wedding guide

wedding guide

coming soon

coming soon

PErsonal Journey

YOUR

forever

story

in every

frame

YOUR

forever

story

in every

frame

As a passionate photographer who's all about capturing real moments, genuine laughs, and all else in between, I try to keep things laid-back so you can just be yourself while I document your story. 

My Approach

& Photography StYlE

this is your big day!

It is a collection of your visions blending into one perfect day. A great deal of thought and effort are put into tailoring this wonderful event by an incredible team of family, friends, and vendors. I am honored for the opportunity to immortalize every genuine emotion and intricate detail exactly the way you pictured for your wedding day.

My approach is as easy as a warm smile. I believe that in order to capture this day precisely as you have envisioned it, getting to know you in the months leading up to your day is the way to achieve this goal. Through questionnaires and meaningful conversations, I will have a better sense of what makes your relationship unique, ensuring that your photographs reflect the authentic bond you share.

My photography style is simple and laid-back, focusing on capturing genuine smiles, real connections, and the in-between moments that matter most.  I am a natural light photographer, and my editing is inspired by rich earthy tones, ranging from a little moody to light and bright.  I am not a retoucher, so I do not alter my photos to a point that distorts reality.

My Approach

& Photography StYlE

this is your big day!

It is a collection of your visions blending into one perfect day. A great deal of thought and effort are put into tailoring this wonderful event by an incredible team of family, friends, and vendors. I am honored for the opportunity to immortalize every genuine emotion and intricate detail exactly the way you pictured for your wedding day.

My approach is as easy as a warm smile. I believe that in order to capture this day precisely as you have envisioned it, getting to know you in the months leading up to your day is the way to achieve this goal. Through questionnaires and meaningful conversations, I will have a better sense of what makes your relationship unique, ensuring that your photographs reflect the authentic bond you share.

My photography style is simple and laid-back, focusing on capturing genuine smiles, real connections, and the in-between moments that matter most.  I am a natural light photographer, and my editing is inspired by rich earthy tones, ranging from a little moody to light and bright.  I am not a retoucher, so I do not alter my photos to a point that distorts reality.

W

ork Process

01/

FREE CONSULTATION

During our consultation, I'll share what I offer as your photographer and explore how my approach aligns with your vision. Understanding your preferences for photography style, I'm here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.

Most importantly, this is an opportunity to determine if we're the perfect fit.  So, let's meet up for coffee and chat, and see if we're destined to create magic together on your wedding day.

02/

Planning

We’ll meet in person or touch base through email and/or texts, brainstorm ideas, and further acquaint ourselves with the details of your special day. Whether we're bouncing around ideas for photo locations, fine-tuning the timeline, or simply sharing anecdotes, each interaction brings us closer to crafting a wedding experience that's uniquely yours.

03/

Gallery Delivery

Once the whirlwind of your wedding day has subsided, I'll eagerly dive into the post-production process over the course of 4 weeks. When your gallery is ready, I'll deliver it to you through a convenient online platform. 

Feel free to share the gallery with your loved ones and download your images. With access to your gallery for one month, you'll have ample of time to relive the love and laughter captured within its pixels.

W

ork Process

01

FREE CONSULTATION

During our consultation, I'll share what I offer as your photographer and explore how my approach aligns with your vision. Understanding your preferences for photography style, I'm here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.

Most importantly, this is an opportunity to determine if we're the perfect fit.  So, let's meet up for coffee and chat, and see if we're destined to create magic together on your wedding day.

02

Planning

We’ll meet in person or touch base through email and/or texts, brainstorm ideas, and further acquaint ourselves with the details of your special day. Whether we're bouncing around ideas for photo locations, fine-tuning the timeline, or simply sharing anecdotes, each interaction brings us closer to crafting a wedding experience that's uniquely yours.

03

Gallery Delivery

Once the whirlwind of your wedding day has subsided, I'll eagerly dive into the post-production process over the course of 4 weeks. When your gallery is ready, I'll deliver it to you through a convenient online platform. 

