The CGP Blog

This was my first time shooting a Wedding at the Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa. I can not wait to go back. It has already become one of my favorite venues! The Columbia Gorge Hotel is perched above the Columbia River in Hood River, Oregon. It has some of the best views the gorge has […]

This DIY North Plains backyard wedding was the perfect reminder that the best celebrations happen when couples stay true to themselves. The entire day took place at the groom’s parents’ home, creating a relaxed atmosphere that felt welcoming from beginning to end. One of my team photographers documented this beautiful day while I was photographing […]

This Burgaw NC wedding was extra special because the bride is a dear friend from my hometown. It was a whirlwind week and I got to help with all kinds of wedding crafts and activities, which made the experience even more unforgettable. A Week of Flowers and Preparation The celebration started earlier in the week […]

This indoor-outdoor wedding in Troutdale Oregon, was one of the most unique events I have photographed at The Troutdale House. The day blended heartfelt moments, playful details, and a reception that felt like a choose your own adventure. Getting Ready and Personal Style The couple brought so much personality into every part of their day. […]

This Stevens Pavilion wedding at Hoyt Arboretum was intimate, meaningful, and full of emotion. Fewer than ten family members gathered for a deeply personal ceremony in Washington Park’s Arboretum. The setting held special meaning for the couple. They spent many early dates here while navigating a long distance relationship. Now they live together in California, […]

This winter wedding at The Aerie at Eagle Landing was proof that changes in timing sometimes works out better than planned. The couple originally planned an October celebration, but illness forced a difficult postponement. Rescheduling a wedding is always a tough call, but the vendor team all came together to help make it happen for […]

If you’re wondering how to prepare for a family portrait session, the good news is that it doesn’t require overplanning or perfection. A little intention goes a long way. The goal isn’t perfect behavior or forced smiles. It’s connection. When families feel comfortable and confident, the photos feel natural, connected, and real. Embrace Color (Yes, […]

I was so excited to be a part of this wedding at Powell’s Rare Book Room. I’ve been photographing this family for a few years and was so excited when they reached out to me about their wedding plans. And does it get more unique than a ceremony in the rare book room at Powell’s […]

Logistics, Rentals, Setups, and Real World Planning Tips Wondering how to prepare for a Portland Park Wedding? Planning a wedding in a Portland park is exciting and beautiful, but also very hands on. Unlike traditional venues, you handle more details yourself. This guide covers everything to think about before wedding day, from rentals and signage […]

Reservations for Portland Park weddings opens in person on January 5th, 2026. Many couples camp out overnight to be first in line when the doors open! I thought it might be helpful to create a guide for couples considering using a Portland Park for their wedding. I’ve added a ton of wedding photos I’ve taken […]

This Troutdale House Weddiversary Celebration had a few fun surprises. The city recently cleared out some trees behind the venue, revealing a gorgeous new river view right in the backyard. They’re even building a little riverside park and walkway, which will make this already charming venue even more magical. Add in a couple who have […]

This disco karaoke wedding at Coopers Hall was pure joy from start to finish. I joined my associate photographer for the last couple hours of the night, and I’m so glad I did. The entire celebration shimmered with pink, sparkle, and good vibes. A Sparkly and Playful Celebration The couple built their wedding theme around […]

This Vintage Gardens Rustic Events wedding in Washington was a stunning blend of garden elegance and rustic charm. It was my first time photographing at this venue, and I am already hoping to return soon. Everywhere I turned, there was another beautifully maintained backdrop waiting for its moment. Vintage Gardens Rustic Events Wedding Nicole Issler […]

This Moonlight Events wedding in Vancouver, Washington was elegant, emotional, and full of personality. I had been looking forward to it since photographing their engagement session last winter. That session took us across four locations, including a basketball court to celebrate Leslie’s time in the WNBA. From the very start, I knew this love story […]

This Tiny Creekside Retreat wedding in Washington was one of the most laid back and unique celebrations I have photographed. The venue sits along Abernathy Creek in Longview, Washington, and it was the perfect match for this sweet, intimate day. A Hidden Gem Along the Creek I have known the owner of My Tiny Creekside […]

This grand celebration in historic Troutdale was one of the largest weddings I have ever photographed at this venue. The day was full of movement, energy, and joy. It reminded me how much fun it is to photograph a big wedding! Grand Celebration in Historic Troutdale This adorable couple originally married in India, surrounded by […]

This colorful celebration in Troutdale was filled with bold style, emotional moments, and some of the best dance floor energy I have ever seen. From laughter and tears to vibrant details, this day had everything. A Ceremony Overflowing With Emotion The couple planned a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by family and friends. The bride carried a […]

This historic Portland hotel celebration at McMenamin’s Kennedy School was a blast! It was one of the larger weddings I have photographed at this property. The day was colorful, full of tradition, and bursting with energy. Getting Ready Beside the Courtyard The couple’s hotel room was directly off the courtyard where the ceremony would be […]

This Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden wedding was so sweet, intimate, and full of natural beauty. It was my first time photographing a wedding there, and my first visit back since before the pandemic. I used to shoot family sessions at this garden all the time, back when it was open until dusk. Although the hours […]

This Gold Medal Garden wedding was full of laughter, color, and intimate family moments. The Gold Medal Garden is within the International Rose Test Garden in Portland. It was such a beautiful day. Getting Ready Time I began the day at the bride’s mother’s home. Natural light filled every corner, and the space was full […]

Let’s talk about how we should be celebrating all skin tones in wedding photography. One of the most important things I’ve learned in my 20+ years as a photographer is that people want to feel seen… and not just in the literal sense. They want to feel recognized, understood, and beautifully captured for who they […]