How Styled Shoots Can Build Your Wedding Photography Portfolio & Brand Strategy
Part 2: Styled Shoots, Portfolio Building & Creative Growth
When I realized that waiting for “dream weddings” to find me wasn’t an option, I took matters into my own hands. I began creating styled shoots—curating vendors, crafting concepts, and producing images that reflected the weddings I wanted to photograph. These shoots weren’t just portfolio fillers; they became a way to define my brand, experiment creatively, and build valuable industry relationships.
Even after 15 years in this industry, I still produce styled shoots every year. Today, they serve as a creative outlet and a way to nurture relationships with other wedding professionals. But back then, styled shoots were my lifeline. They gave me the confidence and portfolio I needed to book the kind of weddings I dreamed of.
I styled this one geared to a more editorial fee - flowers by The Nature of Things
With each styled shoot, it taught me a different aspect of the process, and it just got easier with time. That’s not to say I didn’t bump my head and make many mistakes along the way.
This is something I teach in my mentorship sessions: how to become an expert at producing styled shoots that actually serve your portfolio, brand, and marketing strategy. Styled shoots aren’t just about pretty pictures—they’re about building trust, positioning yourself in the industry, and creating intentional content that speaks to your ideal couples.
Over time, I became skilled at producing styled shoots that looked and felt like real weddings. Today, after 15 years in the industry, I still create at least one styled shoot each year. The difference now is that it’s more of a creative outlet for me—a chance to play, to experiment, and to keep my artistry alive. But it’s also one of the best ways to build relationships with other wedding industry professionals. Networking and collaboration are essential to growing a photography business, and styled shoots give you both.
Flowers by The Nature of Things, Dress by Beloved Couture Bridal, Suit by Friar Tux
In mentorship sessions, I teach you how to plan and produce styled shoots that will elevate your portfolio and support your marketing goals. This isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about strategically creating work that attracts your ideal clients, refines your brand, and helps you stand out in a crowded market.
Styled shoots became a game-changer for me. They gave me images I was proud of, helped me refine my style, and introduced me to industry connections that continue to shape my career today. But styled shoots are just one piece of the puzzle.
In the final part of this series, we’ll break down the differences between mentorships, workshops, and content days—so you can choose the path that will help you grow your skills and confidence most effectively.
