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COLTON SIMMONS

THE JOURNAL

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Education

Elevating Your Game in Candid Wedding Photography

In the bustling field of wedding photography, the ability to snap candid moments has become a gold standard. These unguarded, spontaneous shots capture the essence of the day, telling a story that posed photos might miss. Today, we dive deep into the craft of candid wedding photography, offering seasoned advice for photographers keen on mastering […]

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Weddings

Shepherd’s Run Wedding Photos: Fresh Beginnings for Kelly and Isaiah in Early Spring

Spring represents renewal and blossoming beauty, an ideal backdrop for beginning a life together. Today, let’s dive into the enchanting wedding of Kelly and Isaiah at Shepherd’s Run, a day immortalized through captivating photography that reflects the essence of early spring and the profound love shared between the couple. The Magic of Early Spring Weddings […]

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For Couples

Intimate Weddings: How to Plan a Small Yet Special Celebration

In recent years, the allure of intimate weddings has captured the hearts of many couples. These smaller celebrations are not just about scaling down the guest list; they’re about creating a day filled with meaningful connections, personalized details, and a focus on the experiences shared with your closest loved ones. As a luxury wedding photographer, […]

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Education

How to Craft an Impressive Wedding Photography Portfolio

In the competitive landscape of wedding photography, your portfolio stands as your primary marketing tool—a vivid testament to your skill, style, and the magical moments you capture. This guide dives into how to assemble a captivating wedding photography portfolio that speaks to your target audience: couples planning their big day, eager for someone who can […]

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boston wedding planner

For Couples

A Wedding Photographer’s View on What Makes a Great Wedding Planner in Boston

Introduction In Boston’s bustling city, where history meets modern elegance, planning your wedding can be an exhilarating journey filled with beautiful possibilities. However, transforming these possibilities into reality requires a skilled wedding planner. As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve observed the pivotal role these professionals play in orchestrating weddings that are a visual feast for […]

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Weddings

Hacienda Siesta Alegre Wedding: Jenna & Abe’s Enchanting Puerto Rican Destination Wedding

Nestled in the heart of Puerto Rico’s lush landscapes, Hacienda Siesta Alegre offers more than just a venue; it’s a gateway to an unforgettable beginning. It’s here, under the watchful gaze of the El Yunque rainforest, that Jenna and Abe chose to tie the knot, turning their day into something more than special – a […]

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Weddings

Belle Mer Newport RI Chic Coastal I Do’s: Taylor and Justin Tie the Knot

In the world of luxury weddings, where every detail is a reflection of the couple’s journey together, Taylor and Justin’s nuptials stood out as a testament to the beauty of love, come rain or shine. Set against the stunning backdrop of Belle Mer in Newport, RI, their wedding day was a mesmerizing blend of elegance, […]

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Weddings

Rosecliff Wedding – Sophia & Tyler’s Newport Wedding: A Tale of Love and Luxury

Your Dream Rosecliff Wedding: A Tale of Timeless Elegance Dreaming of a wedding that blends romance, elegance, and a touch of historical grandeur? Look no further than a Rosecliff wedding in Newport, Rhode Island. Let’s embark on a magical journey through Sophia and Tyler’s special day, a celebration that beautifully captures the essence of love […]

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Weddings

Glen Magna Farms Wedding: Melissa and Owen’s End of Summer Celebration Unveiled

Glen Magna Farms isn’t just a location; it’s a destination where history, elegance, and natural splendor converge, offering an idyllic setting for weddings. This guide is crafted for the discerning couple, aiming to orchestrate a wedding day that resonates with sophistication and a touch of whimsy. Delve into the essence of planning your celebration at […]

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For Couples

A Photographer’s Guide to Stunning Rainy Wedding Photos

Rainy wedding days bring a special kind of magic – the kind that transforms ordinary moments into cinematic scenes filled with emotion and beauty. As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve navigated through countless weddings, turning fleeting instances into timeless memories. This guide is for you, the bride and groom to be, who find romance in […]

