NYC Engagement Session | Destination Engagement Session at New York Public Library | Rain Engagement Session NYC

Rain, Romance, and NYC Magic | A Destination Engagement Session at the New York Public Library

Destination Engagement Photographer | Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, NYC, Rhode Island, Boston, Charleston, New Orleans, Nashville, Carmel, Italy & France

After photographing a wedding in the French countryside, I caught an overnight flight to New York City, landed with plenty of time to check into my hotel, and met Dacia & Derrick at the iconic New York Public Library for their engagement session. The weather? Rainy. The crowds? Everywhere. The vibe? Absolutely magical. You see, this is something I thrive on. I love a challenge, and even with the hustle and bustle of New York City walking in front of my lends form time to to wouldn’t stop me from capturing D&D’s love story. Christmas time in New York is too special to let a little mist ruin our time!

With holiday lights glowing and the city buzzing with Christmas energy, this session was a beautiful reminder that when you embrace the elements — and trust your photographer — magic always finds you.

Destination Engagement Sessions Aren’t Just About Pretty Places

Dacia & Derrick brought style, love, and total trust to the table — and it made all the difference. Even with umbrellas up and people all around, they leaned into the moment. And the result? A session full of real connection, cinematic energy, and a little NYC holiday sparkle.

This is what I love most about being a destination engagement photographer: crafting something beautiful no matter the weather, the location, or the logistics.

Why You Should Consider a Destination Engagement Session

Whether you’re planning a stateside wedding or jetting off to Europe, destination sessions give you something no hometown shoot ever could — a full experience.

1. It’s Not Just Photos — It’s a Chapter in Your Story

Whether it’s the cobblestone streets of Italy, the cliffs of Carmel, or a rainy corner of New York, destination engagement sessions become part of your love story.

2. You Can Match Your Aesthetic

Love the elegance of France? The charm of Charleston? The energy of Nashville? Pick a location that feels like you. Your photos will reflect your relationship’s vibe — not just a backdrop.

3. You Embrace the Unexpected

Rain, wind, tourists — these unpredictable moments often create the most heartfelt, story-driven images. Just like Dacia & Derrick’s rainy NYC session, it’s often those wild little details that make it unforgettable.

4. Experience Matters (a Lot)

As someone who’s worked everywhere from France to New York to Rhode Island to the rolling Tuscany hills of Italy, I know how to handle curveballs, find light anywhere, and create art under pressure. Whether it’s navigating travel delays or adjusting for unpredictable weather, I show up ready — and calm.

For Couples Who Want Their Engagement Session to Feel Like Them

Whether you’re dreaming of:

• A luxury engagement in New York City

• A seaside romance in Rhode Island

• A cozy winter stroll in Boston

• A historic cityscape in Charleston

• A soulful, vibrant vibe in New Orleans

• A playful, romantic session in Nashville

• An elegant coastal escape in Carmel

• An Italian villa or vineyard moment

• A French château or Parisian backdrop

• Or a luxe, editorial session in Dallas-Fort Worth

…I’m here for it. No location is too far. No vision is too bold.

Let’s Tell Your Story, Wherever It Takes Us

I’m a destination engagement and wedding photographer based in Dallas-Fort Worth, traveling worldwide to capture love stories in their most iconic, emotional, and artful forms.

Whether you’re headed to Italy, France, or New York, or planning something a little closer to home — let’s make something unforgettable together.

💌 Reach out here to start planning your destination engagement session.

Weddings in Paris | A Regal Winter Wedding at Chateau Bouffemont | French Chateau Wedding | French Chateau Eoplemnt Photographer | French Wedding Photographers

AS SEEN IN

Tucked away just outside of Paris, Château Bouffémont is a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic and elegant wedding in France—and Tatum and Nick’s winter elopement was nothing short of magical. With the chateau’s regal charm, twinkling holiday lights in the city, and the quiet intimacy of their closest family and friends, their day felt straight out of a storybook.

A Destination WINTER Elopement in France

Tatum and Nick traveled from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas to elope in one of the most breathtaking French chateau wedding venues. With a short engagement and a shared love for France, they chose to say “I do” just days before Christmas—adding even more magic to the season. Their venue, Château Bouffémont, is located about an hour from Paris, making it a perfect blend of countryside elegance and city convenience for couples dreaming of a destination wedding in France.

