Hey there lovebirds! Listen up, because engagement photos are about to go from “oh hey, nice outfits” to “wow, this is a story“. It’s all about what you wear, you see. Imagine this: you and your partner, all dressed up (or down, depending on your vibe!), looking amazing and totally in love. But it’s not […]

Let’s face it, your wedding day is a big deal. Months of planning, meticulous attention to detail, and a ton of emotions culminate in one unforgettable celebration. You’ve poured your heart (and maybe a significant chunk of your budget) into making this day everything you ever dreamed of. So, why take a chance on anything […]

In a world saturated with vibrant colors and Instagram filters, black and white wedding photography might seem like a relic of the past. But here’s the secret: black and white photos hold a timeless charm that transcends trends. As a wedding photographer, I often recommend incorporating black and white images into your wedding album, and […]

Let’s face it, your wedding day is a whirlwind. Between emotions running high, a million last-minute details, and the sheer joy of celebrating with loved ones, it’s easy for things to go off track. But fear not! As a wedding photographer, I’m here to help you avoid some common pitfalls when it comes to capturing […]

As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed countless celebrations – all filled with laughter, love, and of course, epic dance moves. But sometimes, you want to add a little extra something to keep the energy buzzing and create unique memories for your guests. So, how do you go beyond the traditional open bar and photo booth? […]

The wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, happy tears, and picture-perfect moments. But the magic often begins a little earlier, at the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Here, surrounded by loved ones, couples get a chance to practice their walk down the aisle and celebrate their upcoming nuptials. As a wedding photographer, capturing these pre-wedding […]

Hey there, lovelies! I write a lot of blog posts about helpful tips for your engagement and wedding photography needs but I rarely mention myself. That changes now. If you’re new here, hi! My name is Melissa Cook and I’m a wedding photographer in the Northern Virginia area. If you’re not new here, welcome back […]

As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen countless celebrations unfold, and one thing I hear frequently is, “We have no idea how to schedule our wedding day!” Fear not! While every wedding is unique, having a well-structured timeline is key to capturing those magical moments and ensuring a smooth, stress-free day. Here’s a sample timeline breakdown […]

As a wedding photographer, I get to witness the magic of your big day unfold from a unique perspective. But before the “I dos” and celebratory cake cutting, there’s the crucial RSVP stage. Whether you choose classic paper RSVP cards or a modern online option, your choice can impact the flow of your wedding planning […]

The age-old question: should you tip your wedding vendors? As a wedding photographer myself, I know this can be a confusing topic for couples. Let’s ditch the wedding etiquette rulebook and have an honest conversation. First things first: tipping for wedding vendors is not mandatory. Unlike servers at a restaurant, our fees typically reflect the […]