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Read the Blog | Diary of a Candid Wedding Photography Capturing Your Life’s Most Special Moments

Features about couples along with personal adventures!

RSVP Roundup: Paper vs. Online – A Wedding Photographer’s Take

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 […]

July 19, 2024

To Tip or Not to Tip: A Wedding Photographer’s Real Talk on Vendor Gratuity

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 […]

July 15, 2024

5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before the Big Day

Let’s be honest, your wedding photos are going to be some of your most cherished keepsakes. They’ll transport you back to that magical day, capturing the joy, the tears, and all the in-between moments. So, choosing the right photographer is a big decision! I get it, you’re bombarded with details and planning. But before you […]

July 12, 2024

Pop the Bubbly (and Perfect the Poses!): Tips for a Rocking Engagement Session

Congratulations, you’re engaged! Now it’s time to celebrate – with a photoshoot, of course! Your engagement session is more than just pretty pictures; it’s a chance to practice your on-camera presence, get comfortable with your photographer (ahem, me!), and capture some seriously swoon-worthy moments to share with the world (or at least your social media […]

July 8, 2024

Wedding Day Shenanigans: Capturing the Fun & Unexpected

Wedding days are beautiful celebrations of love, but let’s be honest, they can also be a little bit…well, hectic! From the pre-ceremony jitters to the dance floor antics, there’s always a sprinkle (or maybe a whole cake) of unexpected fun that unfolds. As your wedding photographer, I’m not just here for the staged portraits (although […]

July 5, 2024

Capturing the Magic: 5 Tips for Timeless Wedding Photos

Wedding days are a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and unforgettable moments. As your wedding photographer, I’m there to capture the essence of your special day in timeless photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. But with so much happening, how do we ensure we get those perfect shots that tell your unique love story? Here […]

July 1, 2024

Finding the Perfect Backdrop for Your Engagement Photos

Congratulations! You’re engaged, and the excitement is buzzing! Now it’s time to capture that connection with stunning engagement photos. But with so many landscapes to choose from, where do you even begin? Don’t worry, soon-to-be-weds, because I’m here to guide you through the process of finding the perfect backdrop for your pictures. Finding Your Vibe: […]

June 28, 2024

Taming the Timeline: A Wedding Photographer’s Guide to a Smooth-Sailing Day

The day has arrived! You’re about to celebrate your love story with family, friends, and (hopefully) perfect weather. But amidst the excitement, there’s one crucial element that can make or break the flow of your wedding day: the timeline. As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed countless celebrations, and let me tell you, a well-crafted timeline […]

June 24, 2024

Understanding my wedding photography style

Hi there! I’m Melissa, a wedding photographer based in Northern Virginia. When it comes to your wedding day, I know you want photos that capture the real feeling of it – the joy, the love, the genuine connections between you and your favorite people. While I love getting those classic family portraits (gotta have those […]

June 21, 2024

Love in the Heart of Leesburg: Karina, Dillon, and Furever Friends

Leesburg, Virginia’s quaint downtown streets played host to a love story in full bloom this past weekend. Karina and Dillon, along with their two adorable pups, joined me for an engagement session that was equal parts playful and heartwarming. As we explored the charming shops and historic architecture, Karina and Dillon’s connection was undeniable. Their […]

June 17, 2024