✨ A Family-Filled Summer Wedding for Steven & Kayla

Rachael Shine
Dec 17, 2025
2 min read

Some weddings feel extra special — the kind where you’re not just the photographer, but also the family cheering from behind the camera. That was exactly the case when my cousin, Steven, married his beautiful bride, Kayla, on a hot August Monday in 2025. 💍🌿

The whole day took place at her grandparents’ home near Ogden, Utah — a cozy, familiar setting surrounded by people who adore them. And even though it was toasty out (classic August), the love, laughter, and shade from the trees made it feel like the sweetest summer celebration.

Six men dressed in formal attire, smiling outdoors. The groom in blue with a boutonnière is centered; others wear cream vests with red ties. Trees in background.

💛 1. A Day Centered on Family

One of my favorite parts of this wedding was watching little Emma — Steven’s daughter — shine throughout the day. She adores her dad, and seeing her excitement as she got to be part of everything was such a tender highlight.

From getting ready moments to stepping into family photos, Emma brought so much joy to every scene. Weddings with kids always feel special, but when the kiddo is part of your family too? It hits different. 🥹✨

White chairs on a lawn, decorated with orange and white ribbons and green floral arrangements. Bright and sunny outdoor setting.

📸 2. Photographing While Training an Associate

This wedding was extra unique because I was also training my associate photographer, Wyatt.

There’s nothing quite like showing someone the ropes during a real wedding day — the pacing, the lighting adjustments, the quick decision-making… it’s all part of the magic.

Wyatt jumped in seamlessly, and it was fun walking him through moments as they happened. Teaching while shooting keeps me on my toes in the best way — and weddings with family make it even more meaningful.

😂 3. A Surprise Mini Photographer Appearance

Speaking of photographers… at one point my nephew, Dakota, grabbed one of my cameras and decided he wanted to get in on the action too. Honestly? He snapped a couple pretty adorable photos.

Was I momentarily nervous? Yes.

Was it worth the giggles and memories? Absolutely.

Every wedding needs at least one unexpected cameo, and Dakota delivered. 📷😆

🌿 4. The Beauty of a Backyard Wedding

Silk flowers in orange, blue, and white with green leaves, arranged on a wooden chair. Background is blurred, creating a serene mood.

Kayla’s grandparents’ home was the perfect backdrop for a summer ceremony — shaded trees, handwritten details, soft light filtering through the yard. Backyard weddings have a way of feeling intimate and heartfelt, and this one was no exception.

It’s the kind of wedding that reminds you that love doesn’t need a huge venue… just the right people.

🌅 5. A Hot Day That Ended in Pure Joy

Yes, it was an August Monday.

Yes, it was warm enough that we all drank our weight in water bottles.

But honestly? It was beautiful.

Every detail — from the setting to the company — made the heat melt into the background. Steven and Kayla were glowing (and not just from the sun), and capturing those moments was the best part of my day.

A wooden barrel with metal bands sits by a brick wall. Nearby are potted plants. The image is in black and white, creating a vintage feel.

Final Thoughts

Photographing family weddings is a special kind of honor. You’re documenting memories that your loved ones will look back on for years — and you’re experiencing the day right alongside them.

Steven and Kayla’s wedding was fun, heartfelt, chaotic in all the best ways, full of kids running around, and filled with love that felt warm long after the sun set. 💛

And getting to be photographer, cousin, teacher, and cheerleader all at once? I wouldn’t trade it for anything.