Feel free to share the gallery with your loved ones and download your images. With access to your gallery for one month, you'll have ample of time to relive the love and laughter captured within its pixels.

STEP-BY-STEP

01

Let’s set up a time to chat and determine if we’re a match made in photography heaven. We can get to know each other, and I can answer all of your questions.

Let's get to know each other

1 of 6

02

Let’s secure your date and make this dream a reality. You will receive a custom booking proposal where you can review your package, pay the retainer, and make everything officially official.

save the date

2 of 6

03

Once you book, we’ll schedule your engagement session. After two weeks of your photoshoot, you will be sent an online gallery of images to download and share.

Engagement Session

3 of 6

04

Once we’re 8 weeks out from your big day, we’ll start discussing your wedding timeline in earnest to ensure that you don’t miss out on your dream wedding photos.

Timeline talk

4 of 6

05

The time to celebrate is here! I make it my priority to capture the traditional shots that every bride needs while also documenting the moments in between.

Your Wedding Day

5 of 6

06

After 4 weeks, your online gallery goes live. Grab a glass of wine, sit down with your loved one, and enjoy reliving your wedding day together.

Gallery

6 of 6

THE PROCESS

01

Let’s set up a time to chat and determine if we’re a match made in photography heaven. We can get to know each other, and I can answer all of your questions.

Let's get to know each other

02

Let’s secure your date and make this dream a reality. You will receive a custom booking proposal where you can review your package, pay the retainer, and make everything officially official.

Save the date

03

Once you book, we’ll schedule your engagement session. After two weeks of your photoshoot, you will be sent an online gallery of images to download and share.

Engagement session

04

Once we’re 8 weeks out from your big day, we’ll start discussing your wedding timeline in earnest to ensure that you don’t miss out on your dream wedding photos.

Timeline Talk

05

The time to celebrate is here! I make it my priority to capture the traditional shots that every bride needs while also documenting the moments in between.

Your Wedding Day

06

After 4 weeks, your online gallery goes live. Grab a glass of wine, sit down with your loved one, and enjoy reliving your wedding day together.

Gallery

Engagement

SESSION

and WHAT TO

wear

Engagement sessions are a great way for us to connect and get to know each other before your big day arrives. You'll learn all about our posing structure, and you'll be a pro by the end of your session. This will make your wedding day pictures a piece of cake! 

Engagement sessions typically last 1 to 1.5 hours. I recommend that you bring an extra outfit, as you may wish to have two different "looks". 

here are some handy tips for nailing down the perfect style

yes, yes, yes!

no way!

Neutral & complementary color schemes.

Comfortable & easy to move in.

Flowy skirts or tops that show movement.

Something you feel amazing & confident wearing.
Being "matchy-matchy."

Big logos & writings on shirts.

Small, intricate, busy, bright patterns.

Something that just isn't YOU.

Something uncomfortable that constantly needs adjusting.

Engagement

SESSION

and WHAT TO

wear

Engagement sessions are a great way for us to connect and get to know each other before your big day arrives. You'll learn all about our posing structure, and you'll be a pro by the end of your session. This will make your wedding day pictures a piece of cake! 

Engagement sessions typically last 1 to 1.5 hours. I recommend that you bring an extra outfit, as you may wish to have two different "looks". 

here are some handy tips for nailing down the perfect style

yes, yes, yes!

no way!

Neutral & complementary color schemes.

Comfortable & easy to move in.

Flowy skirts or tops that show movement.

Something you feel amazing & confident wearing.
Being "matchy-matchy."

Big logos & writings on shirts.

Small, intricate, busy, bright patterns.

Something that just isn't YOU.

Something uncomfortable that constantly needs adjusting.

S

hot list

A shot list is a simple but essential way to make sure your photographer captures the moments, people, and details that matter most to you.  While we'll always cover the big events, a custom list helps us focus on what's uniquely important to you.

Here's what you can include in your shot list:

1.  Family and Group Portraits.  Be specific with names and relationships as it helps us stay efficient and organized.  A list with 5 to 10 groupings could take 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how smoothly things go.

