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Colin Hayden Photo

Central Pennsylvania / Greater Harrisburg Area
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Introducing Our “Pay My Way” Destination Wedding Package

Colin Hayden May 20, 2025

Are you dreaming of saying “I do” in a far-flung locale—perhaps under the sun in Tenerife, amid the rugged coastline of California, or on a tropical beach? At Colin Hayden Photo, we love capturing love stories wherever they happen. That’s why we’re excited to offer our “Pay My Way” destination wedding package, designed for couples planning weddings outside Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Maryland.

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What Is the “Pay My Way” Package?

With this special offering, you get the same 8-hour wedding day coverage, 400+ beautifully edited images, and an heirloom-quality wedding album that my local couples enjoy—no matter where your wedding takes place. PLUS, since I’ll be there for the weekend I’ll be available to photograph the welcome party the day before. You ONLY cover my travel expenses so I can be there with you.

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How It Works

  1. Limited Availability
    To ensure each destination wedding receives the focus and care it deserves, I’m limiting this package to two weddings per year.

  2. Eligible Locations
    This package is available for weddings outside of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Whether you’re tying the knot on a mountain peak or in an urban loft, I’m ready to join you.

  3. Travel Arrangements

    • Transportation: You cover my round-trip airfare or train fare (including one checked bag or equivalent luggage).

    • Accommodation: Please provide lodging at the same property and level as your guests for a minimum of three nights—so I can capture your preparations, ceremony, and reception seamlessly.

    • Daily Stipend: A modest daily stipend covers local meals, ground transportation (taxis, rideshares, etc.), and incidental expenses.

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Why Choose “Pay My Way”?

  • Expertise: I’ll scout your venue ahead of time when possible, so I know the best light and unique angles to make your images stand out.

  • Stress-Free Planning: Once travel and lodging are arranged, I handle the rest—timeline creation, vendor coordination, and capturing every meaningful moment.

  • Memories That Last: From your first look in the morning light to candid reception fun, you’ll receive a permanent online gallery and premium print options to relive your destination wedding forever.

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Ready to Book?

Spots for the “Pay My Way” package may fill quickly—only two destination weddings per year are accepted. If you’re planning a wedding beyond PA, NJ, or MD and love the idea of having me there to document your day, let’s chat about your vision and available dates. Contact Colin Hayden Photo today to learn more and secure your destination wedding coverage!

Colin Hayden Photo — Bringing your love story to life, wherever you say “I do.”

Contact Information:

  • Website: Colin Hayden Photo

  • Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

  • Phone: 610-804-8341

  • Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Your Dream Wedding at the Cameron Estate Inn: A Venue Worth Celebrating

Colin Hayden May 6, 2025

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Mount Joy, PA, the Cameron Estate Inn offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding celebration. From its elegant manor house to its beautifully landscaped gardens, this venue has everything you need to bring your wedding vision to life.

1. A Picturesque Setting
The Cameron Estate Inn is surrounded by lush greenery and framed by mature trees, making it an ideal backdrop for your ceremony and portraits. Imagine exchanging vows beneath a floral-adorned arbor in the garden, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Later, golden-hour portraits along the tree-lined pathways will give you that soft, romantic glow every couple dreams of.

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2. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
One of the standout features of the Estate Inn is its versatile event spaces. If raindrops surprise your day, the elegant ballroom—with its crystal chandeliers and warm wood accents—provides a cozy refuge. On sunnier days, guests can mingle on the outdoor patio, sipping cocktails as they enjoy panoramic views of the estate grounds.

3. Charming Details Everywhere
From the antique furnishings in the Manor House to the stone walls of the Courtyard, every corner of the Cameron Estate Inn is filled with character. These unique architectural elements make for stunning detail shots—think close-ups of your bouquet against the weathered stone or your rings nestled in the antique drawer of a vintage dresser.

4. Personalized Moments That Shine
Whether you want a violinist serenading you in the garden, a sparkler exit down the tree-lined drive, or a late-night dance beneath bistro lights, the Cameron Estate Inn adapts to your personal style. This flexibility allows you to create an experience that truly feels like your day.

