The Journal
Recent weddings, planning advice, engagement sessions, and thoughtful resources for couples planning a celebration that feels true to them.
Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical guidance, I hope these stories help you enjoy the journey.
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- Bridal Party & Family Photo Tips
- Client Experience & Behind the Scenes
- Elopements
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Zoe & Max’s Wedding at The Creek
A meaningful spring wedding at The Creek filled with intentional details, golden hour portraits, and a story that made the day unforgettable.
Why Lighting Matters More Than Location for Wedding Photos
Even the most beautiful wedding venue can fall flat in bad light. Here’s why lighting matters more than location — from a wedding photographer’s perspective.
What Makes Missouri Weddings Unique for Photos
Missouri weddings come with unique seasons, lighting challenges, and family-focused traditions. Here’s what makes them different — from a photographer who knows the area well.
Brooke & Michael’s Missouri Botanical Garden Wedding
A simple and elegant Missouri Botanical Garden wedding with beautiful florals, a relaxed timeline, and meaningful, personal moments.
Why Buffer Time Creates Stress-Free Wedding Photos
Buffer time is the quiet secret behind calm, stress-free wedding photos. Here’s how extra breathing room in your timeline protects your day — and your images.
Wedding Photography Pet Peeves (No Shade, Just Real Talk)
After years in the wedding industry, these are a few wedding photography pet peeves — shared honestly, without judgment, and with helpful alternatives.
Kaitlyn & Ben’s Stonegate Glass Chapel Wedding
A joyful Stonegate Glass Chapel wedding with pink details, a packed ceremony, sunset portraits, and a full dance floor.
How to Compare Wedding Photographers Confidently
Comparing wedding photographers doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow your options by style, budget, and connection.
My Favorite Wedding Color Schemes for Each Season
A wedding photographer’s favorite color schemes for each season — timeless, flattering, and beautiful in real wedding photos.
Sidney & Isaac’s Samuel Cedars Spring Wedding
Sidney and Isaac’s Samuel Cedars wedding brought early spring heat, colorful florals, and a perfect golden hour to end the day.
What Couples Mean by “Candid” Wedding Photos
When couples say they want candid wedding photos, they usually mean natural, comfortable images — not truly unposed moments.
How to Know If a Wedding Photographer Is Experienced
Wedding photography requires more than pretty photos. Here’s how to tell if a photographer is truly experienced with real wedding days.
Makenzie & Noah’s Stonegate Spring Wedding
Makenzie and Noah’s Stonegate Glass Chapel wedding was filled with pink florals, meaningful family moments, and perfect early spring weather.
What to Expect From Your Wedding Photographer
From inquiry and booking to sneak peeks and gallery delivery, here’s what the wedding photography process really looks like.
How to Get Natural Wedding Photos Without Feeling Awkward
Natural wedding photos don’t come from pretending the camera isn’t there — they come from guidance, comfort, and a well-planned day.
Nancy & Denton’s Stonegate Glass Chapel Wedding
Nancy and Denton’s Stonegate Glass Chapel wedding included emotional first looks, Lebanese cultural celebrations, and a sparkler exit in Branson, Missouri.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Weddings in Missouri for Photos
Indoor and outdoor weddings in Missouri each come with pros and cons — especially when it comes to lighting, logistics, and photography.
Do You Need an Engagement Session If You Hate Photos?
If you hate photos, an engagement session can actually make your wedding day easier, more relaxed, and way more enjoyable.
Brooke & Michael’s Engagement Session at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis
A sunny early spring engagement session at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis, featuring soft light, blooming flowers, and a relaxed, natural feel.
How to Plan a Calm Wedding Day Timeline
A calm wedding day starts with a thoughtful timeline. Here’s how to plan around light, build buffer time, and avoid feeling rushed.