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The Villa at Ridder Country Club

Weddings

The Villa at Ridder Country Club: Inside Nicole and Ryan’s Dreamy May Wedding

Discovering The Villa at Ridder Country Club Choosing a wedding venue is a big deal, akin to finding the perfect dress. It sets the stage for your big day. For Nicole and Ryan, their search led them to The Villa at Ridder Country Club, a place where elegance meets romance in a setting that’s both […]

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Engagements

Old San Juan Engagement Session: Jenna and Abe’s Romantic Adventure in Historic Streets

Nestled within the heart of Puerto Rico, Old San Juan serves as a picturesque canvas for couples eager to immortalize their engagement. Its rich tapestry of history and vibrant scenery offers a step back into a romantic past. As a luxury wedding photographer, capturing these moments in such a magical setting is a privilege. Jenna […]

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Best Wedding Photographer

For Couples

The Role of a Second Shooter at Your Wedding

Planning a wedding involves a constellation of details, each playing its part in painting the broader picture of your special day. Among these, capturing the essence of every moment stands paramount. This is where the concept of a second shooter comes into play—a topic we’re diving deep into today. Why Consider a Second Shooter? A […]

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sarasota engagement photos

Engagements

Sarasota Engagement Photos: Kenna & Ryan’s SWFL Love Story

In the vibrant heart of Florida, Sarasota emerges as a canvas painted with hues of love and natural splendor, crafting the perfect scene for engagement photos that echo the essence of romance. For those embarking on the journey of eternal commitment, Sarasota offers more than just picturesque locales; it presents an opportunity to capture the […]

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Weddings

Rose Farm Inn Wedding: Block Island’s Breathtaking Backdrop for Samantha & Jake’s Big Day

Samantha and Jake’s journey from meeting at the University of Rhode Island to deciding on forever together embodies a love story deeply rooted in the Ocean State. Engaged since April 2022, this couple’s tale is a testament to their shared passions: the outdoors, seafood, and meaningful moments with those closest to them. The decision to […]

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For Couples

Plan Like a Pro: Secrets to a Flawless Mansion Wedding

Picture this: a grandiose mansion, its halls echoing with history, gardens meticulously groomed, the air tinged with anticipation. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Mansion weddings are the epitome of elegance and romance, providing a backdrop that feels both timeless and intimately personal. If you’re drawn to the allure of saying your “I do” in […]

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writing wedding vows

For Couples

10 Tips for Writing Wedding Vows That Will Last a Lifetime

Your wedding day is a blend of moments, emotions, and promises that unite two hearts in a bond that’s meant to last a lifetime. Among these, writing your wedding vows is a deeply personal and significant gesture that allows you to express your love, commitment, and vision for the future. As a luxury wedding photographer […]

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Weddings

Wequassett Wedding: Capturing Lisa and Tim’s Springtime Romance

As a seasoned photographer in the luxury wedding scene, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, each unique and beautiful in its own right. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the enchanting springtime romance of Lisa and Tim at the prestigious Wequassett Resort on Cape Cod. If you’re a bride-to-be planning your […]

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wedding flat lay

For Couples

Flat Lay Photography: What Items to Include for Your Photographer

Diving into wedding planning, from selecting the ideal venue to choosing your dream cake, there’s a detail that deserves your attention—curating items for your wedding flat lay photography. You may wonder, “What is a flat lay, and why does it matter?” As an experienced luxury wedding photographer, I’m here to illuminate this charming aspect of […]

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For Couples

The Modern Guide to Wedding Etiquette: What’s Changed?

