Lessons From My First Wedding: What I'll Carry Into Every Wedding From Here On

This past week, I photographed my very first wedding. It was extra special because it was my mother’s, and while it was a small, intimate gathering, it taught me some big lessons I’ll be taking with me into every wedding moving forward.

There’s nothing like being in the thick of a wedding day — the fast pace, the shifting weather, the quiet emotional moments, the pressure to be everywhere at once — to really show you what matters most when you’re behind the camera. I wanted to share a few of those lessons here, partly for myself and partly for anyone else who might be stepping into this world of wedding photography.

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up

I’ve always leaned toward documentary-style photography — capturing what’s happening naturally without too much interference. But what I learned is that sometimes, you have to make the moment pause for you. There were times I saw a shot unfolding, and I hesitated to ask people to hold still, or to shift slightly so the light would hit just right.

Next time, I’ll trust that little tug when I feel a shot happening and simply say, “Wait — hold that for a second.” Because those seconds are where the magic lives.

2. Slow It All Down

The pace of a wedding day can sweep you up before you even realize it. I found myself moving so quickly, trying to be everywhere at once, that I missed a few shots I wish I’d taken my time with. I’m learning that it’s okay — and even necessary — to invite moments to slow down around you.

If something beautiful is happening, it’s worth saying, “Let’s stay here for a beat.” Because photography isn’t just about snapping what’s in front of you — it’s about feeling the moment, letting it settle, and then capturing it.

3. Why Wedding Film Add-Ons Matter to Me

This wedding also solidified why I want to offer film as an add-on service to couples who already have a digital photographer. Trying to juggle both digital and film for an entire wedding day by myself showed me how different those mindsets are.

Digital is fast, it’s safe, it captures the full story. Film is slower, more intentional, and tuned into feeling rather than coverage. I want to be able to fully step into that film space when I’m shooting it — to catch the in-between, the texture, the mood — without being responsible for the timeline coverage too.

That’s why Hicks Film Studio’s film packages will live best as a complement to your main digital photographer, so I can focus on what I do best: catching the quiet, feeling-filled moments in a way only film can.

4. Next Time, I’ll Direct a Little More

Photographing my mom was tricky in the best way. She’s not a big fan of being the center of attention, and posed portraits aren’t really her thing. I didn’t push it — and in some ways, I’m glad I let her be herself. But it also made me realize how excited I am to work with brides who want those editorial, fashion-forward moments too.

Those Vogue-esque, artful portraits with dramatic light and intentional posing? I’m ready for them. And now I know I can lean into directing when the moment (and the person) calls for it.

5. I’m Just Getting Started — and I’m Excited

This first wedding taught me so much — about photography, about myself, and about the kind of moments I want to help people hold onto. I’m excited for more opportunities, for different personalities, bigger weddings, smaller elopements, rainy mornings and sun-drenched afternoons.

Every wedding is its own little world, and I can’t wait to step into the next one with these lessons in my pocket.

If you’re curious about Hicks Film Studio’s film add-on packages or want to chat about adding some timeless, feeling-centered images to your wedding day, I’d love to hear from you. 

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Some #BTS photos

Me, Sister, and Mom