The chateau itself is grand yet intimate, with sweeping staircases, gilded details, and views of the surrounding forest. Every inch of the venue felt luxurious and full of history—exactly the elegant French aesthetic they envisioned.

A Day Full of Emotion and Joy

From the moment the day began, there was a quiet sense of anticipation. The atmosphere was filled with love, laughter, and the occasional happy tear as Tatum and Nick shared their day with their closest family and friends. The joy was infectious—real, deep, and beautifully unscripted.

One of my favorite moments was seeing the flower girls quietly peeking down at the bride and groom from above, watching their older cousins get married with wide-eyed wonder. It was such a tender, fleeting moment that spoke volumes about the closeness of this family and the sweetness of the day.

Winter Wedding Inspiration in a French Chateau

Winter weddings in France hold a special kind of magic, and this one was no exception. From the cozy candlelit atmosphere inside the chateau to the twinkle of Paris at Christmas just a short drive away, everything felt beautifully cinematic.

Tatum’s gown added to the elegance of the day, paired perfectly with the classic architecture and regal interiors of Château Bouffémont. The understated florals, romantic color palette, and heartfelt vows created a celebration that was deeply personal and effortlessly chic.

Planning a Wedding at Château Bouffémont

If you're considering getting married in France or searching for the perfect French chateau wedding venue, Château Bouffémont is a true gem. Whether you're planning a full wedding weekend or an intimate destination elopement in France, this venue offers the best of both worlds—privacy, grandeur, and a short trip to the romantic streets of Paris.

As a wedding photographer in France, I specialize in capturing real moments in timeless, editorial style. My approach is to make couples feel at ease, helping them preserve these memories with beauty and authenticity—just like Tatum and Nick's day.

💌 Planning Your Own French Chateau Elopement?

If you're dreaming of an elegant French wedding, a chateau elopement near Paris, or simply want timeless, heartfelt imagery of your day, I’d love to connect. Browse more of my work or get in touch to start planning your photography experience in France.

Unique Proposal Ideas in Dallas Texas | Trolley Engagement in Downtown Dallas | Dallas Wedding Photographers

If you're planning a proposal in Dallas or Fort Worth and looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, let me tell you about Robert’s epic and sentimental idea. As a Dallas proposal photographer, I’ve seen so many creative engagements, but this one? It absolutely stole my heart.

A few months before he popped the question, Robert reached out to me on Instagram. He had a plan—and it was deeply personal. He told me he had booked a private trolley ride through Downtown Dallas, a nod to something he and his (then) girlfriend Victoria loved doing together. Riding the trolley was “their thing.” And when he shared his vision with me, I just knew it was going to be special.

The Day of the Proposal – Downtown Dallas Magic (With a Twist)

On the day of the proposal, the forecast called for rain. Not just a sprinkle—real, moody, cinematic rain. I packed my raincoat, tucked my camera into my jacket, and made my way to S&D Oyster Co., where the trolley would make a stop. I waited, watching the sky grow darker, hoping the weather would hold out.

Then—just like a scene from a rom-com—I spotted the trolley. Robert and Victoria were all smiles. And just as he got down on one knee… the skies opened up. Rain poured down around them, and it couldn't have been more perfect. It was whimsical, emotional, and wildly romantic.

They embraced the moment—soaked in love (literally and figuratively). And let me tell you, the joy in those photos? Unreal. Genuine, glowing, contagious happiness.

Planning a Unique Proposal in Dallas or Fort Worth? Here Are My Tips:

1. Make It Personal

Think about places, experiences, or routines that are unique to your relationship. Maybe it's a coffee shop, a skyline view, or even your favorite taco spot. Robert’s proposal worked so well because it was theirs. It was meaningful.

2. Hire a Proposal Photographer

Work with someone who has experience capturing proposals discreetly—and beautifully. A seasoned photographer can also help with timing, lighting, and keeping the surprise intact. Bonus: you’ll get images you’ll treasure forever (and she’ll thank you for it later).

