The Best Photojournalistic Wedding Photographers in Chicago, IL

The Best Photojournalistic Wedding Photographers in Chicago, IL

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450 Wedding Photographers in Chicago, IL

Photojournalistic
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Zach Caddy Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000

A cinematic eye. --- A bleeding heart. --- An inclusive spirit. --- I've picked up a camera just about every day since I fell in love with photography in 2013. Though every shoot holds something unique, it takes a lot to catch me off guard after a decade in business. I pride myself on my ability to quickly connect with my clients, making them feel comfortable, cared for, and confident that they look great. Being a helpful and calming presence in the midst of your wedding is second nature to me. Basically, I try to treat people how I want to be treated: with fairness and understanding!

Awarded Best of Zola
“Zach Caddy Photography was the perfect choice for our wedding photography. From our first interaction, Zach and was incredibly timely, thoughtful, and easygoing - they made the whole process feel effortless. Their moody, classic documentary style captured all the special moments of our big day in a beautiful way. With over 300 guests and a 24-person wedding party, Zach and his team navigated the crowd seamlessly, keeping things fun and inclusive throughout. We are thrilled with the final photos and couldn't have asked for a better photography experience. Highly recommend Zach Caddy Photography for your wedding day!”
Chloe M., 2 years ago
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Prudence Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (8 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,495
  • Serves Chicago, IL
  • Offer

Hi, I'm Tye Acierto, owner of Prudence Photography, based in Chicago. We're new to Zola but we've been around shooting happy wedding couples for 14 years! I travel nationwide to capture unique moments for couples. With experience in Indian, Southeast Asian, Polish, Muslim, Jewish, Latin American, and LGBTQ weddings, I blend a candid, photojournalistic style with modern and classic approaches. My goal is to capture authentic, unscripted moments while being adaptable to your vision. Let’s chat about your wedding and how we can create beautiful, timeless images together. I’m excited to be part of your special day!

“Ty is an amazing photographer!!! He has a great eyes for creative art.”
Kamie Corfias, 6 years ago
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Adam Novak Weddings 
Rating: 5.0 (7 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500

Being a wedding photographer, I am lucky to be granted front row seats to the most loving moments in life; period. Guests and your loved ones will fly in, hopefully comb their hair and dress to impress; shower you with hugs and kisses. Grandparents will watch and remember and smile with their eyes. Tears will be shed, tight hugs will temporarily stop time and most of these details will inevitably fade from memory... until a couple of weeks after your wedding day, when those defining moments will be lovingly delivered, but this time as a visual storyline... timeless photographs... nostalgia relived.

“Adam photographed both our legal wedding and our larger wedding weekend a few weeks later. Both sets of photos are spectacular. He captured the joy and fun of each occasion in a way that felt both laid-back and intentional. We came away with so many natural, unstilted shots of ourselves and our loved ones. The photos will help us relive these special days for years to come!”
Kristin H., 9 months ago
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Eivan's Photo & Video 
Rating: 4.9 (350 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,149

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
“We could not have asked for a better photography and videography team for our wedding reception! Bayo was truly a mind reader — constantly in the right place at the right time and somehow captured every special moment without ever feeling staged or forced. Arlene worked quietly behind the scenes, capturing every emotional, joy-filled detail so naturally that it feels like we’re reliving the night every time we watch our video. Their professionalism, creativity, and teamwork made the entire experience effortless. We’ll cherish these memories forever!”
Emily H., a year ago
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George Street Photo and Video 
Rating: 4.9 (284 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,295
  • 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
“Went with this company for my wedding and absolutely loved how everything went! At the beginning it was easy to reach out and talk to the photographer. The couple days before and day of the wedding the photographer and I were able to talk and go over final details. Loved how the photos came out!”
Mackenzie W., a year ago
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Albany Capture Film & Photography Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (186 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style

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
“Albany Capture Film & Photography Studios were a pleasure to work with on our wedding day. Their communication style was direct yet friendly and open, putting us at ease from the start. The quality of their work was truly professional and perceptive - they captured so many spontaneous, genuine moments that we'll treasure forever. Photographer Pedro was especially impressive, effortlessly getting our guests to relax and express themselves. He even took beautiful candid shots of friends who just stopped by briefly, which we really appreciated. Overall, Albany Capture exceeded our expectations and we highly recommend them to any couple planning their wedding.”
Aaron D., 2 years 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

