Photography started out as a hobby, but I couldn’t have predicted I’d receive a job offer to photograph abroad that would transform photography my full time career! A job that would lead to being published in National Geographic, photographing weddings in beautiful places, and ultimately to build a life around this craft!
Nowadays, my job as a wedding photographer in Charleston, SC means I get to combine my love for photography with my passion for celebrating people, moments, and relationships with intention.
This was my calling – and I’m so grateful and happy to be able to build a life around it!
And I’m even more grateful that I get to do it in such a special place like Charleston, SC.
Today, I want to get a little more personal with you. Let’s dive in!
Working with wedding photography in Charleston, SC
Every now and then I get questions from people as to why I decided to settle down in Charleston, SC. After all, I’m from Chicago (a bigger city) and I’ve often worked abroad. They’re also curious about why I decided to tackle destination wedding photography here and make Charleston my focus.
So, why Charleston? My answer is usually: “Why not?! ;)” But seriously, Charleston SC is incredible. I’d say it’s one of the best places to photograph and to call home.
Personally, I believe that Charleston is a truly unique place. And all of the couples who chose Charleston for their wedding with tend to agree!
There’s a little bit of everything to do here in Charleston – from nature to culture, adventure, and excitement. Plus, it’s so easy to fall in love with the place after just a few hours in town.
Relaxed, easy-going, welcoming, charming… Charleston is a collection of all this and so much more. I LOVE the slower pace and the nature here. It’s also super photogenic, which is a major plus as an artist! And I don’t want to brag… (ok, maybe a little), but Charleston has been voted the number one city in the USA as part of Travel & Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards” – and for the past 10 consecutive years!
My couples who come to Charleston for a destination wedding love the fact that we can seamlessly go from the beach to the romantic gardens and parks, and to historic downtown, and fit all of these things together into one busy, but beautiful, day or even photo session. When I say there’s something for everyone in Charleston, I really mean it.
I also feel like Charleston is a perfect representation of what I hope to transmit with my work. It’s about intimacy, love, and an easy-going atmosphere that brings out the best in everyone.
My passion: working with couples
Without a doubt, one of my favorite things about wedding photography is meeting the different couples that I get to work with on a one-to-one basis.
I am honored to listen to your stories and learn about what makes you feel joyful and comfortable. I also love collaborating with you and your vendors to create something beautiful. Connecting with my wedding couples is what helps me take photos that feel genuine and truly capture the essence of the moment.
Throughout the years, I’ve met a lot of couples who had different reasons for coming to Charleston, SC, for their wedding – or elopement – and who wanted to do things a little differently.
Most commonly, though, I’ve really enjoyed working with:
- Military couples who are going a non-traditional route, celebrating their relationship before they get stationed on base or other orders
- Couples who are getting married at an “older” age, or have been together for many years and have decided now is the time to get married with a ceremony and celebration
However different those things may seem, there is one thing that connects them all: their desire to do things their own way, often a personal mix of traditions and celebrating non-traditionally.
They want their wedding day is done with intention. They want to highlight their love for each other, their relationship so far, and the connection they share.
Having worked with a wedding planner as a planning assistant before diving full time into photography, I love helping my couples find ways to tie the knot how they want to, and not necessarily how they’re “expected to”.
This means really listening, personalizing, and holding space. It means encouraging couples to choose what they like and value – from the venue to the food, the music, and the guest list. It also means focusing on the connection they share as a couple and the significance of taking this next step together, making sure the timeline for the day includes real time for them and the day they want to experience.
As I said, I’ve been honored to create wedding photography with some truly incredible couples over the years who have chosen Charleston, SC, for the engagement, wedding, or elopement spot of their dreams.
Whether they traveled or were already based here, their stories and experiences – and how they live them! – make wedding photography such a fulfilling and dynamic experience for me!
But, really… it’s mostly about gratitude
Let’s be honest: I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.
The couples who chose me to photograph their big day.
The ones who connected with me to create something special.
The couples who trusted me to accompany them on this journey.
You all make my job a whole lot easier because I can honestly say everyone I’ve had the pleasure of working with has been incredible and so fun to photograph!
That’s why I love showcasing your stories, sharing them with the world, and hopefully inspiring others that their wedding can be unique to them – it doesn’t have to follow the rules!
I really do feel like a cheerleader sometimes, more than a photographer: championing my couples, celebrating their wins, and highlighting what makes each individual the unique and special person they are.
Plus, I also get to help couples fall in love with the magic of Charleston, SC, too! Something that I’m undoubtedly passionate about. After all, this is my home and will always have a hold on my heart.
All this to say… thank you!
Thank you for allowing me to follow my passion and being so graceful and open with me, for revealing a part of yourselves that you tend to keep tucked away, and for trusting me with such an important day of your life.
Let’s work together to create magic!
As a wedding photographer, I’m always open to meeting and connecting with couples who are looking to do things a little differently.
Tradition or no tradition, working with new couples to capture their spirit on such a special and personal moment continues to push me out of my comfort zone and keeps me learning.
Send me a message and let’s discuss how we can work together to create photography for your wedding or engagement in Charleston in a way that’s unique to you and your partner.