We look at a lot of wedding photos everyday. Like a lot a lot. And it’s pretty much the best thing ever. So whenever images from A Lovely Photo come our way, it’s a super great day. Shawnee’s work just makes us smile. She captures so much freaking joy, and her photos just sing. We first introduced APW readers to Shawnee a couple of years ago, and she’s continued to strengthen her commitment to inclusive, gorgeous photography no matter where you live, literally. Shawnee’s wedding coverage starts at $3,200 with travel in the U.S. included. Yeah, you read that right: travel. included.
We know that the current political climate isn’t exactly feeling super inclusive for a lot of folks, their families, and their friends, so that’s why having someone like Shawnee in your corner is more that just about having a great photographer.
I identify as a queer woman and definitely view the world through a queer feminist lens. With everything seeming to be going backwards with this awful administration, and the rise of hate crimes and legislation against queer folks and other marginalized groups, I want to continue to be a safe and welcoming resource for couples and families that need it the most. It is my hope to lessen that burden for any queer couple, and document their day in a way that is completely authentic and quintessentially them. I’ll never ask you to pose in a way that doesn’t resonate with your gender identity or how you present yourself, or that makes you feel awkward or out of place. My approach to photographing people and events is mostly hands-off: I won’t overly direct people, interrupt what is naturally happening, or put anyone in weird awkward poses.
It’s no surprise that Shawnee’s clients adore her. Her passion and ability to connect with her couples is clear in her photos. Recent couple Rhiannon and Tom had this to say:
I’m speechless! These photos are freaking incredible! I mean, I already knew I loved your work, but you’ve still managed to somehow totally knock my (and Tom’s!) socks off. They are so beautiful! The moments that you captured are utterly priceless. You even photographed a tender moment between my Mum and Dad, which I don’t think has been caught on film since their own wedding day! You’re a wizard. A wizard of art and memories. It’s the only explanation.
Mum and I were chatting a few days after the wedding, and remarking on how lucky it was that the Internet gods led me to you. In particular we praised your non-intrusive photography style, and even she noticed that whenever there was a special moment or connection, she would look around and sure enough you were there capturing it. I also want to thank you again for the shoot in the park at dusk, with just the three of us. That was honestly one of the highlights of my day; it was a really surprising but welcome relief to be able to play with my husband in the park away from everyone’s attention. I always felt completely comfortable around you, and I honestly can’t tell you just how grateful and happy we are with the photos we have. I mean, really. You’ve absolutely blown us away.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
We love when our vendors take action in their communities beyond their role in weddings. This month A Lovely Photo will be doing a marathon event of boudoir-style photos promoting body positivity and self-love called Love Yrself. Shawnee will be joined by a hair stylist and makeup artist, all whom are donating their time and services. All donations from the event will benefit the Richmond Reproductive Freedom Project, a local all-volunteer, grassroots abortion fund.
Wedding packages start at $3,200 and include U.S. travel, and travel anywhere in the world is included in the eight-hour package, which is $4,000. All packages include a fine art custom designed album, and the edited hi-res photos with printing rights. Discounted packages are available for weddings that take place December through March or weekday elopements (Monday through Thursday). Be sure to check out Shawnee’s beautiful blog and galleries to see more of her work.
A LOVELY PHOTO is offering aPW READERS A 10% Discount on all 2018 weddings booked by the end of June 2017 when you mention this post.
