If being in front of the camera terrifies you, I promise you aren’t alone! I don’t love being in front of the camera myself. I know that awkward feeling of not knowing how to stand or what to do with my hands. Or if a hair, or a necklace, or a pocket is out of place.
Rest assured, you are in good hands.
I started photographing events when photojournalism was en vogue. I came up as a documentarian, which is very hands off. But as I’ve evolved as a portrait photographer, I’ve learned that every client and every session is a little different. There are times when I need to be very hands on, to direct groups, place couples in specific locations and give them instructions on how to pose, what to do with their bodies, their hands, etc. I am typically hands on during portrait sessions and group/family photos, and very hands off for the rest of the day.
Elopements and Intimate Weddings are celebrations, and I want you to be able to enjoy your whole day. Especially the moments when we are making portraits. When it comes to ceremony and reception, I am very documentary, capturing everything as it unfolds. There are elements that need to be directed in order to tell that part of your story, and other elements that are free flowing and happening naturally. I am here to guide you when necessary, to lend my knowledge and expertise, and to creatively problem-solve where needed. And when not, stand back, fade into the background, and be the fly-on-the-wall documentarian that captures your joy, your emotion, and your celebration.
Making you feel comfortable during a photography session is just as important to me as the end results. If you enjoy your experience, you will most certainly like your photos all the more. My job as a Chicago Elopement Photographer is to create images, but it is also to give you direction in order to create those images. I will place you in the best lighting, in front of the best backdrop, and tell you what to do with your body and hands so you are properly posed. I will also be your biggest hype person and your biggest cheerleader, and a total silly goof if that is what it takes to make you feel relaxed. It also makes me feel relaxed and helps the creative energy flow.

If that sounds like your vibe, then it sounds like I am the right Chicago Elopement Photographer for you. I would love to chat about what I can do for you, and what magic we can create together!
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