3. Embrace the Weather

You can plan everything... except the forecast. But sometimes, the rain makes the moment. Don’t stress—just go with it. Some of the most romantic, cinematic images I’ve ever captured happened in unexpected weather.

4. Create an Experience

Whether it’s a private rooftop dinner, a cozy trolley ride, or a lakeside picnic, think of your proposal as an experience, not just a question. Take a little time to soak it all in before jumping into the celebrations.

Robert and Victoria’s post-proposal ride was just the two of them. They sipped champagne, shared a slice of pizza, and took photos while soaking up that just-engaged glow—before heading to a surprise engagement party with friends and family. That private time made all the difference. If it were me? That’s exactly how I’d want it, too.

Ready to Plan Your Proposal in Dallas or Fort Worth?

Whether you’re dreaming up a luxury proposal in Dallas, planning a surprise moment in Fort Worth, or just looking for unique engagement ideas that feel like you—I’d love to help you capture it.

Let’s create something unforgettable.

Inquire About Proposal Photography

Amalfi Coast-Inspired Rehearsal Dinner in Dallas | Destination Wedding Vibes at Hotel Crescent Court | Amalfi Coast Wedding

Chelsea and Johnathon brought the magic of the Amalfi Coast to Dallas—and it was pure perfection. With the help of their talented planner Sarah from Sistered States, they transformed the iconic Hotel Crescent Court into a Mediterranean dreamscape filled with lemon trees, blue and white tones, and effortless Italian elegance.

Whether you're planning a luxury wedding in Dallas or a destination wedding on the Amalfi Coast, this rehearsal dinner is full of stylish inspiration for couples craving timeless design, joyful celebration, and a hint of la dolce vita.

From Dallas to the Amalfi Coast (Without Leaving Texas)

Set in the heart of Dallas, Hotel Crescent Court provided the perfect backdrop for this European-inspired evening. The design featured classic Amalfi blues, pops of citrus yellow, lush greenery, and textures that evoked the charm of the Italian coastline.

From the moment guests arrived, it felt like stepping into a summer evening in Positano—complete with cocktails, laughter, and that relaxed luxury that Italy does so well. Every detail was intentional, yet effortless.

If you're searching for rehearsal dinner ideas in Dallas or looking to bring destination wedding vibes home, Chelsea and Johnathon’s event is all the proof you need that a little Italian inspiration goes a long way.

A Joyful, Elegant Evening

The evening was filled with joy, laughter, and love—the kind of gathering that reminds you why these pre-wedding moments are just as meaningful as the big day. Chelsea and Johnathon were glowing as they mingled with friends and family in a setting that felt both personal and elevated.

The color palette was fresh and vibrant: soft Mediterranean blues, crisp whites, and vibrant lemon yellow. With Sistered States’ vision and attention to detail, every piece—from the florals to the tablescapes—came together to create a rehearsal dinner that was chic, joyful, and deeply memorable.

Why Amalfi Coast-Inspired Weddings Are Having a Moment

Italy has always been a dream destination for weddings, and it’s easy to see why. There’s a timeless romance to the Amalfi Coast—the kind that’s hard to replicate... but Chelsea and Johnathon managed to do it effortlessly.

Thinking about bringing this style into your own event? Here are some design ideas that work beautifully whether you're in Dallas or actually getting married in Italy:

• Citrus-infused floral arrangements with lemons and olive branches

• Italian tile motifs for menus, table numbers, or chargers

• White linens, natural textures, and pops of Mediterranean blue

• Al fresco-style dining with string lights or candlelight

• Signature cocktails like limoncello spritzes or Aperol spritzes

• Personalized touches that blend your story with Italian tradition

Planning a Luxury Wedding in Dallas or Italy?

As a wedding photographer serving Dallas-Fort Worth and destination weddings in Europe, I specialize in capturing events that feel elevated yet deeply personal. Whether you’re hosting a multi-day celebration in DFW or planning a villa wedding in Tuscany, I’ll help you document it in a way that’s timeless, editorial, and full of heart.

If you're a bride dreaming of:

• An Italian-inspired wedding in Dallas

• A destination wedding in Italy

• A stylish, design-forward wedding weekend

…I’d love to be part of your team.