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 (114 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $895

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
“We couldn't be happier with our experience or the photos! Our photographer, Michelle, was so easygoing and fit right in with our wedding party. Van was equally professional and thoughtful throughout the entire process. Their communication was prompt and organized, which made planning feel effortless. Michelle's photos were stunning, tasteful, and thoughtfully balanced.”
Victoria Y., a month ago
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Kate Scott Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (89 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000

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
GemHidden gem
Ashley Hamm Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (59 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,200

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 (51 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,300

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 were so grateful to Samuel who was able to document our city hall ceremony on a very last minute request during the end of year holidays. (Are you free next weekend?) We were drawn to the documentary style of his work and thought it was a fitting way to remember a special moment in a basement of Chicago's City Hall. Leading up to the day, we texted and chatted about places to do portraits after and Samuel was very patient and helpful in suggesting places that felt right for me and my partner. Not only did he have the inside scoop on what the city hall ceremony was going to be like and what was going to happen, but he was also great to hang out with in line and and get to know better. We both felt very comfortable working with Samuel and the nerves of working with a professional photographer for the first time went out the window. I can only imagine how amazing the experience would be to work with Samuel with more time to prepare or at locations a little less drab than a city hall basement!”
Sasha, 3 years ago
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The Still Life Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (43 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,225

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
“From the moment we first connected with Nicole from The Still Life Photography, we knew we were in good hands. Her communication style was prompt, informative and detailed, putting us at ease throughout the entire planning process. The quality of their work is simply stunning - the photos we've received so far are beautifully timeless and capture the essence of our special day in the most striking way. Nicole kept the day moving seamlessly and was a calming presence, even helping me with a last-minute dress emergency. The pictures we've seen so far are absolutely gorgeous, and we can't wait to see the rest. We are thrilled with the service and artistry of The Still Life Photography and would highly recommend them to any couple looking for a talented, professional wedding photographer.”
Kristen B., a year ago
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Emma Mullins Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (42 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $9,000

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
“Emma and her associate, Sasha, were an absolute joy to work with. From the planning stages, to engagement photos, to our wedding day, Emma was communicative, professional, and uplifting. Our engagement session photos are beautiful and surpassed what we hoped for. For our wedding, we asked for photos both downtown and in Lincoln Park, and Emma knew all the best spots. We were pleasantly surprised by how many sneak peek photos Emma provided us just a few days after the wedding, and we can’t wait to see the entire wedding album in a few weeks! We also received many compliments from our guests about how great Emma was. Please book Emma for your own engagement/wedding, you won’t regret it. :)”
Vivienne F., a year 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

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
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Audrey Simper Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (38 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000

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
“We loved working with Audrey! She photographed our engagement shoot and our wedding, and hit both out of the park! Audrey really set us at ease, her posing and prompts helped to make us feel comfortable. She was extremely organized and communicative. Our planning meetings helped us to think through our timeline and what we needed to do. She even had her own ring box when we forgot ours on the day of. She was a pleasure to spend our wedding day with, and she captured it beautifully. We would definitely work with her again!”
Becky S., a year ago
Thara Photo 
Rating: 5.0 (33 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,600

Hi, I’m Tim! I photograph joyful, laid-back weddings without all the awkward posing. Whether you’re camera-shy or total naturals, I’ll make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourselves. Nothing artificial here. If you want a wedding day that feels fun and photos that feel the same — you’re in the right place.

“Tim was the only photographer we even considered for our wedding. We loved the pictures he had taken of other events, and how well he captured the candid moments and little expressions that really made the people shine, and he truly delivered for our event! We couldn't be more pleased with how great the photos turned out, with Tim grabbing moments that we hadn't thought were special at the time but ended up being some of the highlights of the day. He was incredibly communicative and proactive, and always responsive and open to ideas we had. We're so thrilled, and will definitely be working with him again for any family photos we might need in the future!”
Megan G., a month ago
GemHidden gem
Bella Donna Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (33 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $5,000

Bella Donna Studios is a Chicago-area wedding photography and videography studio with more than 10 years behind the camera. Our wedding photography pairs documentary-style coverage with guided portraiture, with two photographers on the day, professionally edited images, a digital sneak peek and online gallery delivery. Collections can add an engagement session, a custom printed album or a 35mm film upgrade. Couples book us across Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, plus destination weddings, and we are a preferred vendor at Être Farms in St. Joseph, Michigan.

