This never gets old for me. I still get butterflies before every wedding I photograph. I'm grateful to know you both, and grateful for the chance to be your wedding photographer. I can't wait to party with you!



A Note

from

Rachel

Bookmark this page so it's easy to find later. You'll find all the details, ideas, and guidance to help things feel a little easier along the way. If anything comes up, email is always the best way to reach me. And before I go, congratulations again. This is such a beautiful season for you, and I can't wait to be part of it.

I am your photographer +

This Is Your Guide

BOOKMARK THIS →

In the months between now and your ceremony, I will touch base at key stages. Details will be gathered, either from you or your planner, to ensure a delightful experience. And if an engagement session is included in your collection, I’ll reach out via email in a few weeks to identify the best time and location for you. For now, here is an idea of what to expect. 

Next

Steps

01.

Bookmark This Page

to easily find what you need

02.

Schedule Engagement Photos

recommended in the next 1-3 months

03.

Save My Email

add rachel@rachelthurston.com to your contacts

Your Photographer


I have found that energy transfers. I am a very positive, warm, unpretentious person. I feel comfortable and connected almost instantaneously with you and in turn, my hope is, you will feel at ease and safe showing up in front of my cameras. I have major, sister/best friend vibes and it is evident that I am there to make the expiernece of being photographed as easy and meaningful as possible. I show up already feeling deeply invested in you and what you deserve from your wedding documentation.

You can lean on me for whatever comes up. Not sure if you want a first look? Need help planning around the sunset? I've got you.

HERE FOR YOU

date 01

You're booked!

date 02

Take engagement portraits

date 03

Download your edited engagement photos

date 04

Complete pre-wedding questionnaire

date 05

Schedule 30-day Zoom call

date 07

Rehearsal dinner

date 06

Week-of phone call

date 08

Wedding day

date 09

Receive gallery of photos

Connection

What Sets The Experience Apart

the method

I have found that energy transfers. I am a very positive, warm, unpretentious person. I feel comfortable and connected almost instantaneously with you and in turn, my hope is,  you will  feel at ease and safe showing up in front of my cameras. I have major, sister/best friend vibes and it is evident that I am there to make the expiernece of being photographed as easy and meaningful as possible. I show up already feeling deeply invested in you and what you deserve from your wedding documentation.

rarity

My 25yrs as a wedding photographer sets me apart. You can relax knowing I have solved nearly every possible problem that could arise at a wedding. I have extensive expierence reading different personalites, finding the light no one else sees and directing with confidence and efficency (all with a smile on my face). I know how to work seemlessly with your planner and other vendors so you can relax and be pampered as you deserve. You need a photographer that will shine in high emotional situations and can hold space for the immensity of the moment. I am that photographer

preservation

Keeping in mind that this is the beginning of a family your photographs will be captured and edited with an understanding that they will be passed down possibly for generations. Defying trends and creating images that will be loved for years.

Communication Policy

The quality of the experience is deeply influenced by the organization. As such, I ask that you communicate with me primarily through email and/or your client portal. This makes it simple for both you and I to find important details, and to prevent requests or questions from getting lost. During the actual wedding days (or for less formal bits of business)  text messages and phone calls are welcome.

rachel@rachelthurston.com

310-251-9159

The          Look

One of the most personal moments of a wedding is the first look.. a modern tradition, with pros + cons.

Weddings are full of people and party time, and that's exactly as it should be. But a first look gives you one moment that belongs only to the two of you. It's a chance to pause, take in the weight of the day, and just be together before anyone else is watching.

Some couples feel differently, choosing to wait, letting the anticipation build until you see each other for the first time down the aisle. Both are emotional, both are powerful, and the choice is entirely personal to you. In short: a first look means more one-on-one time together and more classic, quiet portraits. Skipping it means trading that for an aisle moment you'll never forget. Typically I sneak you away during cocktail hour or sunset for a few portraits as well.

first

STILL NOT SURE? SEND ME A NOTE →

While I want you to feel like the only couple (and obviously my favorite one) keep in mind I am also a mom...and I try to dedicate certain days and hours to my work. I ask that you respect these hours, as it ultimately feeds into the creative energy that I will tap into when your wedding is here. I will seek to do the same, lessening as many to-dos and keeping email threads streamlined and stress-free.




Respecting

Stories

OFFICE HOURS

WEEKENDS

Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 5pm PST

Reserved for weddings like yours

Payment 01

Retainer of 3k paid at booking

Payment 02

Remainder due  60 days before wedding

For specific dates, log in to your client portal and open your invoice or contract.

WHEN WILL WE RECEIVE OUR FINAL IMAGES?

frequently asked questions →

4-6 weeks after the wedding date, you’ll receive a private link to a gallery of high-resolution digital images. There, you can share, download and relive your favorite moments. Each photograph will be individually edited, with adjustments such as color correction, cropping, straightening and more. 

CLOSE

There’s a sneak peek, right?

Yes! Look for an emailed link within 48hrs  of the wedding with a handful of images.

CLOSE

Can we add an album or prints?

Of course. I offer prints, frames, Fine Art albums, keepsake boxes and more. Just email me and I can share the specifics. You can customize your finish, add embossing and more.

CLOSE

WHEN WILL YOU ARRIVE AT THE VENUE?

I will follow the start time listed in your contract, unless we change this with a written amendment. However, I usually arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the official “photography start time” to set up and identify the best lighting and portrait locations at the venue.

CLOSE

something for you

This wardrobe guide will take out the guesswork when it comes to finding the right engagement outfits. From scenic oceanside portraits to laid back, luxuriously intimate moments in your own neighborhood, this guide will walk you through the best way to prepare a photogenic worthy wardrobe.

The Wardrobe

Curation

Guide

Coming soon!

The Countdown Begins

I am excited to celebrate with you, chase that golden light and create incredible images together.