One look at Katie Norwood’s gorgeous wedding photos, and it’s not hard to see why the knot awarded her its 2011 and 2013 pick for best of wedding photography. Ditto for Wedding Wire’s Bride’s Choice Awards, where she won the “Best Of” pick for 2011, 2012, and 2013.
Norwood says the reason is simple: She’s just wild about weddings.
“I knew I was crazy about photography in high school,” says the DC photographer, but unfortunately, her small boarding school didn’t offer any classes.
Her world opened up when she landed a spot at the College of Charleston in South Carolina—despite the fact that most photo courses were for upperclassmen only. “In my sophomore year I was excelling in my sculpture class, and I convinced the professor to give me a shot at photography. There was no turning back after that.”
Knowing she needed more training, she spent two years honing her skills at a focused photo program at Randolph Community College in Asheboro, NC, which landed her an internship with food photographer Renee Comet in Washington, DC.
“With Renee, I had the most amazing experiences working on cookbooks, photographing restaurants for The Washington Post, meeting some amazing people—and eating even more amazing food!” Norwood shares.
Comet kept her on as a studio manager for years after her internship ended, and during that time Norwood began assisting some of DC’s top wedding photographers.
“My passion for photography was born,” notes Norwood, who says her interactions with couples on one of the happiest days of their lives was more rewarding than she’d anticipated. “I love photographing the raw emotions that go along with weddings—from the brides weeping during the ceremony, to their mothers, who laugh so hard that everyone in the room starts cracking up. I love it all.”
For a while, Norwood partnered with the founder of the wedding photo company, Labor of Love. But in 2009, when the owner decided to concentrate more on family portraits, Norwood created her own brand, Lovestruck Images.
“Currently, our primary focus at Lovestruck Images is on engagements and weddings, and we have five photographers who work with us during the busy wedding season,” Norwood says. “We all have similar styles, and our goal is the same—to capture the joy, tears, and fun that come along with every wedding.”
For more information, visit www.lovestruckimages.com.
And for a glimpse of Lovestruck’s beautiful work, and Norwood’s insights into what makes each photo special, scroll down to see some of her favorite wedding shots.
Carmen & Chris: “This gorgeous picture of Carmen was captured just as she left White Hall Manor to walk down the aisle. I love the simplicity of the image, and the elegance of her dress. This photo takes my breath away,” says Norwood.
James & Susie: “First dances are one of my absolute favorite parts of the day, and James and Susie’s slow dance at their 2012 wedding in Oklahoma City was no exception,” Norwood shares. “I love how he’s holding her so gently and you can just see the pure elation his face.”
Nicole & Nathan: “This image was taken just after the couple saw each other for the first time right before the ceremony, and they are all smiles,” Norwood says, explaining: “Many couples will do a ‘first look’ to get some portraits taken ahead of time.”
Ana & Alex: “For this shot, we snuck out back at the venue in Madison, VA, right before their introductions,” Norwood shares. “The light in this photo combined with the setting makes me smile every time I see this photo.”
Rhylissa & Brianna: “I love the complete bliss that these ladies have as they sneak a kiss right after their ceremony at the Jefferson Memorial,” Norwood says. “Their happiness is contagious.”
Nicole & Charl: “This picture IS SO THEM!” says Norwood, explaining that Charl’s favorite meal is bacon cheeseburgers. They are a goofy and fun couple, and I think this picture captures their relationship perfectly.”
Livia & Blake’s flower girl & ring bearer: “Kids crack me up,” insists Norwood. “The little boy wanted nothing to do with having his photo taken.”
