As a St. Louis MO wedding photographer, I’ve had the chance to be a part of several styled shoots over the years. Styled shoots are a chance for wedding vendors to get together to show off their skill sets, practice new designs or techniques, network, and gather new images for their portfolios. As a photographer, I have the chance to practice new techniques that directly apply to my future wedding days so I always feel like they’re a great learning experience for me! Today, I wanted to share one of my recent styled shoots: this Haue Valley wedding in the winter. And I thought it might be fun to dive into why I really love and believe in styled shoots! 

I get to be creative.

Styled shoots may look like a real wedding day, but they’re not. We don’t have the same tight timeline, full wedding parties (or guests) and we have the chance to be creative. Styled shoots can be super elaborate and full of new designs and trends. For photographers, it’s really just a chance to get creative. I can try new shots or techniques and the pressure is off. On a traditional wedding day, I’m going to do everything I can to not miss any moments! But in a styled shoot, I can relax and try something new before using it with my clients. It’s a great place to take risks and experiment. 

I get to meet other creatives.

Not only do I get to meet other vendors like florists, bakers, and planners, but I also get to connect with photographers. I get the chance to connect with other people in real life. As a result of attending styled shoots, I’ve met other photographers that I’ve gone on to second shoot with (or had them with me!). Building connections with other area vendors is a definite plus of styled shoots! Additionally, styled shoots help me create lists of vendors I trust for my couples. Need a good florist? I know one! Same with planners, bakers, rental companies… you get the idea. 

I get more time with my camera.

I’ve always believed that photography is something you continuously learn and work on. Not only do styled shoots give you the chance to simply get behind the camera and be creative, but it also gives you the chance to practice in new environments. This styled shoot was in January. I’ve literally never had a winter wedding in January, or one where it snows. But now I’ve had the chance to photograph a couple in the snow, learn how to photograph it in a way that’s beautiful and it was just plain fun! 

As much as styled shoots really do help provide inspiration for couples, they’re a great chance for photographers and other vendors to do what they do best: create. I hope you enjoy a peek into this Haue Valley wedding!

Vendors:

Organizer: Tawny Ballard Photography
Stationary (invites and menus): Squared Wedding Press
Venue: Haue Valley
Dresses: Juno Bridal
Flowers: Roses & Mint 
Cake: Made By Lia
HMU: Ashley Boren 
Pup Model: Koda
Models: Jackie and Beth, Hunter and Wyatt, and Haelle