“We knew Bella Donna Studios was right for us the moment we started talking to them, and they proved it on our wedding day. The team made everything feel natural and stress-free, guiding us through poses and keeping the day running smoothly without us having to think about what came next. What really impressed us was how they captured every detail that made our wedding special, from the small moments to the big ones. The video they created is beautiful and so easy to access whenever we want to relive the day. It's the perfect recap of everything we felt and experienced, and honestly it's the best way to remember our favorite day forever. We can't recommend Bella Donna Studios enough.”
Aubrey D., 4 days ago
GemHidden gem
Lilly Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (32 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,500

Documentary.Creative imagery. Unique perspective. With over 18 years of experience PHOTOGRAPHING weddings, we've developed a documentary approach that allows couples to be fully pResent on their wedding day while knowing every important moment is being captured.

“The Lilly team was absolutely wonderful! They were super helpful from our initial call to downloading the photos after our wedding. Jiho was a tremendous help with the timeline for our day and answered every question. Maggie was our lead photographer. She helped me stay stress-free the whole day and was so kind to all of my girls. We received the full suite of photos three weeks after our wedding day and they are absolutely beautiful. Thank you, Lilly Photography!”
Lauren S., 2 years ago
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Visil Photography & Video 
Rating: 5.0 (20 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,250

I’m Victor, a Chicago wedding photographer and filmmaker who understands how quickly the day moves. Having experienced weddings both behind the camera and as a groom, I guide couples with a calm, intentional approach so they can stay present and fully experience their day while their story is preserved authentically. I serve couples across Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and destinations worldwide.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We enjoyed every photography session we had with Victor! He is quick to respond and made sure he met all of our needs. We are very happy with all our wedding photos and videos! Highly recommend”
Tara M., 2 months ago
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Lux Everlasting 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Offer

Heyyy friends! I'm Clayton, the lead photographer and artist behind Lux Everlasting. We're based in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood, and I've been shooting weddings since the summer I graduated high school in 2007! I make candid, cinematic images that feel like raw memories, rather than a forced photoshoot. My couples value real emotion, time with their people, and beauty that goes beyond perfect lighting and poses. Queer-owned, proudly LGBTQ+ affirming, and high-key just really fun to have at your wedding!

Awarded Best of Zola
“I had the absolute best experience during my maternity shoot! Even though I was sooo pregnant, he made me feel completely comfortable from the moment we started. He’s incredibly friendly, patient, and has a way of making you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera. The photos came out so beautifully and so naturally — nothing felt forced or overly posed. He truly captured my natural beauty in a way that brought tears to my eyes when I saw the final images. You can tell he has a genuine talent for seeing people as they are and bringing out the best in every shot. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Highly, highly recommend!”
Alexis, a year ago
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Imafora Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500

Hi, I’m Jorge, a passionate photographer dedicated to capturing authentic stories through timeless images. My goal is to not just take photos, but to preserve emotions, connections, and the little details that make every moment special. Whether it’s a wedding, portrait, family session, or special event, I approach each project with creativity, professionalism, and care. I love working closely with my clients to make them feel comfortable in front of the camera, allowing their true personalities and emotions to shine. I would be honored to be part of your journey and help you relive your most meaningful moments through beautiful photographs.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Jorge with Imafora Photography was amazing! From the start he was easy to work with, super professional, and really cared about making sure our wedding photos felt like “us.” On the wedding day, he made everyone feel relaxed and comfortable, which made the photos look so natural. The pictures turned out gorgeous—we love how he captured all the little moments along with the big ones. Looking through them feels like reliving the day all over again. We’re so glad we chose Jorge and would recommend him to anyone looking for a wedding photographer!”
Gina, a year ago
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Cling & Peck 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $5,000

