Top Charleston Wedding Photographers: What to Actually Look For

I’ve been photographing weddings around Charleston for 15 years now, and I’ve been lucky enough to get named a Top 10 Charleston photographer along the way. So when couples ask me how to actually pick a wedding photographer, I don’t hand them a ranked list. I tell them what actually matters.

Look at Their Style, Not Just Their Portfolio

Style matters way more than a highlight reel. Every photographer’s portfolio looks good, that’s the whole point of a portfolio. What you actually need to know is whether their in between, ordinary moments match what you’re picturing for your own day. Posed and formal, or natural and documentary? Neither is wrong, but one of them is right for you specifically.

Ask About Turnaround Time Before You Sign Anything

Ask about turnaround time before you sign anything. This gets overlooked constantly and it shouldn’t. Some photographers take three or four months to hand over a full gallery. I send a sneak peek within days of your wedding and your full gallery in 2 to 6 weeks, because I know exactly how much that wait matters when you’re desperate to relive the whole day.

Personality Fit Matters Just as Much as Skill

Personality fit is not a small thing, it’s a big thing. You are going to spend one of the most emotional, chaotic, joy filled days of your life standing next to this person. If a discovery call feels stiff or like a sales pitch, pay attention to that feeling. I always start with a real conversation because I want you to feel like you’re working with someone who actually gets you, not just someone holding a camera.

Know What ‘Unposed’ Actually Means

And here’s what unposed really means when I say it, because a lot of photographers throw that word around: I am not spending your day herding you into forced poses. I am watching for the real moments, the way your dad looks at you right before the ceremony, the way your now husband loses it laughing at your toast, and capturing those exactly as they happen.

At the end of the day, the best wedding photographer in Charleston isn’t a list, it’s whoever makes you feel most like yourselves in front of a camera. If that sounds like your person, take a look through the portfolio or reach out through the contact page. I’d love to talk about your day!

7 Things to Know Before Your Charleston Maternity Session

Pregnancy moves fast, and the window for capturing that beautiful bump can feel even faster. If you’re searching for a Charleston maternity photographer and wondering when to book maternity photos, the best time to take them, where to take maternity pictures in Charleston, what to wear, or how long it takes to receive your photos, you’re in the right place. This guide covers everything I walk my own maternity clients through before their session, from planning and styling to choosing the perfect Charleston location, plus a peek at real Charleston maternity photography from my maternity portfolio.

Timing is everything

The sweet spot for most maternity photography sessions is between 28 and 34 weeks pregnant. By then, you’ll typically have that beautiful, unmistakable bump we’re hoping to capture, but you’re hopefully not so far along that standing, walking, and changing poses feels like a full-blown endurance sport. 😂

For Charleston maternity sessions, especially if we’re planning to photograph you on the beach at Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, I’ll usually recommend aiming toward the earlier end of that 28 to 34 week window. Between walking through the sand, changing positions, and chasing that dreamy golden hour light, we want you feeling comfortable enough to actually enjoy your session.

And yes, I’ve had a few mamas go into labor earlier than expected. Their photos turned out absolutely gorgeous, but we didn’t have much wiggle room to reschedule. Babies, unfortunately, are not known for respecting our photography calendars. 😉

Once you know your due date, reach out to your Charleston maternity photographer early. Maternity sessions can book quickly, particularly during Charleston’s busiest seasons, and booking ahead means you get your pick of dates, the best light, and your preferred location rather than trying to squeeze everything in at the last minute.

My rule of thumb? Don’t wait until your third trimester to start planning. Your future self, your photographer, and your very cute bump will thank you.

Choosing the Best Charleston Maternity Photography Location

One of my favorite parts of planning a Charleston maternity session is choosing a location that fits you. The best spot depends on the look you’re drawn to, the time of day we’re shooting, and, of course, how your body is feeling that day.

Shem Creek at golden hour is one of my favorites for that soft, warm Lowcountry glow, with marsh views, beautiful reflections, and that dreamy Charleston light. If you’re dreaming of maternity photos on the beach, Folly Beach is perfect for open skies, ocean views, and barefoot photos in the sand.

