The Best Wedding Photographers in Illinois

The Best Wedding Photographers in Illinois

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1000+ Wedding Photographers in Illinois

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Eivan's Photo & Video 
Rating: 4.9 (345 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,149
  • Serves Illinois

We offer a personalized experience backed up by more than 33+ years in business delivering high quality, creative photography and video on time and within your wedding budget. We are experts in photojournalism, offering couples an unmatched level of value for their wedding photography and video services.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Eivan's Photo & Video was an exceptional choice for our wedding photography. From the start, their communication throughout the booking process was excellent - they were responsive, informative, and helpful in answering all of our questions. On the day of the wedding, their team of photographers and videographers were professional, passionate, and patient with all of our guests and family members, ensuring they captured every special moment. Eivan's just recently shot our engagement photos as well, and we were thrilled with the results. I highly recommend Eivan's Photo & Video to any couple looking for a talented and dedicated team to document their wedding day.”
Nudelissan H., 2 years ago
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George Street Photo and Video 
Rating: 4.9 (280 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,295
  • Serves Illinois
  • Offer

George Street Photo and Video has one story to tell: Yours. With over twenty years of experience, our award-winning team has been lucky to capture thousands of weddings for our couples across the United States. Specializing in both wedding photography and videography, we offer affordable and customizable packages starting at $1295 that are designed to suit your unique vision and budget. We even offer a fun style test to help us match you with a photographer that aligns with the vibe of your day.

Awarded Best of Zola
“George Street Photo and Video made the entire process so easy from start to finish. They responded to our questions right away and kept us informed every step of the way without any confusion. When we got our photos back, we were blown away by how clear and sharp everything looked—every moment felt captured perfectly. The way they framed our shots and played with light made our wedding day look even more special than we remembered it. Their pricing was fair for the quality we received, and honestly, we couldn't imagine trusting anyone else with our photos. We'd recommend them to any couple looking for photographers who actually care about their work. P.S. Ali was the best photographer we have ever had and we can’t wait to work with him in the future!”
Sarah H., 6 months ago
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Albany Capture Film & Photography Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (199 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Serves Illinois

You're not just hiring a photographer—you're gaining a creative partner who’s with you from “yes” to “I do.” I’m Pedro, Creative Director of Albany Capture, and for over 12 years I’ve been documenting love stories through a style that blends photojournalism with fine art. Weddings are more than just events—they're a celebration of connection, and I’m passionate about preserving the real, fleeting moments that make your day unforgettable. To ensure we provide dedicated time and personalized recommendations for your wedding photography and videography needs, we now offer in-depth consultations for a nominal fee of $50.

Awarded Best of Zola
“During our session, Pedro made us feel at ease with straightforward approach and warm guidance throughout the entire process. He kept everything simple and fun, which took the stress out of worrying the photos may look unnatural. I also ended up wearing a dress that needed last minute adjustment with some clips. He worked with angles with minimal visibility, but also made sure to photoshop when it would be visible. All his photos turned out so beautiful & elegant. Absolutely amazing to work with!”
Jamie, 6 months ago
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TWA Photographic Artists 
Rating: 4.7 (139 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,799
  • Serves Illinois

The best part about what we do are the stories we get to tell. The happily-ever-afters, the love-at-first-sights…it’s the truth in a moment and a look that says it all. As Chicago area wedding photographers for over twenty years now, we’ve seen and captured just about every incarnation of true love imaginable. That’s why we approach your special day as a unique journey we take together. We walk you through every step, from proposal and engagement photos and perfectly capturing those forever wedding day moments with photography, videography, and content creation, to expertly crafting your very first family heirloom…your wedding album!

Awarded Best of Zola
“TWA Photographic Artists were straightforward and direct in their communication, and kept us on schedule throughout our wedding day. Their work was great, capturing many timeless and detailed shots. However, at times they seemed a bit hurried when working with our wedding party and guests, though they remained attentive and eager to get the right shots. For example, the photographer remembered the little details that made our photos special, but we felt a bit rushed after the ceremony and didn't fully capture the joy of those moments. Overall, TWA provided solid photography services, but could have been a bit more patient and attuned to our desired pace for the day.”
Patoya B., a year ago
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Nova Photos 
Rating: 5.0 (110 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $895
  • Serves Illinois

Nova Photos is a wedding photography, videography, and photo booth studio in Chicago, IL. We're a multicultural, multilingual, LGBTQ-friendly, photographer/employee-owned studio dedicated to documenting the most memorable moments of your wedding day! Collectively, we have captured over 10,000 weddings. At Nova Photos, we work with our clients every step of the way. The team provides comprehensive support with planning locations, setting up permits, and creating a timeline that works for them and their other vendors. Every couple deserves more than just memories; they deserve a timeless keepsake that captures the essence of their love story!

