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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]