💛 Vendors:

Planner: Sistered States
Venue: Hotel Crescent Court

Photography: Ellen Ashton Photography

Stationery: Etsy

Venue/Catering: Hotel Crescent Court

Rentals: POSH Couture Rentals

Carmel By The Sea Engagement Session | Rainy Day Engagement Session | Mission Ranch Carmel Wedding | Ellen Ashton Photography | California Wedding Photographer | Dallas Wedding Photographers

Before kicking off Emily and Jack’s destination wedding at Mission Ranch in Carmel-by-the-Sea, we snuck away for something truly special: a relaxed, romantic pre-wedding photo session by the ocean. It ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of their weekend—and I can’t recommend it enough for couples planning destination weddings in California, Martha’s Vineyard, Scottsdale, or anywhere coastal and full of charm.

Whether you're a bride from Dallas, Charleston, Shreveport, Scottsdale, or planning a wedding on Martha’s Vineyard, this story is full of inspiration for creating slow, intentional moments during a fast-paced wedding weekend—and capturing them beautifully.

A Moment to Slow Down Before the Celebration Begins

Emily and Jack originally did their engagement session in Dallas, but something was missing. During our shoot, I asked Emily, “Do you think you’ll regret not having portraits by the ocean?” She paused and said, “Thank you for knowing me. Yes—I think I would.”

So, the day before their rehearsal dinner in Carmel, we planned a last-minute seaside session. It rained—and they danced through it barefoot. It was peaceful, beautiful, and wildly romantic. There’s something about Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its soft fog and crashing waves, that just brings everything into focus.

From DFW to Carmel, Scottsdale to Martha’s Vineyard

As a wedding photographer serving couples from Dallas-Fort Worth, Scottsdale, Arizona, Charleston, Shreveport, and the East Coast, I work with brides who want their photos to feel effortless, emotional, and artful—whether they’re planning:

• A coastal wedding in Carmel

• A Martha’s Vineyard weekend celebration

• A desert destination wedding in Scottsdale

• Or a classic Southern wedding in Charleston

No matter where your wedding is, carving out time for a pre-wedding photo session in your destination city creates the most authentic, relaxed images—before the whirlwind begins.

Why Every Destination Bride Should Do a Pre-Wedding Session

This quiet little shoot allowed Emily and Jack to slow down, breathe, and soak in the moment before guests arrived. It also gave them something else—photos they could share with friends and family at the start of their weekend. I sent them a few sneak peeks that evening, and they were able to send them to loved ones before the first champagne toast.

This is one of my favorite parts of wedding photography: capturing not just the big events, but the in-between moments that tell the full story.

Whether you’re getting married in Carmel, Martha’s Vineyard, or flying in from DFW, Charleston, or Scottsdale, these sessions set the tone for the weekend—and the photos become treasures for years to come.

Planning a Destination Wedding in Carmel, Martha’s Vineyard, or Scottsdale?

As a photographer who travels between Dallas, California, New England, and the Southwest, I specialize in photographing celebrations that feel luxurious but never stiff—editorial but always emotionally rich.

If you’re:

• A Martha’s Vineyard bride looking for timeless photography

• A DFW or Charleston couple planning a West Coast wedding

• A Scottsdale bride dreaming of the California coast

• Or a Shreveport couple planning something elevated and meaningful

…I’d love to help you tell your story with intention.

Madison & Trey's Perkins Chapel Wedding | Adolphus Hotel Dallas Texas | Ellen Ashton Photography

Valerian & Veronica's Rhode Island Engagement Session | Lake Grapevine | Ellen Ashton Photography | Boston Wedding Photographer

Dallas Wedding Photographer | Also Serving Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Rhode Island & Boston

What a session! Veronica and Valerian brought all the East Coast charm to this dreamy Lake Grapevine boat engagement session — and we had an absolute blast capturing it. Inspired by the breezy, romantic feel of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, this session was a beautiful blend of intentional styling and genuine connection.

Veronica is the kind of bride who knows what she wants (and I love that about her). She envisioned something timeless, elegant, and different — and she totally nailed it. From the soft breeze off the water to the golden hour light glistening on the lake, this shoot felt like a modern fairytale.