Awarded Best of Zola
“Nova Photos was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding. Their communication style was easy, clear, and very understandable, which made the whole process seamless. The quality of their work was priceless, invaluable, and excellent - they truly captured the essence of our special day. They took the time to help with putting on the groomsmen's boutonnieres, and made us feel comfortable and natural in our poses while taking pictures. We couldn't be happier with the beautiful photos that will allow us to cherish our wedding memories for years to come.”
James W., 10 months ago
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Complete Weddings + Events St. Louis (Photo) 
Rating: 4.7 (104 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
St. Louis, MO
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Illinois
  • Offer

Let Complete Weddings + Events be your trusted partner in capturing every unforgettable moment—both big and small. From timeless photography to cinematic videography, our expert team ensures no detail is missed, all while offering budget-friendly bundled packages. With a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and fun, we’re here to make your big day as seamless and memorable as possible.

“From our first conversation with Complete Weddings Events St. Louis, we knew we were in good hands. Matt, our photographer, went above and beyond to capture every moment of our day while also helping us with anything we needed. Erica was patient and kind with our whole crew, and Ben kept everyone smiling at the photo booth. The entire team answered all our questions and treated us with genuine warmth throughout the process. Our guests couldn't stop raving about how wonderful they were. We're so grateful Matt, Erica, and Ben were part of our special day.”
Stacey M., 2 months ago
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Complete Weddings + Events Central IL (Photo) 
Rating: 4.9 (78 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Peoria, IL
  • Classic style
  • Serves Illinois

Hi there! We're Jordan and Libbi Sweet. We’re a recently married couple, so COMPLETEly understand how stressful the wedding planning process can be. We're honored that you're considering Complete for your Big Day! While we've been in the wedding industry for 9 years, Complete has been around as a company offering DJ, Photography, Videography, Photobooth, Lighting and Coordination services for an AMAZING 40 years! As a full service wedding company, our greatest joy is being able to make your event effortless and magical. Let's work together to make your big day EASY. SIMPLE. COMPLETE.

“We used Complete Weddings for photo, video, and DJ. All three did not disappoint. It started with Jordan when we made the decision to book with them. He was so kind, helpful, and explained everything so well. He was also available for all the questions throughout the whole planning process and was quick to respond. Our photographer, Sarah, did our engagement and wedding photos. She scoped out the best spots for our engagment photos, even with rain earlier in the day. She brought so much energy and flexibility. On our wedding day, she helped stay on time, brought the same energy, and captured all our favorite moments with all our favorite people. She also went to look at the venue and picture locations prior, which was so helpful! Rebecca, our second photographer, was so kind and got all the shots Sarah may have missed. She loved our dog! Noah, our videographer, made sure to get all the important moments as well. I can't wait to see all he captured of our special day! Last, DJ the DJ, was AMAZING. He was so organized, made sure we had everything we needed for the ceremony and reception. Our guests LOVED him. It was also important to us to have the wedding flow as much as possible without much downtime. All of the above made this happen. We can't say enough good things and we are appreciative of all their help, communication, and energy along the way!”
Megan N., 8 days ago
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Kate Scott Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (75 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Illinois

My name is Kate Scott Daly, and I can't wait to meet you! I'm a Chicago native and have been a professional photographer for nearly a decade. I am obsessed with capturing the perfect moment that will make you gasp and say "Oh my god, this is amazing!" Being a queer woman, it is so important to me that you feel safe, loved, and beautiful every step of the way. If you're looking for someone you can relax with and just be yourself, you've found me! Let's face it: it can be awkward being in front of a camera. Even I feel nervous sometimes! I understand that anxiety and will do everything I can to make you feel fabulous!