Ready to Make the Cameron Estate Inn Your Wedding Venue?
If you’re dreaming of a celebration that combines timeless elegance with a warm, intimate atmosphere, the Cameron Estate Inn is waiting for you. As your photographer, I’ll be there to capture every detail—from the first glance to the last dance—so you can relive your special day for years to come. Contact me today to discuss how we can preserve your wedding memories at this magical venue.

Contact Information:

  • Website: Colin Hayden Photo

  • Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

  • Phone: 610-804-8341

  • Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Photo Ideas for the Groom and Their Side of the Wedding Party: Capturing Every Moment with Style

Colin Hayden April 15, 2025

A wedding day isn’t just about the bride’s stunning moments—it’s also a celebration of the groom and his closest friends and family. As the groom and his wedding party share in the excitement, their genuine camaraderie and unique style deserve to be captured beautifully. Here are some creative photo ideas and tips to ensure that every memorable moment with the groom and his crew is documented perfectly:

1. Classic Candid Moments

While posed shots are timeless, candid moments often tell the real story of the day. I encourage the groom and their party to relax, share a laugh, and be themselves. Whether it’s a spontaneous high-five, a shared joke while waiting for the ceremony, or a quiet moment of reflection before the big event, these genuine interactions make for unforgettable images.

2. The Groom’s Portrait

I always remember to capture a few dedicated portraits for the groom, to highlight his personality with a mix of formal and relaxed poses. Consider using natural settings around your venue or even a cool urban backdrop if your style leans modern. These images will not only reflect his unique style but also provide a timeless keepsake of his journey to “I do.”

3. Group Shots with a Twist

For the wedding party group shots, mix it up a bit. Instead of the traditional line-up, try:

  • Dynamic Poses: Have the group staggered in height or create playful formations like a circle or diagonal lineup.

  • Action Shots: Capture the party walking together, laughing during a quick toast, or even interacting naturally during a moment of excitement. These action shots add energy and vibrancy to your album.

  • Detail Focus: Include creative close-ups of the groom’s cufflinks, his boutonniere, or the unique elements of his attire. These detail shots can bring a unique edge to the overall story of your wedding day.

4. The “Pre-Ceremony” Energy

Some of the best images come from behind-the-scenes moments before the ceremony. Photograph the groom and his party as they prepare, share a toast, or enjoy a light-hearted moment together. These photos capture the anticipation, camaraderie, and excitement of what’s to come.

5. A Touch of Personalization

Every groom is unique, so consider incorporating personal elements that showcase his interests or style. Whether it’s a favorite accessory, a meaningful piece of jewelry, or even a location that’s special to the group, adding these touches will make the images feel authentic and memorable.

6. Lighting & Location Magic

Utilize natural lighting, especially during golden hour, to create dramatic and flattering portraits. Whether you choose an urban setting, a rustic venue, or an outdoor area with lush greenery, the right light and location can transform your group photos into stunning works of art.

Capturing Your Story, One Shot at a Time
Every moment of your wedding day is a chapter in your unique love story. With thoughtful planning and creative photography, the groom and his wedding party will have a collection of images that not only capture the fun and excitement of the day but also the deep bonds that make your celebration special.

If you’re looking to capture these unforgettable moments with style and authenticity, let’s chat! I’d love to help bring your vision to life and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs and let’s start planning your perfect shoot!

Contact Information:

  • Website: Colin Hayden Photo

  • Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

  • Phone: 610-804-8341

  • Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Capturing Love at The Stone Mill Inn: A Wedding Photographer’s Perspective

Colin Hayden April 1, 2025

There’s something truly magical about weddings at The Stone Mill Inn. Nestled in the heart of York, PA, this historic venue blends rustic charm with elegant details, creating the perfect setting for couples to say "I do." As a wedding photographer, I always look forward to capturing love stories in such a visually stunning space.

The Perfect Backdrop for Timeless Photos

The exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and lush gardens make The Stone Mill Inn a dream venue for photography. No matter the season, this venue offers gorgeous natural light and a variety of picturesque spots—whether it's an intimate first look beneath the trees, golden-hour portraits, or romantic candlelit reception shots inside.

One of my favorite parts about photographing weddings here is the versatility of the space. The venue offers a seamless flow from the outdoor ceremony area to the elegant reception hall, allowing couples to enjoy every moment without feeling rushed.

