When couples are planning their wedding day, one of the biggest decisions that comes up is whether or not to do a first look. While it’s definitely not required, choosing to see each other before the ceremony can bring so many beautiful benefits, both practical and emotional. From calming pre-ceremony nerves to giving you more time […]

Planning a destination wedding is exciting—but it can also feel a little overwhelming when you’re trying to map out the day from miles away. That’s why having a simple, flexible timeline can be a total game-changer. It’s less about cramming everything in—and more about giving you the space to soak it all in, without stress. […]

Hi, I’m Chel, a Michigan-based micro wedding, elopement, and intimate wedding photographer specializing in emotion-driven, story-focused imagery for couples who value meaning over tradition. I photograph micro weddings (typically under 125 guests), adventure elopements, proposals, and engagement sessions across Michigan, with a deep love for Northern Michigan (my hometown is Traverse City) Frankenmuth, Ann Arbor, and Detroit. I also travel for […]

There’s something so special about a Traverse City, Michigan proposal, especially in the fall when the leaves feel like they’re cheering you on! Kevin planned every detail with so much intention, and honestly, it was the sweetest thing to witness. After years together, this was their first ever session, which just made the whole day […]

Yash and Mik’s Sleeping Bear Dunes proposal at Empire Bluff Trail was filled with early-fall color, sweeping Lake Michigan views, and the sweetest surprise moment! We explored the dunes, wandered to Empire Beach, and ended the night along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.

There’s just something about film photography that digital will never quite touch. The grain, the dreamy tones, the little imperfections that make each frame one-of-a-kind — it all feels timeless. Michigan, with its endless lakeshores, charming downtowns, and woodsy hidden spots, is an absolute dream for 35mm film photography. But if you’re here, you’re probably […]

Hiring a wedding photographer isn’t just about finding someone who owns a camera…it’s about trusting someone to capture one of the most important chapters in your story. But with so many people out there advertising photography, how do you actually know if a photographer is legit? Here are a few things to look for when […]

Joe and Natalie’s micro wedding at The Birch Lodge in Trout Lake felt like stepping into another era. With ethereal Art Nouveau details and 1920s-inspired charm, their day was a dreamy blend of vintage elegance and heartfelt moments. Natalie’s dress was truly one of the most unique gowns I’ve ever photographed….flowing, romantic, and perfectly suited for the […]

One of the most common questions I get asked by couples is: “So… how long until we get our wedding photos back?”And trust me, I get it…after the best day ever, you’re beyond excited to relive every moment. The flowers might fade, the cake will be gone, but your photos? Those last forever. The short answer: […]

Family photos are one of those parts of the wedding day that can either be a breeze or take up way too much time if there’s no plan. The good news? With just a little prep, you can make sure everyone important to you is photographed, without feeling like you spent your whole cocktail hour standing in […]

Jordan and Tori’s Caseville wedding—just 40 deeply loved people gathered as the sun dipped over Lake Huron—was effortlessly beautiful. As a micro wedding done their way, it had that cozy, intentional vibe I live for as a photographer. Capturing the Calm The day began with softly focused detail shots and natural getting-ready moments with Tori and her […]

Brad & Paige’s wedding day in Northport, Michigan was everything a micro wedding should be—intimate, relaxed, and full of personal touches that felt uniquely them. From their first look to their last dance, the whole day unfolded in a way that let them soak it all in. Getting Ready at the Northport Inn The morning started off quietly […]

They say rain is good luck on your wedding day — and for Brad and the Thompsons, it couldn’t have been more spot-on. Their Frankenmuth, Michigan micro wedding embraced the unexpected, blending heartfelt moments, joyful spontaneity, and a calm, intentional timeline. With perfectly timed breaks in the rain, we were able to capture stunning portraits throughout Frankenmuth, […]

Brent & Darion’s Glen Arbor Micro Wedding at The Homestead Resort If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding day that felt like a page out of a storybook—sunshine, Lake Michigan views, an intimate guest list, and a little dose of personality—Brent & Darion’s Glen Arbor micro wedding (with a touch of elopement-style intimacy) at The Homestead […]

A guide on finally understanding the exposure triangle, minus the headaches You’ve probably heard about the exposure triangle before—and maybe you’ve even tried to wrap your head around it, only to end up Googling “what’s the easiest camera setting so I don’t cry.” Lol, I was you once. I feel you. I’m here Simplifying the […]

Planning a wedding in Michigan? Whether you’re eloping on the shores of Sleeping Bear Dunes, hosting a micro wedding in Detroit, or saying “I do” under the trees in Northern Michigan — choosing the right wedding photographer, here in Michigan, is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. (No pressure, right?) Let’s break down what […]

Choosing a wedding photographer is kind of a big deal. (Okay, it’s a huge deal.) After all, they’re the ones capturing the hugs, the ugly cries, the epic dance moves, and all those in-between moments you’ll want to relive foreverrrr. But here’s the thing: not all photographers are the same. (And not every vibe fits […]

So you’re thinking about tying the knot in Traverse City, Michigan—and I am jumping in to say…do it!!! This spot is basically the hidden gem of small wedding dreams. Think: lake views for days, cozy rustic vibes, vineyard sunsets, and zero pressure to throw a massive party for 200 of your not-so-closest cousins. Whether you’re […]

There’s something about a Detroit micro wedding that just hits differently. And Rouba and Tarius’s day? Completely unforgettable. Airbnb in the Heart of Detroit From the moment I stepped into their vintage Airbnb in the heart of Detroit, I was in love. The space had this timeless charm—think antique structure, rich wood textures, and that old-world luxury […]

What Makes a Michigan Photographer Luxury? (Spoiler: It’s Not Just the Price Tag) Let’s get one thing straight: “luxury” doesn’t just mean expensive. When it comes to a Michigan wedding photography, luxury is all about the experience—Seriously. Its about how you’re cared for, how present your photographer is, and how you feel when you look […]