The Best Photojournalistic Wedding Photographers in Cortland, IL

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172 Wedding Photographers in Cortland, IL

Photojournalistic
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Red Barn Wedding Studio 
Rating: 5.0 (13 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Red Barn Wedding Studio is a wedding photography and wedding cinematography company, based in Chicago, Illinois, dedicated to customer service and exceptional visual storytelling. All our lead wedding photographers and videographers have around 15 years experience in the wedding field, covering and experiencing all kinds of lighting scenarios and true life stories.

We are thrilled with our photos and video from Red Barn! We hired Red Barn for our photos, videos, & photo booth. Our contract stated that everything would be ready 60 days after our event, but Elena sent our full gallery & both videos back to us after only 37 days!! We were SO excited!! Our lead photographer was Bogdan & Elena was our second shooter. Their presence and professionalism at our wedding was excellent. They helped us stay on time, guided us to take the best photos (we are not naturals in front of the camera), and ensured we got every shot that I put on my list! We love the mixed formal and candid photos that they took of us. Bogdan & Elena worked flawlessly with our videographer. We got the highlight video & the full video, they are beautiful & capture our wedding day perfectly! Our guests loved the photo booth & my husband & I love the album that we got of the photo strips! I would highly recommend Red Barn for your wedding photography, videography, and photo booth services!
Juliana H., 2 months ago
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Megan Saul Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. What started as a childhood passion grew into a lifelong pursuit of storytelling through images. I’m based in both Union, Illinois, and Florida, which allows me to capture weddings in a variety of beautiful settings. When I’m not behind the camera, I’m gardening, traveling, or spending time with my partner, Kenny, and our three pets. My work has been featured in many publications, but what truly drives me is creating honest, meaningful imagery for my couples—photos that will live on as part of their legacy.

Megan did our engagement, boudoir, and wedding photos and I cannot love her or her work more. She is a total artist and captured us, our friends and family, and the vibe of our wedding so magnificently. She worked with everyone so well and provided direction when needed but also just did her thing and the results are beyond gorgeous. Will be working with her for every future event!!
Kaleigh W., a month ago
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Christian Isaac Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (8 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,600
  • Serves Cortland, IL

I'm Chris, on my 13th year of event & weddings photography. At your hands you have a photographer who documents and enjoys the fun spontaneous emotions for candids and poses. I believe photography helps maintain life's special moments for people that like to keep watching and rewinding memory lane and I am one of them. I believe photography is fun, life-giving, adventurous for the right people and I look forward to answering any of your questions.

Christian Isaac Photography has been my go-to photographer for years. His communication is always professional, timely, and clear. He responds quickly to any questions or requests, and is very understanding of the unique needs of each Event. The quality of his work is exceptional - the photos are truly perfect, with a great eye for capturing all the special moments and details. Christian has a wonderful work ethic and produces amazing, high-quality images that allow us to relive our wedding day or any other event every time we look at them. I would highly recommend Christian Isaac Photography to any couple looking for a talented, reliable, and responsive wedding photographer.
Elena T., 5 months ago
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Shannon VanDyke Photography 
Rating: 4.6 (10 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,250
  • Serves Cortland, IL
  • Offer

Hey there! I'm Shannon! I've always been a creative at heart and I'm blessed to have a job that I absolutely adore! I truly love connecting with all of my couples and creating those special memories. Capturing the love between two souls is truly my calling in life. From engagement session to wedding day, I am here for you! I want to be "THE ONE" to tell your beautiful love story!