“We cannot recommend Kate enough! From the moment we met her, she made us feel completely comfortable and celebrated our love with so much enthusiasm. As a queer couple, it was important for us to work with someone who not only respected but truly celebrated queer weddings, and Kate went above and beyond. She took the time to help us clarify our vision for our wedding photos, which was especially helpful since we only had 6 weeks to plan our wedding and felt a little overwhelmed by the process. She was a great guide and we immediately knew we were in good hands! Kate’s associate Ryan shot the photos on our wedding day and they captured every special moment—from the big emotional vows to the smallest, most intimate glances—with such artistry and care. The photos are breathtaking, full of life, and truly reflect the joy of our day. Right when Ryan arrived, they jumped in with capturing photos of small details and worked to capture everything we wanted for our special day. Kate and Ryan were both an absolute delight to work with—professional, fun, and incredibly talented. If you're looking for a photographer who will make you feel seen, respected, and celebrated while delivering stunning photos, look no further. We are beyond grateful for Kate and Ryan and will cherish these photos forever! Thank you for making our wedding memories so magical!”
Darcy & R., 2 years ago
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Alyssa's Lens 
Rating: 5.0 (74 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Illinois

Chicago film and candid wedding photographer specializing in 35mm analog film and natural, unscripted moments. Serving couples across Chicago, the North Shore, and the greater Chicagoland area. I focus on nostalgic, documentary-style imagery that lets you stay present while capturing authentic emotional connections on your wedding day. Available for weddings, engagement sessions, and bridal portraits throughout Illinois.

“My fiance and I got engagement photos done with Alyssa, and we couldn’t have asked for anyone better to do them with!! We love how the photos turned out and she did an amazing drop bringing us out of our comfort zone while taking the pictures, while making it fun the whole time. She’s the sweetest ever!!”
Becky S., 22 days ago
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Feli photography 
Rating: 5.0 (72 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Aurora, IL
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Illinois

Hello, and welcome, I’m a wedding photographer with over 9 years of experience, originally from Moldova. My journey began with a simple but powerful dream- to create something beautiful, something meaningful, something that lasts far beyond a single moment. Now based in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, I’m also available for travel to capture your story wherever it unfolds. Over the years, photography has become more than just a profession for me- it’s an art of connection. I’m drawn to genuine emotions, refined details, and the quiet, in-between moments that often go unnoticed.

“We are beyond happy with our wedding photos! Thanks to Felicia. So professional, kind, and incredibly talented. Every moment was captured perfectly.”
Michelle, 7 months ago
Sheena Anne photography 
Rating: 5.0 (65 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Joliet, IL
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Illinois

Hey there! I’m Sheena! Your go-to wedding photographer, hype girl, professional chaos wrangler, timeline planner, dress fluffer, & so much more! I have been capturing love stories for a little over 10 years now and I wouldnt have it any other way. Being alongside couples during one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives is my passion. You’re not just a client. You’re someone I’m genuinely cheering for. My couples often tell me I feel more like a longtime friend, and that’s exactly how I like it. I’m big on communication, making you feel comfortable, & helping your day run smoothly so you can actually be present without the stress.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Sheena was amazing and has such an amazing eye! We couldn’t be happier with our wedding photos and the whole the experience. Even our guests talked about how much they loved Sheena!”
Sara B., 16 days ago
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Gordino Photo and Video 
Rating: 5.0 (61 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Illinois

I started off only wanting to take photos and videos of my friends. Now it seems like my passion has gone full circle and my clients have become my friends. Whether photographing parties or shooting short films, it is my goal as a professional artist, to capture those emotions, and present beautiful memories that will last forever. My ultimate reward will come years later—when you look at your photographs , videos and those memories once again come to life.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We had an amazing experience working with Gordino Photo and Video from start to finish. Godfred communicated clearly throughout the planning process and was super organized. When Godfred had a family matter come up, he sent someone he trusted to shoot our wedding instead, and Raul was incredible—fun to work with and captured our day beautifully. We really appreciate the effort he took making sure we were taken care of. The photos are truly works of art and we cannot wait to see the rest of the gallery, we know it will be beautiful. Gordino's work is professional and worth every penny. We would absolutely recommend them to any couple looking for a photographer who cares about their day.”
Abby G., 4 days ago
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Ashley Hamm Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (59 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,200
  • Serves Illinois

Hi, I'm Ashley! A Chicago wedding photographer with a love for capturing fun-loving and adventurous couples. From the I do’s to the epic dance moves, it’s my passion to capture authentic and candid moments created and inspired by one-of-a-kind couples! My process is simple. Document your day and create a vision with you: together we’ll create a seamless day that doesn’t feel like a posed photo shoot. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and support inclusivity and diversity.

