A Story Focused Wedding Photographer
As your Chicago wedding photographer I promise your love story will be center stage. Captured with artistry and authenticity.
I always aim for a balance of posed and candid photos that tell the story of each wedding.
For nearly three decades I have specialized in crafting timeless wedding photos that beautifully blend candid, traditional, and editorial styles.
Each image is thoughtfully captured, carefully selected, edited and curated to reflect the unique essence of your day.
Experienced – Talented – Passionate Chicago Wedding Photographer
Few photographers can boast the depth of experience and passion I bring to every wedding.
As a dedicated Chicago Wedding Photographer, I bring reliability with backup plans and flexible approaches to handle any surprises.
I am familiar with most spaces around Chicago and the suburbs as well.
Let’s create a visual masterpiece that not only documents, but celebrates the most magical day of your life.
Personalized Service
As your Chicago wedding photographer, you’ll deal directly with me — no intermediaries.
I am here to assist with planning timelines, developing shot lists, and making sure everything aligns with your dream wedding.
When you book me you get my cell number and access to years of experience as you plan your timeline, photography spots and even help finding vendors you can trust.
How to book me as your Chicago Wedding Photographer
1. Get in Touch
Once you know your wedding date and my availability, let’s discuss your wedding dreams.
We can meet via Zoom, at a local coffee shop near you or in my Hyde Park Photo Studio.
2. Book Me
Secure your date with a simple online form and a $500 deposit.
3. Planning and Consultations
Benefit from my years of experience to finely tune your wedding timeline, assisted by consultations and engagement session plans.
4. Engagement Session
Enjoy a fun session capturing your love, receiving a gallery of 35 to 50 images in a few days.
5. Wedding Day Magic
Relax and relish your day, knowing I’m there early to capture every beautiful moment.
6. Editing and Delivery
Post-celebration, I personally craft your photos, editing each one with care and precision. I personally sort through and select the images to edit.
Every photo is cropped, color corrected, straightened and tastefully edited with a timeless natural look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have Backup Photographers & Equipment?
Absolutely. I have a trusted network of second and backup photographers.
I always carry extra gear, ensuring your day is captured without a hitch.
As a Canon CPS Pro I have access to world class equipment service and backup.
How Do I Book?
Reserve your date with a $500 deposit, with convenient payment plans available for your balance.
How Many Photos Do We Get?
Depending on your package, receive 700 to 900 meticulously edited photos, ready for personal use and printing.
Custom prints and albums are also available post-wedding.
When Do We Get Our Photos?
You will get about 10 to 15 quick edits within 48 hours.
Expect your photo gallery within 2 to 4 weeks.
Do You Have Insurance?
I carry full liability insurance, often required by venues. For larger events or multiple sites, a second photographer can be arranged.
Do You Offer A Second Photographer?
For larger events or multiple sites I recommend a second photographer.
I have a crew of three regular second photographers.
One of them photographed my own wedding!
Wedding day as your Chicago Wedding Photographer
Are you curious about what a typical wedding day entails for me as a Chicago wedding photographer?
Let me take you through the journey, from morning preparations to the reception fun.
Pre-Ceremony Details
My day typically starts around 10:00 a.m. with the bride and her bridesmaids.
This time is all about capturing those intricate details like shoes, invitations, jewelry and unforgettable candid moments.
From hair and makeup to laughter and emotional moments, these are memories worth savoring. A big reason I no longer do set hourly packages is to be able to take the time to capture these moments for couples who want them.
First Look
As a hopeless romantic, I adore capturing first look moments, whether before or during the ceremony.
I never pressure couples one way or the other, but there are benefits to having a first look before the ceremony.
I explore first looks in more detail here.
If you decide on a first look, we’ll find the perfect spot to preserve that magical moment.
The Ceremony as your Chicago Wedding Photographer
My primary responsibilities during the ceremony are two fold.
Firstly I focus on capturing the raw emotions and intimate moments.
Secondly, I work on remaining unobtrusive to the officiant and guests.
I come equipped with a versatile array of lenses to ensure I can capture those close-up shots from a distance
and work in low-light conditions without disrupting the ceremony.
Formal Wedding Photos
I usually start formal photos with older family members to ensure they’re comfortable, followed by larger family groups from each side and finally, the parents and siblings. The session wraps up with the bridal party and then just the couple, preventing the larger groups from waiting around.
During this period, I’ll guide, pose, and occasionally use off-camera lighting if necessary. Ideally, I prefer to allocate at least an hour for this segment but I’ve expertly handled it in just 15 minutes when timelines don’t go as planned. Experience truly matters!
Cocktail Hour Photos
Depending on the day, this might be when we focus on capturing photos of the couple, or it could be an opportunity for candid photos of guests and setting up lighting for the reception.
It’s also the perfect time to capture the intricate details of the reception space.
Reception
From the high energy of grand entrances to the emotions of the tender first dances (or even the wild and fun one) the reception is always a favorite to photograph.
I stay at most weddings until at least 9:00 p.m., making sure I capture all the fun and dancing after the main speeches and key moments.
Often, I stay later because I can’t resist documenting the less than sober dancing.
Let’s face it: every wedding has that one unforgettable character—or sometimes several—who really shine after the open bar is in full swing!
Planning the perfect timeline?
When it comes to preserving the magic of your wedding day, choosing the right photographer is crucial.
I would love to be Your Chicago Wedding Photographer!