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 2/6/26 Shalyn O'Neal 2/6/26

Elizabeth & Okey’s Columbia, Missouri Elopement

Elizabeth & Okey’s Columbia elopement featured a private, faith-filled ceremony and editorial-style portraits around Mizzou’s campus during peak fall color.

Shalyn O'Neal 2/3/26 Shalyn O'Neal 2/3/26

The Power of Simplicity in Wedding Photography (Less Is More)

Sometimes, the most powerful wedding photos are also the simplest. Here’s how focusing on emotion and intention — not excess — keeps your photos timeless.

Shalyn O'Neal 1/29/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/29/26

Why Timeless Wedding Photography Will Always Outlast Trends

Trends fade, but emotion doesn’t. Here’s why timeless, true-to-color wedding photography will always outlast whatever editing trend is popular this year.

Shalyn O'Neal 1/27/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/27/26

How True-to-Color Editing Brings Your Day Back to Life

Your wedding photos should look like your day actually looked. Here’s how true-to-color editing brings your memories back to life — naturally and timelessly.

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 1/13/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/13/26

5 Things Every Couple Should Do Before Their Wedding Day for Better Photos

The secret to amazing wedding photos starts before the big day. Here are five easy ways to prepare so your photos feel natural, relaxed, and full of joy.

Shalyn O'Neal 1/8/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/8/26

The Most Overlooked Wedding Details That Make a Big Difference in Photos

It’s often the little details — fresh flowers, clean rings, and simple styling — that elevate your wedding photos the most. Here’s what to focus on.

Shalyn O'Neal 1/6/26 Shalyn O'Neal 1/6/26

Wedding Morning Tips for Calm, Beautiful Photos

A calm wedding morning means better photos and less stress. Here’s how to prep your space, schedule smartly, and enjoy your getting ready time.

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

A Look Back at 2025: My Biggest Year of Photography Yet

2025 was my biggest year of photography yet — full of weddings, elopements, travel, gratitude, and lessons I’ll carry into the next season.

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 12/26/25 Shalyn O'Neal 12/26/25

Daniel & Darby’s Fall Wedding at Samuel Cedars

Daniel & Darby’s fall wedding at Samuel Cedars was extra special — filled with golden hour portraits, sweet family moments, and a surprise mid-reception haircut.

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

Kristy & Joey’s Classic, Elegant Fall Wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel

Kristy & Joey’s early fall wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel was filled with golden light, heartfelt vows, and one of the best first dances I’ve ever seen.

Shalyn O'Neal 11/28/25 Shalyn O'Neal 11/28/25

Amy & Samuel’s Sweet Dusty Blue Wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel

Amy & Samuel’s September wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel was filled with meaningful details, emotional vows, rainy-day portraits, and a family-centered reception.