Awarded Best of Zola
Shannon VanDyke Photography was a dream to work with for our wedding photos. Shannon's communication throughout the planning process was amazing - she was very responsive over email and phone, and took the time to understand exactly what we envisioned for our big day. On the wedding day itself, Shannon was a total pro - she made sure to capture all the special moments, and her attention to detail was incredible. The photos turned out beautifully - Shannon perfectly captured the emotion and joy of the day. She went above and beyond to make sure we got photos with all of our guests during the photo bomb game, which was a fun way to include everyone. Overall, we were thrilled with Shannon's services and the gorgeous photos to remember our wedding day. Her professionalism and artistic eye resulted in timeless images we will cherish. We highly recommend Shannon for wedding photography - her communication, flexibility and attention to detail help create a stress-free and enjoyable experience for the couple on their big day.
Dana J., 2 years ago
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Erik Anderson - Photography, LLC. 
Rating: 5.0 (16 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Serves Cortland, IL

I'm a 35-year-old husband to Samantha, our son Silas, daughter Fiona, and our wiggler companion Moxie. I've been a wedding photographer for 11 years, having photographed over 300 weddings and countless other sessions! My hobby is also my job, and you bet my wife loves that, haha. I am also a stay-at-home dad, a philatelist, a Lego freak, and a craft beer nerd, and we have an orange fridge, haha.

Awarded Best of Zola
We are not from the area so the first time we officially met Erik was the day of our wedding. From the moment we met, Erik’s energy was calm and confident. I can’t think about my perfect day without thinking about how incredible he was. As soon as he arrived, the energy in the room lifted. He was funny, cracking jokes and also very focused in the details. Without even realizing it—or maybe he did—he helped me carry the mental load of the day. It felt like he knew his role was more than just capturing beautiful photos. He reminded me to be present and to truly live in each moment. He also went with the flow and made any and all of my requests happen like taking photos yards away or running up flights of stairs for that perfect picture. And let me just say—it was 100 degrees outside. Yet there he was, juggling multiple cameras and bags, fanning my dress, offering me his personal fan, and handling all the little things that only someone who is a true master of their craft would even think to do. Choosing Erik as our photographer was, hands down, one of the best decisions we made. He is truly one of a kind. My husband and I are incredibly grateful for his time and are honored to have had him photograph our day.
Brittany P., a year ago
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Erin Henze Media 
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Hi, I’m Erin! In my free time you might find me reading a good book, going for a quick run, planning a trip or spending time with my friends and family. And, most of all, I love using my camera to capture the beauty of people and the world that we live in. I am deeply devoted to documenting all of the memories, moments and feelings that you deserve to have stored forever. There is so much power in visual storytelling, and I would love for the opportunity to help you tell yours! Whatever the occasion- from wedding celebrations & family photos to senior portraits and birthday parties- I’m here to capture it all.

Awarded Best of Zola
This is the second time we booked Erin Henze Media to take family photos. Impressed that I received a pre-shoot survey so I could share the specific type and style of photos we were looking for. Erin took AMAZING photos of my family. No easy feat when you are dealing with a 6YO, 4YO, and 2YO. :P The photos she took will be treasured by family and are ones that will be hanging on the wall for a lifetime.
Jorden S., 2 years ago
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Ryan Davis Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

I photograph weddings for people who'd rather enjoy their day than spend it posing for photos. For more than 15 years I've been documenting the laughter, happy tears, dance floor chaos, and the little moments you never saw coming. My goal is simple: make you feel comfortable, stay out of the way when it matters, and create photos that feel like your wedding, not a photoshoot.

For so, so many reasons, Ryan should be your wedding photographer. He was AMAZING! I think my favorite thing about him is his calming demeanor. But his superpower is his uncanny ability to feel the rhythm of the day and find its essence. My daughter and son-in-law got married at Anderson Japanese Garden, and Ryan scoped out the garden before the wedding so he knew all the best appts for color, background, and pop. He has a great feel for catching the best poses without posing his subjects. He is prompt, professional and the coolest human being! I can’t recommend him highly enough!
Rebecca, 2 months ago
Chrissy Deming Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

I'm Chrissy and I'm a documentary wedding photographer with 10+ years of experience who fully believes that your life deserves to be documented truthfully. My focus at your wedding isn't to steal you away from your family and friends for hours to make "art," but to empathically capture the moments and relationships present at your wedding. Your wedding photos are the single most important wedding investment you'll make. After the day is done and over, they will be what tethers you to your memories of your day. They will be the heirlooms you'll pass down to your grandchildren to hang on walls and sit on bedsides for generations to come.

