Carrie Wildes Photography: Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you'd like to know about Carrie Wildes Photography, from weddings and proposals to headshots and events.

About the Studio

What is Carrie Wildes Photography?

Carrie Wildes Photography is a boutique Tampa Bay photography studio led by photographer Carrie Wildes. For 18 years, Carrie and her team have photographed weddings, proposals, engagements, portraits and events. The studio is known for two things: timeless, elegant images, and making every client feel completely at ease. The studio is based in Lutz, just north of Tampa, and serves all of Tampa Bay, with worldwide travel for destination weddings.

Who is Carrie Wildes?

Carrie Wildes owns the studio and is its lead photographer. Clients describe her as warm, easy to work with and a calming presence on a busy wedding day. Many say they felt comfortable with her from the very first conversation. Behind that ease is serious experience. Carrie is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), holds the Craftsman degree from Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and has photographed hundreds of weddings at many of Tampa Bay's best-known venues. Marry Me Tampa Bay has also quoted her as an expert contributor.

Who is on the Carrie Wildes Photography team?

Carrie works alongside Linda, and together they are the studio's two lead photographers. Clients often mention Linda by name in their reviews. She shares Carrie's warm, professional approach, so your experience feels consistent from the first call to the final gallery. On a wedding day, Carrie and Linda can cover two moments at once, like the getting-ready rooms or the ceremony from two angles.

Is Carrie Wildes Photography licensed and insured?

Yes. Carrie Wildes Photography is a licensed, insured business and a member of the Tampa Bay Chamber, Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and Southwest Event Leaders (SWEL).

What equipment does Carrie use?

Carrie shoots with professional Canon camera bodies and high-end lenses. She brings backup gear to every session and event, and all of her equipment is insured.

Services and Style

What types of photography does Carrie Wildes Photography offer?

What is Carrie Wildes' photography style?

It's timeless elegance with candid storytelling. Carrie combines the polish of fashion photography with the honesty of photojournalism. She captures genuine emotion and real moments while quietly guiding the portraits so everyone looks natural and feels their best. She's skilled with natural light, off-camera flash and difficult indoor lighting, so ballrooms, evening receptions and dim churches all come out beautifully.

Working With Us

What is it like to work with Carrie Wildes Photography?

Relaxed, organized and personal. From your first call, you'll know what to expect: clear communication, a thoughtful timeline and a team that takes care of the details so you don't have to. Clients regularly describe the experience as easy and stress-free. On the day itself, Carrie and her team are calm, professional and quietly in control, so you can be fully present.

I'm nervous in front of the camera. Can you help?

Absolutely. This is one of the most common things we hear, and it's where Carrie shines. Many clients come to us feeling camera-shy or worried their photos won't look like them. Carrie guides you through every pose with simple, natural direction and keeps the mood light. By the end, most clients say they forgot the camera was there. The result is photos that look authentic and feel true to who you are.

What do clients say about Carrie Wildes Photography?

You can read our reviews on Google, WeddingWire and The Knot. The same themes come up again and again: Carrie and her team put people at ease, communicate clearly, feel like friends by the end of the day, and deliver photos clients treasure. Many couples book us again for later milestones, and parents of the couple often leave reviews of their own.

"Carrie has a lovely presence and sets the subject at ease. If you are looking for beautiful photos from a seasoned professional, Carrie is a wonderful choice!" – Colleen B.

Who We Serve

Who is the ideal client for Carrie Wildes Photography?

Our ideal wedding clients choose their photographer the way they'd choose someone to stand beside them on one of the most important days of their lives: for connection and trust, not just a portfolio. Our couples are often:

  • Planning a wedding at a full-service Tampa Bay resort or venue, like The Don CeSar, Sand Pearl Resort or The Florida Aquarium
  • Looking for a photographer who feels as polished and professional as their venue
  • A little camera-shy, and wanting photos that look natural and authentically them
  • Wanting one photographer for the whole season, from engagement photos and engagement parties to the wedding day and beyond
  • Planning alongside involved parents and family who want to know the day is in capable hands
  • Planning a destination wedding and wanting a trusted photographer to travel with them

We also love working with:

  • Partners planning a meaningful surprise proposal
  • Families, expecting parents and new parents who want relaxed, guided portraits
  • Professionals and companies that need polished headshots and branding images
  • Businesses, nonprofits and hosts planning corporate and social events

What areas does Carrie Wildes Photography serve?

