How We Work
We photograph weddings using a blend of 35mm and medium-format cameras and digital cameras modified with vintage glass (yes, we’re nerds), prioritizing candid moments of you and all your guests. Documentary style is a way of telling a story from a place of truth as it naturally unfolds, which means we would never ask you to stage a fake moment or over-direct you in a way that would make the photos dishonest.
Our grounded, calm, and observant demeanor has come from 15 years of witnessing the nuances and emotions that unfold at weddings. We are keenly aware that our presence is felt by you and your guests throughout the wedding day, from getting ready to the last song, so we consider ourselves a part of your wedding, experiencing every moment and connecting with people. Therefore, our presence is felt as participants — ebbing and flowing alongside everyone else and responding to the energy around us. We are natural extroverts who thrive on human interaction and meeting new and interesting people. Photographing weddings is a very satisfying experience for us.
Depending on the scope of your wedding, and our availabilty, we work individually and/or as a team. Mike shoots weddings exclusively on 35mm and medium format, and I do too, but I also blend digital into the mix.
Our couples are the types who don't want a lot of attention on them, who feel awkward in front of the camera, could use a little photo-taking direction, and who deeply value photography as an art form and care about their guests being photographed.
We like to work with couples who crave genuine, connection-based relationships, even if it's just for the duration of the wedding process - we're going all in.
Since our relationship is rooted in connection, meeting you both is step one, so we begin with a virtual meeting. We do not book clients without this.
After our meeting, should we all decide it's a good fit, we require a 50% retainer and a signed contract.
Once booked, you will be given a link to schedule an engagement shoot at your place, shot entirely on analog film and likely accompanied by a snack plate and margaritas. This session is gifted to all of our couples, so there’s no way you’re getting out of it.
You get your film scans from the engagement shoot and are relieved (phew), you love them! They don't feel cheesy, you look hot, and your mom loves them too.
Two months before your wedding, we schedule a meeting with you and your planner to review logistics, but if there's ever a point before then when you want to reach out to talk shop, we’re here for you!
On your wedding day, we arrive adhering to the wedding dress code. We are approachable and unobtrusive, with light direction as needed and a calm presence. We do not suggest fake or reenact real moments “for the photo”. We gingerly balance as both participant and observer, giving a guest’s perspective and having a damn good time.
If you choose Chellise, your wedding will be shot on film and digital cameras.
If you choose Mike, your wedding will be shot solely on analog film.
If you choose to have both of us, Mike will shoot on film, and Chellise will shoot both film and digital.
To see our work, head over to our Weddings tab, which features our portfolios.
To get the scoop on all things analog, you can check out our film-specific FAQs
After the wedding…
We send our film to our lab for processing and scanning, which usually takes 1-2 weeks. Once we get it back, the preliminary culling and editing begin.
At the three- to four-week mark, you will receive a carefully curated selection of images taken throughout the day. This holds you two over while we get going on the whole enchilada that's in the queue with all the other enchiladas.
Within two to three months, all final photographs will be delivered to you. Your private gallery will thrive in the picture cloud for 18 months with access to our professional print lab for prints, framed prints, coffee table books, and diy albums.
If you choose an album package, the process is collaborative, using your selection of favorites. We handle the heavy lifting on layout design. Once completed, we send you a mock-up for approval and for you to make design requests. Once you are happy with the layout, it goes to print. And for our graphic design lovers who really want to go all out, we can get super custom with fonts, colors, etc.
We celebrate LOVE FOR ALL regardless of ethnicity, age, race, class, gender identity, disability, body shape or size, culture, or religion.
