Posts in Bridal Portraits
Haven Farm Knightdale NC
 

Haven Farm Wedding Venue in Knightdale NC

Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography, captured this styled wedding at Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC, on May 20, 2024. The photo shoot was directed by Heart of NC Weddings Editorial Shoot Creative Director Plume Events for publication in the magazine’s 2025 issue. Model Leanna Norris flawlessly worked every angle while five professional North Carolina wedding photographers snapped frame after frame. This collaborative shoot—designed as an educational exercise rather than a competition—highlighted the variety of wedding photography styles available.

Heart of NC Weddings described Amanda’s images of Haven Farm as “true-to-life photography,” with colors that appear authentic or slightly more vibrant. We couldn’t agree more. For this photo shoot, Amanda used a Sony A7 III and a Sony A7 IV. Her artistic eye and natural approach beautifully documented the bride in custom gowns by Be Everthine, complemented by peachy wedding florals from Heritage Flowers.

Haven Farm: More Than a Beautiful Barn Wedding Venue

The natural beauty of Haven Farm is boosted by the modern architecture of its event barn and open-air pavilion. Couples who marry here enjoy 40 acres of private, peaceful North Carolina countryside on their big day. More than just another pretty barn wedding venue, Haven Farm operates by the philosophy “Grow Well. Give Well. Live Well.” Located less than 30 minutes from downtown Raleigh, it’s a destination where people gather over coffee or celebrate life’s milestones.

If you’re a couple who loves nature and the outdoors, Haven Farm wedding venue is the perfect setting for your special day. Say “I do” in the dreamy meadows before raising a glass with loved ones in the modern barn. This nature-inspired venue welcomes all, from grand weddings to intimate wellness retreats.

Keep scrolling to see more stunning images by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography, and learn more about Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC.

Haven Farm wedding venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for a plated dinner. Image by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography.

Styled Shoot at Haven Farm Wedding Venue

This was Amanda’s first time photographing at Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC. Here’s what she had to say about the venue:

“I loved the brightness and openness of the barn,” recalls Amanda. “It has big sliding glass doors that let in lots of light and can be completely opened to make the space feel really connected to the grounds. The barn is also surrounded by beautiful woods that give a completely different look to the space and give us as photographers a lot of versatility. Also there is an incredible, manicured, little line of trees next to the barn that is just perfect for portraits or a first look. We shot bridal portraits there and it was stunning.”

Amanda says styled shoots are valuable for photographers and vendors because they offer an opportunity to experiment and be creative in ways they might not be able to on a real wedding day.

If a vendor wants to showcase work in a new style they haven’t had the chance to market yet, or a photographer wants to try a new technique or attract clients who see themselves reflected in their work, a styled shoot provides that opportunity. It’s also a great way to build connections with other wedding vendors by exchanging services and collaborating on something creative that benefits everyone.

Model Leanna Norris looked beautiful in custom wedding dresses and veils by Be Everthine. Image by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography.

Learn More: Haven Farm Wedding Venue

Haven Farm is an all-inclusive barn wedding venue offering both indoor and outdoor event spaces. The massive, white-washed barn features vaulted ceilings and exposed wood beams. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light. A striking chandelier, made from the wood of a tree that once grew on the property, hangs at the center of the barn’s vaulted ceiling. The chandelier adds a warm, country-chic touch to the expansive space. Beyond the climate-controlled barn, Haven Farm wedding venue includes an open-air pavilion, orchard gardens, and picturesque pastures. Weather permitting, the outdoor fire pit is a guest favorite, perfect for toasting s’mores or smoking cigars under the stars.

Haven Farm wedding venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for a plated dinner. Couples have access to the farm from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on their wedding day. The venue also features a professional catering prep kitchen, a full-service bar team, parking attendants, and even a 30-passenger shuttle bus to transport guests.

Getting Ready at Haven Farm

The Homestead, a private home at Haven Farm wedding venue, provides a comfortable space for parties to get ready. It includes a suite, two bedrooms, restrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. For a more rustic-chic experience, the venue also offers a converted horse stable as a second getting-ready space. The stable features restrooms, a kitchenette, a changing room, TVs, and games—giving a relaxed and stylish spot to prepare for the big day.

