As a seasoned wedding photographer, Devon McWilliams believes a strong relationship between the couple and their photographer is vital. The best photos come from a relationship built on trust, familiarity and communication.

“My motto is that you’re telling the story of the whole day by capturing the moments, big and small. It’s really special,” McWilliams said.

Having taken the responsibility of immortalizing such a monumental event in so many people’s lives, she’s learned to anticipate moments before they happen.

“When the bride comes out in her dress for the first time, while she’s getting ready, she’ll probably go give her mom a hug. That’s such a beautiful moment, so I’m always ready for things like that.”

To help build that relationship, McWilliams highly suggests an engagement shoot. “It makes it that much more comfortable on the wedding day. You aren’t meeting the person in charge of capturing your memories for the first time that day. An engagement shoot can take any sense of awkwardness out of the equation.”

She uses that time to get a sense of the couple’s style and preference, but as in every strong relationship, there should be give and take, and she recommends that couples keep an open mind.

“It’s so important for clients to trust their photographer. Every background is so different, so getting dead set on an inspiration picture can make things complicated. You hire your photographer because you like what they’ve done. Trust that they can do it for you.”

McWilliams truly values the relationships she develops with her clients. “You get really personal. You’re with them all day, and some moments can get pretty intense. It tends to be a high-stress day, and when you go through all of that with someone, of course you bond with them. You get to know each other really well, I love that.”

This connection doesn’t necessarily end when the day is done. McWilliams said some of those relationships last a lot longer than the big day. “I love that so often I get to keep a relationship with my couples that goes on for years. Maybe they have a baby down the line and I do their newborn shoot, and then one year the holiday card. It’s so special to see them evolve.”