2. Key Moments You Don't Want Missed.  Some moments are standard, but if there's anything personal or nontraditional happening, let us know!

3.  Personal Details & Decor.  If you've put effort into the little things, we want to capture them.

4.  Must-Have or Inspiration Shots.  Seen something you love on Pinterest or Instagram?  Share it with us and let us know it's for inspiration.


Don't forget to send your photographer a shot list!

S

hot list

A shot list is a simple but essential way to make sure your photographer captures the moments, people, and details that matter most to you.  While we'll always cover the big events, a custom list helps us focus on what's uniquely important to you.

Here's what you can include in your shot list:

1.  Family and Group Portraits. 
Be specific with names and relationships as it helps us stay efficient and organized.  A list with 5 to 10 groupings could take 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how smoothly things go.

2. Key Moments You Don't Want Missed.
Some moments are standard, but if there's anything personal or nontraditional happening, let us know!

3.  Personal Details & Decor.
If you've put effort into the little things, we want to capture them.

4.  Must-Have or Inspiration Shots.
Seen something you love on Pinterest or Instagram?  Share it with us and let us know it's for inspiration.


Don't forget to send your photographer a shot list!

edding Day

W

sample timeline with a 4-hour photography coverage

edding Day

W

sample timeline with a 4-hour photography coverage

2:30 pm
Detail Shots

3:00 PM
GETTING READY PHOTOS

3:45 PM
FIRST LOOK

4:00 PM
Wedding Party Portraits

4:30 PM
FAMILY PHOTOS

5:00 PM
CEREMONY

6:00 PM
COCKTAIL HOUR

6:30 PM
Toast & Dance

7:00 PM
Photography coverage ends

2:30 pm
Detail Shots

3:00 PM
GETTING READy

3:45 PM
FIRST LOOK

4:00 PM
Wedding Party Portraits

4:30 PM
FAMILY PHOTOS

5:00 PM
CEREMONY

6:00 PM
COCKTAIL HOUR

6:30 PM
Toast & Dance

7:00 PM
Photography coverage ends

Detail

Photos

I love capturing the special details you've curated for your wedding day. Details are one of the first things I'll photograph when I arrive 30-60 minutes early. It’s great if you have all these items in one place that morning. The list below is a great starting point if you're not sure what to include.

  • Dress & hanger
  • Shoes
  • Veil
  • Flower bouquet
  • Hair pieces
  • Earrings
  • Something blue
  • Something borrowed
  • perfume
  • vow book

Bride Detail Checklist

Groom Detail Checklist

  • shoes
  • cuff links
  • tie or bow tie
  • pocket square
  • boutonniere
  • cologne
  • watch
  • vow book

Bride & Groom Detail Checklist

  • all 3 rings in 1 ring box
  • gifts
  • invitation suite: 2 full sets with envelopes + stamps & any other paper stationary you may have like dinner menu and program cards
  • sentimental keepsakes like heirloom jewelry

Detail

Photos

I love capturing the special details you've curated for your wedding day. Details are one of the first things I'll photograph when I arrive 30-60 minutes early. It’s great if you have all these items in one place that morning. The list below is a great starting point if you're not sure what to include.

  • Dress & hanger
  • Shoes
  • Veil
  • Flower bouquet
  • Hair pieces
  • Earrings
  • Something blue
  • Something borrowed
  • perfume
  • vow book

Bride Detail Checklist

Groom Detail Checklist

  • shoes
  • cuff links
  • tie or bow tie
  • pocket square
  • boutonniere
  • cologne
  • watch
  • vow book

Bride & Groom Detail Checklist

  • all 3 rings in 1 ring box
  • gifts
  • invitation suite: 2 full sets with envelopes + stamps & any other paper stationary you may have like dinner menu and program cards
  • sentimental keepsakes like heirloom jewelry

G

etting ready

Every moment on your wedding day is picture-worthy. Even before you exchange your vows, the hours spent in preparation are special too.