We’re Cling & Peck a small studio of expert photographers and videographers who have been capturing weddings for the better part of a decade. We want to make photos and videos are going to stand the test of time and be loved for years to come.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Cling and Peck made our wedding day feel like a beautiful adventure. We got married at a forest preserve in the middle of nowhere and they had scouted out several great spots for photos beforehand so that we didn't have to waste time looking around. They also listened to what we were looking for as far as style, specific photos, etc. and delivered exactly what we wanted, and more! Their artistic eye and perfect setup of shots gave the photos the perfect woodland fairytale wedding vibes. Group shots were well directed and easy to manage, unlike many family photo attempts I had experienced in the past. They also ingratiated themselves easily with the wedding guests so that their photos/videos during the reception were barely noticed. They just seemed like another person having fun on the dance floor capturing the whole thing. Would definitely recommend them for all aspects of their wedding photography.”
Emily H., 2 years ago
Emily Rose Rudd 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,900

Hi there! I'm Emily Rose, the sole photographer + editor of your wedding photos! I have been shooting weddings for a decade and love connecting with my clients as much as I love photographing them! They feel like close friends by the end of the day. I am documentary-style, in that I never stop shooting. While I help with posing during portrait sessions to make sure you look your best, I also love capturing the laughter of guests, the teary-eyed parents, the flower girl running up to you and hugging you at first sight, the tiny details, the real smiles you share with your spouse + the quiet, intimate moments between you two throughout the day.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Emily is 100% the best. We had the most beautiful wedding photos and have received so many compliments. Emily was so professional and efficient on our wedding day to make sure we got all of the shots we needed. AND all the candids. She truly never stopped shooting.”
Rachel, 2 years ago
AJ Abelman Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style

I didn’t get into the wedding industry because I was the little girl dreaming of my wedding day. I love story-telling, I love love, and I love people who want to laugh and have a great time because they realize that life is short and beautiful. Wedding photography is all of those things at once; every time I go to work it’s the best day of someone’s life. How cool is that?

“Listen, there's a reason why AJ has 5 stars everywhere. She is THE BEST. AJ is incredibly talented and has such an eye for all the little details that make a perfect composition. She is also the most hilarious and fun presence to have around you on your big day. And the PHOTOS! I knew they'd be great, but I was unprepared for just how amazing our wedding album turned out. Every photo was beautiful and exactly what we envisioned (and more!). My only regret is not living near Chicago, otherwise I would book AJ for every moment of my life.”
Luiza, a year ago
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Crane's Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,000

PHOTOS YOU CAN FEEL! We believe in the magic of the unscripted—the belly laughs, the happy tears, and every quiet vibration in between. Our documentary-style approach allows your day to unfold naturally. If you’ve been searching for a blend of artistry and authenticity, you’ve found it.

“I looked at a LOT of wedding photographers. There are a lot of people out there who do beautiful photos, but none really felt like a fit for us -- either the photo style was moodier/sexier than I thought we could pull off, or the price was too steep for the amount of hours we wanted to have the photographer available, or photos felt too “posed” and cookie-cutter. Then we found Randy. The first thing I noticed about Randy’s portfolio is that people were smiling and laughing. You’d be surprised how few photographers feature photos that look joyful! The second thing I noticed is that photos weren’t all the same; different couples had different looks and styles. I felt like I was learning something about the couple by their photos. When we contacted Randy, we discovered that his work was not only in budget, but that his pricing included a full day of wedding photos – no matter how many hours the day lasted! Our package included engagement photos, wedding photos, a small album, and we added a photobooth for the wedding day. Our engagement session and wedding ended up being two years apart (thanks, COVID) and Randy did an incredible job with both! The engagement shoot gave us a great sense of how Randy works and got us accustomed with posing. What I most appreciated was the fact that Randy caught the moments in between the poses – where my husband and I were laughing with one another or sharing a special moment. For the wedding photos, Randy joined me a little bit before 9 am and was with us until the reception ended at 11 pm! He had a second photographer there during most of that time, as well. I really wanted to capture the joy of finally being able to be together with family and getting to celebrate. After nearly three years of being engaged, I was determined to make the day as stress-free as possible and just enjoy myself. Randy picked up on our joyful, relaxed mood right off the bat and gave us the photos of our dreams! Our photos are bright and colorful (although he picks wonderful photos to do in B&W) and full of laughter, big smiles, and happy tears. Every part of the day is beautifully captured, but we are especially fond of the candid joy in our reception pictures. He got such wonderful shots of our guests that we sent everyone a photo in their thank you cards! If you want wedding photos that feel like you, your partner, and your loved ones, I cannot recommend Randy enough. He is professional, easy to work with, and so talented. We are so grateful to have found him!”
Bri, 9 months ago
GemHidden gem
Brigette Burgman Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,800