Haven Farm Wedding Details

Y’all, can we please take a moment to appreciate this stunning wedding cake by Sugar Euphoria? If you haven’t already heard, Sugar Euphoria is one of the top wedding cake and dessert caterers in North Carolina. Led by owner and head chef Randi Smith, the bakery is known for creating timeless confections with a modern twist and exquisite flavors. And let’s not forget the macarons—they are absolutely adorable and divine!

Heritage Flowers truly understood the assignment with these warm and elegant spring wedding florals. The combination of antique roses and lush greenery creates a dreamy, secret garden vibe. These arrangements scream romance and cottagecore, and Amanda’s camera captured every blooming detail.

True-to-Life Photography by Amanda Law

Heart of NC Weddings described Amanda Law’s images of Haven Farm wedding venue as “true-to-life photography.” But what does that mean? Simply put, her photos capture colors that look authentic—sometimes with just a touch of added vibrancy to enhance the beauty of the moment.

Amanda has been smitten with photographing weddings ever since her first gig. She felt enchanted by the love, raw emotions and warm fuzzies that come with major life celebrations.

“I thrive on helping you tell your unique tale, not just for yourselves but for generations to come,” explains Amanda. “I become your silent witness, capturing those bursts of uncontainable joy, those quiet and tender moments that take your breath away. Together, we weave a vibrant tapestry that will transport you back to that magical day, over and over again.”

Amanda Law is a partner photographer of Fancy This Photography and a beloved member of the team. Keep scrolling to see more stunning images of Haven Farm wedding venue by Amanda.

Haven Farm Wedding Details 

We are obsessed with this stationery suite by Wilkinson Creative Co. From the curvy edges and thoughtful color palette to the vintage inner-envelope print, it’s a gorgeous design from top to bottom.

Model Leanna Norris looked beautiful in custom wedding dresses and veils by Be Everthine. The Bardot beauty services created two unique hair and makeup looks to complement each gown, while accessories from Jewelry Authority added the perfect last touch.

NC Weddings by Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography

“My focus is on creating imagery that paints a vivid picture of your love, your story, and the essence of who you are,” Amanda says. “I’m not interested in cookie-cutter approaches—I’m all about capturing the real, the authentic, and the beautifully unique moments that make your love shine.”

Couples who work with Amanda don’t just get a photographer—they gain a dedicated partner who goes the extra mile to make their wedding experience a whimsical and unforgettable adventure.

Heart of NC Weddings featured Amanda Law’s images of Haven Farm wedding venue in the 2025 issue of the magazine.

Couples who work with Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography don't just get a photographer, but a partner in crime who's willing to go the extra mile to make your wedding unforgettable.

Photography // Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography

Publication // Heart of NC Weddings 

Creative Director // Amy Plant-Perdue of Plume Events

Venue // Haven Farm

Florals // Heritage Flowers

Wedding Dresses & Veils // Be Everthine

Jewelry // Jewelry Authority

Hair & Makeup // The Bardot

Cake // Sugar Euphoria

Tabletop Rentals // Party Reflections

Additional Rentals // Greenhouse Picker Sisters

Stationer // Wilkinson Creative Co.

Model // Leanna Norris

Tan // GLO Spray Tans

 
Jessica's Bridal Portrait Session at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, NC
 
tanglewood winston salem garden bridal portrait photography

Jessica’s Bridal Portrait Session at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, NC

Photographed by Courtney Collins

Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Location

When it comes to capturing the ethereal beauty of a bride amidst nature's splendor, the location you choose becomes an essential element in creating truly remarkable bridal portraits. Each outdoor setting offers its unique charm and ambiance, setting the stage for a captivating visual story. In the subsequent section, we will delve into the timeless beauty of Tanglewood Gardens, a location that exemplifies the enchantment and allure of outdoor bridal photography. So, let's explore this captivating garden and discover how it unveils the perfect backdrop for your bridal portraits.

Capturing the Timeless Beauty of Tanglewood Gardens

When it comes to capturing the ethereal beauty of a bride amidst nature's splendor, the location you choose becomes an essential element in creating truly remarkable bridal portraits. Each outdoor setting offers its unique charm and ambiance, setting the stage for a captivating visual story. In the subsequent section, we will delve into the timeless beauty of Tanglewood Gardens, a location that exemplifies the enchantment and allure of outdoor bridal photography.

