 Every commission is milestone-first, not hour-first. That means we plan your coverage around the moments that matter — not a ticking clock. Coverage length is built into your commission based on your day’s needs, and we make sure nothing important gets left out.

You have direct access to Matthew from booking through final delivery. No assistant, no contact form that goes into a void. Unlimited communication is part of every commission.

Matthew shoots solo for most weddings. A second photographer is available as an add-on for larger weddings or specific coverage needs — something we’ll discuss during your consult.

Digital files are included with every print order for the images you choose to preserve in print. Heirloom artwork — albums, wall art, fine art prints — is where your wedding photographs become finished pieces designed to live in your home and be passed down. We’ll walk through your options during the design consultation after your wedding.

MDKauffmann Photography is based in Metro St. Louis and Southern Illinois, and available for travel worldwide. Most weddings are within the St. Louis metro area, but destination weddings and elopements are always welcome — just ask.

The Certified Professional Photographer designation is earned by fewer than 3% of photographers worldwide through a rigorous examination of technical skill and image quality. It means your photographer has been independently verified to produce work at a professional standard — not self-declared, certified. There’s a full explanation on the About page if you want to go deeper.

A retainer is due at booking to hold your date. The remaining balance is structured in payments leading up to your wedding — no interest, no fees. We’ll walk through the specifics during your consult.

In 25 years, it hasn’t happened. But in the unlikely event of a genuine emergency, I maintain a professional network of trusted CPP-level photographers and will work to find appropriate coverage. Your retainer is always protected.