Collection no.1
Perfect coverage for your full-day Chicagoland wedding. From getting ready to major events, I'll capture it all. Complete day coverage with the assistance of a second photographer.
- 8 hours, additional hours available.
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply.
- Film photography is available to enhance the visual narrative; contact for more information.
Starting at $6,500
Collection no.2
If you’re getting married during the week and have a small guest list, then this collection is perfection. 2 hours of photography to capture the main event and the important people!
- 2 hours, additional hours available
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply.
- Film photography is available to enhance the visual narrative; contact for more information.
Starting at $2,000
Collection no.3
Elopements are defined as the two of you and whoever is needed to make your marriage legal. Available weekdays only, 2 hours of photography to capture your commitment with plenty of time for contemporary portraits.
- 2 hours, additional hours available
- Not available on weekends
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply.
- Film photography is available to enhance the visual narrative; contact for more information.
Starting at $2,000
Engagement Sessions and Couples Sessions
These sessions are all about the two of you and your relationship. Maybe you just got engaged, or you’re visiting Chicago and want some epic photos in this epic city. How about an anniversary session? Whatever you are celebrating together, I’m here to document it.
- Up to 2 hours
- 1-2 locations
- Film photography is available to enhance the visual narrative; contact for more information.
Starting at $950
At the core of my photography philosophy is a deep reverence for capturing the essence of people and things. I strive to uncover the stories that lie beneath the surface. Whether it's the genuine connections between people in love or the intricate details of an ancient ruin, I firmly believe that everything has a unique narrative waiting to be unveiled.
The process
Send me a message and tell me what you’re looking for. I’m here to help you find the right photographer. Maybe it’s me!
We’ve met, it’s magical, and we want to make this official. Through the wonder of the internet, we can do everything online!
I’ve got you. I’ll send you everything you need; all you need to do is show up and have a great time.
Your photos are ready. Grab your favorite snack, drink, and person ...and immerse yourself in the awesomeness of you.
Hooray! First, make sure you click the arrows below and read the rest of this FAQ section to answer any initial questions you may have. When you're ready to inquire, send me an email and we'll set up a time to meet. Then, I'll create a proposal for you based on your needs. A signed agreement and 50% retainer are required to secure your date. A payment schedule will be created for the remaining balance with the final payment due 60 days before your wedding.
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How do we book you?
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What if we don't know how many hours of coverage we need?
I'm more than happy to help create a tentative timeline based on your ceremony and reception times to determine your needs. Weddings with the ceremony and reception taking place at the same location are usually good with 8 hours. Weddings with multiple locations typically book 10+ hours. Coverage hours can always be added later if needed.
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What if we didn't budget enough time with you on the wedding day? Can we add more hours?
Yes! I do my best to help create a timeline to ensure we're there to capture everything However, sometimes things just don't go as planned and stuff runs late. (Totally normal!) If you need me to stay later, that's not a problem at all. I'll send an invoice after the wedding for the additional services.
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What are the benefits of a second photographer?
Second photographers are perfect for capturing additional angles and moments to completely document the story of your day. If you and your fiancé are getting ready in separate locations, we can split up and photograph in different places.
We'll both be able to capture each of your reactions during your First Look, and while I'm photographing the couple, the second photographer captures other details and candid moments.
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We're not sure if we want an album, can we add one later?
Of course! Your images are released to you in an online gallery with a print store. You can purchase prints, photo albums, USB drives, and other products through the gallery. Your gallery is available online for one year, so you can purchase products during that time.
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How many image will I receive?
Most clients can expect an average of 50-75 images per hour of coverage. I don't guarantee a specific number of images because that final number is affected by many factors including but not limited to travel time, traditions, weather, the number of guests, number in the bridal party, amount of details, late clients or guests, events running behind schedule, if you have a second photographer, etc.
Every wedding is different but I strive to document it to its fullest potential.
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What's the different between an elopement and intimate wedding?
Intimate weddings (aka micro weddings) are scheduled like a "traditional" wedding day, but with a smaller guest list (less than 40 people). An elopement is just the couple and the officiant and is only a ceremony and portrait session.
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What happens if you get sick or hurt on our wedding day and are inaable to photograph?
This has never happened before. *knocks on wood* But never say never. I have a plan in place so you don't have to worry. I have photographers in my network that photograph in the same style to step in a take my place. I'll supply them with all the information so they're prepared and put you in contact with them. After your wedding, I'll still edit and deliver the photos.
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Do you have backups in place so our photos don't get lost?
Yes! So many backups. My cameras have dual card slots so as I'm shooting there is already a duplicate of the file in case a card gets corrupt. When I get home or back to the hotel, I copy the files to my hard drive. I have a NAS system for additional storage and I also backup files to a cloud server so they're safe in a separate location. Finally, images aren't deleted from the memory cards until your gallery is delivered.
FAQs
Melissa was fantastic at capturing our wedding day! Her communication leading up to the day went into detail and she had a great understanding of how we wanted the day to go and the types of shots we were looking for. She did a great job at making us feel comfortable and relaxed with portraits and shots with our whole group. Her direction allowed us to get the perfect ceremony set up when the rain caused us to shift our plans. We couldn't recommend her enough!
Tyler + Nick
I had never seen pictures of myself that I loved before, and after I saw our proposal photos, I was in love and knew we needed her for our wedding. I am so glad we did! I cannot be happier with the amazing gallery she delivered. I would recommend her without any reservations, She took time to get shots I never could have dreamed of - our wedding day was magic and the pictures show every moment of it.
Maggie + Dave
Beautiful, natural, just-right moments captured with a quiet, fierce grace... Melissa has an art and zen that is so refreshing and rare. Her all-star personality and talent together made her the beyond-perfect fit for us. My husband and I (and all our guests!) recommend Melissa with the utmost confidence and highest of praise. So much time and energy go into planning what amounts to an 8 hour event. Make the most of those memories, photos are forever - hire our girl, Melissa...we are so happy we did.
erin + Matt