“What more can I say about Ashley other than she’s simply the best!! We booked Ashley for our engagement pictures last year and adored working with her - she was so fun and made the process easy. And the pictures were gorgeous, we couldn’t have imagined any other photographer on our wedding day! As expected, Ashley and her assistant were amazing and we couldn’t have felt more comfortable with them. We look forward to working with Ashley for years to come!!”
Ashley B., a year ago
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The Gernands Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (52 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,300
  • Serves Illinois

Hi, I'm Samuel! Chicago based wedding and elopement photographer here to give couples a truly relaxed and down to earth experience. Being photographed shouldn't be uncomfortable or boring!  Telling love stories through photos brings me immense joy. 

“We cannot recommend Samuel & Maria enough! They are so personable and easy to work with. They absolutely nailed the look & mood we were going for. And like the title implies, they aren't just great at what they do; they're great people, too! We cannot recommend the Gernands enough.”
Taylor & G., 6 years ago
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DeAnda Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (52 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Algonquin, IL
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,895
  • Serves Illinois

Hi, Im Carol DeAnda, born and raised in the southwest suburbs and now living in Lake in the Hills Illinois, with my studio in downtown Algonquin. I have always been the one with the camera since grade school, but it wasn't until high school I realized that this could be my calling. After high school, I attended Harrington College of Design for the Digital photography program and started on my path to becoming a professional photographer. I am a PPA member and CPP (Certified Professional Photographer) and hold the Master Wedding Photographer degree from PPA, as well as a member of The Wedding Equality Alliance.

“Carol and her team are ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL when it comes to photography! The work is second-to-none, the professionalism is always consistent, and everyone is always so friendly! :) I have been working alongside Carol at weddings for several years now. As a DJ, it can be tough to communicate with vendors and make sure everyone is always ready to go. This is definitely not the case with Carol. I'm able to find her in a moment's notice and she's ready to capture those precious moments in an instant! Not to mention, her genuine love for her clients. Each and every couple that she works for she gives her all - and that not only shows on the day of an event, but also in her work. Carol and her team edit and produce SOME OF THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY WORK I HAVE EVER SEEN. Seriously. If you haven't checked out her portfolio, do it now. Carol has an eye for not only capturing your ideas, but also the tiny details that no one else would ever think about. Do yourself a favor a book with Carol and her team.”
Nick V., 6 years ago
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IG PHOTO VIDEO INC. 
Rating: 5.0 (47 reviews)
PROSPECT HEIGHTS, IL
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,790
  • Serves Illinois

IGphotovideo offers photography packages and videography packages. You can customize individual packages or bundle a photography and videography package to meet all your needs. Our team capture all your special moments, venue, decor, guests, and more. They use quality equipment and are always prepared for anything. Their services include: — Delivery on USB flash drive in Customized Box and Google Drive — Unlimited number of photos taken and color corrected — Photobook 6*6 (20 pages) or 10*10 (30pages) — Post-production video about 60 – 120 minutes with full ceremony, speeches, first dance, cake cutting, etc... — 4 – 12 min highlight video

Awarded Best of Zola
“We had the absolute pleasure of working with IG Photo Video for our wedding, and we couldn’t be happier with the results! From start to finish, Mikhail (videographer) and Artsiom (photographer) showcased an unmatched level of professionalism, creativity, and dedication. Their knowledge and expertise were out of this world, ensuring that every special moment was perfectly captured. What truly stood out was their commitment, they didn’t stop shooting until the very last second of their contract, making every moment count. They worked seamlessly together, making us feel comfortable and ensuring that our wedding memories were preserved in the most beautiful way possible. If you’re looking for a photography and videography team that goes above and beyond, IG Photo Video is the way to go. We are beyond satisfied with their work and highly recommend them to anyone looking for top tier service!”
Mathias M., 2 years ago
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PictureMeThisByLacie 
Rating: 5.0 (46 reviews)
Danville, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves Illinois

