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10 things I Have Learned in my First Season as a Wedding Photographer

by Missy Fant Photography | Sep 10, 2014 | General, Photography, weddings

After a few years of being a portrait photographer, I decided to challenge myself and try my hand at wedding photography. I talked another portrait photographer into helping me out, and off we went. Knowing a little about landscape, portrait, and essential lighting we...

missyfantphoto

Safe space for every story.
Finding joy in your most honest moments.
PNW heart & steady soul.
You deserve to be documented exactly as you are.
You’d think that after 15 years behind the lens, t You’d think that after 15 years behind the lens, the map would be completely filled in. You’d think I’d have seen every horizon, memorized every backdrop, and captured every variation of light. But the most beautiful thing about this craft? The road keeps unfolding. Every single month, my branding clients take me by the hand and lead me into new spaces to fall entirely in love with. Sometimes, it’s a literal epic journey—packing up the gear and traveling to a wild, untamed landscape that mirrors the fierce, adventurous spirit of their business. Other times, the adventure is found closer to home, stepping into the quiet sanctuary of a library. I am constantly reminded that there is an immense, profound beauty in the small things: the deliberate texturing of a maker's hands, the chaotic creative energy of a workspace, or the honest, unscripted laugh of someone stepping fully into their power. My monthly branding sessions aren't about chasing a stiff, manufactured "corporate" image. They are about capturing the light of who you are and the heart of what you build. Whether your story takes us to the edge of a mountain or stays rooted in the place you create every day, I am here to ensure you feel safe, seen, and celebrated exactly as you are. Fifteen years in, and I’m still convinced that the greatest adventures are the ones we share.
The sixth annual Rainbow Walk in La Center is offi The sixth annual Rainbow Walk in La Center is officially complete, and my heart is completely full. Happy Pride Month, everyone! For the last two weekends, I’ve stepped away from the camera to pour my energy into working the booths for Clark County Pride. It has been a beautiful, busy whirlwind of community connection, resource sharing, and showing up for the folks who need to know they belong. Every year, watching our community march across the La Center bridge reminds me of why I chose this path. While the grand, sweeping horizons I travel to for photo sessions are breathtaking, the true magic is always found in the beauty of the small things. It’s the quiet bravery of a rural teenager seeing a sea of supportive faces for the first time. It’s the unscripted, roaring laughter of friends dancing down the street. It's the simple, unshakeable joy of a community standing up together to ensure that everyone—regardless of background, identity, or ability—feels safe, seen, and celebrated exactly as they are. Now that the booth canopies are packed away, I am so ready to dive back behind the lens and get back to my photography work! I'm officially booking summer sessions, and whether your own epic journey takes us to a wild Pacific Northwest trail or keeps us grounded in the cozy, honest chaos of your family living room, I can't wait to capture your light.
Heads up! If you have signed up for my YWCA fundr Heads up! If you have signed up for my YWCA fundraiser today and tomorrow, check yoru email! You should have received an email with instructions and directions! It may go to your spam folder depending on your filters.
Another amazing morning working with @thedinervanc Another amazing morning working with @thedinervancouver It's like the Eggs Benedict was being highlighted by nature this morning.
“I would rather share one lifetime with you than f “I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.” — J.R.R. Tolkien Every wedding is an epic journey of its own, a brave step into the beautiful unknown with your favorite person by your side. Whether your story unfolds right here in the Pacific Northwest or takes us across distant horizons, I am always ready to pack my bags to document the magic of where your paths meet.
I am offering Gender-Affirming Headshots to celeb I am offering Gender-Affirming Headshots to celebrate and see you fully, while supporting the powerhouse mission of the YWCA. When: Friday & Saturday, June 19th & 20th | 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM Where: Missy Fant Photography Studio (104 W 9th St, Vancouver, WA 98660) The Cost: Pay what you can. The Cause: All proceeds directly support the vital, life-changing work of the YWCA. Whether you need an updated professional image that actually feels like you, or you want to support a beautiful cause, there is a place for you here. No preening, no pretending—just unscripted, honest human connection. Space is limited. Tap the link in my bio to secure your spot or drop a comment below if you have any questions!
Lately, the digital world has been flooded with AI Lately, the digital world has been flooded with AI-generated images. They might look sleek, but they lack a soul. They can't capture the real, messy, beautiful truth of you. Your clients don't want a pixel-perfect algorithm; they want to see the human being behind the craft. They want to connect with your authentic story. That is exactly why my Monthly Branding Sessions have been absolutely soaring! I am so incredibly grateful for the growing community of local small business owners who are trusting me to keep their content fresh, vibrant, and deeply human on the regular. Ready to step up your game and be real? Let's chat, coffee's on me.