Why You Should Consider a Destination Engagement Session

Whether you're based in Dallas-Fort Worth or planning a coastal wedding in Cape Cod, Rhode Island, Boston, or Martha’s Vineyard, there are so many reasons to take your engagement session on the road:

1. It Adds Adventure to Your Story

A destination session becomes part of your love story. You’re not just taking photos — you’re creating a memory, a mini getaway that becomes a core part of your engagement experience.

2. It Reflects Your Vibe

Maybe you’re planning a seaside wedding or just love the ocean. Doing your engagement session in a place that reflects your personal aesthetic — like a boat on Lake Grapevine or a beach in Cape Cod — makes your photos feel more like you.

3. It Doubles as a Romantic Getaway

Who says photo sessions can’t be fun? Turn it into a weekend trip. Eat good food, explore, and take a break from wedding planning chaos.

4. You Get More Variety

Destination sessions allow for fresh, unique scenery that’s different from your wedding day. It adds depth to your photo gallery and gives you even more beautiful images to cherish forever.

5. It Sets the Tone for Your Wedding

Your engagement photos are often used in save-the-dates, websites, and wedding decor. Choosing a meaningful or beautiful destination makes everything feel cohesive and elevated from the start.

A Cape Cod Aesthetic, Right in Dallas

Though we stayed local for this session, Veronica and Valerian brought a destination feel to North Texas. That’s the magic of thoughtful styling and intentional planning — it can feel like you’re anywhere in the world. And as a Dallas wedding photographer, I love helping my couples bring their vision to life, whether it’s on a boat, in a vineyard, or on the coast.

Planning a Wedding in Cape Cod, Boston, Rhode Island, or Martha’s Vineyard?

Let’s talk! I may be based in Texas, but I travel often and adore East Coast weddings. If you're a bride planning a destination engagement session or wedding, I’d be honored to tell your story in a way that’s personal, elegant, and entirely you.

💌 Reach out here to start planning your dream session.

Emily & Layne's Arlington Hall at Lee's Park Engagement Session | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographers

Layne & Emily’s Engagement Session

We decided that Arlington Hall at Lee’s Park would be the perfect backdrop for Emily & Layne’s Engagement session! The light was beyond magical! I don’t think I’ve ever seen the light so pretty in this spot! It was absolutely perfect in every way!

Enjoy!

-E

Brandon & Jordan's Perkins Chapel & Union Station Wedding | Ivory & Vine Event Co. | Dallas Wedding Planners | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographers

Vendor Love

Beauty: Brittany Jones

Cake: Fancy Cakes by Lauren

Ceremony: Perkins Chapel

Cinema: Jonathan Mayfield Media

Florals: Venus & Co.

Officiant: Love Notes Officiants

Photography: Ellen Ashton

Entertainment: Manhattan Band

Rentals & Decor: Posh Couture Rentals

Rentals & Decor: La Tavola Fine Linens

Rentals & Decor: Bella Accento

Rentals & Decor: Center Stage Dance Floors

Rentals & Decor: Le Force Entertainment

Transportation: Premier Transportation

Transportation: American Transfers and Tours

Venues: Union Station

Wedding Planning & Design: Ivory & Vine Event Co.

Erin & Jimmy's Texas Discovery Garden Wedding | Ivory and Vine Events Co. | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographer

Bar and Beverage: Specs

Beauty: The Styling Stewardess

Cake: Bird Bakery

Catering: Cohost Catering

Cinema: byDesign Films

Entertainment: Photo Cabana

Entertainment: Le Force Entertainment

Florals: Venus & Co.

Officiant: Martin Donahoe

Photography: Ellen Ashton

Rentals & Decor: La Tavola Fine Linens

Rentals & Decor: Sugar City Celebrations

Rentals and Decor: Bella Accento

Transportation: Premier Transportation Services

Venue: Texas Discovery Gardens

Wedding Planner: Ivory and Vine Event Co.

Matthew and Cortney's Ashton Depot Wedding | Girt and Gold Event Co. | Ellen Ashton Photography

Talk about Souther Charm!

