Photography

Picture Perfect Prints: The Importance of Ordering Prints from Your Photographer

Kate Thorton with examples of Captured by Kate’s Professionally Printed Gallery Offerings

Step right into the enchanting world of Charleston, where love, joy, and playful moments abound. As a premier wedding and family portrait photographer in this charming city, we are here to sprinkle a little magic and show you why printing your Captured By Kate photographs with us is an extraordinary and immensely special investment. Get ready to unleash the magic as we present seven delightful reasons why printing your images through your favorite photographer will create everlasting memories filled with joy, charm, and a touch of enchantment.

1) Complimentary Edit Requests: Say "Abracadabra" to Perfection!

We believe that every family should shine like stars in their portraits. If there's something you'd like to tweak or adjust in your group images, fear not! With our printing services, we offer complimentary individual edit requests to make you look absolutely spellbinding. Our team of expert sorcerers will give special attention to fix any concerns (global or individual), ensuring your portraits are nothing short of magical.

Beautifully preserved pet portraits displayed in one of our folios!

2) Archival Prints: Capturing Moments That Stand the Test of Time:

Just like a magical time capsule, our archival prints are crafted to preserve your cherished moments for years to come. These prints are carefully created for longevity, ensuring that the colors remain vibrant and the memories stay alive. With our enchanting prints on your wall, you can revisit those special moments and share the magic with future generations.

Beautiful deckled prints add a little drama to your special photographs

3) Beautiful Framing Methods and Dimension- A Gallery of Wonder:

Prepare to be bewitched by the wide variety of beautiful framing methods and dimensions we offer. Each frame holds the power to transform your portraits into captivating works of art. Whether you prefer a touch of whimsy or classic elegance, our enchanting frames will add an extra dash of charm, turning your images into a gallery of wonder.

Different framing options for your printed photographs

4) Calibrated Devices: The Magic of Unparalleled Quality:

Our printing process involves the use of calibrated devices, akin to magic wands, that ensure the highest quality images for you and your family. Every detail, color, and emotion will be brought to life with astonishing precision. Immerse yourself in a world of stunning visuals, where the magic of your portraits truly shines through.

Captured By Kate beautiful black and white framed family portrait

5) 100% Success Rate - Casting Spells of Printing Perfection:

Prepare to be amazed by our flawless track record. With our printing services, we've achieved a 100% success rate, leaving every client spellbound with the results. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail guarantees that your portraits will be nothing short of extraordinary. Leave your worries behind and trust in our spellbinding expertise.

6) Supporting Local, Women-Owned Magic Makers:

By choosing us as your printing partner, you're not just acquiring remarkable portraits but also supporting a local, women-owned business that thrives on spreading joy and magic. Your decision becomes a part of the whimsical tapestry that makes our community vibrant and full of wonder. Join us in supporting the magical artisans who bring dreams to life.

7) Boosting Confidence: Unleash Your Family's Inner Superstars:

Hang your children's portraits on the walls and watch as their confidence soars! Displaying these magical moments helps your little ones embrace their inner superstars. Each glance at their portraits becomes a reminder of their unique talents, beauty, and the love that surrounds them. Let your walls become a stage for their confidence to shine!

 

In the charming city of Charleston, printing your portraits with us is an invitation to embark on a personalized aesthetic adventure. With complimentary edit requests, archival prints that stand the test of time, beautiful framing options, and unparalleled quality, we promise to sprinkle a touch of enchantment on your cherished moments. By supporting a local, women-owned business, you become a part of the magical tale that unfolds within our community. So, wave your wand and let the magic of printing your Captured By Kate portraits begin!

Written by office and photo assistant: Chase Porter

Discover Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is one of South Carolina’s hidden gems. Only 7 miles long, it flies somewhat under the radar compared to Sullivan’s Island or Kiawah, which attracts far more attention (and visitors!), making it more lowkey and less crowded  Wild Dunes Resort is a huge draw for families and vacationers year-round, and tons of beach house rentals line the coast. Isle of Palms has a nostalgic beach town vibe, is super bikeable, and boasts an absolutely stunning beach. The best things to do on the island involve a beach chair and a good book. 

Restaurants

Breakfast: Sea Biscuit Cafe

The Sea Biscuit Cafe is everything you want from a beach town diner: friendly staff, cute cottage location, mouth-watering southern breakfast. It’s open for lunch too and both are delicious.   

Lunch: Long Island Cafe

For an upscale lunch, stop by the Long Island Cafe for some tasty french-southern fusion dishes. From the outside, it is small and unassuming, tucked away in a stripmall, but locals know what a treasure it is. The seafood-heavy menu gives many southern classics a modern twist. 

Dinner: The Obstinate Daughter

While there are plenty of casual dinner options on the island, it is absolutely worth the short drive to Sullivan’s Island for a truly spectacular dinner at The Obstinate Daughter at least once during any Isle of Palms stay. The seasonal menu features homemade pastas, pizzas and fresh raw seafood. 

To Do

County Park

The Isle of Palms County Park is right in the heart of Isle of Palms, with easy parking, showers and picnic tables if you want to make this your home base at the beach. There is a sweet little playground and summer snack bar, plus it’s walking (or biking/scooting/skating) distance to the “downtown” area. 

Isle of Palms Marina

The Isle of Palms Marina is a welcoming marina with boat rentals and charters, family-friendly activities, a restaurant and marina store. When you need a break from the beach, it’s the perfect place to rent a boat or take a fishing charter and explore the intercoastal waterway.