A Stress-Free Experience for Couples

One of the biggest benefits of The Stone Mill Inn is how effortlessly the venue handles wedding-day logistics. From getting-ready suites to a smooth indoor-outdoor transition, the setting naturally lends itself to a stress-free experience. This allows couples to truly be in the moment—and as a photographer, that means capturing more genuine emotions and candid moments.

Whether it’s a teary-eyed first look, a joyful walk down the aisle, or a grand sparkler exit, every wedding I’ve photographed at The Stone Mill Inn has been filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Planning Your Wedding Photography at The Stone Mill Inn

If you’re considering The Stone Mill Inn for your wedding, here are a few tips to make the most of your wedding photography:

Take advantage of golden hour. The property glows with warm light as the sun sets—perfect for dreamy portraits.

Use the natural scenery. The gardens, stone pathways, and historic architecture make for stunning backdrops.

Plan for soft, romantic lighting. String lights and candles create a warm and intimate feel for your reception photos.

Relax and enjoy the day! The Stone Mill Inn is designed to make your wedding stress-free—so take a deep breath and soak in every moment!

Let’s Capture Your Love Story

If you’re getting married at The Stone Mill Inn and want timeless, heartfelt wedding photos, I’d love to be part of your day! Let’s chat about your vision and how I can help capture every special moment.

Contact Information:

  • Website: Colin Hayden Photo

  • Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

  • Phone: 610-804-8341

  • Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

How to Budget for Wedding Photography: Capturing Memories That Last a Lifetime

Colin Hayden March 18, 2025

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and the photographs from that day are priceless memories you’ll cherish forever. But how do you budget for wedding photography without compromising on quality? Here are some expert tips to help you allocate your funds wisely while ensuring you get the stunning, timeless images you deserve.

Understand the Value of Quality Photography

Planning a wedding can feel like it’s nothing but expenses adding up, but the photography is possibly the only thing other than your rings that lasts past the day itself. Wedding day photography is an investment in preserving the most cherished moments of your life. A high-quality photographer doesn’t just capture images; they capture emotions, details, and the essence of your unique love story. When budgeting, think about the long-term value these photos will bring to your home and family for years to come.

Start Planning Early

The earlier you begin planning your wedding photography, the more time you have to research and compare different photographers and packages. Early planning also gives you room to adjust your budget as needed. Schedule consultations, ask for recommendations, and review portfolios so you can find a photographer whose style aligns with your vision and budget.

Determine Your Priorities

Before you start crunching numbers, decide which aspects of photography are most important to you.

  • Engagement Session: Would you love a relaxed, one-hour engagement session or a longer 2 hour excursion?

  • Wedding Day Coverage: Is all-day coverage—generally considered to be about 8 hours—at the top of your list?

  • Prints and Albums: Consider whether you want to invest in heirloom-quality albums or unique print products that transform your digital gallery into tangible memories.

By identifying your priorities, you can allocate your budget to the elements that matter most to you.

Explore Package Options

Many photographers offer bundled packages that provide a clear scope of services and pricing. At Colin Hayden Photo, for example, our packages are designed to provide comprehensive coverage with a focus on capturing every meaningful detail of your day. Bundled packages not only help manage costs but also ensure there are no unexpected expenses on the day-of. Ask your photographer about customizable options, so you can tailor a package to your specific needs.

Be Open to Flexibility

If your budget is tight, consider ways to be flexible:

  • Having An Elopement: Some photographers offer discounts for weddings that are 4 or 6 hours or even shorter.

  • Add-Ons: Prioritize your must-have shots and consider add-ons for additional moments if your budget allows.

  • Digital vs. Print: While digital files are essential, think about what printed products you want. Sometimes investing in a beautiful album or select large prints can elevate your overall experience.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting for wedding photography is about balancing cost with the long-term value of the memories you’ll treasure forever. It’s not just an expense—it’s an investment in the moments that define your love story. With thoughtful planning and clear priorities, you can create a photography plan that captures every beautiful detail of your day without breaking the bank.

Ready to capture your love story with breathtaking photos that stand the test of time? Contact Colin Hayden Photo today for a consultation, and let’s start planning your unforgettable wedding photography experience.

Contact Information:

  • Website: Colin Hayden Photo

  • Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

  • Phone: 610-804-8341

  • Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

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(+1) 610-804-8341 (Phone, Text, & WhatsApp too!)  -  colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

Serving locations in Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, The Poconos, and Philadelphia PA