Courtney and Matthew are truly some of the kindest people. About 6 months before their wedding I gave them a call and was honestly terrified. I was pregnant. A totally, unplaced miracle that I had prayed for for eight years. As I told her the news Courtney rejoiced with me and told me she trusted me completely even though she knew I would be so pregnant at her wedding. She will never know how much that meant to me. Being a women and being a business owner is hard because sometimes with pregnancy the world doesn’t always view you as capable, but a liability, but she didn’t.

Working with Courtney and Matthew was a true joy! I have so many fond memories of these two. The way that Mattew looks at Courtney and the way they laugh together is something that truly melts the heart. Just to give you an idea of how incredible these two are, they were concerned about me on their wedding day. I shot their wedding at 38 weeks 5 days pregnant and it was the best decision and I would do it all over again if I could. Working hard for such deserving people was my pleasure. These two deserved all the pretty pictures on their wedding day and I am honored that they trusted me with their memories.

I will always love and appreciate these two.

AS SEEN ON

Photographer | Ellen Ashton | Floral | Moss Floral | Planning & Design | GRIT & GOLD | Invitations | Pretty Post | Ceremony Site | Robert Carr | Reception Venue | The Ashton Depot | Linens | La Tavola | | Cake | Creme de la Creme | Band | Emerald City | HMUA | Meg B Beauty | Entertainment | Party Poet | Video | Company N Films | Draping | Its Your Night | Rentals | Perch Decor | Transportation | Premier of Dallas | Bridal Retails | Warren Barron | Bridal Dress Designer | Monique Lhuillier | Tux | The Black Tux

Micheal & Beka's Estate Wedding | St. Patricks Cathedral in Fort Worth | Omni Fort Worth Wedding | Fort Worth Club Wedding | Grit & Gold Wedding co. | Ellen Ashton Photography

AS SEEN IN

Micheal and Beka’s wedding was definitely one to remember. I will never forget the day Beka called to tell me her wedding reception venue canceled on her 2 months before her wedding due to Covid-19. We were all devastated for her because we knew just how stressful all of this was on her and Micheal. Their wedding was already planned and in motion, and they quiet literally had to change their whole reception plan.

For the reception, Micheal and Beka had a gorgeous tented wedding at Micheals family home. It was breathtakingly beautiful! This was without a doubt one of the funnest wedding days! The whole day was absolutely perfect. A dream come true!

Vendor Team

Photographer – Ellen Ashton | Floral – Blushington Blooms | Design – GRIT & GOLD | Invitations – Shine Wedding Invitations | Venue – Private Home| MUA – Meg B Beauty | Rentals – Marquee | Entertainment – Royal Dukes | Ceremony – St Patrick’s Cathedral | Cake – Creme de la Creme | Catering – Reata | Coordination – Treasured Hearts | Escort Card Fans – Pretty Post Calligraphy

Dallas Arboretum Wedding | Alecia & Matthew | Grit and Gold Event co. | Ellen Ashton Photography

AS SEEN ON

Fall weddings are some of my absolute favorites. Alecia and Matthews Dallas Arboretum wedding was absolutely perfect. It’s what dreams are made of- one for the books you might say.

We started the day at the Adolphus hotel in down town Dallas and made our way to the Dallas arboretum from there. The way the golden sunlight hits them in the portraits makes my heart sing. It was absolutely perfect. You can find this gorgeous wedding in the 2020 winter issue of D Wedding’s Magazine.

Vendos:

Photographer – Ellen Ashton | Floral – Max Owens | Planning & Design – GRIT & GOLD | Invitations – MINTED | Ceremony & Reception Site – Dallas Arboretum – DeGolyer | Linens – Nuage | Cake – Sugarbee Sweets | Band – Grooveline | MUA – Ashley McNabb | Bridal Dress – Chosen – En Blanc & Alter for the Altar | Transportation – Premier | Rentals – Marquee + TLC | Ceremony Musicians – Serenata Strings | Catering – Beyond the Box

Chris & Meagan's Scottish Rite Dallas Wedding | Allday Events | Ellen Ashton Photography Dallas Wedding Photographer

AS SEEN IN

Chris and Meagan’s wedding was so dreamy and beautiful. Everything about the day was absolutely stunning! Their Scottish Rite wedding in downtown Dallas was such a fun and heartwarming event. So much love and laughter shared on their special day. The way went off without a hitch thanks to Meagan and Chris’s amazing vendor team.

