NJ Wedding Vendor Spotlight: The Meyer Photo + Video Group
Ashley Meyer, the owner of The Meyer Photo + Video Group sat down with our team at the Sterling Ballroom in Tinton Falls, NJ, to talk all things wedding photography and shine light on what inspired her to open her own company. For Ashley, opening her own photography business was very personal. She had been working a full-time Marketing job over an hour away from her home when her son was diagnosed with Autism in 2017. When the position ended, to prioritize her son’s health, she decided to start a business instead of seeking another full-time office position.
Ashley had always been passionate about creating art. In college, she studied Digital Filmmaking, so she had a ton of experience with professional videography and camera work. Photography was a natural skill to incorporate later. When she was planning her own wedding back in 2013, she found it very challenging to find the right photographer. “It was tough to find a photographer that was affordable but still produced high-quality content.” She saw an opportunity in the industry for her to give clients what other photographers were lacking.
That’s when The Meyer Photo + Video Group was born. Ashley has been running her company and photographing and filming weddings for 7 years now. “My business has done close to 1,000 weddings and live events between all of our staff” she shared with us. Although most of her clients are couples getting married, her portfolio also consists of Sweet 16s, Bar Mitzvahs, Showers and other special occasions. “Interestingly enough, I’m actually now one of the very few female wedding videographers in the state!”
What factors should couples consider when choosing a photographer?
Choosing a Wedding Photographer is no easy task! Above all, Ashley recommends selecting a vendor who does photography full-time. That will ensure that they are available for emails, questions and concerns during regular business hours. “Photography plays such a big role in the day-of coordination which means you will need answers from your photographer to plan other aspects of the day. And you typically need these answers fast.”
Secondly, couples should consider the photographer’s turnaround time. Some return the photos within days, and others may take weeks to months.
Lastly, consider the financial commitment. Are there payment plans available? Or do they need the full payment upfront? The Meyer Photo + Video group are very flexible with payment plans. They require a $200 down-payment and then they work with each couple to create a payment plan that works best for them. “Most vendors require 25-50% down to book which I know is just not feasible for all couples.”
What can couples expect when they book with The Meyer Photo + Video Group?
Ashley Meyer ensures that each couple will have a seamless and comfortable experience. She builds strong connections with her clients prior to the big day. Weeks before the wedding, Ashley sends out a Preference Sheet to the couple. This sheet helps Ashley understand the family dynamics so she can make everyone feel comfortable during portraits. For example, if there is a set of divorced parents or certain family members that aren’t comfortable taking photos together.
Ashley’s years of experience at our venues allow her to know the property like the back of her hand. She knows what works well as far as best photo spots, lighting, and backgrounds. Rain plans are also extremely important. Regardless of the weather predictions, Ashley will always determine a ‘rain plan’ with her couples so that in the case of a storm, everyone knows what to do!
How should couples prepare for their wedding or engagement photo sessions?
For weddings, couples can prepare by creating a Pinterest Board for inspiration. This helps the photographer understand your vision and bring it to life. It also helps to book an engagement session with your wedding photographer so you can become comfortable with each other and practice certain looks/poses. Ashley stresses to her clients that it’s completely normal to feel a bit awkward or uncomfortable taking pictures. Everyone feels that way! She poses her couples in a way that allows them to feel natural but look photogenic on camera.
Couples can prepare for their engagement sessions by researching the type of vibe they want and outfit ideas. If they want something sentimental, they can take photos where they met or had their first date. If they want something beachy, they can go along the Jersey Shore. One perk about The Meyer Photo + Video group is that they don’t charge for outfit changes! Ashley recommends couples take photos in formal attire and then bring something more casual to change into.
What kinds of poses should be on the shot list for weddings?
When Ashley is photographing a wedding, she likes to incorporate a blend of posed, natural and candid shots. This is important because couples’ families typically want straight-forward portraits to hang in their home or couples usually need a photo to create a thank you card. However, it’s important to also get romantic photos that show emotion. In addition, Ashley likes to photograph in different locations such as inside, outside, hallways, lobbies, staircases, etc. “One thing I always make sure to do is get a picture of the back of the dress.” Ashley said. “No one really thinks of doing that, but it is very flattering, and most dresses are very ornate in the back.”
Favorite photo spots at the Sterling Ballroom?
Like most of us, Ashley loves photographing outdoors in the courtyard. It is very private and the greenery looks absolutely beautiful on camera. She also likes photographing the couple in the newly renovated lobby. “I love the location of the Sterling Ballroom because it’s so close to the shore” Ashley said. Asbury Park is one of her favorite locations to photograph couples. Between the beach and the boardwalk, there are a ton of photo-spots. The town has beautiful murals and a carousel that make for some fun portraits!
Learn more about The Meyer Photo + Video Group or contact them to photograph your special day.
For more wedding tips, follow the Sterling Ballroom on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Contact us with any questions about hosting your next event.
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