The Pacific Northwest knows how to throw a garden The Pacific Northwest knows how to throw a garden party, and last Saturday, it decided to give us a little bit of everything. When the rain showers rolled in over the Howard House along Officer’s Row, Emmy and Sam didn’t blink. Like the best kind of adventurers setting out on a grand journey, they just laughed, leaned into each other, and let the day unfold exactly as it was meant to. There is an old, beautiful truth—one that feels stitched into the very fabric of the The Historic Trust evergreen backdrops—that the grandest, most epic journeys often begin in the quietest, most unscripted moments. It’s not about waiting for the perfect weather; it’s about finding the immense beauty in the small things. The way a raindrop catches on a flower petal, the shared look under an umbrella, and the unshakeable joy of two people choosing belonging over perfection. While I am usually the one behind the lens capturing these frontiers, last Saturday called me away for a milestone on a different kind of epic journey: watching my own daughter graduate from high school. Because a commitment to safe, seen, and celebrated spaces is the absolute North Star of my business, I only partner with humans who hold that exact same standard of care. My incredible associates, @briannabarnesphotography and @thewickertsphotography stepped in and took over the day with fierce talent and grace. They captured the magic, the laughter, and the honest light of Emmy and Sam’s day so perfectly while I got to sit in the front row and cheer on my graduate. The flowers were showing off, the rain added its own magic, and this weekend reminded me that when you have the right community by your side, you can weather any shift in the wind.
Well, she did it. We have a high school graduate Well, she did it. We have a high school graduate (and almost associates degree) in the house!
So, the team over at YWCA Clark County made a bit So, the team over at YWCA Clark County made a bit of a strategic miscalculation. They officially challenged me to a Peer-to-Peer Summer Competition to see how much money we can raise over the next two months. What they didn't do was talk to my husband first. Because if they had, he would have warned them: I am wildly, fiercely competitive. Little did they know what they were unlocking! What does my competitiveness mean for you? It means you all get front-row seats to watch me be SUPER awkward on camera as I try to navigate talking to a lens instead of being behind it. You're welcome in advance for the entertainment. I am also cooking up some fun events throughout the next two months to help us raise even more, so keep your eyes peeled and get ready! But all jokes aside, the reason I am so fired up to win this thing isn't just about the leaderboard. It’s about what this money actually does for real people in our community, exactly as they are, in their most vulnerable moments. YWCA Clark County provides life-saving services to all folks who need help, no matter their gender identity. They are also the only 24/7 hospital response team for survivors of sexual assault in our entire region. Look at these numbers from last year alone: 10,000+ sexual assault and domestic violence calls answered. Zero signs of that number slowing down. When a survivor reaches out, an advocate is there. They meet people at the hospital, sit with them through painful medical exams, and walk through options with zero pressure—never taking decisions out of the survivor's hands. That unshakeable support keeps going in the weeks and months that follow with counseling, legal advocacy, support groups, and safety planning. This Summer Competition isn't just a game; it is a literal lifeline to keep their doors open and their phones answered for every single survivor who needs them. They challenged the wrong person, because I know the community standing behind me. Let’s show them what happens when we rally together (and enjoy my awkward videos while we do it). Donate link in bio!
When delivery services fail, I will load up my car When delivery services fail, I will load up my car and head out to you! But also, I’ll turn it into an all-day roadtrip with a friend. Have you checked out the newlt reconstructed Mitchell Point Tunnel? The original tunnel was built in 1915 and included five arched windows where drivers could experience scenic views of the Columbia River from the highway. The tunnel was closed in 1953 for safety and because it could no longer accommodate growing traffic volumes and increasing car sizes, ultimately being destroyed in 1966 to widen I-84. But now, you can head to the Mitchell Point Trailhead (heading east on I-84 and right before Hood River). There are only a few parking spots, so be careful.) It’s also part of the long paved trails and bike paths they are connecting along the gorge.
We’re down to the final wire of the month, which m We’re down to the final wire of the month, which means the clock is ticking loud and fast to lock in your Branding Subscription at my current rates before they change. I’m not here to help you chase some polished, sterile version of "perfection." I’m here to capture you exactly as you are—bold, messy, unscripted, and entirely rooted in your own unshakeable power.Your branding should show the world exactly who you are, sharp edges and all. Whether you are stepping into a new era of your business or just ready to claim your space and be truly seen, this is your sign. The Deadline: End of this month. After that, the rates are going up. The Availability: I have room for exactly TWO more badass folks to join the subscription family before the doors close on these prices. Once you're in, your rate is locked. You get consistent, honest, radical storytelling that celebrates your business and your identity—no compromises. Let’s make something honest. Let’s cause some beautiful chaos. #MissyFantPhotography #RadicalBelonging #BrandingSubscription #WeAreTheMessyMoments #BeSeen #BadassCreatives #VancouverWAPhotographer #VisualStorytelling
There is a quiet sort of magic that happens right There is a quiet sort of magic that happens right after a storm clears. The air feels brand new, the earth is grounded, and if you look closely enough, even the simplest city park feels like the edge of an untamed wildwood waiting to be explored. Yesterday, I met up with the wonderful Gonzalez family just as the rain cleared. We ran through the damp grass, chased the early light breaking through the trees, and leaned entirely into the beautiful, chaotic joy of just being together. Thank you, Gonzalez family, for letting me capture your light and your honest, beautiful story. (also, they requested that the littlest be protected, so they get smiley face stickers depicting their smiles)
Makayla and Ryan are married! Between the bagpipe Makayla and Ryan are married! Between the bagpipes, amazing family, and s'mores by the fire, these two proved that a little rain has nothing on a lot of love. The weather might have changed the blueprint, but it only made the laughter louder and the celebration sweeter. Congratulations, Makayla and Ryan! May your next chapter be just as beautifully unscripted.