Our home base is Tampa Bay, and we serve Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, Safety Harbor, Lutz, Wesley Chapel, Land O' Lakes and the surrounding communities across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota counties. We also photograph destination weddings across the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe, and we're happy to travel wherever your celebration takes you.

Wedding Photography

Can we meet Carrie before we book?

Yes, and we encourage it. Choosing your wedding photographer is personal, so every couple starts with a complimentary consultation, in person or by video. It's a relaxed conversation about your plans, your venue and what matters most to you. Many of our couples first met Carrie at a local bridal show, and parents are always welcome to join.

What Tampa Bay wedding venues has Carrie photographed?

Carrie has photographed at many of the region's best-known venues, including:

  • The Don CeSar
  • The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
  • Sand Pearl Resort
  • The Florida Aquarium
  • JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
  • JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
  • Tampa Marriott Water Street
  • Armature Works
  • Yacht StarShip, where she has been a preferred vendor for more than 15 years
  • Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
  • The Birchwood
  • The Fenway Hotel
  • Harborside Chapel
  • Bilmar Beach Resort
  • Centre Club Tampa
  • Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club
  • Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
  • NOVA 535
  • Rooftop 220

Is an engagement session included?

Yes. Every Premium Wedding collection includes an engagement session. Sessions usually last about an hour at a location you choose, and Carrie helps with location ideas, wardrobe and styling. It's also the perfect chance to get comfortable in front of the camera, so by the wedding day, working with Carrie feels completely natural. If you're booking the Intimate collection, just ask about adding one.

Do you photograph engagement parties and other wedding celebrations?

Yes. Many of our couples have us photograph more than one celebration, including the engagement party, the bridal shower, the rehearsal dinner and the wedding day. Having one photographer for the whole season means consistent photos and a familiar face at every event.

Can our parents be involved in the planning?

Of course. Parents are often part of the planning, and we welcome them. Carrie is happy to include family in consultations and planning conversations and to make sure everyone knows what to expect. Parents of our couples often tell us how much they appreciated the team's professionalism and care on the day.

When will we receive our wedding photos?

You'll see wedding sneak peeks within 7 to 10 days. Your full gallery is ready 4 to 6 weeks after the wedding, and then album design begins.

Do you offer wedding albums and printed artwork?

Yes. Carrie designs every wedding album herself as a storybook of the day. You choose your favorite images, and Carrie designs the album around them and revises it with your feedback before it goes to print. The studio also offers fine-art wall prints and other heirloom products.

Destination Weddings

Is Carrie Wildes a destination wedding photographer?

Yes. Carrie is a destination wedding photographer based in Tampa Bay, Florida, and she's available worldwide. She has photographed weddings and sessions in Jamaica, Mexico, Turks & Caicos and Portugal. In the U.S., her work includes Colorado, New York, Maine, Illinois, Wisconsin and Ohio. Couples from all over the country also hire her for Florida destination weddings on the Gulf Coast.

Where will Carrie travel for a wedding?

Anywhere. Carrie especially loves Caribbean islands, Mexico's resort coasts, Portugal, Italy (including Lake Como) and the rest of Europe, along with mountain and coastal destinations across the U.S. If you're planning a wedding somewhere meaningful to you, we'd love to hear about it.

Why bring a photographer from home instead of hiring a local one at the destination?

When you plan a wedding from far away, you often book vendors you've never met. Bringing Carrie means you:

  • Work with someone you've already met, talked with and trusted from the very first call
  • Get the same consistent, timeless style all the way from your engagement photos to your album
  • Have an experienced professional who has handled unfamiliar venues, tropical light, wind and tight resort schedules
  • Share a relaxed experience, since she's been with you through planning and not just on the day itself

How does destination wedding pricing work?

Destination weddings start from our wedding collections, and travel is quoted separately. Travel fees depend on your location and generally cover the costs of getting there, such as flights, accommodations and parking. Many couples add extra coverage, like the welcome party, a day-after session or an adventure session somewhere scenic at the destination. Contact us for a custom destination quote.

