PRESERVING MOMENTS THAT MATTER THE MOST

For this feature, wedding photographer Drew Stevens shares how a lifelong passion for storytelling evolved into a career dedicated to capturing some of life’s most meaningful moments. From learning traditional film photography in high school to documenting authentic love stories across southeastern North Carolina, their approach blends artistry, emotion, and intentionality. Known for balancing carefully directed portraits with candid, unscripted moments, they create wedding galleries that feel timeless, personal, and deeply reflective of each couple’s unique story. In this Q&A, they discuss their photography style, memorable weddings, and the advice they believe every couple should hear when searching for the right photographer to document their day.

Wedding Photographer, Drew Stevens

Can you share the story behind your photography business and what drew you to capturing weddings?

My passion for photography started in high school, where I had the opportunity to take film photography classes and learn traditional methods and processes. It wasn't until over a decade later that I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue my passion, setting my goal of making a full-time living as a photographer. I have always enjoyed taking portraits and telling a story about my subjects, so it was natural for me to latch on to weddings once I started my photography business in 2021. I now have the honor of creating visual representations of the authentic love stories between couples. The decorations, details, guests, and candid moments of a wedding day are my favorite images to capture outside the couple's portraits because they really tie the whole day together and help evoke instant nostalgia for the couple and their family and friends when they view my complete photo gallery.

How would you describe your photography style, and what sets your work apart?

When you hire me to capture your wedding, you're not just hiring some "cookie-cutter" wedding photographer who produces the same "copy and paste" images for all of their clients and shoots 40+ weddings a year, you are hiring a professional photographer who is highly-skilled and comfortable with all sorts of photography, and that is reflected in my meticulous captures of your big day. I am intentional and deliberate with my posing and direction when warranted, just as much as I am on the hunt for those special candid moments and sweet interactions from a fly-on-the-wall perspective. I do not classify my style as "moody" or "light and airy", but rather a culmination of the various lighting and settings throughout your day to leave you with a balanced photo gallery. From dramatic shadows and lighting to emphasize the passion of your love to the brighter, more vibrant family portraits, I work closely with my clients to understand their ideal vision for their wedding photography package so I can approach the day in a way that fulfils all of their wishes while maintaining creative control to do what I do best. Black-and-white photography was my first passion, so you can expect dozens of black & white duplicates of the best photos for a timeless, elegant feel. Additionally, I have a wide range of add-ons available for couples, including Super 8 film video, vintage Polaroid captures, 35mm film photography, drone photography, and more! There is nothing quite like shooting on film, so these offerings are a great way to book a hybrid photography package to see yourself on the most cutting-edge digital cameras, as well as on film with a vintage feel.

What’s one thing couples can expect when working with you?

Couples that book with me can expect professionalism from the moment you inquire to the delivery of your final gallery. I am communicative without being overbearing, organized without being overwhelming, and extremely charismatic and easy to work with. I tell all of my brides that I will be the vendor to worry about the least, as you can count on me being there every step of the way while also adapting to any schedule changes or curveballs that come our way. I offer a free engagement session for all full-day bookings and love meeting in person to ensure we are a great fit. Another thing that sets me apart is that I never book more than 3 weddings a month, so I can always feel refreshed and not burnt out when I give you my absolute best! Another great reason is hiring a professional photographer who does more than just weddings. I am dedicated to you and your shot list from the second I clock in until I pack up at the end of our booking.

What are some of the most meaningful or memorable weddings you’ve captured, and what made them stand out? From micro-weddings with private backyard ceremonies to churches packed with 200 guests, I truly find joy in capturing weddings both big and small. I have found myself tearing up at weddings for complete strangers, and I am not afraid to admit that.  My empathy allows me to immerse myself in the dynamics of the wedding day to better understand how to capture and tell the subplots of the larger story of the day. The stepfather, with tears in his eyes, is surprised when the bride surprises him with the first dance because her real father was never around. The empty seat for the grandfather who helped raise the groom. The couple whose nervous smiles turned into laughter as their young daughter ran down the aisle to be reunited with her parents, despite being in the middle of the ceremony. These little moments that make us human are the memories I cherish the most as a wedding photographer.

What advice would you give to couples when choosing the right wedding photographer?

My advice to any couple looking for their dream photographer: don't just pick the "popular" photographer with the best branding and the largest Instagram following. Do your research. Read their reviews and ask for referrals from someone local to the area where your wedding will be held. Meet them for coffee before signing a contract. I shoot weddings all over the state, but as a born-and-raised local to southeastern North Carolina, I find myself extra inspired to tie the natural beauty of the landscape into your wedding day story that I am helping to tell.

For More Information Contact Drew Stevens or follow him on Instagram & Facebook.