shalyn o'neal photography

THE BLOG

Welcome to my corner of stories and insights. Here, I share recent weddings, engagement sessions, and helpful planning tips drawn from my years in the wedding industry. Browse through for inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into the genuine moments I've had the privilege to capture. I hope you find something that speaks to you as you plan your own celebration.

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts: Kelli & Johnsie's Wedding
Winter Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Winter Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts: Kelli & Johnsie's Wedding

Kelli & Johnsie’s wedding was the perfect way to wrap up 2024—a day full of love, family, and faith. It also happened to be my first truly chilly wedding, and wow, did the cold keep me on my toes! At one point, my hands were so frozen they locked up, giving me a few technical hurdles to work through. But even with the chill, this day was absolutely unforgettable.

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Tears, Twirls & Touching Moments: Andrea & Greg's Wedding
Winter Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Winter Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Tears, Twirls & Touching Moments: Andrea & Greg's Wedding

Some weddings just hit differently. After attending as many weddings as I do—and with weddings being such a core part of my life for as long as I can remember—you’d think I’d be immune to getting teary-eyed. But Andrea and Greg’s wedding? I was a puddle. Their day wasn’t just beautiful, it was deeply moving, and I found myself feeling not like just their photographer, but like a friend lucky enough to witness it all.

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Golden Hour Magic: Holly & Jacob's November Celebration
Fall Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Fall Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Golden Hour Magic: Holly & Jacob's November Celebration

Having worked with Holly and Jacob during their engagement session this past spring, I already knew we were in for a great day. These two are so sweet and easygoing, and their love for each other is so obvious it makes my job feel effortless. Plus, Holly brought her A-game with organization—her detail boxes were ready to roll, which made the morning a breeze (pro tip: organized brides are my love language).

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Rain-Kissed Glass Chapel: Jessica & Bruce's Wedding
Fall Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Fall Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Rain-Kissed Glass Chapel: Jessica & Bruce's Wedding

With three other professional photographers in the wedding party, I admit I was a bit intimidated at first. But they were incredibly sweet and even helpful throughout the portrait session. Their attention to detail made me appreciate the power of collaboration and reminded me that there's always something to learn from others in this craft.

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Love Conquers All: Briza & Daniel's Vibrant Wedding Journey
Weddings, Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Weddings, Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Love Conquers All: Briza & Daniel's Vibrant Wedding Journey

Of course, no wedding is complete without a little chaos, right? The ceremony started 45 minutes late because the officiant had to go on a last-minute search for someone’s shoes! Despite the timeline going out the window, Briza handled it all with the calmest, go-with-the-flow attitude. Nothing phased her, and I was so impressed by how she took it all in stride.

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Marissa & Joshua's Butterfly-Themed Wedding at Stonegate
Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Marissa & Joshua's Butterfly-Themed Wedding at Stonegate

Marissa's dedication and hard work truly shone through every detail of their wedding. Months ago, she mentioned wanting to grow some of her own flowers for the big day. Well, after many months of careful tending, she succeeded beyond expectations. Her stunning floral arrangements adorned every ledge in the chapel, creating a vibrant, natural beauty that took everyone's breath away. I must admit, I did disassemble a few for detail shots – but rest assured, I put them back together perfectly!

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Hannah & Landon's Wedding Day Baby Gender Reveal
Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Hannah & Landon's Wedding Day Baby Gender Reveal

Family played a pivotal role in their celebration. With the best man being Landon's brother and the maid of honor being the groom's niece and bride's best friend, it was a beautiful blend of love and kinship. Speaking of the bridal party – what a joy they were! Their camaraderie and infectious spirits added an extra layer of warmth to the festivities.

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Intimate May Wedding at Stonegate: Jasmine & Mason
Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal Summer Weddings Shalyn O'Neal

Intimate May Wedding at Stonegate: Jasmine & Mason

Despite the humidity that permeated the air, the day unfolded flawlessly, adding a touch of romance to the atmosphere. Jasmine graced the occasion in two stunning dresses, a testament to her impeccable taste. The first looks shared between the bride and groom were profoundly moving; one preceding the ceremony and the other, a private moment captured after family photos, before the reception commenced.

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Shonda & Joseph | 2.13.24
Elopements Shalyn O'Neal Elopements Shalyn O'Neal

Shonda & Joseph | 2.13.24

Capturing the first wedding of the year was a serene delight. An intimate elopement unfolded at the picturesque Stonegate Glass Chapel, radiating an ethereal charm. The air was filled with whispers of vows in the presence of myself and my Grandma who agreed to be a witness for the occasion.

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