More Than Just Photos: My Journey as a Destination Wedding Photographer

July 2, 2020

published on

filed under


Well hello there! I’m so glad you’ve found your way to my corner of the internet. Whether you’re newly engaged, planning a wedding, or simply curious to learn more about the person behind the lens, I’m excited to share a bit of my story with you. Photography is deeply personal to me, and this post is a look into how I got started, what inspires me, and what it’s like to work together on such a meaningful da

Why I Became a Wedding Photographer

When my parents got married, they asked a friend to take their wedding photos. At the time, it seemed like a simple choice, but it’s one they’ve regretted ever since. Growing up, I often heard them say, “If we could do it all over again, we would have hired a professional wedding photographer.” Their wedding day came and went, but the photos didn’t truly capture the meaning or emotion of that moment in their lives.

That stayed with me.

Yes, I’m an artist at heart. I love creating images that are thoughtful, emotional, and visually beautiful. But more than anything, I’m driven by the opportunity to give couples what my parents wish they had: meaningful, lasting photographs of one of the most important days of their lives. If I can help even one couple look back on their wedding day and return to that moment through images that feel as vivid as the day itself, that’s when photography becomes more than just pictures.

What It’s Like to Work With Me

One thing I’ve learned as a wedding photographer is that I’ll likely spend more time with you on your wedding day than anyone else—more than your planner, your family, and even most of your bridal party. That’s why comfort and connection matter so much.

Because I’ll be by your side for most of the day, it’s important that we genuinely enjoy working together. This is one reason I offer complimentary engagement sessions to all of my couples. It gives us the chance to meet in person, get comfortable together, and take the pressure off. By the time your wedding day arrives, it feels familiar, not formal.

Weddings can be emotional, fast-paced, and sometimes unpredictable. My goal is to be a steady, supportive presence through it all. I stay calm under pressure, adjust easily to changes, and manage timelines and group dynamics with care. During family portraits, I know when to step in with clear direction, and I do it in a way that’s friendly and lighthearted, which helps keep the mood relaxed and everything moving smoothly.

At the same time, I know how to blend into the background when needed, quietly documenting moments as they unfold so you can stay present. I balance the artistic with the practical, always keeping your experience at the center of what I do.

What My Couples Are Like

The couples I work with care deeply about the experience they’re creating for their guests and the memories they’ll hold onto after the day is over. They appreciate thoughtful details, timeless design, and the feeling of something personal and meaningful. Often, they are blending tradition with their own unique vision for the day.

They want to feel fully present on their wedding day, trusting that every meaningful moment is being thoughtfully captured. More than anything, they want to look through their images later and be transported back to how it all truly felt.

The Style I’m Known For

I’m drawn to timeless, luxury-inspired imagery—photos that will age beautifully and feel just as meaningful years from now as they do today. I pay close attention to composition, natural light, and the finer details of the day, including fashion and styling choices that reflect your vision.

While I’m there to support you and help guide when needed, I also step back to let real moments happen. The result is a collection of images that feels elegant, honest, and true to your story.

Where I Find Inspiration

I find inspiration in many places. Travel gives me a fresh perspective and helps me see beauty in the unexpected. I’m drawn to film photography for its texture, softness, and the way it embraces imperfection. Architecture influences the way I compose each frame, with a focus on lines, light, and balance. And literature has shaped how I think about storytelling—every wedding feels like its own unfolding narrative.

Most of all, I’m inspired by what’s real. My goal is always to make your wedding photos feel true to the day itself. I edit in a way that reflects the natural tones and atmosphere you experienced, so when you look back years from now, it all still feels like you.

Let’s Connect

Your photographer should feel like a trusted part of your day—someone who understands your vision, supports your experience, and captures it beautifully. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to connect.

the experience

Creating visual poetry  — your photos should be as beautiful as your love story.

my vision

© JoAnna Marie Photography 2026

Destination Photographer | Destination Wedding Photographer | New York Photographer | NYC Photographer | Upstate New York Photographer | Upstate NY Photographer | New York Wedding Photographer | NYC Wedding Photographer | Destination Weddings | Destination Wedding Photography | Travel Photographer | Destination Wedding Photos | Destination Photography