How much does a wedding photographer typically cost in Essex, IL?

A Essex, IL wedding photographer ranges from $220 to $20,000 and averages at $2,800. The cost reflects the number of hours included, if there is a second photographer, any prints or albums, and, most importantly, the experience of the photographer. But every snapshot they take is a priceless memory of your big day — way better than your bestie's blurry smartphone pics, right?

Do most photographers include a second photographer?

95% of photographers in Essex, IL offer a second photographer, although it typically depends on the package you book! Second photographers are helpful because one person can’t be everywhere at once, and the second photographer ensures all the details are covered.

Which are the most popular photographers in Essex, IL?

Some of the most popular photographers in this area include Eivan's Photo & Video, Imagesxpert Media and Ashley Cynthia Photography.

What else should I keep in mind when booking a wedding photographer?

Are you interested in an engagement shoot as a test run? Drone photography? Wedding albums? All helpful things to ask about when you’re considering which wedding photographer to book!

What types of photographers are in Essex, IL?

Classic Photographers Editorial Photographers Fine Art Photographers

What other Essex vendors will I need?

Essex Event Extras Essex Officiants Essex Bar Services & Beverages Essex Cakes & Desserts Essex Caterers Essex Beauty Professionals Essex Bands & DJs Essex Wedding Planners Essex Florists Essex Videographers Essex Venues

What other photographers are nearby?

Photojournalistic Chicago, IL photographers Photojournalistic Aurora, IL photographers Photojournalistic Naperville, IL photographers Photojournalistic Elgin, IL photographers Photojournalistic Portage, IN photographers Photojournalistic Champaign, IL photographers Photojournalistic Cicero, IL photographers Photojournalistic Hammond, IN photographers Photojournalistic Gary, IN photographers Photojournalistic Arlington Heights, IL photographers Photojournalistic Evanston, IL photographers Photojournalistic Schaumburg, IL photographers Photojournalistic Decatur, IL photographers Photojournalistic Palatine, IL photographers Photojournalistic Skokie, IL photographers Photojournalistic Des Plaines, IL photographers Photojournalistic Orland Park, IL photographers Photojournalistic Tinley Park, IL photographers Photojournalistic Oak Lawn, IL photographers Photojournalistic Berwyn, IL photographers Photojournalistic Mount Prospect, IL photographers Photojournalistic Wheaton, IL photographers Photojournalistic Oak Park, IL photographers

The Best 10 Photojournalistic Wedding Photographers in Essex, IL

214 Wedding Photographers in Essex, IL

Photojournalistic

Quick responder

Nova Photos

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $795
Serves Essex, IL

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!

“Nova Photos absolutely understood the assignment when capturing my maternity shoot. Super creative, friendly, and fun! I’ll definitely be using them again!”

Jamie L., 7 months ago

Zach Caddy Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $3,000
Serves Essex, IL

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!

“Zach is a talented and creative photographer, with the most calming but also can do attitude. I appreciated that Zach communicated openly about his approach and also took the time to understand our vision. My only regret is not booking him for even more hours! Zach also did our engagement shoot a few weeks before the wedding and kindly turned around our photos in a matter of days so I could post before our big day. (What a doll!) We are still receiving compliments everyday from friends and family and coworkers regarding the wedding photos. We are beyond grateful for this beautiful capture of our memories and we owe it all to Zach.”

Melissa A., 4 months ago

Quick responder

Erik Anderson - Photography, LLC.

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $3,000
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

I'm a 34-year-old husband to Samantha, our son Silas, our soon-to-be 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.

“The quality of Erik's work as a photographer is unparalleled. He truly captured the "light, bright, airy" aesthetic that I loved when I first started researching different styles. He is highly detailed oriented which is a must for somebody like me who really notices all the little details. He went above and beyond by traveling to our engagement shooting location all the way in Madison, WI! When it came to shooting the big day, Erik orchestrated everything perfectly including calming me down during a stressful moment, making us all laugh, and capturing all the "good angles". From the first few photos I received, his work made me feel absolutely beautiful. When I shared with others, the first thing they commented was: "Wow, Your photographer KILLED it with the wedding photos!" Extremely high quality editing....Erik is worth every penny and I would highly recommend him to anyone!”

Hannah S., 5 months ago

Quick responder

Alana Jordan Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,250
Serves Essex, IL

Hello there! My name is Alana. I am a wedding photographer based in the Chicagoland area who ranges from lovely backyard weddings in the suburbs, to swanky celebrations in the city, to flying off to stunning elopements around the world. Weddings with me include tons of laughter, lots of support in planning and organizing, and photos so vivid that your memories jump out of the frame. (It may also include us both happy crying together on the big day) I make the whole process as easy and fun as possible, and would be absolutely honored to take on the role of turning your memories into artwork!

“There are not enough words to describe how lucky we were to have chosen Alana to capture our wedding day. Alana is one of the kindest and gracious wedding vendors and people you will come across. Her priority in your needs, requests, and comfortability made shooting with her feel effortless and fun. Alana was so quick to respond to all of our questions and her professionalism, passion, and overall care made an otherwise jam-packed day feel structured and special. We were so in love with our pictures and Alana's package includes so many beautiful moments that we got to relive and even experience witnessing for the first time. All of my wedding guests as well as my husband and I could not get over how wonderful Alana was. If you are looking for the perfect wedding photographer, look no further!”