We loved Chrissy! She was fun and easy to work with, and I loved that she provided color and black/white photos. She did everything on our list, and listened to our ideas as well. Nothing felt forced or over-posed, but she was great at guiding next moves when needed. Will definitely use again for future photos.
Eline O., 4 years ago
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DIAMOND PHOTO CO 
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Hello, I'm Amanda, owner of Diamond Photo Co! I am passionate about capturing memories and preserving moments through photo and video and have been dedicating my life to this for 9 years, now! I absolutely love what I do and am proud to offer you a timeless keepsake of one of the best days of your life! I've assembled a team I love to work with and am proud to work alongside them to capture your day. Wanna know more about me? I'm a Type A planner that loves to roll with the punches! From planning you timeline with you on a phone call to laughing with you at the engagement session, I like to keep it fun, easy, and relaxed!

Mindy Joy Photography 
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

My style is an amalgamation of my personal artistic touch with a candid approach. I provide work that is reflective of the events, feelings, and moments that occur. My photography is complimented my enthusiasm, and creative drive! I strive to give clients authentic photography. I grew up outside of Rockford, Illinois and received my BFA with a concentration in printmaking in addition to Art History and Psychology Minors from Rockford University. My involvement in art, photography, and people has been nothing short of a lifelong endeavor. There's few things I love more than creating with and working with others. It's my passion.

Rockford Wedding Photographer 
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Cortland, IL

It’s about time. Twenty years from your wedding day, the pictures will take you back to every moment you recall, and perhaps many more you’d thought you’d forgotten. It’s my job to help you remember. My name is Mike Hope, and I’ve done this for a while. I started shooting weddings 15 years ago. The years add up–in a good way. Every wedding is different, but some things stay the same: the intimacy; the hidden moments; the celebrations. However you wish to honor each other, I’ll be there. I’ll document it. And you’ll have something to look back on for the rest of your lives together.

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Original Weddings Photo & Video 
Rating: 4.9 (233 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Original Weddings Photo & Video is a team of EMMY award winning storytellers. Our photography and videography packages are tailored to you, customizable and perfect for every wedding. We offer engagement photography, wedding photos, highlight films, wedding coverage and more.

Awarded Best of Zola
Man, oh man, where do I begin. Everything was a breeze working with Sound Originals. The prices were awesome for the huge amount of photos we got back, and how stunning they turned out. Josie and Zan were our photographers and they were so fun to work with!! They knew exactly how to capture our day the best and most memorable ways possible, and we couldn't be happier with our giant collection of pictures of the big day. They arrived smack on time, stayed till the last possible minute, and didn't waste a moment in between. Thank you Sound Originals!!!
Sophie X., 2 years ago
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Albany Capture Film & Photography Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (110 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Serves Cortland, IL

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
WOW! Pedro went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and had fun. The pictures are AMAZING. We could not be happier! I have already shared his name with two of my friends. Cannot recommend him enough!
Sarah, 5 months ago
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Once Like a Spark Wedding Co. 
Rating: 4.9 (95 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,845
  • Serves Cortland, IL

More than a decade ago, two sisters - knew there had to be a better way to allow talented photographers and videographers to focus on what they do best -- create gorgeous art -- while providing couples with better support in the planning process. Together, they created an all-inclusive, stress-free environment where couples can choose from talented local photographers and videographers and work with a small team of planning experts equipped and eager to make everything a success. With the pressure gone, you can truly enjoy your big day. Relax and rest assured that all the emotional and moments will be documented with unmatched quality.

Awarded Best of Zola
Our photographer Caroline was so nice and accommodating! She made us feel so comfortable which is not easy as I am not a photogenic person. We loved having her at the wedding. She fit right in with the crowd so she got some amazing pictures. We love all of our photos but especially the ceremony shots and the candids from the reception. The planning process was amazing- no notes. We wouldn’t change anything!I’m
Andrew, 2 years ago
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VIDART 
Rating: 5.0 (60 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Cortland, IL

VIDART's chief photographer studied at Columbia for film and U of I for foreign languages and philosophy, and went to Loyola for graduate studies. He worked at Lyric Opera of Chicago filming operas before joining VIDART. He is the author of the college textbook Cinematography 101, and has worked with John de Lancie (Q in Star Trek: TNG) on the science documentary The Reality of Time. Michael has also worked on the sets of over a dozen other feature films. He has handled the photography and videography for several thousand weddings and events, including work for clients such as Microsoft, Amazon, Macy’s, Sysco and more.

