My First Paid Gig Was A Wedding (And It Was the Best Risk I Ever Took)
If you’ve ever taken a leap of faith into something you love, you’ll understand exactly how I felt the day I booked my first paid photography gig— a wedding. Yep, that’s right. My very first real paid job as a photographer wasn’t a mini session or a family shoot. It was a full-blown wedding day. Not a small wedding or elopement, I’m talking 6+hours of coverage at a beautiful location in Celebration, FL, big reception, large guest list, the whole deal!
Looking back, I’m honestly not sure if I was brave… or just blissfully unaware of how wild that was.
I still remember getting that message from a sweet couple who loved my work and wanted me to capture their big day. My heart dropped into my stomach. I hadn’t even officially launched my business yet. Just a girl with a camera and a passion for capturing moments. But something in me said yes, even though every nervous cell in my body screamed, “Are you sure about this?”
The Risk That Changed Everything
If you’re a new photographer, you know the mental spiral: What if I mess up? What if I miss the first kiss? What if the lighting is bad and my photos look awful?
I had all those thoughts and then some. But I also knew that if I wanted to grow, if I really wanted to do this for real, I couldn’t wait for the “perfect moment” to start. Spoiler alert: that moment never comes.
So, I said yes. I prepped like my life depended on it. I scouted the location, practiced shooting in different lighting, packed backup memory cards like I was going to war, and basically lived on coffee and YouTube tutorials for months straight.
And you know what? It went beautifully. I didn’t miss a moment.
What I Learned from Photographing My First Wedding
That day taught me more about photography and myself, than any class or workshop ever could.
I learned how to think on my feet (because weddings don’t pause for retakes).
I learned how to direct people confidently, even when my voice wanted to shake.
I learned that being calm, patient, and observant matters more than having the fanciest gear.
Most importantly, I learned that I love weddings. There’s just something about the energy, the emotions, and the tiny unscripted moments that make every one of them so unique.
The Payoff
That first wedding was the start of everything. It led to referrals, friendships, and the confidence to turn photography from a dream into Laura Jessica Photography.
Now, years later, I look back at those first images with pride. Sure, I’ve grown a ton since then. My editing style evolved, my posing improved, and my gear got fancier, but the heart behind my work hasn’t changed one bit.
Taking that risk was the best decision I ever made. It taught me that sometimes the scariest opportunities are the ones that change your life the most.
If you’re reading this as a new photographer wondering if you’re ready, here’s your sign: you probably are. You just need to take that first leap.
And if you’re a couple looking for someone who’s all heart and a little fearless behind the lens, well, that’s me.
Love in the Storm: A Wedding Day That Laughed in the Face of a Hurricane
Let’s talk about the wildest, most unforgettable wedding I’ve ever shot—because, oh yeah, it happened in the middle of a hurricane! While most people were hiding in their houses, this couple grabbed each other and said, ‘Let’s do this!’ Talk about making a stormy day iconic! Kit and Jesse? Oh, they’re basically VIPs in my world! These two (plus their ridiculously adorable boys) have been in front of my lens more times than I can count, and every session is pure magic. Getting to capture their big day? Absolute honor.
Their wedding at The Delamater House in New Smyrna was straight out of a dream. Definitely one of my favorite wedding venues to work. It’s a chef’s kiss kind of wedding venue! It’s got that perfect blend of rustic charm and timeless elegance—think dreamy oak trees, open-air spaces, and just the right touch of Southern romance. If you’re a couple who loves the outdoors but still wants a wedding that screams classy, this place is basically your fairytale come to life! The staff at this venue? Absolutely top-notch! They’re the kind of people who make wedding days run like a dream—friendly, helpful, and always a step ahead. Seriously, they’re the unsung heroes of the big day!
Alright, let’s get back to this whole hurricane situation. The storm hadn’t officially hit Central Florida yet—it was busy hovering over the Panhandle—but trust me, the wind and rain were already making their presence known. Most couples would’ve been stressing over the weather, but not Kit and Jessie. These two? Totally unbothered. The rain held off just long enough for a perfectly lit ceremony (seriously, we lucked out there), but by the time the reception rolled around, the skies decided to let loose. The party was safely indoors, but that didn’t stop these two from embracing the chaos—quite literally. A little outdoor adventure left them completely drenched, and they could not have cared less. Just pure joy, soaked clothes, and a night full of memories.
After years of capturing Kit and Jesse’s family moments, being there for their wedding felt extra special. Sure, I was technically working, but honestly? It felt more like celebrating with friends. These two are the real deal—meant for each other in every way—and the love and happiness that filled their day was on another level. I’ve photographed a lot of weddings, but this one? Unforgettable.
Enjoy these photos of the big day!!
