Welcome to the Blog

Features about couples along with personal adventures!

Saying “I Do” to Great Reviews: How to Write a Stellar Review for Your Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, beautiful moments, and (hopefully) flawless execution. But after the cake is cut and the last dance is done, there’s one important thing left to do: express your gratitude to the vendors who helped make your day so special. For your wedding photographer, a heartfelt review can be […]

June 11, 2024

A Wedding Photographer’s Guide to Maximizing Your Budget

As a wedding photographer, I get a front-row seat to the magic of love stories unfolding. But let’s face it, weddings can be a financial juggling act. Fear not! Here are some savvy strategies to maximize your wedding budget, ensuring a stress-free (and picture-perfect) celebration. Prioritize Your Passions: Love List Essentials: Before diving into details, […]

June 10, 2024

Double Duty Glam: Why Your Engagement Session is the Perfect Time for Your Hair & Makeup

So you’ve booked your engagement session – a chance to celebrate your love story and capture some seriously stunning photos. But with all the planning, a question might pop up: should you do a separate hair and makeup trial beforehand, or can you kill two birds with one stone and try it out on the […]

June 8, 2024

Manassas Battlefield Park Engagement Session | Melissa Cook Photography

The Magic Behind Candid Couple Photography

I’m thrilled to introduce you to the world of candid couple photography. This style is all about capturing those genuine, unposed moments that truly tell your unique love story. Unlike traditional posed photos, candid shots reveal the real essence of your relationship, making each image a personal and memorable keepsake. As your photographer, my goal […]

June 7, 2024

Capturing Love in Georgetown: A Magical Engagement Session

Georgetown is one of those places that just screams personality—historic charm, cobblestone streets, and a waterfront that’s perfect for photos. I had the awesome opportunity to photograph an engagement session for Alex and Tom in this lively part of D.C. Starting Off Strong We kicked things off at the waterfront. Right from the get-go, I […]

June 3, 2024

Outdoor vs. Indoor Engagement Photo Ideas: Pros and Cons

Choosing the perfect setting for your engagement photos is an exciting part of capturing this special moment in your life. Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty of outdoor locations or the controlled environment of indoor settings, each option offers unique benefits and challenges. In this blog, I’ll explore creative ideas for both outdoor and […]

May 31, 2024

A Perfect Sunset Engagement Session

I recently had the absolute pleasure of photographing Samantha and Greg at the stunning Manassas Battlefield Park in Manassas, Virginia, and I just had to share the experience with you all! Picture this: a warm, golden sunset casting a dreamy glow over rolling fields, historic landmarks, and two people so in love, it made my […]

May 24, 2024

Capturing Love on Their Home Turf: A Dreamy Engagement Session

There’s something truly special about photographing a couple in a place that holds so much personal meaning for them. I recently had the absolute pleasure of doing an engagement session on a couple’s private property, and it was nothing short of magical. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with the kind of warmth […]

May 23, 2024

Should we book an engagement session?

Your wedding day is a beautiful milestone, a moment you’ll treasure for a lifetime. It’s a day filled with love, laughter, and the promise of forever. Naturally, you want every aspect of it to be perfect, including the photographs that will serve as timeless reminders of your special day. While many couples focus solely on […]

April 29, 2024