Effortless & Natural Wedding
Photography

Serving Southwest Missouri and Beyond

Bride with bouquet and two bridesmaids in light blue gowns walking outdoors on a wooded path.
Wedding couple seated on floral upholstered benches, smiling at each other, with a bouquet on the bench and 'Reserved' signs visible.

For the couple who wants the best of
both worlds

You love those "effortless, candid" wedding photos — but let’s be honest, you also want someone who will tell you exactly how to stand and what to do with your hands so you actually feel good in front of the camera. I get it.
That’s where I come in.

Bride and groom kissing in front of a pond with rock formations.

My Signature Approach

  • True-to-Color Editing

    No heavy filters or trendy color shifts—just clean, consistent editing that looks as beautiful now as it will in 20 years. Skin tones stay natural, your flowers look how they did in real life, and the lighting is soft and flattering.

  • Posed + Candid Combo

    Not sure what to do with your hands? That’s my job. I guide you with natural prompts and light direction so you never feel stiff—while also stepping back to capture those unplanned, emotional moments you’ll want to remember forever.

  • Experienced & Organized

    With 6+ years photographing weddings across Springfield, Branson, and the Ozarks—and nearly 20 in the industry—I bring a calm, organized presence. From timeline planning to sneak peeks in 48 hours, I’ve got you covered.

What it actually looks like to work with me

Yes, I’ll help with posing—but the best photos often happen between the poses. Here’s a behind-the-scenes peek from Rachel & Caiden’s rainy wedding day. You’ll see how we created space for both guidance and authenticity.

What couples are saying…

What about pricing?

My pricing starts at $2,650 for my Essentials 6 Hour Package! Most couples spend $2,650-$3,250 to get the coverage they need.

You’ll get the classic, timeless photos your parents will love and the heartfelt,
real moments you’ll cherish forever.

What Happens Next?A Seamless Experience From Start to Finish!

Wondering how it all works? I’ve created a simple, stress-free process to help you feel supported from the very first inquiry. Whether you’re a spreadsheet-loving planner or just want someone to walk you through the details, I’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Here’s what you can expect when you inquire: ➡️

  • I’ll personally respond to confirm if I’m available for your date. I’ll also send over a pricing range so you can get a feel for your options right away. If it’s a good fit, we’ll move on to planning!

  • This is one of my favorite parts. You’ll receive a short and simple form that helps us think through your wedding day priorities—from first look to sunset portraits. Not a fan of forms? You can always hop on a quick video call instead.

  • Once I’ve seen your timeline goals, I’ll walk you through which package makes the most sense for your day. No upselling or pressure—just honest suggestions based on your actual vision.

  • Once your contract is signed and the retainer is paid, you’re officially booked! From there, we’ll kick things off with your engagement session (if included) and begin working together on a custom wedding photo timeline that makes the most of your coverage.

Hi, I’m Shalyn—your calm, slightly Type-A, creative third wheel for the day.

I've been surrounded by weddings since I was nine (venue family life!), so this world feels like home. When I picked up a camera years ago, something just clicked—literally and figuratively.

My sister-in-law once described my love of photography perfectly: as an Enneagram 1, I love rules and clear outcomes—but I also crave beauty and storytelling. Photography is the perfect mix of both. Adjust a setting, get a result. Step back, and the whole moment shifts. It's creativity with intention. Structure with soul.

Weddings truly are my passion—second only to my family—and it’s a joy to combine all of it into a job that helps couples feel calm, seen, and fully themselves.

Have Questions? I’ve Got Answers!

  • I’m not here to tell you I’m better than any other photographer—because the truth is, wedding photography isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. What I can tell you is this:

    1️⃣ I’ve been in the wedding industry since I was nine years old. From assisting behind the scenes to capturing love stories through my lens, I know weddings inside and out. I’ve experienced the joy, the chaos, and everything in between.

    2️⃣ Your comfort matters just as much as your photos. You should feel completely at ease around your photographer—because trust me, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them on your wedding day! I create a relaxed, fun atmosphere so that you can focus on the moments, not the camera.

    3️⃣ I thrive under wedding-day pressure. Weddings are unpredictable. Tight timelines, unexpected weather, emotional moments—I’ve seen it all. My job is to keep things stress-free, roll with whatever happens, and capture every part of your day beautifully, no matter what.

    So, what makes me different? I don’t just take pretty photos—I help make your day smoother, more enjoyable, and completely unforgettable.

  • Booking early helps you lock in your date and gives us plenty of time to plan. Here's what I recommend:

    1️⃣ Most couples book 9–15 months in advance. My calendar fills up quickly, especially for spring and fall weddings.
    2️⃣ That said, if you’re planning a shorter engagement or an elopement, reach out anyway! I occasionally have last-minute openings.
    3️⃣ Once you inquire, I’ll walk you through everything—packages, timeline planning, and what to expect next—so you feel confident moving forward.

  • Absolutely. In fact, it’s one of my favorite parts of the process.

    1️⃣ Before booking, I’ll send a timeline questionnaire that helps me learn your priorities—so we can build a custom plan that fits your day.
    2️⃣ Whether you’re doing a first look, a later ceremony, or something totally non-traditional, I’ll help you figure out the flow.
    3️⃣ I also share a polished “fancy timeline” so you (and your planner or coordinator) know exactly what to expect.

  • Yes! I love photographing weddings across Missouri and beyond.

    1️⃣ I’m based near Springfield, but I regularly shoot in Branson, the Ozarks, and surrounding areas.
    2️⃣ I’ve can also travel for weddings in Kansas City, St. Louis, Arkansas, and beyond.
    3️⃣ Travel within 60 miles is included with most packages—if you're farther out, just let me know and I’ll put together a custom travel quote.

  • That depends on your day—but I’m here to help you decide.

    1️⃣ If you're planning a micro wedding or elopement, 2–4 hours is usually perfect.
    2️⃣ Full wedding days (with getting ready, ceremony, reception, and all the moments in between) typically need 6–10 hours.
    3️⃣ Not sure what you need? I’ll send a quick questionnaire that makes it super easy to figure out the best fit for your timeline.

THESE COULD BE YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS

Montage of wedding photos displayed on a laptop screen, featuring a bride in a white dress and a groom in a suit, along with bridesmaids and family moments in a lush outdoor setting and elegant indoor venue.

SAVE YOUR DATE

Let’s Make Photo Planning the Easiest Part of Your Wedding

2026 dates are filling fast—get in touch today to see if yours is available.


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Shalyn O'Neal Photography Logo - Rose Gold Hoop with Floral Accent

Creating meaningful photographs that feel natural, with helpful guidance to bring out your best moments.

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