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Stories Behind the Lens

Told From the Other Side of the Camera

This is where I share the “why” behind every photo I take. Not just what I shoot—but what it means to me, and what it meant to them.

insights

Business insights and articles written by our team of world-class professionals

Photography
Dontavious Chesson

Top 19 Wedding Guest Complaints & How To Avoid Them!

Creating a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience for your guests is essential in ensuring that your special day is cherished by all who attend. This comprehensive guide will discuss the top 19 wedding guest complaints and provide practical solutions to enhance the overall guest experience, allowing you and your loved ones to celebrate your union with joy and satisfaction. We know that your wedding guest experience isn’t the first aspect that comes to mind, but it should be high on your priority list if you like avoiding wedding complaints from your guest.

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Dontavious Chesson
Editing
Dontavious Chesson

The Difference Between Photo Editing and Photo Retouching

In today’s digital age, almost every photo we see has been touched up in some way or the other. Whether removing blemishes, adjusting the color, or removing unwanted elements from an image, photo editing and retouching have become essential skills for photographers, designers, and marketers alike.

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Dontavious Chesson
Man sitting in video recording studio with blackmagic equipment as a cinematographer
Business
Dontavious Chesson

What is a cinematographer?

As a cinematographer, my role is to visually interpret the script and bring it to life through lighting, composition, and camera movement. It’s like being a visual storyteller, using the camera as a paintbrush to create a cinematic experience that immerses the audience in the story. My job starts before filming even begins, during pre-production.

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Dontavious Chesson
Photography
Dontavious Chesson

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Photographer

If you’ve started your search for the perfect photographer, you’ve probably laid eyes on some list that covers specific questions you “need” to ask as potential photographers. Those are all fine and great to consider, but it doesn’t matter what equipment they use. It shouldn’t be the first question you ask when hiring a photographer. The photographer may have the best equipment that money can buy, but the photographer doesn’t have the fundamentals of photography and lighting.

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Dontavious Chesson
Uncategorized
Dontavious Chesson

Celebrate the New Year with Exclusive Photography Discounts

Start the New Year with unforgettable memories! True Essence Photography is thrilled to offer an exclusive 25% discount on all bookings made between today and January 25th, 2025. Whether you’re planning a cozy family session, a milestone celebration, or your dream wedding, this special promotion applies to all photoshoots scheduled for any date in 2024 or 2025.

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Dontavious Chesson
Photography
Dontavious Chesson

Charles & Lakeisha Newkirk

Charles & Lakeisha Beautiful Late Summer Wedding at The Crystal Coast Civic Center Morehead City, North Carolina Wedding Charles & Lakesiha Boho Chic Beach Wedding at The Crystal Coast Civic Center Lakeisha and Charles’ wedding was a breathtaking celebration of love. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the beach at

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Dontavious Chesson
Weddings
Dontavious Chesson

C&J Charles Mack Citizen Center Wedding

Co’Darius and Jalessa’s wedding day was a heartfelt celebration of their love, surrounded by their nearest and dearest. The Charles Mack Citizen Center, with its stunning architecture and charming surroundings, provided an idyllic backdrop for their special day. Every moment, from the emotional vows to the lively reception, was filled with joy and laughter.

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Dontavious Chesson
Photography
Dontavious Chesson

Define the Future: Be Part of Our 2024-2025 Preferred Vendor List

Hello, creative visionaries and storytellers! As we embark on the exciting years of 2024 and 2025, we are opening a world of opportunity for skilled photographers and cinematographers. We aim to form a Preferred Vendor List that epitomizes innovation, creativity, and collaboration in visual storytelling. This is not just an invitation to participate; it’s a call to join a journey that celebrates the collective power of artistic expression and the transformation of ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

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Dontavious Chesson
Cinematographer
Dontavious Chesson

Changes coming to True Essence Photography for 2024

As 2024 unfolds, True Essence Photography is not just embracing change; we’re pioneering it. Our heartfelt, tailored packages for weddings and special events, coupled with our compassionate approach to pricing adjustments, showcase our unwavering commitment to capturing your life’s most precious moments. With the introduction of our refined service offerings and the promise to uphold pricing for pre-booked clients, we stand at the forefront of photographic excellence. Whether it’s the joyful spontaneity of event photography, the intimate storytelling of portraits, or the comprehensive coverage of your special day, our team is dedicated to preserving your memories with authenticity and artistry. Join us in 2024 as we blend tradition with innovation, ensuring every snapshot tells your unique story. Experience the True Essence difference, where every click of the camera is a step towards immortalizing your cherished moments.

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Dontavious Chesson

Planning Your First Wedding – The Complete Guide 🎉

Introduction Hey there, future newlyweds!  Are you gearing up to plan your first wedding but feeling lost at sea? That’s totally normal. It’s a big adventure you’re embarking on, and it’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed at first.  But don’t you worry one bit. We’re here to be your

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Dontavious Chesson
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