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am based out of the Chicago land area, but make it my mission to travel for photography as much as possible! I love the color purple, crazy hats, funk music, & all things outdoors! Traveling is my number one passion! I LOVE connecting with couples and getting to tell their love story authentically. I like to connect my subjects with nature and use natural lighting to create breathtaking images that emphasize my love for the natural beauty we find outside every day!

“Brigette was so beyond amazing to work with, a true gem of a person. My husband and I did an elopement style wedding in Chicago and it truly felt as though Brigette went above and beyond for us, making our day so perfect. Our photos were absolutely stunning, they are perfection; we are so grateful and in love with how they turned out, she is a true master of her craft.”
Carissa, a year ago
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Walking Visions Photography inc. 
Rating: 5.0 (14 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,300

At Walking Visions Photography, weddings are documented with a photojournalistic approach that focuses on real moments as they naturally unfold. Rather than overly directing every scene, my goal is to quietly observe and capture the authentic emotions, connections, and in-between moments that make your day meaningful. From the quiet anticipation while getting ready, to the laughter shared between family and friends, to the energy on the dance floor, each image is created to tell the story of your wedding day as it truly happened.

“LaVance and Walking Visions Photography was the perfect choice for our wedding day. We wanted to capture our love back in the place where we had our first date, the pond at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago Illinois, and LaVance helped us do so. He was amazing, patience and creative with all the shots. He helped memorialize every moment of our special day. Absolutely recommend for any special occasion!”
Stef U., 2 days ago
GemHidden gem
Andrew Merz 
Rating: 5.0 (14 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,200

I like to take a journalistic approach to my wedding photography, letting the day flow naturally, all while capturing every wonderful moment for the couple as non-obtrusive as possible. My goal is to make your big day as stress free & fun as possible while capturing memories to last a life time!

Awarded Best of Zola
“Andrew & his team are incredible! We are so grateful to have found him! Andrew and Emily are a lovely, calming, and friendly presence! They were so aware of timing and ensured that all photos were captured. They are so professional and fun! The photos we have gotten back are STUNNING, and we are so excited to look at them for years to come. We would recommend Merz photography in a heartbeat - talented photographers and even better people! 100/10! Thank you, Andrew!”
Carley K., 3 months ago
Melo Photo + Video 
Rating: 4.6 (14 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Offer

Melo Photo + Video was created with one thing in mind: you and your wedding day. Our local city photographers are there to capture each candid moment: whether you’re planning an intimate micro wedding with your closest friends and family, or an elaborate affair with everyone you know. Melo Photo + Video offers customizable packages at practical-budget friendly prices.

“Was very professional and our photographer helped me pose to make sure I don’t have a double chin in my pictures lol”
Amanda K., 6 months ago
Quick responder
Nikki Kate Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (13 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,500

Hello, my name is Nikki, and I am a wedding and family photographer for the sentimental and nostalgic. I have been lucky enough to call this my career for over 12 years. I am driven by a passion for storytelling and documenting your life for you to keep forever. Rooted in the heart of Chicago, IL, I am always ready to pack my bags and travel wherever your story unfolds (frequently travel to CO and WI). Whether it's the heartfelt promises exchanged on your wedding day or the joyful pitter-patter of little feet during an intimate family session at home, I treasure the opportunity to document every chapter of your life.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Nikki is absolutely amazing and we are so happy we chose her to be our wedding photographer. She is wonderful to work with! She is kind, organized, and truly goes above and beyond! We are so in love with all of our photos and have received so many compliments on them! We truly cannot recommend Nikki enough!!”
Taylor D., 10 months ago