wedding couple's hands

Documenting Your Love Story: Guide to Authentic Wedding Photography

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but as a Pittsburgh wedding photographer, my goal is to make your day feel effortless while capturing every moment you’ll treasure forever. From our first conversation to your final gallery, here’s what working with me looks like.

Husband and wife dancing at West End Overlook Wedding

1. Personalizing Your Experience from Day One

Every couple and wedding is unique, and I pride myself on tailoring my approach to you. From our initial consultation, I’ll get to know your style, your priorities, and your vision for your day. Together, we’ll plan your photography timeline, highlight the must-have shots, and discuss the moments that matter most to you — ensuring your photos reflect your love story.

Quick Tip: Don’t be afraid to share the “weird” or non-traditional details you love; the more I know, the more “you” the final photos will feel.

2. Prioritizing Presence Over Perfection

It might sound cliché, but the best photos happen when you’re fully present. On your wedding day, I focus on capturing moments as they naturally unfold — laughter, tears, and the small in-between moments that make your day unique.

Quick Tip: Trust your photographer. Let me guide you when needed, but don’t stress about the details. Your joy and connection will shine through in your photos.

wedding couple dancing at sunset at The Grayson House

3. Finding Beautiful Light

Great photography isn’t just about the location; it’s about how the light hits you in that space. Pittsburgh’s architecture and landscapes truly come alive during “golden hour”—that soft, warm glow just before sunset. By prioritizing light in your timeline, we ensure your portraits have that dreamy, high-end feel.
 
Quick Tip: I’ll help you look at your timeline through the lens of a photographer. Simple adjustments, like timing your couples’ portraits for thirty minutes before sunset or choosing a getting-ready space with large windows, will make your images glow in every setting.

4. Creating Breathing Space

Weddings can feel like a nonstop whirlwind. I recommend building in “buffer moments” — short breaks for just the two of you. Even a short walk, a private toast, or simply holding hands can provide some of the most intimate, memorable photos of your day. I’ll be there to capture these moments naturally so your gallery tells your full story.

Quick Tip: Even a short “buffer” earlier in the day—like adding a couple minutes to touch up your hair and makeup—can keep the whole timeline feeling calm and effortless.

Grayson House wedding first look

5. Drawing Inspiration from Your Story

Every wedding is its own story, and I love finding the best ways to bring your specific vision to life. Having photographed all over Pittsburgh—from the grit of the city skyline to the soft light of our local gardens—I’ve learned how to find the beauty in any setting. We’ll work together to pinpoint the details and locations that mean the most to you, so your final collection of images feels like a true reflection of your personality.

Quick Tip: Let’s chat about your venue’s unique features. Whether it’s a grand staircase or a favorite city view, we can plan exactly how to use the space to reflect your style and personality.

6. Going with the Flow

Even the best-laid plans can shift on a wedding day, and that’s perfectly okay. I’m there to help navigate those changes with you, keeping things moving smoothly so we don’t miss a beat. My focus is on staying flexible and present, allowing me to catch those authentic, beautiful moments even when the schedule takes an unexpected turn. 

Quick Tip: The weather might shift or a toast might run long—try to embrace the spontaneity. I’ll be right there to adjust with you, making sure we stay on track while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and fun.

wedding couple sharing cake after they elope

7. Including Meaningful Details

Your wedding details — from handwritten vows to family heirlooms — tell your story. I’ll make sure these elements are photographed in a way that complements your overall gallery and preserves the memories you’ll want to relive.

Quick Tip:
Before your wedding day, gather all your small details (rings, invitations, specific jewelry) in one small box or bag. This helps me capture them efficiently when I arrive.

8. Embracing Candid Moments

Some of the most treasured images come from moments you don’t orchestrate: a shared laugh, a loving glance, or kids dancing at the reception. I focus on capturing these genuine interactions that make your wedding day feel alive and full of emotion.

Quick Tip: Forget I’m there! The most genuine, cherished candids happen when you’re interacting naturally with your partner and guests, not looking at the camera.

Let's tell your story!

I love capturing the authentic story of weddings: the connection between the two of you and the genuine joy of your loved ones celebrating with you. On your wedding day, I’ll be your expert guide, naturally navigating the timeline, anticipating beautiful moments before they happen, and cultivating a genuinely relaxed photography experience. 

From our first chat to delivering your final collection of images, my goal is simple: to make the entire process easy and enjoyable, while ensuring your images reflect all the love, emotion, and unique details of your wedding day.

Laura Mares

I'm thankful to be a wife, mother and Pittsburgh lifestyle photographer. I photograph because I believe that life is simply beautiful and every person has a story worth telling. I'd love to tell yours.

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