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With over a decade of experience, I’ll gently guide you through a relaxed, meaningful photography experience — allowing real connection, emotion, and in-between moments to unfold naturally. So when you look back, you’ll remember how it felt, not just how it looked.

Timeless photography for couples and families who want to remember how it felt.

@stephaniemessickphoto

Stories of love, connection, and the moments in between

Gallery images

A Fall Colored Airlie Warrenton, Virginia Wedding

There’s something so special about photographing weddings that come full circle — and Renee and Nolan’s Airlie Warrenton, Virginia wedding was the most heartfelt example of that. They tied the knot at the very same venue where Renee’s parents said “I do” years ago! Their wedding day felt like a beautiful blend of family legacy, […]

An Orange and Pink Fall Crosskeys Vineyards Virginia Wedding

There’s something special about fall weddings in Virginia — the crisp air, the golden light, and the way the Shenandoah Mountains glow in the distance. Aiden and Meghan’s CrossKeys Vineyards Virginia Wedding captured all of that and more. These two met while attending JMU in Harrisonburg (GO DUKES!!!), so celebrating their love story just down from our […]

Black Horse Manor, Warrenton Virginia Wedding

I don’t think EJ and Eliana could have asked for a more perfect wedding day at Black Horse Manor in Warrenton, Virginia. From start to finish, it was a true fairytale! Eliana’s parents joked in their speech that their daughter’s 85-page wedding spreadsheet might have had something to do with it—organization pays off. 🙂 I […]

Birkby House, Leesburg, VA Wedding

Amy and John gathered their closest family and friends at the charming Birkby House in the heart of Leesburg, Virginia for a wedding day full of love, laughter, and unexpected moments. Nestled in the historic district, this beautiful venue set the stage for a joyful celebration—despite a surprise protest just around the corner and an […]

Poplar Springs Manor Warrenton, Virginia Wedding

I don’t think I’ve made it through a wedding lately without tearing up—and Elise and Andrew’s day at Poplar Springs Manor in Virginia was no exception. As a mom and a wife, witnessing the way my couples include their families, especially their little ones, hits close to home. Elise and Andrew’s wedding was so touching, […]

George Washington Masonic Memorial Wedding

Erica & Ian are MARRIED!!! They are officially named the Dodgers. I jokingly gave Erica and Ian that nickname after their rain-free engagement session and wedding day! If you haven’t read their engagement story yet, it’s a must—so much heart and joy! Now, let’s talk about their beautiful wedding day. Despite ominous weather forecasts, we […]

Old Town Alexandria Engagement Spring Flower Trees

It’s Erica and Ian’s WEDDING week! And what better way to kick off the celebrations than by sharing their beautiful Old Town Alexandria engagement session?! We really rolled the dice with this session. Rain was on the radar just hours before we were supposed to meet. But Erica and Ian were all in, and I’m […]

The Inn at Little Washington | A Virginia Countryside Photographer

I had the pleasure of meeting Kate and her family on a beautiful evening for their family portrait session. When Kate reached out, she envisioned a backdrop that truly captured the essence of the Virginia countryside. Having spent many special moments at the Inn at Little Washington in Virginia over the years, Kate felt it […]

Early Mountain Vineyards Wedding | A Cozy November Celebration with Southern Charm

On cold winter days like today, I love reminiscing about Kelsey and Ryan’s November wedding at Early Mountain Vineyards. The lit fireplaces and glowing candles created a cozy, romantic atmosphere that perfectly suited their celebration. Their elegant white and blue color scheme immediately takes me back to Kelsey’s stunning dress from their Old Town Alexandria […]

Boulder Flatirons, Colorado Photos | Maternity Session

Kenzi and Jack are SO excited to start their little family here in Colorado. I might be biased, but my husband and I believe this was one of the best places for us to raise our son. There’s so much to do in the mountains to raise an adventurous boy! I’m excited that Kenzi and […]

With over a decade of experience, I’ll gently guide you through a relaxed, meaningful photography experience — allowing real connection, emotion, and in-between moments to unfold naturally. So when you look back, you’ll remember how it felt, not just how it looked.

Timeless photography for couples and families who want to remember how it felt.

@stephaniemessickphoto

Stories of love, connection, and the moments in between

Gallery images