Morgan G., 8 months ago

Quick responder

Abigael Brittin Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,700
Serves Essex, IL

Hi! I’m Abi, a passionate visual storyteller with a focus on documentary-style photography. My work is all about capturing authentic, raw moments that tell the unique story of your wedding day. I was born and raised in Minooka, Illinois and then spent my college years and early 20's in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Me and my husband moved back to Illinois last year to be closer to family! I enjoy all things creative and lounging on the couch with my husband, Clay, and our two crazy dogs. I am a lover of craft beer, mexican food, and reality TV. I was created to create and give all of the Glory to God!

“Abigael Brittin Photography LLC was an absolute dream to work with for such a special day. From the very first encounter, Abi was kind, open-minded, and direct in her communication style, which immediately put us at ease. Her dependable, quality work truly captured all the candid moments we didn't want to miss. If you're anything like me, you need direction in photos and Abi really gives that to you, which helps you feel so comfortable throughout the entire process. Not to mention, she is so fun and will have you laughing the entire time!! Couldn't recommend a better photographer for any of life's special moments!”

Hannah H., 6 months ago

Quick responder

Eivan's Photo & Video

4.9

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,149
Serves Essex, IL

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.

“Eivan's made our wedding day wonderful! Alexander Schmidt was our photographer, and our videographer was Noah. We got our pictures back sooner than expected, and they suited the exact style we had hoped for. Communication was great, photos were easy to access, and we were allowed free download for so many pictures! One family portrait had one person not looking, otherwise people were smiling and looking in everything. Many people commented on their professionalism as well as their kindness at the wedding. Thanks, Eivan's!”

Alyssa P., 4 months ago

Quick responder

George Street Photo and Video

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,295
Serves Essex, IL
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.

“George Street was absolutely amazing throughout the entire process. Communication was top-notch as we received phone calls from both our photographer and videographer ahead of time so that they were fully aware of our vision and requests. On the big day, they truly delivered and killed it! We can’t stop staring at our wedding photos. They captured every special moment so beautifully. Highly recommend!”

Kelly & T., a month ago

Quick responder

Original Weddings Photo & Video

4.9

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,800
Serves Essex, 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.

“We are so happy we went with Sound Originals for our wedding photos! Gabriella the planning specialist, was SO helpful with our wedding day timeline and communicated everything promptly and informatively. The client portal is also very helpful for planning the timeline, updating info/details, asking questions, and viewing our finished photos. Our photographer, Mike, was a blast to work with and we highly recommend him for those in the Chicago area. He was assigned to us about 2 weeks before the big day (due to a conflict with the photographer we were originally assigned) and he made sure to reach out to me right away so he could get to know us and get caught up on our timeline and details. His fun, goofy personality kept us at ease throughout the day, he did a great job wrangling the bridal party, and helping with poses so we felt comfortable having our photos taken all day. He was also super efficient with our group photos and sunset photos- we actually had time to sit down and eat dinner! We are in love with our wedding photos and 100% recommend Sound Originals (and MIKE)!”

Cassidy H., 8 months ago

Quick responder

Once Like a Spark Wedding Co.

4.9

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,845
Serves Essex, 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.

“From the moment we booked Once Like a Spark Wedding Co. as our photographers, we knew we were in good hands. Their communication throughout the planning process was incredibly helpful, reliable, and reciprocal - they made us feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. On the day of our wedding, our photographers were diligent, supportive, and truly inspiring. They helped us feel at ease and captured all the special moments beautifully, including the gorgeous dip and flowing dress photos during our Cocktail Hour couple's session. The final photos and videos were flawlessly edited and exceeded our expectations. We are so grateful to the Once Like a Spark team for helping make our wedding day vision come to life, and we would highly recommend them to any couple looking for personable, talented, and dedicated photographers and videographers.”

Kenzie G., 5 months ago

Quick responder

Albany Capture Film & Photography Studios

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

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.

“We absolutely LOVED how Albany Capture treated us through the whole process of our engagement shoot. Our photographer Josh was very patient with our ideas and plan, and the turnaround time for the photos was so quick with excellent quality. We will be using them again in the future!”

Aileen G., 4 months ago

Quick responder

The Still Life Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $3,450
Serves Essex, 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.

“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., a month ago

Quick responder

Ledd Lens LLC, Photo and Film

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Serves Essex, IL

We are team of traveling wedding photographers and videographers. For 2024, we have 120+ weddings booked in 34 different states. Our shooting style is photojournalistic, natural, CINEMATIC to traditional. Our editing and style depends. Very easygoing and flexible depending on the client's preference. Our team is dedicated in delivering memories.