If you’d rather skip the sand, Hampton Park and White Point Garden are beautiful downtown Charleston options. Both offer gorgeous greenery and historic scenery without requiring quite as much walking through sand. And honestly, by week 30, your feet may have some strong opinions about that. 😂

If you love that moody, mossy Lowcountry look, there are plenty of beautiful spots around Charleston that can give you that feeling without needing to trek all over town. We’ll choose a location based on the scenery you love and the kind of story you want your photos to tell.

And then there’s my favorite wildcard: your own home. Seriously. Some of the most meaningful maternity sessions happen right where you already live. We can photograph you in the nursery you just finished putting together, curled up on your couch, making coffee in the kitchen, or simply soaking in those ordinary moments that are about to become part of your family's story.

Wherever we go, my goal isn't to put you in front of a pretty Charleston backdrop just because it's pretty. I'm looking for beautiful light, meaningful surroundings, and a setting that feels like you. Your maternity photos should feel like your story, not a generic photo session.

You don’t have to pose like a magazine cover

If the thought of standing in front of a camera and suddenly needing to know what to do with your hands makes you want to run for the hills, you are exactly who I want in front of my camera. 😂

My approach to maternity photography is natural, documentary-inspired, and focused on the connection between you and the people you love. I’m not looking for stiff, overly posed portraits where everyone looks like they’re holding their breath.

Instead, I’ll guide you when you need direction and then give you room to simply be. The way you laugh with your partner. The way your hand naturally finds your belly. The little glance you give each other when you realize, we're really about to have a baby. Those are the moments I’m watching for.

And yes, we’re absolutely going to get those “holy crap, we look really, really ridiculously good looking” photos, too. I’ll guide you through flattering poses, angles, movement, and little adjustments that make you feel confident and look incredible without making the whole thing feel stiff or overly produced.

You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to be “photogenic.” You certainly don’t need to practice in the mirror beforehand.

You just need to show up as yourself. I’ll make you look ridiculously good, with that bomb lighting and have you feeling like the goddess you are.

What to wear matters more than people think, but not in the way you’d guess

What you wear matters more than you might think, but probably not for the reason you’re expecting.

For Charleston maternity photography, I love flowy dresses in solid, muted tones. Think cream, taupe, soft blue, dusty rose, sage, or warm neutrals. They photograph beautifully against Charleston’s marsh grass, beaches, and golden-hour light while keeping the focus right where it belongs: you and that beautiful bump.

I generally recommend skipping busy patterns, tiny prints, and obvious logos. They can pull attention away from your face, your connection, and your belly, especially when we're creating those close, intimate portraits.

And you absolutely do not have to wear a dress at all. Jeans, a simple top, something fitted, something flowy, or whatever makes you feel most like yourself can all photograph beautifully.

And yes, you can wear nothing at all. Some of my favorite maternity portraits are the simple, intimate ones that celebrate the shape of your body and your pregnancy without anything getting in the way. We can keep those images tasteful, artistic, and completely centered around what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.

If your partner is joining you, don't feel like you need to coordinate outfits perfectly. Complementary beats matchy-matchy every time. Neutrals and earthy tones like olive, rust, cream, tan, or soft blue work beautifully together without making you look like you showed up in a family photo uniform. 😂

And then there’s the Charleston wildcard: humidity.

Charleston humidity does not care what season it is. If we’re shooting outside, especially during the warmer months, choose fabrics that move and breathe. Skip anything heavy, stiff, or overly structured that’s going to have you melting before we even get to the good light.

Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel beautiful. You’re not trying to hide your body or squeeze yourself into something you think you’re “supposed” to wear for maternity photos. This is about celebrating exactly where you are right now.

And if you have no idea what to wear? That’s what I’m here for. We can talk through your options and find something that makes you feel like the absolute smoke show you are. 😏

Bring your people if you want them

Your maternity session doesn’t have to be just about you and your bump. Bring your people! Partners, toddlers, older siblings, and even the family dog are all welcome.