LOCATION

To get the best getting ready photos, it is ideal to choose a room with wide windows and good lighting. If the bridal suite is dark, small, windowless, or cluttered, I will move us to a more suitable location. 

TIMING

I like to arrive at the venue 30-60 minutes before we start with your getting ready photos. While you and the bridesmaids are getting your hair and makeup done, I will do the details first if you choose to have these items photographed. Then, I will start snapping candids of everyone as you all are moving around and finishing up.  

If you and the girls want some pictures taken while wearing matching robes, consider scheduling hair and makeup a little earlier since we will need everyone done and ready at the same time. This will also leave them with ample of time to get into their dresses.

Also, give yourself 15-20 minutes to get into your dress and put on your shoes and jewelry. During this time, I will be taking pictures of you alone and while surrounded by your bridesmaids and/or immediate family.

Moments

If we plan ahead and stick to our timeline, we can do other special moments like a first look with anyone special to you.

G

etting ready

Every moment on your wedding day is picture-worthy. Even before you exchange your vows, the hours spent in preparation are special too.

LOCATION

To get the best getting ready photos, it is ideal to choose a room with wide windows and good lighting. If the bridal suite is dark, small, windowless, or cluttered, I will move us to a more suitable location. 

TIMING

I like to arrive at the venue 30-60 minutes before we start with your getting ready photos. While you and the bridesmaids are getting your hair and makeup done, I will do the details first if you choose to have these items photographed. Then, I will start snapping candids of everyone as you all are moving around and finishing up.  

If you and the girls want some pictures taken while wearing matching robes, consider scheduling hair and makeup a little earlier since we will need everyone done and ready at the same time. This will also leave them with ample of time to get into their dresses.

Also, give yourself 15-20 minutes to get into your dress and put on your shoes and jewelry. During this time, I will be taking pictures of you alone and while surrounded by your bridesmaids and/or immediate family.

Moments

If we plan ahead and stick to our timeline, we can do other special moments like a first look with anyone special to you.

Look

First

It's a special thing when you see your other half for the first time on your wedding day. Whether you do a first look or wait for an epic reveal as you walk down the aisle, it’s a moment worth remembering.

Wondering if a first look is right for you? Here are some things to consider.

Wedding days pass in a blur. Right as the day begins there is so much to do and so many people to see. A first look will give the two of you a moment alone (with a camera shooting from afar) to soak it all in and think through what the day means to you.

01/

A first look gives you a quiet moment alone

When you have a first look, we can take pictures of the two of you, the bridal party, and some family pictures before the ceremony even begins. This makes the day less rushed and allows us to take more pictures too!

02/

Get more pictures without rushing

If there's bad weather on the forecast, a first look gives you the option to get pictures done earlier in the day and possibly avoid being stuck in the rain!

03/

Possibly avoid bad weather

A first look gives both of you a moment to cry without the audience of all your wedding guests. You can shed your tears knowing you'll have time to freshen up before pictures too.

04/

Get emotional without the audience

Look

First

It's a special thing when you see your other half for the first time on your wedding day. Whether you do a first look or wait for an epic reveal as you walk down the aisle, it’s a moment worth remembering.

Wondering if a first look is right for you?

 Here are some things to consider.

Wedding days pass in a blur. Right as the day begins there is so much to do and so many people to see. A first look will give the two of you a moment alone (with a camera shooting from afar) to soak it all in and think through what the day means to you.

01/

A first look gives you a quiet moment alone

When you have a first look, we can take pictures of the two of you, the bridal party, and some family pictures before the ceremony even begins. This makes the day less rushed and allows us to take more pictures too!

02/

Get more pictures without rushing

If there's bad weather on the forecast, a first look gives you the option to get pictures done earlier in the day and possibly avoid being stuck in the rain!

03/

Possibly avoid bad weather

A first look gives both of you a moment to cry without the audience of all your wedding guests. You can shed your tears knowing you'll have time to freshen up before pictures too.