These two have followed me all over the Pacific No These two have followed me all over the Pacific Northwest, and they are getting married tomorrow! It looks like the weather plans on being VERY PNW as well, but know these two, it's still going to be a blast. Congrats Makayla and Ryan! Can't wait to hang with you tomorrow!
The Doleski Family! Sneaking in a family session The Doleski Family! Sneaking in a family session before their daughter heads back to college, we caught the last bit of sunny weather last night at the Fort. The orchard creates a great backdrop while you can still sneak in the views of the bridge and the fort itself. Also, if we're going to joke about awkward photos, you better bet we're gonna take a few (make sure to head to the last photo in this set). When was the last time you and your family got your pictures done? Been a bit? Let's chat.
More studio work last week, this time a Royal Rosa More studio work last week, this time a Royal Rosarian came in for some headshots.
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐔𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫! We are s 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐔𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫! We are so excited to be part of the @la_center_arts this Saturday, and we’d love to see your friendly faces! I’ll have a selection of my prints available for purchase, and I’ll be behind the lens capturing the energy and magic of the fair throughout the day. My daughter will be showcasing her incredible talent with her own line of fabric arts—unique pieces made with a lot of heart and skill! If you're looking for a last-minute Mother’s Day gift, look no further! Skip the generic store-bought items and find something truly special. Say Hello: We’d love to chat, talk art, and share what we’ve been working on! When: This Saturday Where: La Center Arts Council Art Fair Admission: Open to the public! Whether you’re shopping for Mom, an art lover, or just out for a Saturday stroll, come by and say hi. We can’t wait to see you there!
A quick sneak peek! I’ve spent the last 8 hours c A quick sneak peek! I’ve spent the last 8 hours curating, designing, and finalizing a brand-new Missy Fant Photography Magazine just for my business friends! Think of this as your guide to the Epic Journey of branding. It walks you through exactly why your business needs intentional visuals and how telling your authentic story is the most powerful way to find your people. It’s currently at the printer, and I’ll be launching it the moment that box hits my doorstep! The branding sessions that inspired this magazine are taking off like a rocket. To make sure I can give every client the “big picture” attention they deserve while maintaining my timelines: • Only 5 spots left: I am accepting just 5 more monthly content subscribers at this time. • The June Shift: To keep up with the rising costs of living (and adventuring!), my rates will be slightly increasing on June 1st. • The Win: If you lock in your subscription by the end of May, your current rates are set in stone. Whether you’re in Vancouver or across the map, let’s make sure your brand’s story is told with the wonder it deserves before the next chapter begins. #MissyFantPhotography #StoryDrivenBranding #TheGrandNarrative #VancouverWABusiness #DocumentingTheJourney
My studio may be small, be she is mighty! She's b My studio may be small, be she is mighty! She's been getting a lot of use lately with non-profits and companies updating their branding images. Looking to update your brand? You can come to me, we can meet outdoors, or I can come to you. I make options easy, sessions a breeze, and you get images you love.
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ChaRee DiFabio 8 months ago
Missy has taken our family photos over the years and we are never disappointed. She is smart, kind, ambitious and an outstanding photographer!
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Laurie N 8 months ago
Missy made my daughter’s senior photo shoot a truly joyful experience. She’s not only an exceptionally talented photographer but also has a gift for drawing out genuine smiles, even from the most nervous subjects. My daughter is incredibly camera shy and was worried she’d look “awkward,” but from the moment we met Missy, she was at ease. I’m so glad we chose the package with all the digital images—Missy captured so many stunning shots, I couldn’t have chosen just a few. I can’t thank her enough for making the process fun and beautifully capturing such a pivotal moment in my daughter’s life.
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Kristin Nordberg 9 months ago
Missy Fant took beautiful photos of my child. She was wonderful to work with, friendly, and fun. She suggested delightfully photogenic spots around Vancouver, WA. I highly recommend her.
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Jackson McCoy 11 months ago
Missy is truly amazing! Due to unforeseen circumstances we had to find a photographer for our May 2025 wedding with only about a month to spare and we were so lucky to come across Missy. She immediately put us at ease with her humor and down to earth personality.
Day of the wedding she arrived early, took amazing photos, stayed a little late to get some final shots of us with our family and almost immediately sent us a sneak peek of some of the pictures.
If you are in need of someone who obviously loves their work and puts their all into each and every picture, Missy is your best friend!
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