Updated May 2026

Resources for couples

A curated guide for couples planning a wedding, with practical advice on documentary wedding photography,
engagement sessions, travel, recommended vendors, and choosing a photographer whose approach feels right.


Featured Essays


WHAT IS DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY?

March 2026

A clear explanation of documentary wedding photography, wedding photojournalism, non-interference, real moments, and how to know whether a photographer truly works this way.


How to choose the right photographer

May 2026

A clear guide for couples comparing wedding photographers, with practical advice on style, trust, personality, questions to ask, and choosing someone who feels right.


Mariachi Wedding Moment

May 2026

Image of the Month: Just After the Ceremony – A documentary wedding photograph made just after the ceremony at Omni La Mansión del Rio in San Antonio, with mariachis, mo


What to Expect from a Documentary Wedding Photographer

May 2026

A practical guide to working with a documentary wedding photographer: how I capture real moments, when I get involved, and how couples can relax and enjoy their day.


Image Essays


Waiting in the Dark | Father and Daughter Wedding Moment

Dec 2022

A quiet father-daughter moment before the ceremony, photographed in a dark entranceway at South Congress Hotel as anticipation built just before the walk down the aisle.


The Balance of a moment

Sep 2023

A quiet wedding image study about the decisive moment, composition, figure-to-ground, and how patience allows a photograph to come together naturally.


A Quiet Pause in the Night | November Image Essay

November 2024

A documentary wedding image about stillness, light, and the quieter moments that often stay with us after the day is over.


STEPPING INTO THE LIGHT

January 2026

A San Fernando Cathedral wedding moment about transition, anticipation, family, mariachis, and the shift from private ceremony to public celebration.


Documentary Wedding Photography



Why I Use Leica M Rangefinders (and Q3 46) for Weddings

April 2026

Wedding photographer Philip Thomas shares why Leica M rangefinders and Q3 43 cameras help him capture authentic wedding moments with warmth and soul.


0261 L1004382A flower girl with the bride to the right and bridesmaids counter balancing the frame photographed at The Astorian, Houston, Texas

Image of the month

September 2023







Los Angeles Leica Wedding Photographer Philip Thomas

Available to travel

September 2023









Downtown San Antonio Engagement Session-Leica photographer-Philip Thomas Photography

10 Locations to Take Awesome Engagement Photos in San Antonio

June 2023







Rain pours down South Congress Hotel Austin Wedding Ceremony and reception L1050013

2022 favorite wedding images of the year

January 2023





Bride and bridesmaids cross street from St Anthony Hotel San Antonio with skyline in background

A Guide to Documentary Wedding Photography

September 2023







WPJA Award winning image engagement

Recommended Vendors

April 2024