My Story @FilmbyXiao
My lens has seen a lot.
Before stepping into the world of weddings, I spent six years on the front lines as an international journalist and multimedia creator. I’ve covered breaking news at the White House, Capitol Hill, and the UN, followed by years of development storytelling for the World Bank.
These years taught me to find the heartbeat of a story amidst the chaos. I eventually realized that the most profound narratives aren't found in global headlines, but in the intimate, cross-cultural connections that make us human.
So, I traded breaking news for breaking hearts (the good kind).
To me, photography isn't about a pose; it’s about a presence. I bring a documentary soul and an editorial eye to your day, chasing the artful details and the "soulful mess" that makes your relationship real. Let’s skip the
clichés and capture the cinematic truth of who you are.
All About Just a Present: The Fun Stuff
The Vibe & The Crew
📷Is there more than one of you? Yes! While "Just a Present" has grown, our soul remains the same. Our curated team shoots in the exact documentary, editorial style you see here. Need a second shooter? We’ve got you covered.
🐱The Real Bosses: I’m a dedicated Cat Person. My "associates," Commander Chubbs and Collin, oversee every editing session.
🏙DC Favorites: If we’re shooting an engagement, catch me at the National Cathedral for the drama or the National Gallery of Art (NGA) for the light.
The Q&A
📹How many photos? At least 60+ high-res images per hour. Every single one is professionally color-graded to perfection.
⏰When do I get them? Your full gallery arrives in 4 to 8 weeks. Quality takes a little time, but it’s always worth the wait.
🎨Do you retouch? We offer add-on professional retouching services! Just reach out, and we can chat about the specifics of your needs.