Awarded Best of Zola
VIDART did an amazing job with our wedding photos. They somehow managed to be everywhere at once but never intrusive. The photos of my mom tearing up and our first kiss are so special. We couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.
Sarah W., a year ago
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Portraits By Sean 
Rating: 5.0 (47 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL



I present fun, elegant, and exciting Wedding Photography for my clients. My style is photojournalistic; I feel it's the most effective way to tell a story. After all, there is so much happening on a wedding day. Between the ceremony, dancing, and endless extravaganzas, the most memorable moments will naturally occur.  My goal is to capture the emotions and memories of your day through my lens. These recollections are your forever keepsakes, a chapter of your life's story. Every image accounts for those who were by your side, delighted for you, and the next step in your journey. I appreciate you for giving me a few moments of your time.t

Awarded Best of Zola
From our first interaction, Sean and his team at Portraits By Sean were prompt, personable, and clear in their communication. Their exceptional, professional, and quick work captured the essence of our special day perfectly. Sean was laid back and brought great energy to our wedding, seamlessly capturing all the important moments without ever being intrusive. We had nothing but a positive and truly exceptional experience working with Sean from start to finish. Not only were our photos top-notch, but he took the time to get to know us as a couple and was able to beautifully document all the candid, unscripted moments that made our wedding day so memorable. I'd give Sean 10 stars if I could!
Amber S., 2 years ago
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Ledd Lens LLC, Photo and Film 
Rating: 5.0 (43 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,399
  • Serves Cortland, IL

The company has done over 400 weddings for the last 5 years, so we use these experiences to provide quality services. We also provide discount for Military/Veterans and teachers. We have serviced 42 states so far. We offer both photo and video services. Quicker turnaround time compare to most companies. Our shooting style of is photojournalistic, natural & CINEMATIC. Our editing style is very easygoing & flexible. Our biggest markets are the following: FL, New England area, PA, IL, DMV area, Tri-State area, Southern CA, MI, OH, CO.

Awarded Best of Zola
The photographer, Jonathan, and his assistant, were absolutely amazing. They arrived early, were flexible and really accommodating to our vision. They also really hustled! They took advantage of every spare moment they had to get additional photos, and kept us on schedule super tightly. They even carried around things like bottles of water for me (the bride) as we took lots of photos in the hot upper floor of the venue. Many guests also mentioned how beautifully the photos turned out. However, we did have an issue in which, due to an injury to the editor's hand, we did not receive our photos in the agreed-upon timeframe. Had we been informed of this delay ahead of time, we would not have had any issue just waiting a bit longer. The main concern was that we weren't alerted of this delay until after the initial deadline had passed. We did request a discount due to this, which they accommodated. And the photos did still turn out amazing!
Amanda W., 7 months ago
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The Still Life Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (38 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,225
  • Serves Cortland, IL

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 I inquired, The Still Life Photography was an absolute pleasure to work with. Even though Nicole, the lead photographer, was based in a different time zone, her communication was best-in-class. She was incredibly responsive and helpful every step of the way, from our initial conversations to the delivery of our stunning photo gallery. Nicole's work was absolutely breathtaking, and I still fawn over my pictures every time I look at them! She was truly so amazing and went above and beyond to capture all the special moments of our wedding day. I cannot recommend The Still Life Photography highly enough - they were an integral part of making our wedding day perfect.
Mary C., 2 years ago
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Heather Christine Photo + Film 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Hiii! I'm Heather Schoolcraft - owner & CEO! I'm a small town gal from WV who LOVES traveling and pops of color. I've designed my entire company around creating authentic + magical love stories. On your wedding day, our goal is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and to focus on the raw + real moments on your day. Don't settle for less because you have to; let ME help you get the photos + video that you've always dreamed of.