Nestled within the rolling hills of the countryside, Tanglewood Gardens stands as a haven of serenity and natural magnificence. Its lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and meandering pathways create a picturesque scene that is reminiscent of something out of a fairytale. With its meticulously manicured gardens and breathtaking landscapes, this hidden gem becomes a playground for creativity, allowing photographers to capture truly enchanting moments.

One of the standout features of Tanglewood Gardens is its timeless beauty. Whether it's the splendor of the blooming flowers in the spring or the rich palette of autumn leaves, this location offers an ever-changing backdrop that seamlessly complements the bride's beauty. The vibrant colors and textures found within the gardens provide a visually striking contrast against the bride's gown, enhancing her radiance and elegance.

Moreover, Tanglewood Gardens boasts a variety of picturesque spots that allow photographers to play with different perspectives and create unique compositions. From the charming gazebo nestled amidst a sea of flowers to the tranquil ponds reflecting the surrounding foliage, this diverse landscape offers an array of stunning backdrops that add depth and dimension to each image.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Tanglewood Gardens also provides an intangible sense of tranquility and serenity. The peaceful ambiance of this natural sanctuary allows the bride to relax and embrace the moment, resulting in effortlessly beautiful and authentic photographs. The calmness of the surroundings becomes a soothing element that adds a touch of grace and elegance to every image captured.

By choosing Tanglewood Gardens as the setting for your bridal photography, you are not only capturing a moment in time but also creating timeless memories that will be cherished for years to come. From the captivating beauty of the surroundings to the peaceful atmosphere that permeates the air, this enchanting garden truly embodies the essence of natural splendor.

Embracing Natural Lighting and Scenic Backdrops

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Tanglewood Gardens also provides an intangible sense of tranquility and serenity. The peaceful ambiance of this natural sanctuary allows the bride to relax and embrace the moment, resulting in effortlessly beautiful and authentic photographs. The calmness of the surroundings becomes a soothing element that adds a touch of grace and elegance to every image captured.

By choosing Tanglewood Gardens as the setting for your bridal photography, you are not only capturing a moment in time but also creating timeless memories that will be cherished for years to come. From the captivating beauty of the surroundings to the peaceful atmosphere that permeates the air, this enchanting garden truly embodies the essence of natural splendor. So, as we continue our journey of embracing nature's allure, let's now explore the importance of natural lighting and scenic backdrops in further enhancing the beauty of your bridal portraits.

Embracing natural lighting and scenic backdrops is essential for creating breathtaking bridal portraits. Natural light has a unique quality that cannot be replicated by any artificial lighting source. It washes over the bride, illuminating her features and casting a soft, flattering glow. Whether it's the gentle morning sun or the warm hues of a sunset, natural light adds a natural and ethereal quality to the photographs, enhancing the overall beauty of the bride and the surroundings.

Furthermore, incorporating scenic backdrops into the bridal portraits adds depth and visual interest. Tanglewood Gardens offers a variety of picturesque landscapes, including flowing streams, vibrant flower beds, and lush greenery. These stunning elements create captivating backgrounds that not only complement the bride but also provide a context that tells a story. The lush garden setting becomes a character in itself, enhancing the narrative of the bridal photographs and creating a truly immersive experience.

Incorporating Natural Elements into the Bridal Portraits

Incorporating natural elements into the bridal portraits takes the experience to a whole new level. By seamlessly integrating elements from nature, such as flowers, trees, or even a gentle breeze, the photographs become more than just static images; they become living, breathing memories. These natural elements bring a sense of freshness and authenticity to the bridal portraits, capturing the true essence of the moment and the beauty that lies within it.

One way to incorporate natural elements is through the use of flowers. With Tanglewood Gardens' vibrant flower beds as the backdrop, the bride can hold a bouquet of freshly picked blooms, adding a pop of color and a touch of nature to the overall composition. The delicate petals and soft fragrance of the flowers not only enhance the visual appeal but also create a sensory experience, turning the bridal portraits into an immersive journey for both the viewer and the subject.

Another way to integrate natural elements is by embracing the play of light and shadows. Utilizing the natural lighting available at Tanglewood Gardens, the photographer can capture breathtaking shots that showcase the bride's radiance as sunlight filters through the foliage. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the portraits, highlighting the natural beauty of the bride and the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, incorporating scenic backdrops into the bridal portraits adds depth and visual interest. Tanglewood Gardens offers a variety of picturesque landscapes, including flowing streams, vibrant flower beds, and lush greenery. These stunning elements create captivating backgrounds that not only complement the bride but also provide a context that tells a story. The lush garden setting becomes a character in itself, enhancing the narrative of the bridal photographs and creating a truly immersive experience.

