From the moment I transitioned into wedding photography, I decided that every year I would gift one special couple with free wedding photography. I always want to remember my humble beginnings and be grateful for each and every couple that I have the privilege of photographing. If I were engaged myself, wedding photography would be my first priority (right after finding the groom). I know that quality wedding photographers are a big investment and that not everyone can afford a photographer they adore. Last year I collaborated with a like-minded colleague on the Love You Back project, our way of giving back to an industry we love. It ended up being one of the highlights of the season for me. All of the entrants told us their story through a video but Sarah & Bryce stole our hearts. Their wedding took place in September and you’ll have to stay tuned for the full scoop on their incredible day. To quote the bride, “the entire wedding day was bliss”.

I’m changing things up this year and I’m on the hunt for a couple with loads of personal style, who are willing to show us what’s in store for their wedding and what makes their love so special.

*The Rules of Engagement**To be “The Ones” for the Love You Back project you must:*

*1. Provide me with an inspiration board that details your plans and dreams for your upcoming wedding.* With a background in styling, I’m a sucker for a good inspiration board. Show me how your wedding will be different. Beauty and thoughtful details make my job as a photographer that much more fun. Your board doesn’t have to be fancy and you don’t have to be a graphic designer to enter. Maybe you send a group of photos you shot on your iphone or maybe you send something more elaborate. Try using Pinterest to create your board. What a simple and free way to complete your submission. Provide a brief explanation of your board and how it represents you and your fiance. Here are some examples:

This is the inspiration board behind this shoot. If you’re having trouble getting started, check out one of my favourite blogs, Snippet & Ink. It’s brimming with inspiration for any style of wedding. Check it out.

*2. Be willing to “style-up” your engagement shoot.* Check out my recent post on styled engagement shoots. There are no limits folks.

*3. Be getting married in 2012.* If I’m already booked on your date, sorry!

*4. Be getting married in Alberta.
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*5. Be willing to have your story told on blogs, facebook, twitter etc.*

*If you’re “The Ones”, your wedding photography will include:*1. 8 hours of coverage on your wedding day by Tara and her assistant.

2. An engagement session.

2. CD of high resolution images with print permissions.

3. A beautiful album telling the story of your day.

4. All travel fees for the photographers.

*How I’m choosing “The Ones”:*A panel of 3 wedding experts in Calgary will chose the winning inspiration board (I am one of the 3). We are looking for three things: originality, personality and effort. We would love to see some unique ideas that really tell us about your love story. It doesn’t have to be fancy but show us that you rolled up your sleeves for a chance to win this amazing prize (valued at $5600). To submit your entry, type LOVE YOU BACK in the subject line of an email and attach your inspiration board. Please DO NOT post the inspiration boards on my facebook page.

*Entry Deadline is February 29th, 2012.*If you have any questions, give me the studio a call at 403-247-3746 or drop me a line at photography@tarawhittaker.com

Looking forward to being inspired!