As I sit down to reflect on 2024, I can confidently say this year was the busiest I’ve ever had in my photography career—and probably in my life, period. It was a year filled to the brim with beautiful weddings, sweet moments, and incredible people. But let’s be real for a second: it was also a year of learning (sometimes the hard way) about boundaries, balance, and the toll that chasing your dreams can sometimes take.

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes of your wedding photoshoot? Here’s the thing—wedding photography is a blend of precision, flexibility, and, if I’m doing my job right, a little bit of magic. I’m not just snapping away at random moments; I’m your timeline manager, crowd controller, calm-in-the-storm friend, and your personal advocate for keeping anything remotely stressful away from you. Here’s how that plays out on the big day!

If it’s okay to be honest on my own blog, here’s the truth: I wasn’t thrilled about mini sessions! This year, I set out to make it happen as a practice run, especially since it’s something I’ve wanted to try for a few years now. Though I didn’t truly have the time for it, I felt like it was now or never—especially with my husband’s truck as the main prop! He’s always swapping vehicles, so it seemed like a fun way to incorporate it before it might be gone.

Let’s be honest, not everyone is used to having a big camera pointed at them for hours on end. An engagement session helps you get comfortable being in front of the camera, so by the time the wedding day arrives, it won’t feel intimidating. You'll already know what to expect, which helps reduce the pressure and allows you to focus on the joy of the day.

While I’m incredibly thankful for every shoot and the amazing couples and families I’ve worked with, I’ve really been struggling with finding that elusive work-life balance. How do you pour your heart into everything—your business, your family, yourself—and still feel like you’re doing enough in each area? I wish I had an answer, but truthfully, I don’t really have a conclusion yet.

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and choosing the right photographer to capture those memories is key. There’s no "one-size-fits-all" approach when it comes to selecting a wedding photographer because what works for one couple may not work for another. That’s why I’ve put together a list of important factors to consider as you search for the perfect match. These are in no particular order because everyone’s priorities will differ, but each one plays a big role in finding someone who aligns with your vision!