Vendors:

Wedding Planner | Allday Events
⁣Photography | Ellen Ashton Photography⁣
Venue | Dallas Scottish Rite⁣
Beauty | Tease to Please Hair and Makeup
Floral | A Stylish Soiree
Catering | Gils Elegant Catering
Entertainment | in10city Band⁣
Cake | Sugar Bee Sweets
Transportation | Blue Diamond Limousine
Videography | Turquoise Video

Luxury Wedding Photographer in New York, Boston, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Dallas & Houston

There’s a quiet magic that lives within New York City—the kind of energy that feels both cinematic and deeply personal. For this editorial bridal session, I wanted to create a space where fashion-forward elegance met the timelessness of love. Styled with the modern bride in mind, this shoot was a celebration of grace, detail, and artistry.

Shot in the heart of Manhattan, at the New York Public Library the editorial unfolded with intentional simplicity: refined textures, natural light cascading through the city skyline, and a designer gown that moved like poetry. Every frame told a story of luxury and confidence—a portrait of a woman stepping into one of the most beautiful seasons of her life.

This session is for the bride who sees beauty in the details, who dreams in textures, and who believes that photography should feel effortless yet iconic.

(Insert hero image here – ideally a dramatic portrait with clean background and strong pose. ALT text: “Luxury bridal portrait in NYC by high-end wedding photographer for New York, Boston, NJ, RI, Dallas and Houston weddings.”)

A Bridal Portrait with Purpose

Bridal portraits are more than a tradition—they’re a legacy. In a world of fleeting moments, this is a pause. An intentional moment to be seen, celebrated, and captured at your most radiant. Whether you're saying “I do” in a Manhattan penthouse, a coastal Rhode Island estate, or under the stars in Dallas, your story deserves to be documented with the same care and craftsmanship as the event itself.

(Insert 2–3 detail shots: hands with ring, close-up of dress texture, bridal bouquet, etc. ALT: “Editorial detail from luxury bridal shoot in NYC for elegant wedding inspiration.”)

Destination-Inspired, Regionally Rooted

Although this editorial session was captured in New York City, I offer wedding photography for couples across the Northeast and Texas—including Boston, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Dallas, and Houston. My approach blends editorial composition with an organic, unobtrusive style—allowing you to be fully present while I document the essence of your celebration.

Every wedding is a collaboration. I work closely with planners, designers, and creative teams to ensure that every image reflects the intentionality behind your day, from your venue to your veil.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful

If you’re planning a luxury wedding in New York, the Northeast, or Texas and are looking for elevated, editorial-style photography with a bespoke experience—I'd love to hear from you.

(Insert call-to-action button or link: “Inquire About Availability” or “View the Portfolio”)

Would you like me to write a short SEO meta description, Instagram caption, or Pinterest pin text too? Also, feel free to share any of the following if you want to personalize it further:

VENDOR TEAM

Photographer  –  Ellen Ashton| Floral – Nava| Planning & Design –GRIT & GOLD | Invitations – EG Lettering | Photo Site – NYPL & Bethesda Terrace – Central Park  |  MUA – Something You | Bridal Retailer – Warren Barron| Dress Designer – Monique Lhuillier | Shoes – Jimmy Choo | Ring – Megan Thorne | Earrings – Oscar de la Renta 

Beka & Michael's Engagement Session | Robert Carr Chapel | Treasured Heart Events | Ellen Ashton Photography

Personal touches are great to incorporate into your engagement session! I especially love them when they are subtle and not so obvious, like the location for example!

What I absolutely love about Beka and Michael’s engagement session is that the photos were taken in his childhood home! This was the most beautiful backyard! I just can’t get over the fountain and green house! It was the perfect backdrop to capture the love that they share in an intimate setting that is special to them!

We had the best time photographing Beka and Michael’s engagement session!

Enjoy!

What to Wear to Your Engagement Session | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographers

I am so excited to share this weeks finds with you! I love this series of “what to wear to your engagement session” because so many of you have reached out to express how helpful it is! Here are this weeks finds! Be sure to click the images if you like what you see so you can shop the post!