Incorporating natural lighting and scenic backdrops into your bridal portraits sets the stage for the next step: incorporating natural elements into the composition of the photographs. By including elements such as fallen leaves, a winding path, or a gentle breeze rustling the bride's veil, the photographs come alive with movement and a sense of spontaneity. These natural elements add an organic touch to the portraits, making them unique and unforgettable.

In conclusion, embracing nature's splendor in bridal photography goes beyond just capturing beautiful scenery. By incorporating natural elements into the bridal portraits, such as flowers, natural light, and scenic backdrops, the photographs become a true reflection of the moment, capturing the essence of the bride and her surroundings. The result is a collection of stunning images that not only showcase the beauty of the bride but also tell a story and create an immersive experience for both the viewer and the subject.

In the quest to capture the timeless beauty of a bride, why confine ourselves to traditional settings? By stepping beyond the confines of four walls, we unlock a world of enchantment and splendor that only nature can provide. From the sweeping landscapes of Tanglewood Gardens to the ethereal glow of natural lighting, the possibilities are endless. Incorporating the elements of the natural world into bridal portraits adds a touch of whimsy and magic that cannot be replicated in a studio.

Let us remember that it is in nature where elegance meets romance, and where the extraordinary is found in the ordinary. It is here, amidst blooming flowers and dancing light, that a bride's radiance truly shines.

 
Elevating Bridal Photography: A Stunning Photo Session at The Cornealius Properties
 

Elevating Bridal Photography: A Stunning Photo Session at The Cornealius Properties

Photographed by Nikki

Elevating Bridal Photography: A Stunning Photo Session at The Cornealius Properties

Every bride wants to feel beautiful on her wedding day. And what better way to capture that beauty than through photography? Bridal photography is all about capturing the essence of the bride's beauty, but how can you take it to the next level? In this article, we'll take you through a stunning photo session at The Cornealius Properties, where we'll share our tips and techniques for elevating bridal photography. From choosing the perfect venue to understanding lighting and posing techniques, we'll show you how to create jaw-dropping bridal photographs that tell a story and capture the true essence of the bride's beauty. So sit tight and get ready to learn how to elevate your bridal photography to a whole new level.

Choosing the Perfect Venue for a Bridal Photo Session

One important aspect of creating stunning bridal photographs is choosing the perfect venue. The venue should be more than just a backdrop – it should enhance the beauty of the bride and her wedding dress. When selecting a venue, consider the style and theme of the wedding. Is it modern or classic? Rustic or glam? The venue should complement the overall aesthetic of the wedding.

Another factor to consider is the lighting. Natural light is ideal for creating soft, romantic images, while indoor or nighttime shots may require additional lighting equipment. When scouting a location, pay attention to how the light falls in different areas. Look for spots with diffused lighting, such as shaded areas or overcast days, to create a dreamy, ethereal look. And don't be afraid to experiment with different lighting techniques, like backlighting or using a reflector to bounce light onto the bride's face.

Choosing the right venue and understanding lighting are just a few of the key elements to creating stunning bridal photographs. But with these tips and some creativity, you can elevate your bridal photography to new heights and capture the true essence of the bride's beauty.

The Importance of Lighting in Bridal Photography

When it comes to bridal photography, lighting is one of the most important aspects to consider. The right lighting can accentuate the bride's beauty and create a dreamy, romantic ambiance. As you scout locations for your photo shoot, pay close attention to the lighting in each area. If possible, try to shoot during the golden hour, when the sun is low in the sky and creates a soft, warm glow.

If you're shooting indoors or at night, you may need to bring additional lighting equipment to achieve the desired effect. Consider using softbox lights to create diffused light or a reflector to bounce light onto the bride's face.

Experimenting with different lighting techniques can lead to some truly stunning results. Backlighting, for example, can create a halo effect around the bride and add an ethereal quality to the photos. Using a reflector to bounce light onto the bride's face can help to soften harsh shadows and create a more even complexion.

