Today we’d like to introduce you to Morgan Bender.

Hi Morgan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?

It all started back in 2009 when I was in high school. I discovered photography in the darkroom and instantly fell in love with the process. There was something magical about creating something tangible—the mix of creative expression and technical precision was not only fun but addictive. I’d spend hours developing film, and my passion for it was evident to everyone around me. By the end of that year, I was borrowing a DSLR to photograph graduating seniors, and from there, things just snowballed. After photographing those graduating seniors, many of them came back to me a few years later for engagement shoots. Then, in 2011, I was asked to capture my first wedding. It was such an incredible experience to be trusted with documenting such an important day. I realized that wedding photography combined everything I loved about the craft—creativity, connection, and storytelling.

I’ve always been passionate about photography, but I explored other paths too. I worked in retail management and corporate creative roles, but none of them felt as fulfilling as being my own boss and running my own business. I missed the freedom and the deep connections I formed through photography. By 2021, I’d moved around a bit, had two adorable kids, and was navigating the chaos of toddler life. I quickly realized I needed a creative and positive outlet to balance everything. Relaunching my photography business full-time felt like the perfect fit. It gave me the opportunity to do something I’m passionate about while maintaining flexibility for my family.

The DMV area has such a vibrant and diverse wedding scene, and I’ve been lucky to work with incredible couples. I also travel throughout Virginia, North Carolina, and along the East Coast, which keeps things fresh and exciting. Every wedding is unique, and I’m grateful to be part of these love stories. I think it’s my deep appreciation for the craft and the genuine connections I build with my clients that set my approach apart. I’ve been in their shoes, planning big milestones while juggling life’s demands, so I approach each wedding with empathy and enthusiasm. My goal is to make my couples feel supported and deliver timeless, tangible memories they can cherish forever.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

Every journey has its struggles, and mine is no exception. Being part of a military family means we tend to move every four years or so. Luckily, I was able to stay planted in North Carolina for ten years, where I built great connections and firmly established my business. However, this past August, we moved to Virginia, and uprooting my life and shifting my digital footprint quickly has been a significant challenge. Losing momentum in an industry that thrives on relationships and visibility can be tough. But with my drive, passion, and the guidance of a business coach, I’m tackling this head-on. I’m entering the DC, Virginia, and Maryland markets with determination, aiming not just to rebuild but to surpass my goals. For me and my family, this is another chapter to grow, connect, and succeed. I’m also thrilled to continue serving my amazing clients in North Carolina, maintaining the connections and community I’ve built there over the years.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

As a wedding photographer, I offer both photography and videography services—separately or together. Whether I’m capturing everything as a solo shooter or working with second shooters for additional angles, I ensure that every moment is documented beautifully. My style is a blend of documentary storytelling and subtle posing, but above all, I focus on authenticity. I strive to create moments that feel natural and unforced, allowing my clients to look back at their photographs or films and remember the genuine joy of their day.

I specialize in a hands-on approach and pride myself on maintaining a calming presence. From the initial planning stages to the wedding day, I’m here to affirm and support my couples. When questions arise or unexpected challenges occur, I’m there to ensure everything is handled smoothly. My ability to anticipate emotions and moments allows me to deliver a high-caliber experience that my clients have praised time and time again as one of the best decisions in their wedding planning process.

What sets me apart is my dedication to my clients’ happiness throughout their journey—from planning to the big day and beyond. I aim to over-deliver and exceed expectations, creating a seamless and joyful experience that culminates in my clients holding their wedding albums with pride. It’s this commitment to excellence that drives me to continually raise the bar and deliver memories that will be cherished forever.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?

I’m also incredibly excited about the area I now call home. The Fredericksburg area is steeped in history, offering so many unique and picturesque locations. I’m looking forward to capturing moments in DC proper and becoming more comfortable shooting on the National Mall and around the stunning monuments. Additionally, the breathtaking vineyards and surrounding mansions in Virginia provide incredible backdrops for weddings and events. These settings inspire me creatively and add a layer of timeless beauty to the stories I get to document. The opportunity to explore and grow within this region is something I’m truly thrilled about.

Pricing:

• Elopments + Micro Weddings Start at $2000
• Starting Price for DMV area is $4395
• Engagement Sessions $495

Contact Info:

• Website: https://morgankayphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morgankayphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morgankayphotog/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@morgankayphoto

Image Credits

@morgankayphoto