She Just Gets It—My Q&A with Marrissa Klaas of Arrowhead Photography
Hey Bride!
I promised you a follow-up—and it’s finally here! I had the best time chatting with Marrissa Klaas of Arrowhead Photography, and I’m so excited to share her answers with you. If you’re still searching for your dream photographer—or just want to know what it’s really like to work with someone who’s calm, experienced, and knows how to capture your day without making it feel like a photoshoot—you’re going to love this.
Let’s dive in!
What drew you into becoming a wedding photographer in Iowa and how would you describe your style?
I’ve always loved love, and weddings have held a special place in my heart for as long as I can remember. There’s just something so emotional and joy-filled about watching two people say “I do” and begin their next chapter, surrounded by their closest family and friends. When I first started photography, I didn’t expect weddings to be my calling—but the more I photographed, the more I realized that this is exactly where I’m meant to be.
When should a couple book their photographer—6 months, 12 months, or even sooner?
The sooner, the better, especially if there’s a specific photographer you have in mind! Many photographers book out 1–2 years in advance. While it’s important to take your time researching the style you love, it’s just as important to reach out and start the conversation early. A safe recommendation is to book your wedding photographer at least 12 months in advance!
How do you balance posed portraits with candid, in-the-moment shots?
I usually start sessions with a go-to list of poses that I know work well. These often lead to unprompted, in-the-moment shots that feel natural and authentic. I use prompts to gently guide couples into those candid moments, focusing on movement to help them loosen up and feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
While I’m working through poses and prompts in my head, I’m also keeping in mind the couple’s preferences based on the questionnaire they fill out before their engagement session. And of course, we always make time for those classic, smiling-at-the-camera shots because those are usually the ones families love most!What’s your advice for brides who feel nervous in front of the camera?
I always recommend asking your photographer to start with poses and prompts that include movement. It’s a great way to break the ice and ease into the session naturally. From there, I make sure to reassure couples that they’re doing exactly what they should be and that they look amazing doing it. At some point during the engagement session or wedding day, I’ll show them the back of the camera so they can see just how incredible they look. Being in front of the camera can feel a little awkward at first, so constant guidance and reassurance throughout the process is key to helping couples feel confident and relaxed.
What should couples look for in a Midwest wedding photographer?
Editing style, posing style, communication style, and pricing are all important when choosing a wedding photographer. While budget matters, I truly believe that finding someone whose editing and posing style matches your vision is one of the most important decisions you can make. Our brand is built around how we edit and direct our couples, so if you're dreaming of light and airy photos but book a photographer who edits dark and moody, chances are you won’t be thrilled with the final results.
Living in the Midwest, we deal with a lot of green tones in our scenery, so finding a photographer who edits greens in a way you love is key. It may sound like a small detail, but if you prefer rich, muted greens over bright, neon tones, that’s something to pay close attention to in a photographer’s portfolio.
Another thing to keep in mind here in the Midwest: the weather changes constantly. One minute it’s sunny and beautiful, the next it’s pouring. Choosing someone who can adapt like seamlessly switching from an outdoor ceremony to a low-light indoor backup plan is a huge bonus when planning your day.
How do you prep for different types of venues—from barns to backyards?
My wedding day kit pretty much always looks the same because I bring everything with me to every wedding. I like to be fully prepared for any situation that might come up. I always have multiple lenses, multiple cameras, and multiple flashes on hand, even if I don’t end up using them all. I’d much rather have something and not need it than find myself needing it and not having it. Treating each wedding like it could require every tool I own helps me stay ready for just about anything. You might have already guessed... I’m definitely a little Type A about it!
Do you offer print or album options? Why do you think they’re worth it?
I offer both prints and albums! Every client receives an online gallery for their engagement session and wedding, and from there, it’s super simple to order prints or albums directly. Three of my wedding collections even include custom albums that I personally design for each couple. While I never push prints or albums, I do make the process as easy and stress-free as possible because they’re absolutely worth it. You’re investing a lot to document one of the biggest days of your life, and there’s something so special about seeing those moments displayed on your walls or flipping through an album with your future kids one day.
What’s your favorite moment to photograph during a wedding day?
Can I say all of it?? That's super cheesy, I know haha If I had to narrow it down, one of my favorite moments on a wedding day is right when I arrive. Everyone’s buzzing with excitement, getting ready, and you can feel the energy in the air. I love seeing my couples surrounded by their people, all coming together to help create the best day possible for them.
I’m also a big fan of first looks. The moment itself is always sweet, but what I really love is what comes after. The calm, the relief, and the shift as the couple gets to spend the rest of the day side by side, as a team. It’s such a beautiful, grounding moment.
Some of my other favorites? Grandparents sneaking in hugs, parents helping with boutonnieres, little kids seeing their parents all dressed up and, of course, the dance floor. The best moves almost always come from the people you’d least expect!
Are there any picture trends that brides love right now—and which ones are truly timeless?
Some popular photo trends right now include intentional blur, Dutch angles (where the horizon isn’t straight), direct flash, and styling details like the invitation, bouquet, or shoes in unexpected places. A lot of these are really fun and definitely reflect the era they’re captured in!
That said, not all of them fit my personal style. While I appreciate the creativity, there are certain trends I choose not to incorporate and that’s totally okay! That’s why it’s so important to find a photographer whose style matches the look you’re going for, especially if you’re drawn to those trendier shots.
Now, as for trends I think are here to stay? Direct flash, when used well, can create such a cool, editorial vibe. And grain! Adding grain for that soft, filmy look gives photos a timeless feel that I believe will never go out of style.
What are the most important questions couples should ask when hiring a wedding photographer?
Do you have a contract?
Do you have insurance?
Do you write to two SD cards while photographing?
Do you have a backup camera?
How do you backup and store the images after the wedding is done?
What happens if you can't make it to the wedding day-of?
Have they worked at the couples venue before?
Always ask to see two recent full wedding galleries
Do you travel for Photoshoots & Weddings?
Absolutely yes! I mostly photograph weddings right here in Iowa and surrounding states, but I have photographed weddings in Florida, Colorado, Arizona, and Pennsylvania, and regular sessions in Utah, Texas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Wyoming, Virginia, and Georgia. I am always looking to add more elopements and destination weddings to my calendar! I love Iowa, but I also love to travel!!
Final Thoughts
After reading through Marrissa’s answers, it’s easy to see why I always recommend her to brides looking for someone with heart, talent, and a calming presence behind the lens. She’s thoughtful, experienced, and truly gets how important your wedding day is. If you're still looking for your perfect photographer—or already have someone in mind—bookmark these questions and keep them handy. Knowing the right things to ask (and what answers to look for) makes all the difference.
As always, I’m here to help guide you along the way. If there’s another vendor you’d love to see featured let me know!
XOXO,
Stacia
