collaborative
intentional
calm
I photograph weddings with a mix of structure and spontaneity. Some moments call for a bit of direction, others just need space to happen on their own. My job is knowing the difference.
The result is a gallery that feels natural but elevated. The kind of photos that reflect your energy, your style, and the people you love—without feeling forced or overly perfect.
Some images will feel polished, others full of motion. All of them will feel like you.
I'm calm, direct, and here to make this whole thing feel easy.
From the moment you reach out, I keep things clear and collaborative. I take the time to understand what matters to you, and I don’t just show up on the wedding day and hope for the best. We talk through everything—what you want to feel, what you care about, and how the day will unfold—so when I show up, I’m already tuned in.
On the day itself, I work with a steady presence. I don’t insert myself into every moment, but I’m never far when I’m needed. I read the room, I stay aware, and I document things as they happen with intention and care.
My focus is on people, connection, and atmosphere. I look for the meaningful in-between—the real stuff—and I photograph it in a way that feels polished without feeling posed.
When your gallery is delivered, it will reflect all of that. Not just how everything looked, but how it felt to live it.
- Estella & Calvin
Debbie came all the way from Virginia to Acadia National Park in Maine to shoot our elopement and the photos are even more than we could've ever asked for! She was so professional and did an excellent job of helping us plan out the day to get the perfect shots. I felt so comfortable and beautiful throughout the entire experience, even though I don't typically enjoy getting my photo taken. Debbie went above and beyond, I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a thoughtful and talented photographer.
"I felt so comfortable throughout the entire experience"
My style is a blend of editorial and documentary photography—what I call artfully unposed. It’s refined but never rigid, real without being messy. I approach every wedding with the eye of a storyteller and the instincts of someone who knows when to step in and when to step back. I notice the way people interact, the atmosphere of the space, and how the light moves throughout the day. I compose with intention, but I don’t interrupt what’s naturally unfolding. The result is a gallery of images that feel both polished and emotionally grounded—photographs that reflect the day as it really was, with just enough structure to make it timeless.
I’m drawn to movement, emotion, and the intense energy between people.
SOULFUL
I give direction without turning the moment into a performance.
I pay attention to light, balance, and body language—how things feel, not just how they look.
MODERN
CHIC
1. Reach Out & Say Hello
Start by filling out the contact form and sharing a bit about your day. We’ll connect to make sure we’re a great fit and talk through your vision, priorities, and what matters most to you.
2. Reserve Your Date
Once we’re aligned, you’ll secure your date with a signed agreement and retainer. From there, we dive into planning—location ideas, timelines, and all the details that shape your experience.
3. Plan with Intention
Together we’ll build a custom timeline, choose meaningful spots, and talk through lighting, permits, travel, and anything else needed. You’ll feel fully supported and never overwhelmed.
4. The Big Day
When the day arrives, you get to be fully present while I document the in-between moments, the big emotions, and everything that makes your story yours. Easy, natural, and real.
5. Relive It All
A sneak peek lands within 72 hours, with your full gallery delivered shortly after. You’ll receive beautifully edited, high-resolution images ready to download, print, and relive forever.
Not at all. I’ll give you enough direction to feel comfortable but never enough to feel stiff. I focus more on guiding movement than creating poses. You'll look natural because you'll feel natural.
That’s more common than you think. My job is to help you feel at ease and focus more on each other than the camera. Most of my couples start out camera-shy—and end up forgetting I’m even there.
Yes, I do. I photograph weddings all across the East Coast—from Charleston, South Carolina to Acadia National Park in Maine, and everywhere in between. Travel expenses do apply, and I’ll walk you through what that looks like upfront so there are no surprises.
Yes. I’m happy to offer input on what works best for lighting, photo flow, and breathing room—so you’re not rushed and you actually get to enjoy the day.
I deliver full wedding galleries within 6-8 weeks. You’ll also get a handful of preview images within the first week so you’re not left waiting.
style
documentary
editorial
Want To Learn More?
If you’ve felt a connection to stories, and feelings captured, I’d love to have the opportunity to discuss and answer any questions you may have. Let's get to know one another and see just how amazing we fit together.
@debbieelisaphotography
follow me on INSTA
Based in Virginia and serving Northern Virginia and beyond, I photograph weddings using a mix of editorial and documentary styles. My approach is calm, collaborative, and easygoing. I help you stay present throughout the day while we create images that feel real, beautiful, and full of meaning.
Shenandoah Elopements
king george, va weddings