As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing love stories in every shape and size—from cozy backyard vows surrounded by just a few family members to grand ballroom receptions filled with laughter, dancing, and hundreds of guests. One of the first big choices couples face when planning their day is deciding: Do we want an intimate micro wedding or a full-size celebration?

Both are beautiful, both are meaningful, and both deserve to be documented with heart and artistry. But they create very different experiences—for you, your guests, and your photographs.



What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding is a smaller, more personal celebration—typically 20 to 50 guests. These events focus on intimacy, emotion, and the details that matter most.

You might picture:

  • A mountaintop ceremony in the Poconos, with only your closest family and friends gathered around.
  • A charming backyard dinner under string lights, where everyone shares toasts and laughter.
  • A small vineyard or lavender farm celebration, where every guest feels like part of your story.

Because there are fewer guests, couples often reallocate their budget toward experiences and details: exquisite florals, personalized vows, a private chef’s dinner, or extended photography coverage that tells the entire story of the day.

From a photographer’s perspective, micro weddings often allow for more storytelling and genuine emotion. There’s room for quiet moments—holding hands before the ceremony, embracing your parents, laughing with your closest friends. These galleries tend to feel deeply personal and full of heart.


What Is a Full-Size Wedding?

A full-size wedding typically includes 100 guests or more, often hosted at larger venues like resorts, ballrooms, country clubs, or estates. These are the classic, high-energy celebrations that fill every frame with excitement.

You might picture:

  • A grand ballroom reception with elegant floral centerpieces and a packed dance floor.
  • A country barn wedding with 150 guests, live music, and a sparkler send-off under the stars.
  • A church ceremony followed by a full-course dinner and DJ-led party at a local venue.

These weddings bring a vibrant atmosphere and a whirlwind of activity. There’s a steady rhythm of movement—from getting ready with your bridal party, to formal portraits, to dancing the night away.

As a photographer, I love capturing that dynamic energy—the laughter, the spontaneous hugs, the unplanned but unforgettable moments that happen when so many loved ones come together.


How to Decide What’s Right for You

When deciding between a micro or full-size wedding, ask yourselves a few honest questions:

  • What matters most to you on your wedding day? Do you dream of a calm, romantic day spent connecting with each guest, or a lively night filled with music and celebration?
  • Who do you want by your side? Are you imagining an intimate group of your closest family and friends—or can’t imagine not inviting your entire extended circle?
  • How do you want your day to feel? Micro weddings often feel relaxed and intentional, while full-size weddings bring that joyful, once-in-a-lifetime buzz.
  • Where do you want to invest your budget? Micro weddings can offer more freedom to personalize—such as custom décor or destination venues—while full-size weddings deliver that grand, cinematic experience.


A Photographer’s Takeaway

There’s no “better” choice—just what fits you.

As a photographer, I see beauty in both. I’ve captured breathtaking portraits at a tiny lakeside ceremony where the couple exchanged vows with their dog at their feet, and I’ve photographed joyous full-scale receptions where the dance floor never emptied and the couple was surrounded by hundreds of loved ones.

No matter the size, your wedding is about celebrating your love story—authentically and beautifully. My role is to capture those fleeting, emotional, joy-filled moments that will bring you right back to your day every time you look at your photos.



Whether you’re planning an intimate micro wedding or a grand full-size celebration, I’d love to help tell your story—your way.

Your day deserves to be captured with the same care and love that you put into creating it.


📸❤️🌻