In fact, some of my favorite maternity images are the ones that capture your family exactly as they are right now, right before everything changes. Maybe your partner is kissing your forehead, your toddler is wrapped around your legs, or your big kid is talking to your belly like they already have a relationship with the baby in there.

Those little interactions are the good stuff.

And don't worry if your toddler isn't exactly interested in cooperating with our photography agenda. 😂 Neither of us needs them to perform. We’ll let them play, explore, snuggle, run around, and be themselves while I document the real moments that happen along the way.

If you want a few beautiful portraits of just you, we'll absolutely make time for those too. But your session can be a celebration of your whole family and this tiny person who is about to completely rearrange everyone's lives. 🤍

Charleston weather doesn’t get the final say

If you’ve spent any time in Charleston, you already know: the weather does whatever the heck it wants. 😂

Charleston weather can change quickly, especially during the summer, and a beautiful forecast can suddenly decide it has other plans. If rain, storms, or rough conditions are headed our way, we’ll talk it through together and figure out the best option. Sometimes that means shifting our start time, and sometimes it means choosing a different day.

The goal is never to force a session just because it’s on the calendar. Nobody wants their maternity photos to be a memory of standing in the rain while desperately trying to protect their hair.

And if the weather gives us one of those gorgeous Charleston sunsets after a storm? Even better. Some of the most beautiful light happens when the forecast has been a little dramatic.

Your session is about you, not sticking stubbornly to a date on the calendar. We’ll keep an eye on the weather, make the call together, and make sure you get the beautiful, relaxed maternity photos you came here for.

You’ll have images fast

I know how hard it is to wait for photos you’re excited about, especially when you’re documenting a season of life that changes by the day.

That’s why you won’t be waiting months to see your Charleston maternity photos.

You’ll receive a sneak peek in your inbox within just a few days of your session, so you’ll have a handful of favorites to obsess over, share with your people, and probably stare at approximately 47 times.

Your full maternity gallery will be delivered within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the season and volume of sessions we’re working through.

No wondering if your photos are coming. No months of radio silence. No refreshing your inbox every morning.

You’ll get to relive this little chapter while you’re still living it. And honestly, that’s exactly how it should be. 🤍

If you’re due soon and want to lock in a date before your window closes, reach out and let’s get you on the calendar before this season gets away from us. Maternity sessions start at $700. Want a cozy in-home newborn session too? Ask about my “Oh, Baby” collection! Reach out and tell me about your bump and let’s get planning.

What to Expect at Your In-Home Newborn Session in Charleston

Bringing a newborn home is chaos in the best way, and the last thing you need is to stress over a photo session. Here’s what a newborn session with me actually looks like, so you can just show up as you are.

I come to you

Every newborn session happens in your own home. Your baby is comfortable, you don’t have to pack a diaper bag and drive anywhere, and the images end up feeling like your real life, not a studio set with a fake backdrop and props that don’t mean anything to you. We’ll walk through your house together at the start and find the two or three spots with the best natural light, usually a bedroom window, the nursery, or a cozy corner of the living room.

Timing matters, but there’s flexibility

The first one to two weeks after birth is ideal since babies are still sleepy and curled up and easy to settle into sweet, snuggled poses. That said, I know newborns don’t run on a schedule and neither does recovery, so we’ll stay flexible around how you and baby are actually doing. If we’re past that early window, don’t worry, we’ll just shift the style toward capturing baby as they are right now instead of forcing a newborn look that’s already passed.

Plan for about two to three hours

A newborn session typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, which can sound like a long time for photos, but much of that time is built around your baby's needs. We leave plenty of room for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, outfit changes, and those little breaks babies naturally need throughout the session.

And if there’s a big brother or sister involved, we plan for their needs too. Sometimes that means snack breaks, time to run around, or recovering from the occasional toddler meltdown or crashout. 😂

There’s never any pressure to rush anyone. The slower pace gives your family room to settle in and helps us capture those sweet, natural moments without the session feeling stressful or hurried.