YOU NEED THIS DRESS! I am literally in love with it! It is PERFECT for a garden, city, estate or anywhere engagement session! Anyone who wears it will feel like the bell of the ball! It’s amazing and you need it!

I love this classy, casual look! It’s got a fun pop of color with the earrings and I am here for it.

I don’t which of you needs to hear this, but.. BUY THIS DRESS! Ugh, it’s DREAMS!

This Outfit would be perfect for a casual look! It would be perfect for a garden or nature location!

I really LOVE this look too! It’s maybe a little more fancy/casual side but I love it for a city session or maybe even at an art museum setting.

Another absolutely perfect outfit! I would die if one of my brides showed up to her engagement session wearing this look! It’s such a fun dress! It’s perfect and you need it!

LOVE a nurtural outfit! They photograph like a dream! This causal look is perfect!

Maybe it’s the hapless romantic in me, but I love it when brides wear dresses to their engagement session! This outfit is so unique and beautiful! Any girl will feel amazing during her photos wearing it!

What to Wear To You Boudoir Session | Dallas Wedding Photographers | Ellen Ashton Photography

Ladies! I am so excited to share with you some of my favorite finds to wear to your boudoir session!

A lot of my brides are private people, so I wouldn’t dream of showcasing their beautiful boudoir images without their permission.

With that being said, I understand having your photos captured in such an intimate setting can sometimes feel intimidating and vulnerable. But, have no fear, this post is here to help you feel confidant walking into your boudoir session!

What Should I Wear To My Boudoir Session?

For a bridal boudoir session, I think it’s great to wear something that makes you feel beautiful and confidant! Getting your hair and makeup professionally done for your session is a must in my opinion. It helps you feel more confidant which will no doubt translate into your photographs. I LOVE robes for boudoir sessions. There is something really romantic about a long robe dragging the floor or gathered up on the bed that is truly so dreamy and romantic to me. A lot of my boudoir work is romantic and more on the suggestive side rather than forthcoming. I am a huge believer that God makes women and their bodies special and it’s something to be celebrated not exploited. So, I really love outfits that are not too out there but rather romantic and soft. When my brides apply this approach to their outfit choices it inspires me, makes them feel amazing, and results in beautiful imagery you will be proud of!

Complementary Colors

I photograph women of all different shapes, sizes, and colors. As I have mentioned in several of my posts,s it’s so important to wear colors that are not only complementary to your skin tone, but that will look good in photographs. Stilled imagery AKA pictures don’t always show up the same in person as it will on camera. So, it’s important to wear colors that are not going to mess up the integrity of your photographs. Orange and neon colors are by far the colors you want to avoid. Bright colors act as light reflections and that’s not a good thing. Soft, neutral colors always photograph with such beauty. A lot of women like to wear black as well for the boudoir sessions and that is just fine! But remember, that less black is more. Too much black will create muddy shadows that are not always pretty. I’ve listed a lot of examples below that I think will photograph lovely and match a variety of skin tones.

What Should I Bring To My Session

I have created a really good list of things that would be great to bring to your boudoir session!

1. An Heirloom or Your Wedding Vaile

2. One of your soon to be hubbies Shirts

3. A bouquet of flowers or loose blooms

4. A couple of sets of outfits

5. A long amazing robe

6. Baby Wipes (for your feet so you can they don’t get yuck walking on the floors. no one wants black dirt on the bottoms of their feet in their photographs.)

7. Both of your weddings rings if you have them

8. A playlist of songs that make you feel relaxed and confidant

There you have it, ladies! I hope this blog was helpful to you!

Much love,

-E

SEE SOMETHING YOU LIKE? CLICK THE IMAGE TO SHOP THE LOOK! HAPPY SHOPPING!

Lainey's Bridal Session | Robert Carr Chapel | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographer

Alceia & Matthew's Engagement Session | Dallas Arboretum Engagement Session | Ellen Ashton Photography | Dallas Wedding Photographer

Believe it or not, this day was extremely cold! Regardless, these two took the chilly weather and wind like champs! We had an absolute blast photographing these two! I absolutely can’t wait for their Wedding in October!

Wedding Planner: Grit and Gold Events Co.

Florist: Max Owens Designs