I Still Say Yes: A Reflection on Soulful Wedding Photography

After nearly two decades of practicing soulful wedding photography around the world, I still say yes. Not because it’s easy—but because it stretches me—heart, soul, and creativity. Every wedding I photograph is an invitation to grow, emotionally and artistically.

Stepping into Mayakoba & What It Taught Me

I recently traveled to the Rosewood in Mayakoba, Mexico for a stunning destination wedding. The couple had a refined vision—they wanted those candid, heartfelt shots but also craved gentle guidance in front of the camera. So, I showed up with a fresh mindset: observe closely, pause intentionally, and guide where it matters most. That balance is at the heart of how I approach wedding photography.

Practical Tip: Clarify Your Photography Style Early

If you enjoy a mix of editorial flair and honest, candid emotion, tell your photographer. Sharing a few reference images or describing your dream vibe helps them deliver what resonates with you.

 

How My Journey Shaped My Approach

My path into photography began with a moment of serendipity. I was holding my Frida Kahlo book while I decided which class to take to fulfill the final two credits I needed for my full-time registry. This is when the photography professor saw my book and said “if you like Frida, you’re going to love my class, Women in Photography”. That single nudge unlocked a world of possibility for me. Soon after, I found myself in Brazil, documenting the people and places that had shaped me as a teenager. I wasn’t on an official assignment—I followed my heart, I captured moments, gifted prints, and hosted a small exhibit that still lives in my memory.

This experience taught me that soulful photography comes from a desire to truly see and celebrate people. It’s more than aesthetics—it’s about amplifying the human spirit in every shot.

 

Serving Clients Beyond the Camera

Whether I’m photographing a luxury wedding, collaborating with nonprofits to share their powerful missions, or teaching photography to high school students in New York City, I bring the same intention: to honor each story with heart. I listen to what my clients want, I adapt, and I lead with empathy when nerves arise.

 

Soulful photography isn’t about rushing through a shot list. It’s about creating space for real emotion, honest connection, and those fleeting moments you’ll cherish for decades.

 

Practical Tip: Build Breathing Space into Your Timeline

Give yourself little pockets of calm, whether that’s a 15-minute break after you get ready or a quiet moment before the ceremony. You’ll feel more grounded, and it gives your photographer the chance to capture candid magic without stress.

 

Why It Matters

I hope that when people see my images, they feel beauty and possibility—the sense that love, courage, and connection can thrive no matter our circumstances. Over the years, photography has been my vehicle for growth, from navigating being a single teen mom to photographing high-profile events around the globe.

 

When you hire me for your wedding day, you’re not just booking a photographer; you’re welcoming someone who:

•Arrives Prepared: every day, I take the time for self-care and intention so I can always show up with calm, grounded energy.

•Listens Deeply: Your vision, style, and story matter to me; they guide my lens.

•Honors the Moment: Some of the most moving photographs emerge from genuine, unscripted emotion.

 

Practical Tip: Trust Your Photographer

Once you’ve chosen someone whose style and personality align with your vision, trust them. Allow them to direct when it helps, and let go of expectations so you can be fully present in the moment.

 

Your Invitation

If you’re someone who values grace, meaning, and authenticity, I’d love to connect. My passion for soulful photography is rooted in telling stories that inspire, uplift, and remind us how powerful love can be.

 

1. Let’s Chat: Schedule a quick call to share your vision and hopes.

2. Collaborate: We’ll create a personalized plan for your wedding or photography session.

3. Capture the Heart of It: Throughout your wedding weekend, I blend artful direction with candid observation so that your images feel both styled and real.

If that resonates, reach out—I’d be honored to hear your story.

I genuinely appreciate your friendship, continued encouragement, and generous referrals. Your thoughts, suggestions, and questions are welcome, making this post a vibrant conversation. 

May this post inspire and ignite in you the potential to dream, grow, and create in authentically fabulous ways. Let’s embrace the transformative power of self-love, creativity, and positive change. May we cultivate continued peace and joy in our lives. Let’s take time to acknowledge all that we have to be thankful for and recognize that we are truly magical!

Looking for inspiration for your next adventure? Check out this post on a European Travel Adventure.

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Wishing you epic travels ahead!

Judith Rae

(Photographer, Mom, Dreamer, and Forever Inspired by the Human Spirit.)