Natural light does the heavy lifting

Natural light is kind of the secret sauce for these sessions. I’m not showing up with a truckload of studio lights or turning your living room into a photo set. We’ll work with the light already in your home, finding the prettiest spots by the windows, in the nursery, or wherever the light is soft and dreamy.

Before I arrive, throw open those blinds and curtains and let as much natural light in as possible! No need to stress about having every room picture perfect either. We’ll find the good light together.

The result is a session that feels relaxed, natural, and true to your home, with no bright flashes or big, noisy equipment interrupting a sleeping baby.

You don’t need to overprepare

Your home doesn’t need to look like it belongs in a magazine for this session. No marathon cleaning session, no shopping spree for props, and no pressure to make everything picture perfect.

A few simple things can help: have a clean swaddle blanket or two nearby, your baby's going home outfit if you'd like to photograph it, and maybe spend 15 minutes tidying the main spaces where we'll likely shoot. Think bedroom, nursery, or living room. We can always move a laundry basket or random Amazon box out of the frame if needed. Real life with a newborn happens fast!

Once I arrive, I’ll help you find the best spots based on the light and your home. The goal isn't to create a perfectly staged version of this season. It's to document your baby exactly as they are in those first few days at home, surrounded by the spaces, people, and little details that will eventually become part of your family's story.

Siblings and pets are part of the story

If you’ve got an older sibling who is completely obsessed with the new baby, a dog who has suddenly appointed themselves head of newborn security, or grandparents who want to soak up every second of this new chapter, bring them into the session!

Some of the sweetest images from a newborn gallery are the ones that show those relationships as they really are. The proud big sibling, grandparents holding their newest family member, or even the family dog curiously keeping watch nearby. These are the people and relationships that make this season what it is, and often the photos families find themselves coming back to years later.

As a Charleston newborn photographer, I offer relaxed, natural in-home newborn photography throughout Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Daniel Island, James Island, and the surrounding Lowcountry. I’d love to help your family document those sleepy, beautiful, wonderfully chaotic first days with your new baby before they become a blur.

The best time to reach out is actually before baby arrives! We can get your newborn session on the calendar ahead of time and stay flexible around your little one's actual arrival date, because babies are famously not great at sticking to schedules. 😉

Reach out anytime to start planning your Charleston newborn photography session. Newborn dates can fill quickly, especially during busy seasons, so booking ahead gives us the best chance of finding a spot that works for your family.

Tiana & Jake’s Wedding at The William Aiken House

There’s a reason so many Charleston couples fall for The William Aiken House the second they walk through the gate. The Gothic Revival architecture, the private courtyard, the way the late afternoon light hits those arched windows right before sunset. Tiana and Jake’s wedding day made the case for all of it, and we were so glad to be behind the camera for it on a gorgeous first weekend of November.

Charleston has always been Tiana and Jake’s favorite place, so getting married here felt like the only option. The two met on a double date at a bowling alley set up by mutual friends, right before the world shut down in 2020, and spent the lockdown that followed falling for each other, getting a puppy, and never really looking back. Six years later they said “I do” at The William Aiken House with 140 of their people around them, planned start to finish by Chauncey Finch with Bouquets and Bowties Charleston.

Getting Ready at The William Aiken House

Tiana got ready inside The William Aiken House itself while Jake and the groomsmen got dressed at the Carriage House next door, hair and makeup by Charleston Bridal Collab. There’s something about getting ready inside a house this old, with a harp in the parlor and light pouring through the original windows, that makes the morning feel like its own kind of ceremony.

First Look and Portraits

Tiana and Jake shared their first look and wrapped up family and wedding party portraits before the ceremony, tucked away among the ivy-covered corners and garden paths around the property.

It’s one of our favorite parts of a wedding day…the rare chance for the two of them to slow down and have a few quiet moments together before the ceremony begins and 140 of their favorite people turn their full attention toward them. A little calm before things get wonderfully busy.