By understanding the role of lighting in bridal photography and experimenting with different techniques, you can create truly breathtaking shots that highlight the bride's beauty. Now that you know how to set up the right lighting, let's explore some posing techniques to truly showcase the bride's radiance.,

Posing Techniques to Highlight the Bride's Beauty

After setting up the perfect lighting for your bridal photography session, it's time to focus on posing the bride to highlight her beauty. One popular technique is to create depth in the shot by having the bride stand with one shoulder towards the camera and the other shoulder angled away. This creates a flattering slimming effect while showcasing both her face and dress.

Another effective pose is to have the bride turn her head slightly to the side and look over her shoulder towards the camera. This creates a sense of intimacy and mystery while highlighting the back of her dress and any intricate detailing.

Posing the bride with her hands and arms can also make a big difference in the overall feel of the photo. Encourage her to hold her bouquet at her waist rather than up near her chest, as this creates a more relaxed and natural look. Similarly, having her lightly touch or hold onto her dress can help create movement and add a dynamic element to the shot.

By using these posing techniques, you can create photographs that not only showcase the beauty of the bride but also tell a story. Next, let's explore how you can use your bridal photographs to create a narrative that captures the essence of your special day.,

Creating a Story with your Bridal Photographs

By capturing a variety of poses and angles, you can use your bridal photographs to create a narrative that tells the story of your special day. Consider the sequence of the photos and how they flow together to create a cohesive story. Start with getting ready photos, move on to the ceremony, and end with the reception. This creates a natural progression of events that will help tell the story.

Pay attention to the details in your photos, such as the flowers, the bride’s dress, and the scenery. These small details can help tell the story of the day and add depth to your photographs. Consider capturing candid moments, such as the bride laughing with her bridesmaids or the groom sharing a moment with his father. These moments can add emotion and authenticity to your photos, helping to create a story that truly captures the essence of the day.

By using these techniques and paying attention to the details, you can create a series of bridal photographs that not only showcase the beauty of the bride but also tell a story. With these photographs, you will be able to look back on your special day and relive each moment as it happened.

Now that you have captured the perfect bridal photographs, it is time to edit them to perfection. With these editing tips, you can enhance the beauty of your photos and create jaw-dropping images that will last a lifetime.,

Editing Tips for Jaw-Dropping Bridal Photographs

To truly elevate bridal photography, it's important to not only capture stunning shots in the moment but also to enhance them through editing. When it comes to editing bridal photographs, less is often more. Resist the temptation to apply heavy filters or dramatic cropping, and instead focus on subtle adjustments that enhance the beauty of the image without detracting from the subject.

Start by adjusting the exposure and contrast as needed to ensure that the bride's dress and features are properly highlighted. Softening the edges of the photograph can also help to give it a romantic and dreamy feel. Play with the color balance to ensure that the hues are true to life, but don't be afraid to experiment with warm or cool tones to give the image a certain mood.

When it comes to individual shots of the bride, pay attention to the details. Remove any unsightly blemishes or stray hairs, but don't over-edit to the point of distorting the bride's natural features. For group shots, make sure that everyone is properly aligned and in focus.

With these simple editing techniques, you can take your bridal photographs from beautiful to breathtaking. Up next, we'll take a look at how one bride included her furry friend in her special day – and how the resulting photographs are absolutely adorable.,

A bride and her dog, Phoebe, a golden labrador

When it comes to capturing the essence of a bride on her special day, it's important to pay attention to the details. But sometimes, it's the unexpected elements that really make a photo session stand out.

For one bride, her beloved golden labrador, Phoebe, was just as much a part of her wedding day as anyone else. The resulting photographs of the bride and her furry friend are nothing short of heartwarming.

While including an animal in a photo session can add an element of unpredictability, it's important to ensure that the pet is well-behaved and comfortable in the environment. In this case, the bride made sure that Phoebe was comfortable and calm, resulting in some truly stunning photos.

The bride's dress and hair were flawless, but it was the way she interacted with her dog that really brought the photos to life.

By capturing these special moments, the photographer was able to elevate the already-stunning bridal photography to something truly unforgettable. It goes to show that sometimes, it's the unexpected elements that truly make a photo session stand out.

Elevating bridal photography is not just about capturing the beauty of the bride, but also about creating a story and atmosphere that will last a lifetime. By selecting the perfect venue, understanding lighting, and experimenting with different poses and editing techniques, you can create stunning photographs that capture the essence of the bride's beauty. So why settle for average when you can aim for extraordinary? Take these techniques and make them your own, and keep practicing to become a master bridal photographer. As Ansel Adams once said, "You don't take a photograph, you make it."