04/

Get emotional without the audience

A few

Tips & Tricks

Keep your family in the loop

Crowd Management

It's great if you can assign a friend or family member to help ensure we have everyone we need for family photos. This person should know who everyone is on the photo list but not be in too many photos themselves.

It makes the whole process of family photos faster when everyone knows what to expect. Have your family members (or anyone else who will be in a photo) stick around when the ceremony ends so that we don't have to take time finding everyone who's left.

Create a list

Keep it short & sweet

Family photos aren't anyone's favorite part of a wedding day and I try to take them as efficiently as possible. With that said, keep in mind that every grouping typically takes 2-3 minutes to pose. I want to make sure we get all the family photos needed without cutting into your cocktail hour or reception too much.

I’ll ask you for a list of family picture groupings a few weeks before the day of your wedding. Please make sure you list everyone's first name so that I know who to call for when we're grouping people together for a photo.

A few

Tips & Tricks

Keep your family in the loop

Crowd Management

It's great if you can assign a friend or family member to help ensure we have everyone we need for family photos. This person should know who everyone is on the photo list but not be in too many photos themselves.

It makes the whole process of family photos faster when everyone knows what to expect. Have your family members (or anyone else who will be in a photo) stick around when the ceremony ends so that we don't have to take time finding everyone who's left.

Create a list

Keep it short & sweet

Family photos aren't anyone's favorite part of a wedding day and I try to take them as efficiently as possible. With that said, keep in mind that every grouping typically takes 2-3 minutes to pose. I want to make sure we get all the family photos needed without cutting into your cocktail hour or reception too much.

I’ll ask you for a list of family picture groupings a few weeks before the day of your wedding. Please make sure you list everyone's first name so that I know who to call for when we're grouping people together for a photo.

keep in mind

What to

LIGHTING

The lighting for receptions can often be overlooked, but it plays a big role in how your evening looks and feels. There are tons of options, from hanging lights to lanterns to candles. These can really impact the mood & vibe of the environment as well as the look of the photos because they change the white balance. Candlelight and hanging lights usually allow for warmer, softer photos. Sometimes venues offer colorful uplighting, but I recommend keeping those set to white only because blues/purples/reds can really affect skin tones and make people look a bit off in photos.

speeches

As your photographer, I will be taking pictures of your reactions to the speeches as well as the speakers. This will be more easily accomplished if the speakers are standing near you versus in the center of the room.

RECEPTION LOCATION

Your reception location is just as important as your ceremony location. After all, it is where most of the wedding takes place. As you may know by now, lighting is important. Consider ways to add ambient lighting to really set the mood and add depth to your photos. Things like candles, string lights, and lanterns add an intimate feeling to your wedding. 

If at all possible, avoid any DJ or band lights, and skip the color lights music groups sometimes bring, at least until we are done with taking pictures. The mixture of rainbow colors on your skin tend to be hard to adjust. 

SEND OFF

When it comes to your send off, there are two things to consider. First is lighting. Will there be any lights around so your guests and media team can see you? Second, get creative! Some fun ideas to consider are vintage cars, sparklers, bubbles, fireworks, and flower petals. Finally, consider a faux exit so you can get back to partying and so you get the most out of your photo coverage. 

TANNING

As tempting as it may be to get a fresh tan before your wedding day, I highly recommend skipping it.  It can often result in uneven skin tones, unexpected orange hues, or noticeable tan lines that show up clearly in photographs. 

keep in mind

What to

LIGHTING

The lighting for receptions can often be overlooked, but it plays a big role in how your evening looks and feels. There are tons of options, from hanging lights to lanterns to candles. These can really impact the mood & vibe of the environment as well as the look of the photos because they change the white balance. Candlelight and hanging lights usually allow for warmer, softer photos. Sometimes venues offer colorful uplighting, but I recommend keeping those set to white only because blues/purples/reds can really affect skin tones and make people look a bit off in photos.

speeches

As your photographer, I will be taking pictures of your reactions to the speeches as well as the speakers. This will be more easily accomplished if the speakers are standing near you versus in the center of the room.

