During this insightful conversation, Preston reveals:

• Why photojournalism is the key to luxury storytelling and how he transitioned from newspapers to high-end weddings
• How he balances artistic vision with client service, ensuring couples feel present while receiving a refined, emotional narrative
• The psychology behind timeless wedding photography, and why curating impactful, singular images matters more than overshooting
• How meditation and mindfulness have shaped his photography approach, allowing him to stay calm and fully present on wedding days
• The power of community in the wedding industry and why networking with planners, vendors, and other photographers is crucial for success
• How he incorporates his fine art and street photography background into his wedding work, creating a layered, cinematic approach

This episode is packed with valuable insights for wedding photographers, planners, and luxury event creatives looking to refine their storytelling skills, attract high-end clients, and stand out in a crowded market.

About Preston Utley

Preston Utley is a Denver-based luxury wedding photographer known for his discreet, documentary-driven style. With a background in photojournalism, he spent years working as a newspaper photographer before transitioning to high-end weddings. His work is deeply influenced by fine art and street photography, allowing him to craft visually compelling, emotionally rich stories for his clients.

Preston’s philosophy centers around presence, intuition, and emotional connection, making him a sought-after photographer for couples who value meaningful, unscripted moments over posed perfection. In addition to weddings, he actively pursues personal photography projects, publishing books and documenting the Western American landscape and culture through his lens.

Key Takeaways

• Why storytelling is more important than perfection in luxury wedding photography
• How to use photojournalistic techniques to create compelling, natural wedding images
• The psychology of curation—why timeless wedding photography isn’t about volume, but about crafting the right selection
• How to navigate luxury wedding dynamics while staying true to your artistic vision
• The role of mindfulness and presence in high-pressure wedding environments
• The importance of community and networking in growing a sustainable, high-end wedding business

Episode Timestamps

0:30 – Introduction & how Preston transitioned from journalism to luxury weddings
3:28 – The difference between true wedding photojournalism and “planned candids”
9:26 – How working for a newspaper sharpened Preston’s anticipatory photography skills
15:35 – The one-frame philosophy and why a single photo can tell a wedding’s entire story
24:11 – Why fine art and street photography influence Preston’s approach to weddings
36:09 – The power of meditation & mindfulness in staying present during wedding days
43:10 – How Preston balances artistic integrity with client expectations
51:32 – The business side of wedding photography and what success means on a personal level
55:45 – How Preston approaches personal projects & book publishing alongside wedding work

Resources and Links

Learn more about Preston Utley: Preston Utley Photography
Follow The Business of Luxury Weddings Podcast on Apple Podcasts / Spotify
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