My husband and I come as a photo team! We feel your day should be captured your way! So we tailor our style and editing to each unique couple! It’s not about us, it’s about you. We will help you document what is most important to you, the way you envision! Just like you, we have felt awkward in front of the camera. We’ve had photos taken of us that we didn’t like. We will make sure you not only feel comfortable, but that you look good! We give you prompts to keep you moving so you look and feel natural and comfortable.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Lacie was absolutely phenomenal to work with throughout the entire wedding planning process. From the moment we jumped on a phone call to see if they were a right fit, I knew they would be. Her enthusiasm, understanding, outgoing way that she relates to people is an energy that you want on your big day. Our engagement session was incredible, she moves so quickly but efficiently, as to ensure you get all the shots you want, but is very mindful of time. Our wedding day was COMPLETE because of Lacie. In addition to her positive attitude, she helped smooth the timeline of events during the day when exterior factors were impacting the photography, and problem solved so wonderfully on the spot. She stepped in to help in moments that were above and beyond what we hired her for, and for that I am truly grateful. Her photography style is versatile and beautiful, specifically catered to your preference. I can't imagine a better photographer for our wedding and we are so grateful!”
Lily M., 2 years ago
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Latek Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (43 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $4,100
  • Serves Illinois

Hi, I’m Connie—congratulations on your engagement. Thank you for being here and for considering me as your photographer. I take a thoughtful, hands-on approach and believe the experience matters just as much as the final images. I’m involved well before the wedding day—collaborating on vision, timelines, and details to ensure everything feels intentional and effortless. I love curated Pinterest boards, open communication, and creating imagery that feels elevated, timeless, and personal. This is your day, and it should reflect you. Let’s talk!

Awarded Best of Zola
“We cannot recommend Connie enough! We worked with her for both our engagement photos at The Art Institute and our elopement at City Hall/Garfield Park Conservatory, and she was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. Our engagement session happened to fall on one of the busiest days that I've ever seen at The Art Institute. Despite the crowds and chaos, Connie was completely calm and made everything feel so easy. Looking at our photos, you would never know how busy it was. Every photo is beautiful and feels so effortless. On our elopement day, Connie was just as amazing. She navigated the craziness of City Hall with ease and wasn't fazed by anything, including rain and a protest that happened right in the middle of our photos! She stayed calm, flexible, and positive through it all, which made such a difference on a day that could have easily felt stressful. She was also incredibly communicative throughout the entire process, gave us helpful tips and direction, and somehow made two people who are definitely not naturals in front of the camera feel comfortable and confident. And most importantly, our photos are absolutely beautiful. Connie has such a talent for capturing genuine, authentic moments while making the entire experience feel relaxed and fun. We feel so lucky that she was there to capture both of these special days!”
Madeline S., a month ago
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Timeless Imagery & Media 
Rating: 4.9 (43 reviews)
Saint Louis, MO
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Illinois
  • Offer

Lover of all things photography. I have been a photographer for over 10 years and love what we do. I have an amazing team that helps me out. My husband also second shoots with me. I like to say you get two professionals for the price of one. I try to offer quality at a reasonable cost. I know photography can be daunting for some people and my goal is always to put people at ease.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Timeless Imagery & Media was the perfect choice for our wedding photography. From the moment we first spoke with them, we were impressed by their professionalism, warmth, and dedication to capturing our special day. They were always available to answer our questions and provide guidance, and were wonderful to work with both my husband and I as well as our entire wedding party. The quality of their work is truly outstanding - our photos are absolutely exquisite and we couldn't be happier. They had a keen eye for detail and were able to unobtrusively capture all the intimate, candid moments throughout the day without making us feel rushed. Their expertise in creating a seamless timeline for the day was invaluable, and they went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly. We are so grateful to Timeless Imagery & Media for helping to make our wedding day truly unforgettable.”
Elizabeth M., 9 months ago
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Emma Mullins Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (42 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $7,500
  • Serves Illinois

