Doug Forner Photography Biography

Like many Orlando wedding photographers, Doug Forner got his start in something other than wedding photography: he began as a photojournalist. In 1987, he'd accepted a professional photography position at Southern Motoracing, a fan publication based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It was during this time Doug received formal training in the use of 35mm and medium-format cameras, as well as darkroom techniques, essential building blocks for professional photographers.

For several years Doug followed Winston Cup and Busch Grand National events, first photographing the action -- then developing and printing his own images, as well as assisting in the publication's layout department. After moving to Florida, Doug continued to hone his photojournalism skills as a staff photographer for the Sun newspaper group, in Orlando. Like so many other photojournalists, Doug was often asked “Do you do weddings?” Finally, for one special friend, he gave the answer “Yes” -- and a new career venture was underway!

As one of the top wedding photographers in Orlando over the years, Doug has captured "special moments" at the most popular local venues, including Knowles Chapel at Rollins College, Casa Feliz, the Citrus Club, Championsgate, Bay Hill and Isleworth Country Clubs, the Lakeside Inn, Leu Gardens, Mission Inn, Cypress Grove Park and of course Disney World. Doug also makes himself available for couples planning destination weddings.

Professional memberships include Professional Photographers of America and Wedding and Portrait Photographers International, which have allowed Doug to take advantage of the educational and networking opportunities that keep him on top of the latest trends and techniques that today’s savvy wedding photographer must know.

As a wedding photographer in Orlando, Doug feels involvement in local wedding industry organizations is also important. He is a long-time member of the Wedding Professionals of Central Florida, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating engaged couples about the wedding process, to building relationships between local wedding vendors and to holding members to a high standard of accountability for the benefit of both their clients and the wedding industry. In 2002, after several years as a member of the Board of Directors, Doug was elected president of the Wedding Professionals of Central Florida, and was re-elected to a second term the following year. He continues to service on the WPCF Board today. Doug also builds good business relationships by attending industry-sponsored events and participating in the Orlando Wedding Guild networking group.

Like many other Orlando wedding photographers, Doug also believes in sharing his professional photography skills with the community and has been active in volunteering his time and professional photography skills for numerous charitable and civic events.

Other specialties we offer in central Florida include family and anniversary portraits, environmental and location portraits, student and sports portraiture, creative Senior Portraits, corporate headshots, conventions and special events.

Doug is married with two children and lives in Lake Mary, Florida.

To find out what does Doug's experience mean to you, click here