It was a little over a year ago when we started working with Roland Gozun. We heard of RG and his work through close friends and the great reviews on The Knot. Reaching out to him was very easy, meeting with him and sharing expectations even ea...sier. RG was the first photographer we met with in person during our short lived hunt. Deciding to go with him after just this instance shows how special our connection was.
The biggest caveat with our wedding is that we need his services within a small window, by wedding standards. Our wedding was pushed up eight months due to the venue closing. Thankfully, his was available.
The whole process of inquiring, meeting, signing, and planning was very kinetic in the best way possible. Being an amateur photographer myself, I had expectations that were very important. I was candid with RG about this and he obliged with no hesitation and the most open mind. He also had didn't mind geeking out with me, greatly appreciated!
Our first meeting consisted of RG sharing his best work and the beats of a typical day - this was key! After, we had to provide a non-refundable retainer that was half of the total cost. This needed to be done in order to sign the contract and officially start planning.
The planning process was fun as it consisted of my wife and I selecting shots for RG that contributed to our vision. Also, a questionnaire helped provide RG and his wife Jane (2nd camera) direction for the day of. This included locations, prep schedule, transportation, and people/poses of interest.
On the wedding day, R&J were right on time, if not, a little early. The availability of our bridal party changed that morning, but R&J were able to roll with the changes and still work efficiently. Throughout the day, we didn't give much thought to R&J because we trusted that they would be everywhere we went, and they were. When it came time to group or poses shots, they were very precise and friendly, key great qualities to have on an action packed day like this. They complimented each other perfectly and JG was especially helpful and knowledgeable in coordinating the bride's outfit and placing the bridal party.
Chicago traffic and an unexpected blizzard forced the wedding party to arrive late to the reception - R&J were extremely understanding. They worked hard to get beautiful shots in the limited time available and their thoughtfulness was very much appreciated.
The day after our wedding we received a quick email containing preview shots, which surpassed our expectations. We couldn't wait to see the end result a month later. The final viewing was at RG's home studio. There we reminisced about the day, caught up on life, and viewed the photos. He was nice enough to provide personalized gifts that included with his work. While we caught up, we learned there was a recent loss in his family that we could closely relate to. The fact that he maintained communication and held to his delivery date for the photos reflects the highest level of professionalism you can find.
Looking back at the photos, we love how much of our personalities R&J captured with candid shots. These were very important to us. We are beyond satisfied at R&J's work.
Working with Roland and his wife was one of the best decisions we've made as a couple. It was one of the easiest choices we made during our wedding planning process. Looking back on the special day brings smiles to our faces, but bigger ones when we think of working with Roland and Jane.