Digital + Film Wedding Photography Hi! I'm Emma, owner and lead photographer of Emma Mullins Photography. Our goal is simple: to capture your vibe, your people, and your love in a way that looks and feels true to life. We just wrapped our 13th Chicago wedding season, and it's been a whirlwind of all things real and fabulous! Emma Mullins Photography embraces diversity and inclusivity. We are a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community and happy to serve humans of every background, gender and identity.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We are huge fans of Emma! Here are 5 reasons she should also be your wedding photographer: 1. Emma is incredibly nice and was so generous with wedding organizing wisdom. She helped us feel more confident about the thousands of small details in the entire process, from our first Zoom meeting with her to the engagement photo shoot to the final shots on our wedding day 2. She is incredibly thorough as a communicator. We never had any question about what she needed or what she was doing before, during, or after the ceremony. And she was even very communicative via email with our moms(!) 3. She is so organized but also so creative. She kept our wedding day smooth by planning out all the posed shots needed, and she got all photos back to us in an always impressive timeframe. But she was also always open for a surprising shot or a little experiment. It made her work feel even more personal 4. She was a rock star on our wedding day, if you couldn’t tell. And she was a super fun hang during our engagement photo session, which featured Emma, my wife, and I improvising playful shots during a sudden rain storm(!) 5. Most of all, when she’s taking photos of you, her excitement in that moment fires you up more and makes you feel so comfortable. She makes you feel like your pictures are the best wedding photos ever taken. (But ours were, obviously)”
Moira M and N., a year ago
Jeremy Glickstein Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (41 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Highland Park, IL
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $4,950
  • Serves Illinois

A decade in professional theater. Nine years as a fine art street photographer. Now I shoot weddings. The theater taught me comfort—how to help nervous couples relax and forget the camera. The street work trained my eye—finding extraordinary frames in ordinary moments, chasing light like it owes me money. The result: signature portraits that feel like paintings and a shoot that feels like hanging out with a friend. 300+ weddings. 151+ five-star reviews. A 10-photographer team. Zero cookie-cutter work. Camera-shy? Creative? Both? Let's talk.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We are absolutely thrilled with our experience working with Jeremy! He is so considerate, professional, and easy to talk to. He is incredibly creative and motivated to make our dreams come to life. He was even willing to hike in a forest with us on a hot, buggy evening to capture the most beautiful photos we've ever seen that will forever remind us of our special day. 10/10, no complaints - he is simply the best!”
Alyssa P., a year ago
GemHidden gem
Chicago Wedding Photographer - Joe Nowak Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (41 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
St Charles, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,500
  • Serves Illinois

Hi, I’m Joe! I’ve been photographing weddings for over 20 years because I love capturing authentic, heartfelt, and timeless moments while keeping the day fun and stress-free. I gently guide couples and families when needed, making sure the moments that matter most are captured beautifully. Featured in Modern Luxury Chicago Bride, and award-winning online and print magazines, I become couples’ go-to person on the day, building trust and creating images they’ll treasure forever. — Joe

“Working with Joe was hands down the best decision we made for our wedding day. From start to finish, he made everything feel effortless. He’s calm, fun, and somehow everywhere and nowhere at the same time, capturing every moment without ever feeling intrusive. He went above and beyond — from stepping into traffic to help us get the perfect shot to catering to every need we had. Our photos at the Peninsula Hotel, North Avenue Beach, Millennium Park, the Rookery, and Board of Trade are absolutely stunning, and we get to relive the day every time we look at them. Joe isn’t just a photographer — he’s like family now, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience or the pictures.”
James R., 8 months ago
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The Still Life Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,225
  • Serves Illinois

Jay & Nicole Vega decided to pursue a career together in the art of Photography. Met & married in Chicago in 2013, two people set out on a business venture of a lifetime. While Nicole is the main photographer of the company, we have also expanded and hired reliable, talented photographers to work along side with us, while still maintaining a small business feel.