Does Carrie photograph elopements and intimate destination weddings?

Yes. The Intimate collection is a great fit for small destination weddings and elopements, whether that's a beach ceremony in the Caribbean, a cliffside vow exchange in Portugal or a lakeside celebration in Italy.

Do resorts charge a fee for bringing an outside photographer?

Some destination resorts, especially in Mexico and the Caribbean, charge an outside vendor fee. Carrie will help you check your resort's vendor policy before you book so there are no surprises.

Can we do our engagement session in Tampa Bay before a destination wedding?

Absolutely. Many destination couples do their engagement session with Carrie before the big day. It's a chance to meet in person and get comfortable in front of the camera, and the photos are great for save-the-dates. Florida couples can do it locally in Tampa Bay, and couples from out of state can combine it with a trip.

Proposal Photography

Does Carrie Wildes Photography offer proposal photography?

Yes. Proposal photography is one of Carrie's specialties. She helps you plan a surprise proposal from beginning to end, then captures the moment itself and your first photos as an engaged couple.

How does a surprise proposal session work?

Before the day, Carrie helps you choose the location, the best time for good light and a natural reason to be there. She works out exactly where you'll stand and where she'll be hiding. On the day, she blends in as a tourist, a beachgoer or just another guest, so your partner never suspects a thing. She photographs the question, the reaction and the hug, and then leads a relaxed mini portrait session so you leave with beautiful photos of the two of you.

Where are the best places to propose in Tampa Bay?

Favorite spots include Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Sand Pearl Resort, The Don CeSar, Upham Beach, Ballast Point Park and Tampa's downtown riverfront. Sunset beach proposals are especially popular. Carrie will suggest the best location and timing based on your story and your partner's personality.

What if it rains or my partner gets suspicious?

Carrie plans a backup for every proposal, including a covered or indoor alternative and a flexible timeline. If plans change at the last minute, she'll adjust with you. Her 18 years of experience mean she stays calm when things don't go exactly to plan.

Is there a bonus if we book our wedding with Carrie after our proposal?

Yes. Proposal clients who book their wedding with Carrie Wildes Photography receive a $500 bonus toward artwork or add-ons. It's our way of saying thank you for trusting us with the start of your story.

Portrait Photography

What kinds of portrait sessions does Carrie Wildes Photography offer?

  • Family portraits
  • Maternity sessions
  • Newborn sessions
  • Couples and anniversary portraits
  • Milestone and personal portraits

Where do portrait sessions take place?

Sessions take place at locations throughout Tampa Bay, including beaches, parks, historic downtowns and your own home. Local favorites include Cypress Point Park, Ballast Point Park, Upham Beach and Clearwater Beach. Carrie will help you pick a spot that fits the feel you want and the time of year.

What should we wear to our portrait session?

Carrie gives every client wardrobe and styling guidance before the session, including color palettes that photograph beautifully together and outfits that suit the location. Timeless, coordinated but not matching, and comfortable is always a good place to start.

Is Carrie good with kids and people who don't like being photographed?

Yes. Clients often say Carrie has a lovely presence and puts people at ease. She guides every pose and keeps the session relaxed and fun. That's especially helpful for little ones, partners who'd rather be anywhere else and anyone who feels awkward in front of a camera.

How many images do we receive from a portrait session?

Portrait sessions typically produce 60 to 80 fully edited images, which you'll view at a reveal session. Wall art, albums and prints are available so your favorites don't live only on a phone. The images you order in print will also be included as high resolution digital copyies as well.

Headshots and Personal Branding

Does Carrie Wildes Photography offer professional headshots?

Yes. Carrie photographs professional headshots for executives, attorneys, real estate agents, medical professionals, entrepreneurs and anyone who needs a polished image for LinkedIn, a website, speaker bios or marketing.

I never like my headshots. Will mine look natural?

That's exactly what Carrie is known for. Many headshot clients arrive unsure they'll get a photo that feels like them. Carrie coaches your expression and posture with easy, natural direction, so you end up with a headshot that looks confident, approachable and authentically you.

Can Carrie photograph headshots for our whole team on-site?

