Hello, I'm Stephanie
Chicagoland Photographer
Outside of photographing your biggest day, you’ll usually find me with my own people. I’m a mom of four, and after 16 years with my partner, I know a thing or two about building a life with your favorite person.
That’s a big part of why I care so much about photographing weddings.
Because I know your people mean just as much to you as mine mean to me.
Your wedding isn't just about the two of you. It's your mom trying not to cry. Your dad seeing you for the first time. Your best friend losing it during the vows. The people who have loved you through every version of yourself, all gathered in one place to celebrate you.
Those are the moments I'm paying attention to.
Of course I want to make beautiful photographs of you two. But I also want to give you the photographs you didn't know you'd need, the ones that bring you right back to how it felt to have all of your favorite people in one room.
Because after all the planning is over, the flowers are gone, and the day has passed, these are the pieces you'll get to keep.
The way i work
real life over perfect life
My goal is to give you photos that feel like your day actually felt, not a version of it that only existed for the camera. That's the good stuff!
Gentle guidance
Most people tell me they are "awkward in front of the camera." That's normal and that's where I come in. I guide you into natural movement and easy prompts so you're never standing there wondering what to do. We will keep things relaxed, a tad playful, and I will show you photos in camera along the way, so you know how amazing you look!
It'll feel like you're just hanging out while I happen to be taking photos.
People first, always
I photograph people the way I would want my own family photographed - with care, patience, and respect for who you are. I don't expect you to perform or be someone else for the duration of our session. I want you to feel like yourself, with your people, in the moments that mean more to you years from now than any perfectly posed photo ever could.
calm/Steady Energy
I bring a steady, grounded energy into the room so you can breathe and be present. I have your back. My job isn't just to take photos, it is to help the session/day feel lighter while I document it.
Facts about me
Currently Reading
Give me a twisty Freida McFadden or a Jodi Picoult book and I’m happy.
Favorite Part of a Wedding Day
There’s always this little look couples give each other when they walk back down the aisle after saying “I do” that feels like a quiet, “we did it.”
I love that look.. the relief, the happiness, and that feeling of we're in this together for life.
Fun Fact
I'm an outgoing introvert.. I’ll bring the energy to your wedding, then recharge my social battery for three business days.
My Coffee Order
An iced Biscoff latte. Always. Especially from my favorite
local café.
The other side of my life
I work at a sleep center full-time and also create social media content.
which means I'm constantly noticing good light, good stories, and good content.
One Thing You'll Learn About Me
I’m happiest when things feel genuine. I’d take a real laugh over a perfectly polished moment any day.
This is where it starts