With trends and traditions constantly shifting, it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate the dos and don’ts of your big day, especially when you’re trying to blend personal touches with time-honored practices. So, let’s dive into the modern guide to wedding etiquette and explore what’s changed, shall we? Guest Etiquette Invitations and RSVPs Gone […]

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Weddings

Red Lion Inn: A Chic Barn Celebration for Bridgette & Tyler

Planning the perfect wedding is a journey of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. For Bridgette and Tyler, their journey from college sweethearts to blissful newlyweds is a tale of true connection and celebration. Their choice of the Red Lion Inn for their June wedding not only set the stage for a day filled with elegance […]

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Weddings

Rhode Island Wedding: An Intimate Glimpse into Julia and John’s Garden Affair

Nestled in the heart of New England, Rhode Island offers some of the most enchanting wedding venues imaginable. For Julia and John, their special day was nothing short of a fairy tale, set against the backdrop of Julia’s family estate, transforming it into a secret garden that would make even the most lavish storybooks jealous. […]

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Oceancliff Hotel

Weddings

Oceancliff Hotel: A Dream Come True – Brett and Brandon’s Stunning Wedding Day

As a photographer specializing in luxury weddings, I’ve been fortunate to document myriad love stories, each with its own unique charm and beauty. However, there are those exceptional moments when a wedding transcends the ordinary, capturing not just the couple’s love but also a fairy-tale essence. Such was the case with Brett and Brandon’s celebration […]

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For Couples

The Rise of Minimalism: Exploring Modern Minimalist Wedding Dresses

In the whirlwind of tulle, lace, and sequins that often define the traditional bridal look, there’s a style that has quietly taken the center stage, captivating the hearts of contemporary brides with its understated elegance: minimalism. As a luxury wedding photographer who has witnessed countless “I dos,” I’ve seen firsthand the powerful statement a minimalist […]

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Weddings

The Bohlin Newport: An Oceanside Celebration for Michelle and Casey

  Ah, love. It’s that indefinable spark that when you find it, you hold onto it with everything you’ve got. For Michelle and Casey, their love story is one of those serendipitous tales that remind us that sometimes, the best things in life come when we least expect them. And when it came to celebrating […]

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Weddings

Glen Magna Farms: An Early Fall Dream Wedding for Meredith and Adam

Meredith and Adam’s early fall wedding at Glen Magna Farms was a celebration that perfectly blended simplicity with timeless elegance, set against the backdrop of one of the most enchanting wedding venues in Glen Magna Farms. The Enchantment of Glen Magna Farms Glen Magna Farms, nestled in the heart of New England, is a venue […]

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Weddings

Spring House Hotel: Ashley and Thomas’s Unforgettable Tropical Storm Wedding

I’ve captured countless unique ceremonies, but Ashley and Thomas’s wedding at the Spring House Hotel, set against the dramatic backdrop of Tropical Storm Ophelia, was truly one for the books. Their day was a testament to love’s power to triumph over adversity. Braving Ophelia to Reach Block Island In the days leading up to the […]

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things to do in newport ri

For Couples

Things To Do In Newport, RI: The Ultimate Wedding Guest’s Guide

Hey there! If you’re heading to Newport, RI, for a wedding, you’re in for a real treat! This enchanting city isn’t just about witnessing the joy of two lovebirds tying the knot; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where coastal charm meets historic grandeur, offering a plethora of things to do in […]

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Weddings

Providence Public Library Wedding: Erin & Andrew’s Love Story in the Heart of Providence

If you’re knee-deep in wedding planning and dreaming of a day that’s as unique as your love story, let me whisk you away to a magical November wedding in the heart of Providence. Imagine tying the knot surrounded by the breathtaking architecture of a historic library. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, that’s exactly what Erin and […]

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Weddings

Belle Mer Elegance: Samantha and Benjamin’s Luxurious Wedding Day

Today, I’m taking you behind the lens to share the enchanting story of Samantha and Benjamin, a couple whose love story is as captivating as the luxurious setting of their wedding at Belle Mer. From college acquaintances to soulmates, their journey to the altar is a testament to the unexpected twists and turns of love. […]

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Glen Manor House

Weddings

Glen Manor House: Whitney & Drago’s Elegant Summer Wedding

As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate enough to capture moments in some of the most breathtaking venues, but few compare to the charm and elegance of Glen Manor House, especially when it serves as the backdrop to a love story as beautiful as Whitney and Drago’s. Their late July wedding wasn’t just a […]

