Beyond the Lens: How Humility and Growth Shape My Wedding Photography

Hello and salutations!

Today, I want to share a story that’s close to my heart and holds valuable lessons for both couples and fellow wedding photographers. This story dates back to one of the first weddings I had the privilege to be part of, a day that taught me lessons I still carry with me in my work today.

The couple in the image below were truly a joy to work with—easygoing, silly, and absolutely in love with each other. It’s moments like these that remind me why I chose to pursue wedding photography. Being surrounded by such genuine affection and happiness fuels my passion for this craft.

But beyond the love and joy, that day also reinforced an essential lesson: service is above ego. I was the second photographer that day, and as fate would have it, the lead photographer got lost on the way to the portrait session location. Since I had driven with the couple, I was with them the whole time. When they asked if I could step in and take the portraits, I hesitated. I didn’t want to step on any toes, so I tried to decline. However, their request led me to a future lesson that has shaped how I work today.

When the lead photographer finally arrived, she was noticeably upset with both me and the videographer. Her reaction, fueled by ego, disrupted the mood of the day, a stark contrast to what our focus should have been—serving the couple. This experience taught me that in wedding photography, our priority must always be the couple’s experience, not our own personal concerns. Our work is about capturing the essence of their love and joy, regardless of who takes the shot.

The third realization I had that day was about commitment to growth. I looked back at those moments and knew I had the potential to be really good at this, but only if I kept learning. That commitment to growth drives me every day, pushing me to improve my craft so I can better serve my couples. It’s why I’ve built a team that shares this philosophy. For example, my go-to photographer Nicole (@photography.by.strain) consistently goes above and beyond. At a recent wedding, she made sure the couple stayed hydrated and cool by providing fans on a very hot day—simple yet thoughtful gestures that make all the difference.

Reflecting on that day reminds me how much I’ve grown and how important it is to stay humble, committed, and focused on what truly matters. Whether you’re a couple planning your big day or a fellow photographer, I hope this story resonates with you. Remember, in the world of weddings, it’s all about love, service, and continuous growth.

Thank you for reading!