Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Thompson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
If you had told me at 18 — or even 22 — that I’d become a full-time wedding photographer and videographer, I probably would’ve laughed and said, “No way!” At 18, my dream was to work as a sports graphic designer for a professional soccer team. By 22, after four years of collegiate soccer and a year of pre-professional play, I was planning to go pro overseas. But as always, the Lord had different plans.
Looking back, the signs were always there. Since first grade, I’ve loved making videos and casting my friends and family as the stars. That passion carried into high school, where I dreamed of becoming a movie director — until I took my first Photoshop class junior year. I fell in love with graphic design and started making graphics for my soccer team. That’s when I shifted gears and set my sights on sports design. I was recruited to play soccer at Bemidji State University, where I found the perfect combo of strong business and design programs.
Fast forward to 2023 — I got married that July, just before starting my fifth year of college. I felt the Lord clearly leading me to hang up my cleats, and though it wasn’t easy, I trusted His plan. I shifted my focus to an internship with Wyld Gear, where I dove into content creation and product photography. That experience reignited my love for photo and video. I adored every part of wedding planning, and one day the thought hit me: “I wonder what it would be like to photograph people?”
Two of my good friends were getting married, and I asked to take their engagement photos — and instantly fell in love. By August 2023, I officially launched my photography business. Within a month, I booked an elopement that helped me land 10 more weddings for 2024. Just a year later, in August 2024, I added videography to the mix. In February 2025, I took the leap and went full-time. Since launching my business, I’ve been blessed to capture love stories all across North America — from the beaches of Mexico to the shores of Alabama, the charming towns of Wisconsin, the sweeping mountains and plains of Wyoming, and right here among the pines and lakes of Minnesota.
This journey has been nothing short of God’s faithfulness. I’m beyond grateful for how He’s grown my business and led me to a career I love so deeply. My story is a testimony to trusting His timing, saying “yes” to the unexpected, and following the path He lays before you — even if it’s wildly different than the one you imagined.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I know this isn’t always the norm, but it’s actually been a pretty smooth road! During my last year of college, I used my school projects to build out my business branding and marketing, and took full advantage of the resources available to me—like access to a computer lab and an Adobe membership. After graduating in the spring of 2024, I worked part-time at a marketing company while also taking on photography clients. That season gave me the stability I needed to grow my business with confidence. By January, I found myself turning down weddings because I knew my schedule wouldn’t allow for a healthy work-life balance. After lots of prayer and conversations with my husband, we knew it was time—I took the leap and went full-time. And honestly, I’ve never looked back.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I’m a wedding photographer and videographer based in Bemidji, Minnesota, and I specialize in capturing real, joy-filled love stories with energy, intentionality, and heart. My style is vibrant, emotional, and full of life—just like the couples I work with! Whether it’s a tearful first look, a chaotic champagne pop, or worship under the pines, I’m there to preserve every little moment so you can relive it for years to come.
What I’m most proud of is how deeply I care for my couples beyond just delivering beautiful images or films. I take the time to know their story, their vision, and their hearts. I pray for them throughout the process, and I genuinely treat each wedding like it’s my best friend’s big day.
What sets me apart? I bring high energy, hype-girl support, and Christ-centered encouragement to every part of the experience. I’m not just showing up with a camera—I’m cheering you on, helping fix your veil, crying during your vows, and making you feel fully comfortable and celebrated. My couples don’t just walk away with photos and video—they walk away feeling seen, loved, and confident that their memories were captured with care.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My faith is the foundation of everything I do. Staying rooted in God’s Word and being actively involved in my church is what fuels me both personally and professionally. I’m always being poured into—and that overflow is what I bring into my work and relationships! Some of my favorite Christian-based podcasts are Christ With Coffee on Ice, The Bryce Crawford Podcast, and The Carew Ellington Podcast—they inspire and challenge me in the best ways. If you’re looking to grow in photography, I highly recommend Passion with Purpose, Oh Shoot! with Cassidy Lynne, and the Gold Biz Podcast. They’re packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical tips!
Pricing:
- Photo packages starting at $2,500
- Video packages starting at $2,350
- Photo & Video bundles starting at $4,365
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alyssathompsonmedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssathompsonmedia/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550296754014&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@alyssathompsonmedia?si=rIVVM1RmRk-WCGxC