Awarded Best of Zola
“As a wedding planner, I have the privilege of working with many talented professionals—but The Still Life stands out as one of the most exceptional photographers I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with. From the first email to the final image delivery, they were an absolute dream. Professional, calm under pressure, and incredibly attuned to the energy of the day, The Still Life brought a quiet confidence and refined artistic vision that made both the couple and the vendor team feel completely at ease. Their background gives their wedding work a distinctive edge—every frame feels intentional, intimate, and beautifully composed. They have an incredible ability to capture not just moments, but mood—the softness of a floral detail, the emotion in a glance, the quiet magic between all the big moments. Our couples & clients are always absolutely thrilled with the results, and the photos were nothing short of stunning. As a planner, I can also say they were a joy to work alongside: punctual, communicative, and incredibly respectful of the timeline and flow of the day. If you're a couple looking for timeless, artful imagery—or a fellow planner seeking a photographer who elevates every event they’re part of—I can’t recommend The Still Life highly enough. Truly one of the best. The Serendipity Collective Nikki M. Rodgers”
Nikki R., 2 years ago
Xcitephoto&Films 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Naperville, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,199
  • Serves Illinois

If you made it to this page, you can see through my work that I love telling the story of your day by capturing the emotions and moments you can't afford to miss. ​ I come from a large Italian family with many of us extended into the arts or passionate about cooking and singing. I picked up my first camera in high school and immediately I was hooked. Today, I have over a decade in the industry, multiple commendations, and have held the Wedding Wire Couples' Choice Award and The Knot Best of Weddings Award 7 years in a row and counting. ​

“Xcitephoto&Films was an excellent choice for our wedding photography and videography. Their communication was clear, precise, and they provided fast answers by phone or email throughout the planning process. The quality of their work was very professional, and the photos and video were beautifully done! They had 3 photographers who each took the time to capture photos with every table of family and friends, ensuring we have wonderful memories from our special day. Andrew and his team were very nice, professional people who listened to our needs, gave us their best work, and fit well within our budget. We highly recommend Xcitephoto&Films to any couple planning their wedding.”
Monica H., 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Emma Petersen Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,400
  • Serves Illinois

Immortalizing Stories Through A Documentary Lens, Capturing The Raw, Real, And Every Candid Memory In Between. Instead of endless posing, my photographic focus is on crafting spaces where you can genuinely connect with the people you love. Whether that’s over a game of Catchphrase, a spontaneous karaoke session, or making intentional time to connect with your closest people, my approach ensures your gallery feels as meaningful as your memories.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Words can’t fully describe how amazing Emma is. She did our engagement photos and they blew us away, so we knew we needed her for our big day. The pictures are a work of art, but what really blew us away was her professionalism and willingness to help in every situation. She’s more than a photographer. She’s a wedding life saver. She helped out in more ways than I can count and was bubbly and friendly about it. So much so that I had friends coming up to me and saying “your photographer Emma is AWESOME!” She’s just that talented and wonderful.”
Dana H., 6 months ago
GemHidden gem
Rachael Marie Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (39 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Springfield, IL
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $4,200
  • Serves Illinois

Sentimental soul, avid movie goer, former middle school teacher, mental health advocate, renaissance faire attender, long-story-long teller, dog lover, farmer's market shopper, and decent chocolate chip cookie maker.

“Rachael Marie Photography was an incredible choice for our wedding photographer. From the very beginning, Rachael was quick to respond to all of our questions and communicated clearly with us throughout the planning process. On the day of the wedding, she was fun, caring, and gave great direction to help us look our best in the photos. The final photos were absolutely gorgeous - moody, high-quality, and reliable. We especially loved getting a quick preview of some of the photos just a few days after the wedding. Rachael truly captured the magic of our special day, and we couldn't be happier with the results. Highly recommend Rachael Marie Photography!”
Merrian T., a year ago
Turn the Paige Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (37 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
St. Charles, MO
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Illinois
  • Offer

Hi, I’m Meghan, a mom and a wife and most importantly, your wedding day hype girl, calm in the chaos, and the one who makes sure your memories are captured with heart. With years of experience in wedding photography, I do more than take beautiful photos. I help create a stress free, joy filled experience so you can be fully present on your big day. From fluffing your dress to keeping the timeline smooth, I’ve got you. Let’s make magic together!

