Why I’m Not a Luxury Photographer — and That’s a Good Thing
When I first started Abigail Derrick Photography, I thought the goal was to shoot those $10k weddings in Napa or under custom tents in the desert — the kind that scream “luxury” from every angle. I chased the idea of grandeur, comparing myself to photographers flying first-class to Italy or photographing couture dresses on mountaintops.
But somewhere along the way, I realized something deeply important:
That’s not me. That’s not the experience I offer. And honestly? That’s a good thing.
I’m Not Here to Be Polished — I’m Here to Be Present
As a wedding photographer in Arizona (and still taking clients in Missouri!), I’ve come to embrace the magic in the real, the raw, and the meaningful. I don’t show up with a massive team or a shot list of 100 Vogue-inspired poses. I show up with my camera, my heart, and a deep desire to tell your story — not manufacture a version of it for the 'gram.
My couples aren’t hiring me to create a Pinterest-perfect day.
They’re hiring me to document a perfectly imperfect one.
I Work Best With Non-Traditional, Laid-Back Lovers
The couples I photograph aren’t concerned with whether their napkins are folded the “right” way. They’re too busy laughing with friends, sneaking kisses during dinner, or dancing barefoot in the desert dust.
They care more about how the day feels than how it looks in a magazine.
And that’s where I come alive.
Whether you’re eloping in the red rocks of Sedona, hosting a backyard wedding in Phoenix, or planning a moody, film-inspired ceremony in the mountains — I’m here for it. Arizona weddings are full of character and color, and I want to lean into that, not smooth it out.
Connection Over Curation
What I offer is deep connection and honest storytelling. I’ll be the one crying behind the camera during your vows, hyping you up during portraits, and capturing your grandma breaking it down on the dance floor. That’s not luxury — that’s real life, and that’s what I love most.
Film Vibes. Candid Moments. Real You.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Arizona who embraces grain, movement, emotion, and golden desert light — you’re in the right place.
I’m not luxury. I’m connection. I’m nostalgia. I’m the film-vibe photographer who sees the beauty in how things actually are.
And I’m so proud of that.
Abigail Derrick Photography
Arizona & Missouri Wedding Photographer for Laid-Back Lovers with Film-Inspired Souls
📍 Based in Phoenix, Arizona
📸 Booking 2025-2026 weddings now
✨ Let’s make something real