RECEPTION LOCATION

Your reception location is just as important as your ceremony location. After all, it is where most of the wedding takes place. As you may know by now, lighting is important. Consider ways to add ambient lighting to really set the mood and add depth to your photos. Things like candles, string lights, and lanterns add an intimate feeling to your wedding. 

If at all possible, avoid any DJ or band lights, and skip the color lights music groups sometimes bring, at least until we are done with taking pictures. The mixture of rainbow colors on your skin tend to be hard to adjust. 

SEND OFF

When it comes to your send off, there are two things to consider. First is lighting. Will there be any lights around so your guests and media team can see you? Second, get creative! Some fun ideas to consider are vintage cars, sparklers, bubbles, fireworks, and flower petals. Finally, consider a faux exit so you can get back to partying and so you get the most out of your photo coverage. 

TANNING

As tempting as it may be to get a fresh tan before your wedding day, I highly recommend skipping it.  It can often result in uneven skin tones, unexpected orange hues, or noticeable tan lines that show up clearly in photographs. 

Requently

F

asked questions

How do we lock you in as our wedding day photographer?

It's easy!  Just reach out through my contact form to check if your date is open.  If I'm available, then we'll set up a free consultation either in person or via phone so we can get to know each other, chat about your vision, and make sure we are a perfect fit.  Moving forward, I'll send over a custom proposal with package details, a contract, and a retainer invoice.  The retainer is 50% of the total package price and is non-refundable.  Once the contract is signed and the retainer is paid, your date is officially locked in!

01/

HOw long does it take to receive the final edited photos?

It depends on the volume of images and the complexity of editing required, but I strive to deliver within 4 weeks after the wedding day.

02/

What is your cancellation policy?

Securing your date requires a non-refundable retainer, which is 50% of the total package price.  The remaining balance is due one month before the event, which is refundable as long as a 2-week cancellation notice is provided prior to the event.

03/

Do you release unedited or raw files?

RAW files aren't a true reflection of my work.  My editing process is a big part of how I bring your story to life.  That said, I understand some clients may have specific reasons for wanting the RAW files. While it's not my standard practice, I am open to discussing it.  If requested, RAW files can be released for an additional 50% of your total package price.

04/

What payment methods do you accept?

Venmo and cash.

05/

Requently

F

asked questions

How do we lock you in as our wedding day photographer?

It's easy!  Just reach out through my contact form to check if your date is open.  If I'm available, then we'll set up a free consultation either in person or via phone so we can get to know each other, chat about your vision, and make sure we are a perfect fit.  Moving forward, I'll send over a custom proposal with package details, a contract, and a retainer invoice.  The retainer is 50% of the total package price and is non-refundable.  Once the contract is signed and the retainer is paid, your date is officially locked in!

01/

HOw long does it take to receive the final edited photos?

It depends on the volume of images and the complexity of editing required, but I strive to deliver within 4 weeks after the wedding day.

02/

What is your cancellation policy?

Securing your date requires a non-refundable retainer, which is 50% of the total package price.  The remaining balance is due one month before the event, which is refundable as long as a 2-week cancellation notice is provided prior to the event.

03/

Do you release unedited or raw files?

RAW files aren't a true reflection of my work.  My editing process is a big part of how I bring your story to life.  That said, I understand some clients may have specific reasons for wanting the RAW files. While it's not my standard practice, I am open to discussing it.  If requested, RAW files can be released for an additional 50% of your total package price.

04/

What payment methods do you accept?

Venmo and cash.

05/

Stay

in touch

I would love to hear from you even after your wedding day. If you would like to share your thoughts on my photography services, please use the following contact information.

maylissa.phillips@gmail.com
www.maylissaphillips.com
www.instagram.com/_may.lissa_
530.927.8008

Stay

in touch

I would love to hear from you even after your wedding day. If you would like to share your thoughts on my photography services, please use the following contact information.

maylissa.phillips@gmail.com
www.maylissaphillips.com
www.instagram.com/_may.lissa_
530.927.8008

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