Ben & Jerry’s

It may not be local, but the IOP Ben & Jerry’s feels about as small town, beachy ice cream shop as they come. Walk up from the beach in your swimsuit or bike over barefoot, order from a window and find a park bench to eat. Summer perfection!

The Windjammer

The Windjammer is an institution: a live music venue right on the sand with beach volleyball outside and unbeatable views of the ocean. It’s an awesome place to end a beach day with a cold beer, good company and great music. 

Remember to book your family portrait before your trip! Call 843 442-0802 or fill out my contact form to schedule. My summer 2022 dates are filling up fast!!

Prints and Digital Files FAQ

I often get calls or texts after releasing a gallery to my clients saying, now what?

Let's start from the beginning. A gallery is the final product of all my photoshoots. It is an online website that allows you to view your edited files and order prints.

I offer prints as small as a 4x6 ($8) and as large as a 20x30 ($263). I also offer canvas, metal, standout, gallery frame, metal frame, wood frame, bamboo frame, wood prints, and acrylic prints. If you enjoyed your photoshoot, this is a great way to support my small business. I receive a percentage of the total price.

Your gallery will look different on every type of device: cell phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop. So it is hard to say exactly where to click to order prints. The best way to view your images is on a big screen. Look for the shopping cart icon or the PRINT STORE. Click this to see all of your options.

You can also make a favorites folder using the heart icon. Just type in your email address, and your folder will start. To access the folder in the future, click on the heart icon at the top of the screen. You have the option to name and create multiple favorites folders.

What about digital files?

If your package came with digital files, or you paid in advance for digital files. You will receive a pin code in your; "Your Gallery is Ready" email to download the files. Look for the down arrow under the big photo at the top of your gallery. Click that and enter your email and pin code. You will be given the option to download the files to your computer, Dropbox or Google Photos.

If your package did not come with digital files and you would like to purchase them, you can do so through your gallery from the shopping cart icon or PRINT STORE. If you are a part of a large group (such as a family portrait) where multiple households need to access the digital files, it is best to Venmo me directly. I can provide a pin code to share with the group rather than ordering from the gallery and only downloading to one computer.

My Venmo is @capturedbykate Also send me an email letting me know you Venmoed me $300 for the digital files. That way I can confirm I received your Venmo and get you the pin code ASAP.

If you are ordering a large format family photo to hang on your wall. I would love for you to reach out to me before you place your order. I am happy to make any touch-ups you request and upload the revised version to your gallery for ordering. I want your prints to look amazing!!

Please feel free to reach out with any questions. I am easily reached on weekday mornings. Thank you for your order!!

Rehearsal Dinner, Why you need to Hire a Photographer

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Brides and grooms plan for wedding photography, but rehearsal dinner photography is usually an afterthought. A rehearsal dinner is just as important to document as the wedding. Here’s why:

You Can Actually Take Photos With Everyone

The rehearsal dinner guest list is typically pared down to your absolute nearest and dearest—often just your family members, longtime friends and wedding party. Use this opportunity to get photos with everyone, especially if you have a huge family.

You'll Document All Those Emotional Speeches

You'll have toasts and memorable moments at the wedding, no doubt, but rehearsal dinner speeches, given by any number of loved ones, including parents, friends and even the couple, are often slightly less formal and even more emotional.

Your Photographer Will Get to Know Your Family

When I have the opportunity to photograph the rehearsal dinner before the wedding I learn so much about the couple through the speeches. I also get to know the family and guest better and who goes with who. This knowledge helps me document your wedding day more thoroughly. 

Capture Less Formal Family Photos

It’s nice to have a few photos with your friends and family without boutonnieres and matching outfits. Guest usual look their best but are less ceremonial looking and show more personality at a rehearsal dinner. It’s also nice to have a different location in your photos. 

Finally, let's face it, a professional photographer will document the laughs, tears, and good times like no one else can!

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Bridal Portraits at the Charleston Gaillard Center for the Gown Affair

In December I photographed a styled shoot for the Charleston Jr. League at the Charleston Gaillard Center to advertise the 2020 Gown Affair.

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The Junior League of Charleston, Inc., is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. I have been a member of the Leauge for 15+ years and have chaired many committees including the Mentorship program, the Lowcountry Food Bank and the Transfer Program.

A GOWN AFFAIR: JANUARY 31 – FEBRUARY 2

It’s finally here! A Gown Affair, the League’s fourth annual bridal boutique event and fundraiser will be held January 31 – February 2 at the Citadel Mall (2070 Sam Rittenberg Blvd) in a former retail space near Center Court. The multi-day shopping event will feature a ticketed cocktail party for League members and their guests on Friday evening, an early access ticketed event on Saturday morning, the main event on Saturday afternoon and a discounted “last call” event on Sunday. 

Bridal Boutique 
Saturday, February 1 
VIP Early Access: 11: 00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ($10 ticket required; 50 spots available) 
Free & Open to the Public: 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Bridal Bash Price Slash 
Sunday, February; 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 
Free & Open to the Public 

Purchase your tickets HERE

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Location - Gaillard Center

Hair and Makeup - Hello Gorgeous CHS, Casey Mercer, i do makeup 843

Models - Courtney Vorachek, Meagan Vaneerde, Lauren Powell