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.
CATEGORIES
- Bridal Party & Family Photo Tips
- Client Experience & Behind the Scenes
- Elopements
- Engagement Photo Planning
- Engagments
- Fall Weddings
- Family
- Missouri Wedding Photographer
- Planning Tips
- Real Weddings & Sessions
- Seasonal Wedding Inspiration
- Spring Weddings
- Summer Weddings
- Traditional Wedding Photographer
- Wedding Photography Timeline
- Wedding Planning Tools & Checklists
- Wedding Venues in Missouri
- Weddings
- Winter Weddings
Timeless vs. Dated Wedding Photos
Timeless wedding photos prioritize emotion, natural light, and true-to-color editing — not trends that fade over time.
Surprise Engagement for Mason & Sydney at Finley Farms | 2.21.26
Mason surprised Sydney with a proposal at Finley Farms on February 21, 2026 — followed by an even bigger family surprise.
Why Your Wedding Timeline Matters for Photos
Your wedding timeline impacts everything from hair and makeup to dinner and décor — and it plays a huge role in how your photos turn out.
Biggest Wedding Photography Regrets (And How to Avoid Them)
From rushed timelines to skipping engagement sessions, these are the biggest wedding photography regrets couples have — and how to avoid them.
Crystal & Eric at Samuel Cedars
Crystal & Eric’s intimate wedding at Samuel Cedars was a meaningful, family-focused celebration and a perfect close to the 2025 season.
When to Book Your Wedding Photographer
Most wedding photographers book 9–18 months in advance. Here’s what that means for your planning timeline — and when to reach out.
What a Wedding Photographer Does on a Wedding Day
From prep and timelines to portraits, ceremonies, and backups — here’s what a wedding photographer actually does on a wedding day.
Hayley & Dakota at Thorncrown Chapel
Hayley & Dakota’s intimate elopement at Thorncrown Chapel was a peaceful, meaningful celebration surrounded by fall light and glass architecture.
How to Choose the Right Wedding Photography Package for Your Day
Choosing the right wedding photography package comes down to priorities, timeline, and realistic expectations. Here’s how to find the best fit for your day.
How Much Wedding Photography Really Costs (And Why Prices Vary So Much)
Wedding photography prices can vary widely. Here’s what actually affects the cost — from experience and packages to what happens behind the scenes.
Hannah & Ryan’s Fall Engagement Session at Finley Farms
Hannah & Ryan’s fall engagement session at Finley Farms came together perfectly after a reschedule, with peak fall color and relaxed, natural moments.
My Favorite Wedding Days (And Why They Worked)
From snow-filled ceremonies to rain-soaked dance floors, these are my favorite wedding days I’ve photographed — and why the days (not just the photos) worked so well.
Engagement Photo Outfit Ideas for Every Season in Missouri
From flannels in fall to florals in spring, here are my favorite engagement photo outfit ideas for every season in Missouri — comfortable, timeless, and photogenic.
Engagement Session Checklist: Everything to Bring (and Leave at Home)
Wondering what to pack for your engagement photos? Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring — and what’s better left behind — to keep your session relaxed and fun.
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.
How to Choose a Wedding Venue with Great Natural Light for Photos
The right natural light makes all the difference. Here’s how to choose a Missouri wedding venue that photographs beautifully — and which spaces matter most.
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.
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.
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.
Kaitlyn & Ben’s Engagement Session at Dogwood Canyon
A golden, fog-filled fall morning made Kaitlyn and Ben’s Dogwood Canyon engagement session one of my all-time favorites.