How to Feel Natural in Front of the Camera on Your Wedding Day

How to Feel Natural in Front of the Camera on Your Wedding Day

Many couples quietly worry about one thing leading up to their wedding day: What if I don’t feel like myself in front of the camera? It’s a completely normal feeling. You’re not alone, and you’re not expected to be a model. In fact, the most beautiful wedding photographs often come from moments that are unposed,…

couple kiss on a rooftop with the Ravenel Bridge in the background

Romance in the Sky-Charleston Rooftop Proposals

One of the most unforgettable moments I get to witness as a photographer is a proposal and Charleston truly knows how to set the stage for magic! With its historic charm, golden sunsets, and skyline views, it’s no wonder that rooftop proposals in the Holy City are becoming a favorite for couples ready to say…

white sail tent on golf course for wedding reception

From First Look to Last Dance: How I Capture Your Love Story Authentically

Your wedding day is so much more than a series of events – it’s the beginning of a new chapter in the story of your life. A collection of fleeting glances, quiet anticipation, joyful laughter, and deeply meaningful moments that deserve to be remembered with care and intention. Honest, tasteful, and intensely personal storytelling is…

A Sophisticated Bride’s Guide to Charleston’s Historic Charm

A Sophisticated Bride’s Guide to Charleston’s Historic Charm

For the bride who values refined beauty, thoughtful details, and a deep sense of place, Charleston offers something extraordinary. Its historic charm isn’t just about grand architecture and cobblestone streets. It’s about atmosphere. At Leigh Hayward Photography, I’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories among Charleston’s most treasured landmarks. Here, I’ve gathered favorite locations…

newlyweds stand in front of pink wall while horse walks through picture

9 Tips to Slow Down and Enjoy Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day will be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, but if you’re not intentional, it can also fly by in a blur. As a Charleston wedding photographer with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how fast the hours go once the day begins. The good news is that there are ways…

Couple toasts anniversary with champagne while picnicking

Personalizing Your Engagement Session: Ideas to Reflect Your Love Story

An engagement session is so much more than just a photo shoot. It’s an opportunity to capture the essence of who you are as a couple. As a Charleston wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful engagement portraits go beyond just pretty pictures. They reflect your journey, passions, and the little details that make your…

white couch with greeny wall behind it with neon saying"The Hendersons"

Top 5 Romantic Wedding Venues in Charleston

As a professional photographer, I’ve been photographing weddings in Charleston since 2001. There’s nothing quite like capturing a couple’s special day in this gorgeous city. After all these years behind the camera, I’ve developed some definite favorites when it comes to romantic wedding venues in Charleston. Legare Waring House The Legare Waring House is incredible….

detail shot of wedding dress and veil with pearls

Southern Tradition of Bridal Portraits

TRADITION OF BRIDAL PORTRAITS So, your wedding photographer offers bridal portraits, but you are wondering what exactly is a bridal portrait session. A bridal portrait is a solo session of you all dolled up in full wedding attire complete with florals. Typically, this is done a few months before your wedding date. They are precious keepsake heirlooms that commemorate…

close up of woman's hand with new engagement ring on it in fiancé's hand

Discover the Best Places to Propose in Charleston, SC

Where to Propose in Charleston, SC Destination Romance If you have never been to Charleston, SC before, it is the perfect destination for a romantic proposal!! Charleston is rich in history and Southern charm. Think cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, picturesque waterfront views, and oak trees dripping Spanish Moss. Charleston offers a plethora of unforgettable locations…