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...drawing influence from classical and abstract expressionist painting, as well as analogue fine art photography, Rya blends candid, moment-driven documentary storytelling and editorial portraiture with a sophisticated artistry - creating exquisitely crafted, elegant fine art imagery with an emotional resonance that stands the test of time. 

"... Urban Chic,
A Hint Of Noir, And A Touch Of Sparkle & Panache..."

A visual celebration of the unscripted, joyful moments, of love and laughter, and the memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. 

Elopement & intimate Wedding photography | chicago, illinois, & beyond

Elopement & intimate Wedding photography chicago, illinois, & beyond

Before you can say ‘I Do,’ you have to ask that magical question: You found the ring, you know they’re the one, but you’re not sure when or where or how to pop the question? That’s where I come in! Planning and capturing engagement proposals is an art, and the details of momentous occasions such […]

Candles and rose petals laid out in the shape of a heart, with large block letters spelling out 'Marry Me' with the Chicago skyline in the background.

It’s just you, and me, and a handful of our closest friends, celebrating life together… If you are interested in an authentic and unique intimate wedding, elopement, or engagement proposal experience and imagery with a sophisticated and chic fine-art aesthetic, then it sounds like I am the right photographer for you. Let’s connect and see […]

A couple poses against a minimalist gray wall creating artistic negative space. Photograph by City Hall Elopement Photographer Ryan Patrick Clarke.

Solomiya & Ken’s Chic Chicago City Hall Elopement

Elegant couple posing against ornate dark wooden doors with intricate carvings. Chic Chicago City Hall Elopement

Eloping in Chicago? Say ‘I Do’ to what fits you!

A unique cover story for the perfect surprise proposal plan

A joyful reaction captured during a proposal on the grand staircase of the historic Rookery in Chicago by Chicago proposal photographer Rya Photographie

Can We Say Matching Bride & Bride Sweatsuits!? Chicago can be an elopement destination if you choose, even if you want the simplicity of a City Hall ceremony! If you are interested in an authentic and unique intimate wedding or elopement experience and imagery with a sophisticated and chic fine-art aesthetic, then it sounds like […]

A romantic moment at the Civic Opera Building with holiday garlands and lights decorating the elegant colonnade. Photograph by Chicago Fine Art Elopement photographer Ryan Patrick Clarke.

Frigid early January temps couldn’t stop these two! If you are interested in an authentic and unique intimate wedding or elopement experience and imagery with a sophisticated and chic fine-art aesthetic, then it sounds like I am the right photographer for you. Let’s connect and see how we might collaborate to tell your unique love […]

Couple embraces in front of iconic Chicago Theatre with illuminated marquee. Chicago Wedding Elopement and Marriage Proposal Photographer

What It Is Like To Work With Me 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, a […]

Photographer strikes a silly pose under an umbrella in the rain while testing lighting.

Taylor & Brooke were the sweetest couple imaginable. The connections I make, even if brief, are the most fulfilling part of this job. If you are interested in an authentic and unique editorial wedding or elopement experience and imagery with a sophisticated and chic fine-art aesthetic, then it sounds like I am the right photographer […]

A glowing review of an elopement session by Chicago Fine Art Elopement photographer Ryan Patrick Clarke.

FAQ What is your photography style? We offer a refined photography style, blending moment-driven candid documentary and editorial portraiture with a classical, fine art aesthetic—a perfect balance between fly-on-the-wall photojournalism and guided direction as or when needed. How long have you been a wedding photographer? I  photographed my first wedding in 2007, shortly after finishing […]

A person in a flowing white dress poses elegantly in front of a garden fountain on a tranquil afternoon. Photography by Chicago Fine Art Elopement photographer Ryan Patrick Clarke.

Every couple has a story, let’s celebrate yours!

Hey, I’m Ry, fine art photographer and wedding & elopement documentarian. Also your new favorite queer, neurodivergent, extroverted introvert with a whimsical & silly side!

I know this may sound silly and corny, but I love love. I am a hopeless romantic; I cherish shared connections and shared experience. I still cry over heartfelt vows or a perfectly choreographed first dance. I never grow tired of the sheer joy couples feel at seeing each other in their wedding attire for the first time. I am honored and privileged to experience and document these wonderful moments. I photograph for the couples who love freely, authentically, and unapologetically, as who they are.



Sessions for just the two of you, capturing your love story in the every day.

A day of love celebration for just the two of you, on your own terms. You get to make the rules!

You, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family, celebration your love and your life together.

Click to discover more:

It's just you, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family, celebrating your love, your commitment, and the life you are building together... All on your terms.




Elopement & intimate Wedding photography | chicago, illinois, & beyond

Elopement & intimate Wedding photography chicago, illinois, & beyond

It's just you, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family,
celebrating your love, your commitment, and the life you are building together... All on your terms.




A visual celebration of the unscripted, joyful moments...

And we'll be there to capture it all!

It's just you, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family,
celebrating your love, your commitment, and the life you are building together... All on your terms.




Elopement & intimate Wedding photography chicago, illinois, & beyond

Elopement & intimate Wedding photography | chicago, illinois, & beyond

Sessions for just the two of you, capturing your love story in the every day.

A session for the two of you, after asking the biggest question of you life.

A day of love celebration for just the two of you, on your own terms. You get to make the rules!

You, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family, celebration your love and your life together.

Click to discover more:

It's just you, the love of your life, and a handful of your closest friends and family, celebrating your love, your commitment, and the life you are building together... All on your terms.




A visual celebration of the unscripted, joyful moments...

And we'll be there to capture it all!