The Experience
client testimonials
The process and next steps
Signature custom book options
"Rachel has quickly grown to one of our most booked photographers."
I have been working with Rachel Thurston for over fourteen years in the wedding industry on Kaua'i, Hawaii. Rachel has quickly grown to one of our most booked photographers and the reason is very obvious: her work is consistently stunning, her pre/post wedding communication is what I expect as a planner but most importantly, Rachel knows how to be around people. I always say that Rachel knows how to read the room. Her execution of my timelines is flawless and her photos are consistently breathless and striking in their composition, capture of the moment and editing style. From a professional event planner point of view, Rachel is the best of the best.
Marie Foster (Legacy Events Kauai)
"Rachel is an artist. From the moment we met her, we knew she would be right for our wedding."
She exudes so much warmth and has a keen eye for moments, feelings, and vibes. We loved that she did not shy away from the candid moments - these are what allow us to relive our wedding! Color, texture, laughter, tears, all of these she captured. Our wedding photos are incredible thanks to her.
Steven Bazley
"She shows us our life as we feel it: more stellar, tender, and delightful than ordinary life should be."
My wife and I eloped. But Rachel Thurston’s indelible images and delightful presence make it feel like we had a great party in addition to a quiet, romantic ceremony. She elevates moments not just with her extraordinary eye, but by feeding off and reflecting the energy she’s capturing. She radiates affectionate delight. She shows us our life as we feel it: more stellar, tender, and delightful than ordinary life should be. I expected to be photographed. I didn’t expect to be SEEN. Rachel is a consummate professional and a dear heart. We’re so fortunate we found her.
Joss Whedon
"I literally can't recommend Rachel enough!"
She photographed my sister's wedding 15 years ago and ever since then I have been obsessed with her work and knew I needed her to photograph my wedding. She was the first call I made once I knew I was getting married because I had to make sure she was available. She is professional, quick, kind, and creates the most stunning pictures. She captures moments in a way that I love and I'd give 10 stars if I could.
paige webb
"She brought such a thoughtful, joyful energy..."
Rachel is an absolute gem! We chose Rachel for our engagement photos, rehearsal photos, and wedding day because we were drawn to her ability to blend artistry with authenticity. From our very first meeting, she brought such a thoughtful, joyful energy and a clear creative vision that made the entire experience effortless and fun. Her photography radiates honesty, light, and emotion—balancing professionalism with genuine warmth and allowing real moments to unfold with ease. The result is a collection of images that feel both refined and deeply personal—cherished heirlooms that capture the spirit of our story so beautifully. Plus she is just a super lovely human, definitely the kind of person you want to spend time with on such a special day!
Caitlin CAdy nowland
"Everyone has commented on how incredible our photos are."
Rachel has an incredible skill with lighting, angles, and backgrounds, to find ways to take photographs that are natural and authentic. She avoids cliched images and has a creative eye for capturing unusual special moments that make the photographs come alive. And her warmth, humor, and beautiful soul made us so comfortable around her.
Rachel was like a best friend and a guardian angel, supporting us throughout the day. I would tell someone considering working with her that not only is Rachel talented, she is funny, sweet, and an absolutely delight to spend time with.
geoff chang
"She intuitively understood our personalities. The photos she delivered were outstanding."
Rachel was an absolute pleasure to work with from start to finish. She was incredibly responsive and made coordinating all the details before the wedding effortless. On the day of, she helped us feel completely at ease, blending professionalism with a warm, calming presence. She never pressured us to do anything we didn’t want to do, and she intuitively understood our personalities and what we were looking for.
The photos she delivered were outstanding—beautifully composed, genuine, and so true to who we are. We truly cherish them. She also turned everything around very quickly, which we deeply appreciated. We couldn’t recommend Rachel more highly.
Mary Hudson
HOW IT WORKS
WHAT'S NEXT?
01
initial meeting
After filling out the contact form “here”, I will be in touch to set up a meet and greet call, to go over any questions and gather more information so I can create a custom proposal based on your wedding photography wish list and needs. It’s also a great time to make sure we energetically align with our personalities and your vision. I love pouring a cup of tea and meeting my couples.
02
booking
Once the details of the proposal are perfectly customized and you sign on the dotted line, the fun really begins! I will send over an in depth preparation guide with everything you need to know…with tips on creating a timeline, working around light at different times of days, my method for shooting at your venues and dates to put in your calendar for your engagement photos and location ideas. I also include a questionnaire that helps me get to know you and your event in a more personal way. If you need any help during the planning process, I am here.
03
ENGAGEMENT SESSION
A lifestyle engagement shoot is a great way to get used to my style of shooting before the wedding weekend and it’s always just a really great time. I may have a surprise or two for you leading up to your wedding….and as we get closer to your event, I always make time for an extra call, texts, or even a coffee date if the fates align.
04
YOUR WEDDING
The first day of your celebration arrives and my team and I are armed and ready. Cameras on cameras. Extras of everything. Always arriving way too early. Dressed to match your event and finding you first thing for a hug and deep breath. After that: gorgeous photos abound.
05
SNEAK PEEK
Following your event you can expect a sneak peek of your images within 48hrs and all of your images will be delivered within 4-6 weeks depending on the time of year. Then we can start on your custom fine art book and creating prints.
by the numbers
AT A GLANCE
25
THE NUMBER OF
WEDDINGS WE SHOOT PER YEAR
15k
THE NUMBER OF
MILES WE DROVE LAST YEAR
95%
THE NUMBER OF
OUR COUPLES WHO DO FIRST LOOKS
24
THE NUMBER OF
GROOMS THAT CRied. HARD.
9
THE NUMBER OF
COUNTRIES we've traveled to
25
THE NUMBER OF
ALBUMS we deliver annually