“Meghan is incredible!! I found her through a friend of mine who used her for her wedding, and booking Meghan was the best decision we made. She went above and beyond to keep things organized and running smoothly, and she brought my Pinterest board to life with every photo taken. The cherry on top was a mini Polaroid book that she surprised us with at the end of the night, which was the perfect gift. She is the very best!!”
Emily S., a month ago
Quick responder
Audrey Simper Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Illinois

GET TO KNOW ME: Empathetic, detail oriented, & interested in learning how I can best support you. Capturing your shine while encouraging a feeling of ease. Go to coffee order: Almond Milk Cafe Miel | Personality types: ENFJ, Leo, Enneagram 7, Big Nerd | Hobbies: Acroyoga, dance, pottery, board games, reading books on psychology, binge watching survivor, being obsessed with your dog, getting little treats, curating an at home apothecary | Family: I live with my tiny Chihuahua Theo in Chicago.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Audrey was simply AMAZING from start to finish! From our very first meeting, she was incredibly organized, thoughtful, and thorough. She asked all the right questions and even thought of things we never would have! She worked seamlessly on our timeline alongside our venue coordinator and day-of coordinator, which made the entire process feel so easy and stress-free. And now, time for the photos… 10,000/10. Absolutely STUNNING. Our engagement photos were beautiful, but our wedding photos are truly beyond words. We are obsessed. Audrey captured every big moment, all the little details, and everything in between. Looking through our gallery feels like we get to relive the entire day all over again. On top of being incredibly talented, Audrey is so personable and makes you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera. She gives you direction and helps with posing when you need it, while also capturing the most natural, candid moments. She somehow manages to be everywhere you want her to be without ever feeling intrusive. We would recommend Audrey 100% in a heartbeat for wedding, engagement, or boudoir photography. If you’re looking for someone who is organized, incredibly talented, personable, and genuinely invested in making your photos amazing — book Audrey... You will not regret it!”
Lauren A., a month ago
Quick responder
Kaitlyn Johnston Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (35 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Illinois
  • Offer

I was that kid enchanted by Disney Princess movies and the idea of "true love". My true love revealed itself through photography. At 8, I grabbed my dad's camera and was hooked, thrilled to show people my world. I started with zoo animals, friends, and siblings, eager to freeze moments in time. As I grew, I learned from local photographers and knew by 17 that photography was my calling. Since then, I’ve captured love in all its forms: couples, new parents, best friends, and the joy of seeing your favorite band live. The world is full of magical firsts, and I'm honored to capture these moments forever.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We had the absolute best experience working with Kaitlyn for our engagement photos, rehearsal dinner, and wedding day. From the very beginning, she made us feel comfortable in front of the camera, which made such a difference in how natural all of our photos turned out. She and her husband Jake, who was our second shooter, were an amazing team. They captured every moment so effortlessly and truly understood the vibe of each event — from the excitement of our engagement session, to the intimate feel of the rehearsal dinner, to the energy and emotion of our wedding day. What I appreciated most was how well she listened to what we wanted while also guiding us with her experience. She made sure to get the specific shots that were important to us, but also captured so many candid moments that we didn’t even realize were happening. Looking through the photos feels like reliving the entire weekend. If you’re looking for a photographer who is talented, organized, calm, and genuinely fun to work with, I cannot recommend her enough. We are so grateful to have these memories captured so beautifully.”
Nell, 7 months ago
Quick responder
Svyat Bogdanov 
Rating: 5.0 (34 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Lisle, IL
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Illinois

Named one of Zola’s Best Wedding Photographers of 2024 and a proud Zola Brand Ambassador, Svyat Bogdanov is recognized as a trusted expert in the wedding industry. Based in Chicago and originally from Crimea, he has photographed over 600 weddings across the U.S. and abroad. His style blends candid emotion with timeless elegance, creating personalized galleries filled with heartfelt moments and genuine connection.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Bogdanov Photography was an absolute delight to work with for our wedding day. From the moment we first connected, Svat was outgoing, reachable, and prompt in his communication, putting us at ease throughout the entire planning process. He gave us a comprehensive checklist and many tips for the makeup trial, rain preparation, and building our shot list. His detail-oriented, gorgeous photography captured all the special moments of our day in a truly high-quality and affordable way. He was flexible and generous with his time and saved us quite a bit of money finding the perfect package to suit our exact needs. Svat went above and beyond, even gifting us beautiful Polaroid photos just before we left for the evening. We were crunched for time before the ceremony, but he was still able to capture so many meaningful moments that surprised us and beautiful accessory layouts. We couldn't be happier with our forever photos - Svat went above and beyond and we highly recommend his work to any couple looking for an amazing wedding photographer.”
David K., 2 years ago