The Ceremony

Tiana and Jake said their vows under Charleston’s most photographed doorway, the arched Gothic entrance at The William Aiken House, and it looked incredible dressed head to toe in greenery and blooms by Pretty Petals of Charleston. Sawdust and Sweetgrass built the chuppah and welcome signage from scratch, and Bettina of Weddings by Bettina officiated.

Jake broke the glass under his heel and the whole courtyard erupted, that mix of cheering and happy tears that only happens once. The timing could not have been scripted any better. The sun dropped behind the garden wall, right as cocktail hour kicked off, so golden hour handed the night straight to the party without missing a beat.

Reception Details

The reception carried the same warmth into the evening, with a dusty blue and gold palette brought together by Sneider Rental Company (furniture, lighting, and draping) and La Tavola Fine Linen with BBJ Linen, and florals again by Pretty Petals of Charleston. Long feasting tables stretched across the courtyard under string lights, with a seating chart and signage built by Sawdust and Sweetgrass, and dessert from The Tenacious Tart.

Cocktail Hour and Celebration

As the evening unfolded, with passed apps and drinks from the William Aiken House’s in house team, Patrick Properties Hospitality Group, the celebration settled into that unmistakable kind of wedding-day joy. The kind that feels a little louder, a little freer, and even more meaningful once everyone has had a chance to take it all in. Their signature drinks felt like the perfect little reflection of them as a couple: Tiana with a spicy margarita in hand and Jake with a vodka and ginger beer. A small detail, but one that made the celebration feel even more personal and distinctly theirs.

There were heartfelt moments, plenty of laughter, and all of those little in-between interactions that somehow become some of the best memories from a wedding day. Power 2 Party played live, and the moments gave way to music and dancing, the whole night took on a life of its own. It was joyful, full of love, and exactly the kind of celebration you never want to end.

Full Wedding Team

Venue: The William Aiken House

Planning and Day of Coordination: Chauncey Finch, Bouquets and Bowties Charleston

Florals: Pretty Petals of Charleston

Hair and Makeup: Charleston Bridal Collab

Catering and Bar: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group

Cake and Desserts: The Tenacious Tart

Live Band: Power 2 Party

Officiant: Bettina Yiannakourou, Weddings by Bettina

Furniture Rentals, Lighting and Draping: Sneider Rental Company

Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen / BBJ Linen

Signage and Custom Builds: Sawdust and Sweetgrass

Wedding Gown: Le Lite Bridal Boutique

Groom’s Suit: Jos. A. Bank

Photo Booth: Bunn DJ Company

Videography: Cameron Kincheloe

Photography: Cana Dunlap Photography

Planning your own wedding at The William Aiken House? Here’s what to know.

How many guests can The William Aiken House hold?

The venue can host up to 500 guests across its two ballrooms, piazzas, and courtyards, and it works just as beautifully for a smaller, more intimate wedding like Tiana and Jake’s 140 person day.

What’s included in a wedding rental at The William Aiken House?

A rental gets you exclusive use of the property for a 4 hour event window, with flexible vendor arrival and setup time and a 2 hour breakdown afterward. That includes the ballrooms, both courtyards, the piazzas, the private gardens, and the pergola and reflection pool. Patrick Properties Hospitality Group is the exclusive in house caterer and bar service, and the venue requires a licensed, approved event planner to run the day.

What’s the best time of year to get married at The William Aiken House?

Spring and fall book up fastest, thanks to the mild weather and the golden hour light that pours through those arched windows in the late afternoon, exactly what made Tiana and Jake’s November ceremony glow the way it did.

Is The William Aiken House indoor or outdoor?

Both! You can move between the sweeping ballrooms and formal rooms inside and the courtyards, piazzas, and gardens outside, which gives you options for both your ceremony and your reception regardless of weather.

How far in advance should you book The William Aiken House?

Most couples book 12 months or more out, especially for a popular spring or fall Saturday. If this venue is on your list, it’s worth reaching out to Patrick Properties Hospitality Group as soon as you have a date range in mind.

Thinking about The William Aiken House for your own Charleston wedding and still searching for your dream photographer? I’d love to talk through your vision and show you more real weddings I’ve photographed at this venue, like this one.