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For Couples

Newport RI Wedding Venues: Discovering the 10 Most Romantic Settings for Your Big Day

Dreaming of a wedding that blends historical elegance, breathtaking landscapes, and romance? Newport, RI wedding venues might just offer your fairy-tale setting. As a luxury wedding photographer familiar with these venues, I’ve captured countless “I dos” in this coastal gem and am here to guide you through the best options. The Magic of Choosing the […]

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Blithewold Mansion

Weddings

Blithewold Mansion Wedding: A Summer Dream for Molly and Brendan

As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege to capture moments that are nothing short of magical. One such enchanting story unfolded at the Blithewold Mansion, where Molly and Brendan chose to celebrate their love. Their journey from college sweethearts to a life together in Rhode Island is a testament to love’s enduring power, […]

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Newport Wedding

Weddings

Newport Wedding: Kayla & Ben’s Bohlin Wedding – Elegant Affair by the Sea

As a luxury wedding photographer with years of capturing heartfelt moments under my belt, I’ve been privileged to witness a myriad of breathtaking venues and joyous celebrations. However, now and then, a wedding like Kayla and Ben’s emerges, weaving a tale of love, elegance, and heartfelt choices that deeply resonate. Set against the picturesque backdrop […]

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black and white photography

For Couples

Timeless Elegance: Why Black and White Photography Is Perfect for Your Wedding!

Picture this: a photo captures your wedding day’s intimate moments. The contrasts of light and shadow weave emotions into timeless elegance. As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless weddings. The photos are in vibrant color and classic black and white. Today, I want to show you why black and white photography could be perfect […]

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wedding invitations

For Couples

Invitation Intrigue: Master the Art of Wedding Etiquette

As we embark on this journey through the nuanced world of wedding invitations, let’s pause and consider their significance. These aren’t mere pieces of paper; they’re the heralds of your upcoming nuptials, setting the tone for what will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable days of your life. As a seasoned luxury wedding photographer, […]

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For Couples

Preserving Your Wedding Memories: Tips on Photo Storage and Albums

Every wedding photo captures a vibrant memory, freezing a moment from one of your life’s most significant days. As a luxury wedding photographer, I witness the joy and nostalgia that beautifully captured photos evoke even years later. That’s why it’s crucial to preserve your wedding memories carefully, using both digital photo storage and wedding albums. […]

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Golden Hour

For Couples

Why Golden Hour Is Your Best Friend for Stunning Wedding Photos

In the enchanting world of wedding photography, the golden hour is akin to a painter’s most prized hue, a time when the sun, low on the horizon, casts a golden glow that seems to touch everything with a brush of magic. This brief yet magical period, occurring in the tranquil moments just after dawn or […]

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For Couples

Belle Mer Wedding Charm: Picture-Perfect Moments at Newport’s Gem

Envision your dream Belle Mer wedding on the serene Goat Island in Newport, Rhode Island. This premier venue, an integral part of the esteemed Longwood Venues portfolio, exemplifies contemporary oceanside luxury. Each Belle Mer wedding infuses modern elegance with the natural splendor of Narragansett Bay, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling energy of downtown […]

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Glen Manor

For Couples

Glen Manor House Wedding: Discover Portsmouth’s Perfect Waterside Venue

Introduction Imagine a wedding nestled on the tranquil banks of the Sakonnet River, amidst beautifully tended gardens in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Glen Manor House stands as a beacon of intimate grandeur and romantic allure, making it the perfect setting for dreamlike nuptials. This esteemed venue, known for its serene waterfront setting and elegant architecture, offers […]

