shalyn o'neal photography

The Blog – Wedding Advice, Inspiration & Missouri Love Stories

Welcome to my corner of stories and insights. Here, I share recent weddings, engagement sessions, and helpful planning tips drawn from my years in the wedding industry. Browse through for inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into the genuine moments I've had the privilege to capture. I hope you find something that speaks to you as you plan your own celebration.

Shalyn O'Neal 1/15/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/15/26

The Secret to Stress-Free Wedding Day Photos (It’s All in the Planning)

Stress-free wedding photos don’t happen by chance — they happen through planning. Here’s how to build a timeline and mindset for a calm, joyful wedding day.

Shalyn O'Neal 12/30/25 Shalyn O'Neal 12/30/25

How to Build a Realistic Photography Timeline When You Have Multiple Locations

Having your wedding day spread across multiple locations? Here’s how to plan a smooth photography timeline with the right buffer time, organization, and support.

Shalyn O'Neal 12/23/25 Shalyn O'Neal 12/23/25

Common Wedding Timeline Mistakes (and How to Fix Them Before the Day)

These are the wedding timeline mistakes I see most often — and how to fix them before the day for a smoother, stress-free experience.

Shalyn O'Neal 12/18/25 Shalyn O'Neal 12/18/25

The Ideal Order for Wedding Day Events (From a Photographer’s Perspective)

Wondering what order your wedding day events should go in? Here’s a photographer’s guide to planning a calm, photo-friendly timeline that flows naturally.

Shalyn O'Neal 12/16/25 Shalyn O'Neal 12/16/25

How Long Each Wedding Photo Segment Really Takes

From detail photos to the dance floor, here’s how much time each part of your wedding day really takes — straight from a photographer who’s seen it all.

Shalyn O'Neal 11/13/25 Shalyn O'Neal 11/13/25

How to Avoid a Rushed Wedding Day Photography Timeline

A rushed timeline can take the joy out of your wedding day. Here’s how to plan your wedding photography timeline with enough breathing room to actually enjoy it.

Shalyn O'Neal 11/6/25 Shalyn O'Neal 11/6/25

Wedding Ceremony Photography Moments You Don’t Want to Miss

Your ceremony is the heart of the day. Here are the wedding ceremony photo ideas you don’t want to miss - from parent hugs to that “just married” exit.

Shalyn O'Neal 10/30/25 Shalyn O'Neal 10/30/25

Do You Really Need Getting Ready Photos? Pros & Cons

Getting ready photos capture the energy, relationships, and anticipation of your wedding day. Here’s why I’d choose them over reception photos any day.

Shalyn O'Neal 10/13/25 Shalyn O'Neal 10/13/25

Pros & Cons of a Sparkler Send-Off (from a Photographer’s View)

Sparkler exits make for gorgeous photos - but are they worth it? Here are the pros, cons, and alternatives to sparkler send-offs from a wedding photographer’s perspective.

Shalyn O'Neal 9/15/25 Shalyn O'Neal 9/15/25

The Pros & Cons of a Long vs. Short Wedding Day Photography Package

Not sure how many hours of wedding photography you need? Here’s a breakdown of what fits into 6, 8, and 10-hour packages, with the pros and cons of each.

Shalyn O'Neal 9/1/25 Shalyn O'Neal 9/1/25

How Much Time Do You Really Need for Wedding Photos?

Not sure how much photo coverage you really need? Here’s what 6, 8, and 10-hour wedding days actually look like - so you can choose what fits your timeline best.

Shalyn O'Neal 8/11/25 Shalyn O'Neal 8/11/25

Should You Do A First Look? Pros & Cons from a Photographer

Not sure if you should do a first look on your wedding day? I’m breaking down the pros and cons—from emotion and timing to tradition and lighting—so you can decide what fits your vibe.