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The Moments You Can’t Script (and the Surprise We Didn’t See Coming)
There is a specific kind of silence that happens right before a bride walks down the aisle. It’s not a quiet silence—it’s a joyful solitude. It’s filled with the sound of a rustling dress, a sharp inhale of breath, and maybe a distant bird chirping outside. In that moment, I’m usually holding my breath right along with you. My husband is adjusting his lens to catch the exact second your partner’s expression shifts from nervous to awestruck. We’ve been lucky enough to stand in
christaschiesslpho
Mar 273 min read


Five Apps & Services You Need in Your Photography Business
If you're not using these five apps in your business, then you're doing it wrong. For real though, no shame if you're not using these apps! Your journey into entrepreneurship is happening in divine order. Let's just say being an entrepreneur is all about the work-life balance. IMRITE?? Whether you're full time or part time photographer, these apps and services will take you to a whole new level! If you are either looking to make your business a legit business, or needing help
christaschiesslpho
Mar 236 min read


You're engaged! Now what?
Essential guide for newly engaged couples covering first steps in wedding planning, from setting dates to choosing photographers and managing budgets.
christaschiesslpho
Mar 236 min read


Why Hiring a Husband-and-Wife Photo & Video Team is the Secret to a Stress-Free Nebraska Wedding
Should you hire a Nebraska wedding photo and video team? Discover why a husband-and-wife duo is the secret to a stress-free, joyful wedding day. From a consistent 'natural and timeless, with a filmy call-back' aesthetic to a seamless, unified timeline, we’re sharing how our 'team-first' approach ensures your memories are captured perfectly without the vendor chaos. Learn the benefits of booking a Lincoln and Omaha wedding team for your big day!
christaschiesslpho
Mar 232 min read


Lakeside Luxury: A Guide to Getting Married at A View on West Shores in Waterloo, NE
Planning a wedding at A View on West Shores? Discover the secrets to this modern Waterloo, NE venue from an expert Omaha wedding photo & video team. We’re sharing the best on-campus portrait spots—from the light-filled Atrium to the urban 'Tunnel'—plus pro tips on navigating timed dock access for iconic lakeside sunset photos. Get the 'attention to detail' you need for a stress-free, joyful day. Explore our professional guide to A View on West Shores weddings!
christaschiesslpho
Mar 233 min read


What’s In My Bag: The Gear That Powers Christa Schiessl Photo Co.
A photographer in a cozy knit sweater and ripped jeans holds a camera, ready to capture moments. Let’s Talk Shop If you’re a newer photographer looking to go full-time, or even if you’re just starting to build your "dream kit," you know the struggle. You’re balancing the desire for the best glass with the reality of a budget—and let’s be honest, the "gear envy" on Instagram is real! When I started Christa Schiessl Photo Co. (aka Christa Schiessl Photography LLC) , I learned q
christaschiesslpho
Mar 185 min read


Beyond the camera: Why Your Wedding Photographer & videographer is Your Biggest Investment
The cake gets eaten and the flowers fade—but your photos are the only part of your wedding budget that grows in value over time. 🥂 Stop settling for a "highlight reel" and find a photographer who captures how your day actually felt. From vibe checks to the magic of a photo + video team, I’m breaking down how to choose the person who will preserve your legacy. Ready to tell your story? 📸
christaschiesslpho
Mar 165 min read


The "Detail Day" Guide: How to Prep Your Wedding Details for Pinterest-Worthy Photos
The Magic is in the Details You’ve spent months—maybe even years—carefully selecting every single piece of your wedding day. From the delicate lace on your veil to the exact shade of ink on your invitations, these tiny details are the prologue to your love story. As a wedding photographer, I live for "Detail Hour." It’s that quiet time at the start of the day where I get to creatively document the "pretty things" before the whirlwind of the ceremony begins. But I know what yo
christaschiesslpho
Mar 66 min read


Beyond the Pose—What to Actually Wear for Your Engagement Session from a professional wedding photographer
The "what do i wear?" Struggle You finally have the ring, the date is set, and your engagement session is on the calendar! But the moment you get those session details in your inbox, the "outfit spiral" begins. I know the feeling—you’re scrolling through Pinterest at 11:00 PM, looking at these gorgeous couples, and then looking at your own closet feeling like you have nothing that fits the "vibe." You want to look like the best version of yourself, but you also don’t want to
christaschiesslpho
Mar 54 min read


Best Bridesmaid Gifts of 2026 & 2027 (Thoughtful, Modern & Actually Loved)
Shop the Post: Bridesmaid Gift Favorites Short on time? Here’s a quick roundup of the bridesmaid-approved favorites featured in this post—all easy to order and perfect for proposal boxes or wedding-week gifting: • Lavender soy bridesmaid proposal candles • Award-winning under-eye masks for wedding-week glow •Pearl hair claw clips with ribbon • Satin pajama sets for getting ready • Travel jewelry cases (perfect for destination weddings) • Dainty gold necklaces for everyday wea
christaschiesslpho
Feb 64 min read