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For Couples

Oceancliff Wedding Elegance: Top Reasons to Say ‘I Do’ at Newport’s Gem

Introduction Newport, Rhode Island, a city synonymous with elegance and charm, has long been a coveted destination for couples dreaming of the perfect wedding. Amidst this enchanting locale lies a jewel: Oceancliff, a venue that epitomizes the romance and luxury of Newport. As a wedding photographer who has captured numerous celebrations here, I am excited […]

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2024 Wedding Trends

For Couples

2024 Wedding Trends: From a Photographer’s Viewpoint – The Top 10 Trends to Watch

As a luxury wedding photographer in Sarasota, I have witnessed firsthand how the landscape of wedding trends evolves each year. The year 2024 is shaping up to be a revolutionary one, marked by distinct changes that reflect the tastes and values of modern couples. Let’s delve into the 2024 wedding trends I think deserve to […]

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For Couples

Sarasota Wedding Planning | How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Sarasota Wedding

Introduction Selecting the right photographer for your Sarasota wedding is about more than capturing images; it’s about encapsulating moments that will tell the story of your day in this unique and beautiful city. Sarasota, with its enchanting sunsets over the Gulf and elegant, palm-lined venues, offers a picturesque setting for your nuptials. This guide aims […]

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Weddings

Sarasota Wedding – Sarah & Chris’ Southwest Florida Celebration at The Hyatt Regency

Sarasota, a gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, not only boasts picturesque views but also an uncanny ability to weave unexpected weather into the tapestry of a couple’s special day. Sarah and Chris’ Sarasota wedding was a testament to this, where a tropical storm brought with it an atmosphere of excitement and uniqueness. Capturing their wedding […]

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2024 Wedding Trends

Education

Wedding Photography Marketing | Marketing Your Wedding Photography Business: Social Media and Beyond

In the world of visual artistry and storytelling, wedding photography stands out as a unique and deeply personal craft. Your work isn’t just about capturing beautiful images; it’s about weaving together the narrative of a couple’s love story, encapsulated within a single, unforgettable day. But beyond the art and passion, there lies the realm of […]

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For Couples

The Ultimate Wedding Photography Timeline: Tips for Stress-Free Wedding Planning

Introduction Among life’s most enchanting experiences, weddings hold a special place. They signify love, unity, and a lifelong promise of companionship. Such momentous events are filled with fleeting yet treasured instances, which we strive to seize and immortalize. A meticulously planned wedding photography timeline is instrumental in accomplishing this mission. Establishing a thorough and flexible […]

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Podcasts

Happily Ever After Hours Podcast | Episode 1 | Brandon Moye | Collaboration: Working Seamlessly With Photographers and Other Vendors

In the most recent episode of my podcast, Happily Ever After Hours, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented Brandon Moye, a well-respected wedding videographer based in East Providence, Rhode Island. Journey into Videography Listening to Brandon recount his journey into videography was truly inspiring. He started with filming videos for friends, […]

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destination wedding photography

Education

Embarking on the Journey of Destination Wedding Photography

Destination wedding photography has taken the wedding industry by storm, luring couples with the allure of exotic locations, stunning natural backdrops, and a unique, intimate ceremony. As a photographer, you may find this genre both exciting and daunting, considering the multitude of factors that come into play, from cultural nuances to logistical challenges. However, with […]

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importance of second shooters

Education

The Unveiled Importance of Second Shooters at a Wedding

As a wedding photographer, your role is not just a job; it’s an honor. You’re tasked with capturing some of the most cherished moments in a couple’s life. Amidst the flurry of activity, the array of emotions, and the numerous unforgettable moments, weddings indeed bring joy and excitement to document. However, along with the exhilaration, […]

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Florida Wedding Locations

For Couples

Florida Wedding Locations | Discover Florida: Top 7 Picture-Perfect Wedding Locations

The quest for an unforgettable wedding venue can feel overwhelming yet exciting. For those desiring stunning, share-worthy photographs from their big day, Florida, with its diverse landscapes and charming architecture, is a dream come true. As you start to visualize your perfect wedding, let’s journey through seven of the most Instagrammable Florida wedding locations. Key […]

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