Awarded Best of Zola
Heather and Andrew are just the best! Their communication is quick, clear and detailed. Heather makes sure to cover all bases and offers so many helpfully tips which is so nice when you have so many other things going on. We used them for our engagement photos and they were able to make a trip back out to us after we had to reschedule due to weather. The turnaround time for those photos was great and the quality of work was not compromised by how quickly we got them. For our wedding day they were able to catch all the best moments without making the day feel like it was all about photos. Both of their personalities are so kind and welcoming that they made everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. We had so much fun with them and I would highly recommend working with them for your big day.
Nicole, 9 months ago
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Ali Cushing Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Hey, hey my name is Ali. NY-based, but working nation-wide, I'm a wedding photographer who captures experiences, genuine love, authentic characters, and immortalizes precious memories. I focus on visualizing how it felt to live your wedding day, while also crafting editorializations simply for the sake of intentional, living art. I am adamant that everyone, of all genders and orientations, any ethnicity, culture, or faith, all shapes, ages, and abilities, are welcome and I’d be delighted to work with you.

Awarded Best of Zola
From the moment we connected with Ali Cushing Photography, we knew we had found the perfect wedding photographer. Ali's communication was always timely, thorough, and friendly, putting us at ease throughout the entire planning process. Her work was truly amazing - she perfectly captured our vision and was able to fit so many beautiful, thoughtful, and personal photos into a short time frame without making us feel rushed. Ali was more than prepared on the day, even having extra bobby pins on hand to help bustle my dress. Her meticulous attention to detail ensured our wedding day timeline stayed perfectly on schedule. We are overjoyed with the final photos and cannot recommend Ali Cushing Photography highly enough.
Lexi K., 2 years ago
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Debra Aslanidis Photography 
Rating: 4.9 (32 reviews)
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,700
  • Serves Cortland, IL
  • Offer

We’re Debra & Jeremy, a husband-and-wife wedding photography duo capturing love stories with heart, intention, and a whole lot of soul. Our approach blends documentary moments with gentle guidance, so your photos feel natural, emotional, and unmistakably you. From quiet, intimate glances to joyful, unscripted laughter, we focus on the moments you’ll feel just as much years from now. If you value connection, authenticity, and images that tell a story—not just pose for one—we might be the perfect fit.

Awarded Best of Zola
Our photos lived up to every expectation we could’ve possibly had! We are so thankful to have such amazing memories to look back on with our loved ones. Our wedding was captured so beautifully and candidly - exactly as we hoped for!
Paige B., 21 days ago
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KMauck Photography LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (32 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,700
  • Serves Cortland, IL

Hi, I’m Kelsey! I am a wedding photographer! I am obsessed with dogs. I will never not acknowledge a dog near me by saying “puppers”. It is what it is. I would 100% rather be on the beach somewhere with palm trees. I am constantly daydreaming about being in the tropics. I love the color black. If we work together, there is a high chance that will be my outfit color of choice.

Awarded Best of Zola
Kelsey was great to work with for our engagement, wedding and even maternity photos! She captured our day so beautifully!! She is very easy to work with and we received our photos pretty quick!
Megan, 2 years ago
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Focused On Life Photography LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (30 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL
  • Offer

Hi! I'm Brayley, owner of Focused On Life Photography LLC, a Full-Time, Published, Destination Wedding + Lifestyle Photography business, & I would LOVE to be your wedding photographer! Since 2023, we at FLP LLC have been focused on capturing all of life's precious milestones in a natural, earthy, classic & candid style. From your first inquiry, to your wedding day, & to hopefully many more milestones in the future, we are here to make your photography dream a reality in a way that feels authentic to you. With us, you don't need to worry about things like how to pose -- all you need to do on your day is smile & relax! We'll take it from there.

Awarded Best of Zola
Brayley was so sweet, patient and experienced that our day and timeline couldn’t have gone any smoother! She was so fun and great to work with and we look forward to using her again in the future!
Victoria A., a year ago
GemHidden gem
Chicago Wedding Photographer - Joe Nowak Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (30 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,500
  • Serves Cortland, IL

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., 6 months ago