Yes. Carrie brings a portable studio setup with professional lighting and backdrops to your office or event. She can photograph an entire team quickly and consistently, so every headshot matches your brand. This is popular for companies, law firms, medical practices and real estate brokerages across Tampa Bay.

What is a personal branding session?

A personal branding session goes beyond the headshot. It's a library of images of you at work, in your space and with your clients or products. Business owners, coaches, creatives and consultants use these photos on their website, social media and marketing materials.

How should I prepare for my headshot session?

Carrie sends guidance before every session: what to wear, what colors photograph well, and grooming and makeup tips. During the session, she coaches your expression and posture so you look confident, approachable and like yourself.

How quickly will I receive my headshots?

Edited headshots are generally delivered within 1 to 2 days of your session, so you can update your website and LinkedIn right away.

Corporate and Social Event Photography

What kinds of corporate events does Carrie Wildes Photography photograph?

  • Conferences and conventions
  • Galas and fundraisers
  • Award ceremonies
  • Company holiday parties
  • Grand openings and ribbon cuttings
  • Networking events
  • Product launches

Carrie and her team know how to work alongside event planners, venues and AV teams without getting in the way.

What social events does Carrie photograph?

  • Engagement parties
  • Milestone birthdays
  • Anniversary parties
  • Rehearsal dinners
  • Bridal and baby showers
  • Bar and bat mitzvahs
  • Retirement celebrations
  • Private dinner parties

What venues has Carrie photographed events at?

Event venues include JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, Tampa Marriott Water Street, JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, The Florida Aquarium, Armature Works, Centre Club Tampa, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, The Don CeSar, Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club, NOVA 535, Rooftop 220, Yacht StarShip and many private homes and clubs across Tampa Bay.

Can Carrie handle dark ballrooms and evening events?

Yes. Carrie is highly skilled with off-camera flash and challenging indoor lighting. Dim ballrooms, stage lighting and evening receptions all come out clean, natural and flattering, with no harsh flash look.

How quickly are event photos delivered?

Event galleries are delivered within 7 days, so you have your images while the event is still fresh for social media, newsletters and press.

Do we get the rights to use the event photos for marketing?

Yes. Usage rights are included for our corporate clients, so you can use your event images on your website, on social media, in marketing materials and for press.

Booking and Investment

How much does Carrie Wildes Photography cost?

Every wedding collection includes Carrie and Linda as your two lead photographers, professionally edited images, an online gallery and printed artwork.

  • Luxe Collection: investment begins at $9,990. Complete wedding-weekend coverage, including the engagement session, a two-hour welcome party or bridal shower, and a reception slideshow.
  • Signature Collection: investment begins at $5,990. Includes the engagement session and a reception slideshow.
  • Essential Collection: investment begins at $4,990. Focused coverage of the most meaningful parts of the day.
  • Intimate Wedding Collections: $690 to $3,990, for elopements, weekday weddings and celebrations of generally under 30 guests.

Destination travel is quoted separately. Portraits, headshots, proposals and events are priced by session and coverage time. For full details, request our pricing guide or book a complimentary consultation.

How do I book Carrie Wildes Photography?

Start by filling out our contact form or booking a complimentary discovery call. Carrie will learn about your plans, answer your questions and recommend the right coverage.

  • Weddings: A signed agreement and a $1,000 retainer reserve your date. The remaining balance is split into two equal payments, one due 2 months before the wedding and one due 1 month before.
  • Portraits, headshots and proposals: A session reservation fee reserves your date, and payment in full is due before your session.
  • Corporate and social events: A signed agreement reserves your date, and payment in full is due before the event.

How far in advance should we book?

Wedding dates are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, and Carrie photographs a limited number of weddings each year. Once you have your date and venue, reach out as soon as you can, especially for Saturdays in spring and fall. Destination couples should reach out early so travel can be planned well. Proposals, portraits, headshots and events can often be booked on shorter notice, so even if your date is coming up soon, it's always worth asking.

Contact

How do I contact Carrie Wildes Photography?

Carrie Wildes Photography is a Tampa Bay photography studio based in Lutz, just north of Tampa, serving the greater Tampa Bay area and destinations worldwide.

Ready to connect? Book a complimentary Discovery Call here, or click below to send us a note.

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