We were lucky to catch up with Susan Ly recently and have shared our conversation below.

Susan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Photography isn’t just a profession for me—it’s a way to celebrate life’s quiet magic. Growing up in a big family, I learned the value of unposed, in-between moments: laughter in the kitchen, a quiet glance, or a spontaneous hug. These moments linger in our hearts far longer than the milestone photos.

My dad sparked my love for photography. With his trusty Kodak, he captured life as it unfolded, jotting notes beside each photo to preserve the memory. These little time capsules taught me that the fleeting moments often hold the most meaning.

As a wedding photographer, I bring this philosophy to my work. While the big moments—the vows, the first dance—are unforgettable, it’s the quiet glances, shared laughs, and tearful smiles that truly tell your story. My goal is to give you not just beautiful images but a vivid connection to the love and joy of your day. These are the moments that matter most.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a wedding photographer based in Virginia, though my roots are on the West Coast. Growing up in San Diego and living along the Pacific for most of my life has shaped my style—a timeless, modern approach infused with the natural beauty of my surroundings. Coupled with the profound intimate moments, it truly creates a timeless memory.

What sets me and my photos apart is my ability to find and preserve the authentic emotions of the day. Whether it’s the exchange of vows, a father’s proud glance, or old friends reconnecting after years apart, I’m always seeking those little moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. These are the memories that resonate deeply and tell a unique story for each couple.

This is the philosophy I bring to my work as a wedding photographer. Weddings are filled with grand, celebratory moments—the first kiss, the vows, the first dance—but they’re also rich with fleeting, unspoken stories. A stolen glance, a shared laugh, a parent’s tearful smile. These are the moments I strive to capture, because they’re the ones that will take you back, years later, to the feelings and connections that made your day so special.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I started my business while living in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The scenery in Washington was breathtaking, making a dream location for photography, full of potential and inspiration.

At the start of COVID, I met my other half. Soon after, we discovered he would be moving to Virginia the following year. I wasn’t loving the idea of uprooting my life and relocating across the country. At the time, I was a stubborn, independent woman in her 20s, more committed to work than settling down. It didn’t take long after being in a long distance relationship that I realized that I might regret not giving this new chapter a chance. So, I took the leap. We packed up my belongings, loaded up my dog, and hauled a U-haul trailer in my little sedan across the country together.

Starting over with my business in a new location was an intimidating challenge. There were countless moments when I considered giving up photography altogether. I’ve gone from having a clientele to not knowing a single person in Virginia. I even found myself cursing under my breath at the psychic who confidently predicted my business would take off and that I’d marry my boyfriend (spoiler alert: we’re newly engaged, and my business is thriving!). I was mostly booking smaller sessions and second shooter gigs. Slowly, I began to gain recognition for my work within the local community. After a year of hard work and perseverance, I finally felt like I was hitting my stride. I was thriving in my business, meeting incredible people, and documenting stories that deeply resonated with me.

Back in Washington, I was content. I had great friends, a solid job, and a photography business that was starting to gain momentum. However, my partner’s move across the country posed a dilemma. Looking back, I’m not sure the happiness I felt there would have continued to grow had I stayed. Taking the leap to move and start fresh wasn’t easy, but it led to immense personal and professional growth.

In the past few years, I’ve evolved not only as a photographer but also as a person. I’ve gained a deeper ability to connect with my clients, particularly brides navigating significant life changes. Sharing in their love stories and documenting their journeys has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. Moving to Virginia turned out to be the best decision I could have made, and I’m grateful for every step of the journey.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Oh man, there is so much to touch on this! With my documentary style, many brides fall in love with the genuine and heartfelt moments captured in my work. My approach is to stay as unobtrusive as possible throughout your day, stepping in only when gentle guidance is truly needed. The beauty of the documentary style lies in the authenticity of your story—a story that unfolds naturally when you live in the moment.

Laugh, dance, cry. Immerse yourself fully in this extraordinary day you’ve meticulously planned. Every fleeting glance, every heartfelt embrace, every burst of joy is what makes your wedding day uniquely yours. By allowing extra time for the unexpected, you can reduce stress and truly savor these moments with your other half, surrounded by the love and warmth of your friends and family.

Documentary style isn’t about creating moments—it’s about capturing them as they happen. When you let go and immerse yourself in the celebration, your genuine joy shines through, and that’s where the magic happens.

This day is for you and your partner. Embrace it, cherish it, and let it be a reflection of your love, shared with everyone who matters most.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.susanlyphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanlyphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanlyphotography
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@susanlyphotography