I approach photography as a way to tell stories – that's what happens when you're hardwired with a background in film and news photography. I want my images sincere and fun. Creative couples who are up for trying something new and expressing themselves in an original way are my favorite! Tattoos and feathers or old Hollywood sequins, I love the challenge of capturing unique style.

It isn’t called Russell Gearhart Photography for nothing. Yes, of course I'll be there!

My experience ranges from newspaper staffer to feature film lighting. I’ve shot high profile events and celebrities, but I find ordinary people like you to be a lot more fun. I’ve traveled to states like Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, and Utah for events and weddings, and my passport is current. :)

Since the laws of physics still don't allow me to be in two places at once, I do offer collections that include an associate photographer. Some larger events may require another shooter, and I hand-pick great people based on experience, style, and creativity.

I use professional Canon digital cameras and top-of-the-line lenses. But I don’t want to geek out too much in front of you, so email me if you want technobabble.

Absolutely! Engagement story sessions are a fun way to create images to use at the wedding (think slideshow, guestbook, tension-releasing dart board). Also, you'll have great images that can become wall art for your home. Secretly, I want to spend time with you and your fiancé before the wedding – you'll be that much more comfortable with my camera on the big day! Because of this, a casual engagement session is the most popular Story Session we offer.

Our Story Sessions are an opportunity to tell another part of your story! Beyond engagement sessions, the sky's the limit: dress fitting, bridal portrait, rehearsal dinner, the day after, trash the dress, and my personal favorite: Photobooth!

Our collections start at $3200. Every collection includes a wedding book and all-day coverage. Our collections can be customized to fit within your budget. Contact us for our pricing menu and more info!

I know, y'all want to Facebook/MySpace/Tweet your wedding, huh? Digital negatives are a valuable keepsake for your archive, too. Most wedding collections include digital negatives, and a-la-carte negatives are available for other events or sessions.

Yes, each image is toned and finished with a careful eye to detail. Additional retouching is available. I believe in the importance of integrity in a story, so I can't paste Uncle Billy-Bob into the group portrait if he’s late to the wedding. I will make you look pretty, though. But you were pretty in the first place.

I believe photography is a collaborative process, and I want you to have the photos you’ve been dreaming of. Often, the unexpected moments are the most memorable, and that's what I'm trained to find, so leave room for those as well.

Prior to your wedding, we'll discuss scheduling and specific images you're hoping for. No need for a shot list, though. If there is something you consider very important, let me know. The more information, the better; it makes me a better storyteller.

The most important part about hiring a photographer is finding someone you feel comfortable with. Sure, you’ve looked at dozens of websites, but it’s not 'til you talk with your photographer that you will know if your personalities, passion, and styles are a match. You know what you like and don’t like, so set up meetings with me and other photographers and have those conversations.