How to Choose a Wedding Photographer If You Don’t Love Being in Front of the Camera
If the idea of being photographed all day makes you feel a little uneasy, you’re not alone. One of the most common things couples tell us is, “We’re so awkward in front of the camera.” And honestly? That’s completely normal. You don’t need to be a model or know how to pose to have beautiful wedding photos. You just need the right photographer —one who knows how to guide you, put you at ease, and capture moments that feel real instead of forced. If you’re planning your wedding
christaschiesslpho
Jan 263 min read


What It’s Really Like to Work With Us on Your Wedding Day
Introduction If you’re worried about feeling awkward in front of the camera, stressed about timelines, or unsure how photography and video actually fit into your wedding day — you’re not alone. Most of our couples tell us the same thing before we ever pick up a camera. Here’s what it’s actually like to work with us, from the first email to the final gallery. Christa at Hidden Valley Golf Course in Lincoln, NE capturing bridal party photos. Before the Wedding: Calm, Clarity,
christaschiesslpho
Jan 262 min read


Mollie & Ethan’s October Wedding at the Newman Center in Lincoln, NE
Mollie & Ethan's October Wedding in Lincoln, NE. Showcasing a catholic wedding at the Newman Center and celebration at Junto Winery.
christaschiesslpho
Jan 264 min read


A Dreamy Wedding in Cancun MX: Audra and Devin's Enchanting Day at Haven Resort
Some days I look back on Audra and Devin's wedding in Cancun, Mexico, and think that it must have been a dream. This was one of the pinch moments of my career, and boy, was their day a beautiful celebration filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Haven Resort, their special day was on December 14, 2025, and the couple brought together family and friends from all across the United States to a tropical paradise in Mexico.
christaschiesslpho
Jan 148 min read


The Newest Venues to Checkout near Lincoln, NE
Are you searching for something more modern? For a really long time, Lincoln, Nebraska was known for church ceremonies paired with traditional, sometimes stuffy, reception venues. If you ventured outside of town, rustic barn weddings dominated the scene. And while those venues still have their place, modern couples today are craving something different—clean lines, intentional design, and spaces that feel elevated yet welcoming. The good news? You have options. The Acreage |
christaschiesslpho
Jan 52 min read


Top 3 Outdoor Locations for Family Photos in Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln has stole my heart Lincoln has stole my heart. As many of you know, I am born and raised a Lincolnnite. So I truly know the in's and out's of Lincoln and the surrounding areas. So here are three of my top locations inside of the Lincoln city limits, and I'm going to drop two bonus locations that I love that are both about 15 minutes outside of Lincoln. #1 pioneers Park This is literally one of the most versatile locations year round to have your photo session at. In t
christaschiesslpho
Nov 4, 20252 min read


Amazon Fall Family Outfit Inpso
Can you feel it? I know it may still be end of summer, but I can feel the fall weather just right around the corner. The crisp weather, the beautiful changing leaves, Starbuck's PSL (or maybe you're a Scooters gal, no shame, I'm the Mill fan actually), and let's not forget about FOOTBALL---GBR!!. But now is the perfect time to start planning your family photo session! The beautiful foliage, cozy sweaters, and warm hues of autumn create a picturesque backdrop for capturing ti
christaschiesslpho
Nov 4, 20253 min read


A Dreamy Fall Wedding at Seven Willows Venue in Hickman, NE | Christa Schiessl Photography
Featuring: Seven Willows Venue in Hickman, NE We have officially entered into the 'ber's, so I suppose that means fall is upon us! Check out this beauty, nestled just 20 minutes south of Lincoln, NE, the brand-new Seven Willows Venue in Hickman offers a stunning countryside location for couples looking for the perfect backdrop to say “I do.” As a wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to capture weddings in some of the most beautiful venues in Nebraska, but this one tru
christaschiesslpho
Nov 4, 20253 min read


NEW WEDDING VENUE ALERT! You're not going to want to miss out touring The Acreage in Palmyra, Nebraska
Discover Nebraska's Most Luxurious New Wedding Venue: THE ACREAGE Just a short drive away from Lincoln or Omaha, this new wedding venue is located in the vast, open plains of Palmyra, Nebraska, The Acreage is redefining outdoor wedding venues in the region by differing themselves from what you typically see in the outdoor wedding venues in Nebraska. And no, this is not a barn! They officially opened this month (October 2024), and it's a 12,000-square-foot modern masterpiece
christaschiesslpho
Nov 1, 20252 min read


You're Engaged! Now what?
You're engaged! Here is some guidance for you! Since the moment you said "yes", I bet your messages are being flooded, and you're doing all the searches on Pinterest! It is so overwhelming to be starting anything out, let alone planning your wedding! Just remember that you don't eat the elephant all at once, you take it one bite at a time. If you already feel behind, or like you're lost in all the advice, and things you "should" be doing (I say this with air quotes because yo
christaschiesslpho
Oct 31, 20256 min read

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