"In the Background, With My Heart in Focus"

I had the beautiful honor of shadowing the incredibly talented Danielle of @daniellelovephotography and her amazing second shooter Jenn at a wedding that felt like stepping into a love story written in golden hour light. As I packed my camera bag that morning- batteries charged, lenses cleaned, memory cards ready- I could feel the anticipation buzzing in my fingertips. It wasn't just about photos; it was about presence. It was about learning the rhythm of a wedding day held at Celebration Grove in Vero Beach through the lens of a women whose craft I deeply admire.

As I pulled up to the venue where the church and reception building stood proudly admist the landscape, its presence both classic and full of charm. As the doors opened, warm light spilled across rows of perfectly aligned wooden chairs. Soon, those empty seats would be filled with whispered prayers, hushed laughter, and the collective breath of people waiting to witness forever begin. For now, it was still-echoes bouncing softly off the walls, holding space for promises that would soon fill the air: I love yous, I choose yous, and I now pronounce yous."

Behind the church lay a serene landscape: trees swayed gently over a quiet pond, a whimsical kids' playground offered its own charm, and miniature horses grazed peacefully along a pathway. It was a dreamland for a wedding photographer-every corner offered another opportunity to a capture a memory.

Beside the church, the reception building carried a modern rustic charm that felt both cozy and elegant. Chandeliers hung high above where guests would soon dance the night away. Each table, each chair, every detail whispered a chapter of the love story about to be celebrated.

As the couple prepared for the ceremony, I had the gift of watching Danielle and Jenn work- graceful, composed, and in sync. Out on a sunlit table, delicate flat lays came to life: the bride's shoes, a velvet ring box, handwritten vows, floral pieces catching the morning light. The kind of details you almost miss until someone shows you just how meaningful they are."

One of the most poignant moments was oberserving and capturing the bride in her bridal gown. As she reflected in the mirror, she held back tears careful not to smear her makeup. The emotions were raw and beautiful as she exclaimed, "guys I'm getting married!" Being privileged to capture those authentic seconds beside Danielle and Jenn reminded me why I admire, love, and have a deep passion to document love stories. These are the kind of images that, years from now, the bride and groom will reminisce on and the scent in the air, the nervous butterflies, and the warmth of that day will all coming flooding back.

Throughout it all, Danielle and Jenn led with professionalism, balance, and deep care. They worked efficiently within the timeline, and gave space for genuine emotion and connection. From the quiet portraits to the vibrant group photos, they moved with ease- helping the couple feel both seen and free to enjoy their day.

There were so many standout moments: the groom standing tall among his fireman brothers, each bridesmaid beaming with shared history, and proud yet tearful eyes of parents watching their children step into a new future as infant memories flashed across their minds. These were the heartbeat moments- the ones I quietly documented while learning from the best.

As night began to fall, the engery transformed. Napkins waving in the air, guests stood cheering, and music pulsed through the air as the newlyweds made their grand entrance. While every part of me wanted to dance alongside them, I held my place behind the lens, soaking in laughter, joy, and the rhythm of celebration. There's something so special about photographing the candid joy of people fully in the moment.

As golden hour approched, we snuck away for portraits near the grazing horses. The sun dipped low, casting in soft honeyed light. The brides veil danced in the breeze, and the groom pulled her close- captivating her beauty and the future that was beginning to unveil before them. These were the moments that would live in frames and forever be told as every anniversary approached.

This day wasn't just about learning camera settings or angles- it was about witnessing love, community, and celebration through a photographer's eyes. It fuled the passion inside me even more.

To Danielle, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity in letting me shadow you, your intentionality with your clients, and your clear love for what you do has left an imprint on me.

To Jenn, thank you for showing me how a second shooter supports with strength, intuition, and a creative eye that doesn't miss a beat.

And to the beautiful bride and groom, thank you for letting me witness the beginning of your forever from behind the scenes. Your day was a beautiful reminder of why I chase this dream.

As I walk into the rest of 2025, I do so with hope, humility, and hunger- to learn more, grow deeper, and continue pursuing this dream of telling love stories through my lens.

Here's to many more moments behind the scenes and someday, leading my own.

With a full heart,

Ashley