“Ledd Lens LLC, Photo and Film were the perfect wedding photographers and videographer for our special day. Their communication style was clear, quick, and helpful throughout the entire planning process. The quality of their work and value was professional, punctual, and creative. They helped us feel comfortable when shooting with each other, our bridal party, and families, and were simply fun to work with! I loved working with Ledd and his amazing team, as they provided exactly what we were looking for and created beautiful memories for us that we will cherish forever.”

Julia T., 2 months ago

Quick responder

TWA Photographic Artists

4.7

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,799
Serves Essex, IL

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!

“We love working with TWA for our couple's big day! They are always very communicative and professional. The photos we receive from them and our clients are always stunning! This photography company knows what they are doing, and they do it well! We highly recommend TWA for all of our couple's photography needs.”

Paramount Meyer B., 25 days ago

Quick responder

JZ Studio Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,250
Serves Essex, IL

JZ Studio Photography is a wedding and Portrait photography company based in Chicago, that services Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit and anywhere our couples may take us within US and Canada. At JZ Studio Photography, the team will create an amazing photographic experience for you on your wedding day, by capturing all of the most intimate and romantic moments through their camera lenses from beginning to end and compile the story for you.

“I would recommend JZ Studio Photography to anyone getting married! Phillip was very professional and communicative and was able to get through posed pictures very quickly and efficiently, and he was incredible at blending into the crowd for the rest of the day so we could feel present at our wedding, and not feel like we were at a photoshoot. We are very happy with our experience with JZ Photography.”

Cassidy T., 8 months ago

Quick responder

Piero Pierrot Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,300
Serves Essex, IL

I'm Piero, I've been a wedding photographer for over 7 years, my approach combines a blend of candid and posed styles, ensuring that every smile, tear, and joyful dance is immortalized in stunning imagery, from the delicate details of your attire to the vibrant energy of the celebration, allowing you to relive the magic for years to come. I work closely with you to understand your vision and preferences, always helping you with your timeline, and assisting you with ideas to make sure vision comes true.

“Piero Pierrot Photography was a fantastic choice for our wedding photographer. From the start, Piero was direct and excited about capturing our special day. His communication style put us at ease, and his passion for his work was evident. The quality of his photos was exceptional - he has a great eye for detail and creativity, and was able to capture all the little moments that made our wedding day so unique. Piero was also incredibly easy going, which was exactly what we needed on our big day. He had some great photo ideas and was seemingly everywhere, ensuring he didn't miss a thing. Piero was also very punctual and professional, which helped keep the day running smoothly. We would highly recommend Piero Pierrot Photography to any couple looking for an amazing wedding photographer who can deliver beautiful, high-value photos while also being a pleasure to work with. We would absolutely hire him again for any major event! The edits came out amazing and he also did our engagement photos which I love!”

Amanda T., 4 months ago

Quick responder

Audrey Simper Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,800
Serves Essex, IL

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.

“I absolutely loved working with Audrey for our wedding! I had to write her a review. I found her for her beautiful photos but I'm most happy with my choice in her, for all the rest of the little things. We met with her to discuss engagement shoot and wedding photos and she was so thoughtful. She asked questions I hadn't even thought of and it was from those questions that really helped me plan the rest of the wedding day of. She gave me a photo timeline that was absolutely essential. The rest of my vendors were given her timeline and they were so thankful at her level of detail too. I appreciated the thoughtful small touches. The way she asked about any complicated family dynamics, who our chosen family was, who she should highlight etc. I appreciate that she didn't come with assumptions and asked questions, so gently. I've found that's rare in the bridal world. I would 100% recommend Audrey to anyone we know and absolutely loved our experience with her. We went with a second shooter and we loved Olivia too! They both did fantastic work and were so thoughtful and professional. Thank you for all you did for Mike and I, Audrey! We will always remember you as a the one who kept us all together!”

Salena P., 5 months ago

Quick responder

Visil Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,950
Serves Essex, IL

Hey, I’m Victor Silas, the heart and soul behind Visil Photography. As the owner and lead photographer, I’m passionate about capturing genuine love stories and creating lasting memories. For me, it’s more than just snapping photos—it’s about preserving the unique, unforgettable moments that make your wedding day yours. I make sure you feel comfortable in front of the camera, letting your love shine through naturally. My style? Candid, photojournalistic, and effortlessly fun.

“Visil Photography provided amazing photography services for our wedding day. Victor was extremely respectful, informative, and positive in all of our communications leading up to the big event. On the wedding day itself, he was passionate about capturing all of those special moments we had envisioned. Victor has a gift for engaging with people and making them feel comfortable in front of the camera. He circulated seamlessly among our guests and captured countless touching interactions. My husband and I could not be happier with the beautiful, artistic photos Victor delivered. They will allow us to re-live our special day for years to come. I would highly recommend Visil Photography for any couple looking for a talented photographer who can beautifully document their wedding memories. Victor was a joy to work with!”

Krystal Z., 9 months ago

Quick responder

Lux Everlasting

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,000
Serves Essex, IL

I've always been an artist, but my love for photography truly took hold when I photographed my first wedding in 2007. That day, I fell in love with everything about weddings— getting to work with all kinds of people and personalities, capturing every moment and each detail, and even getting to bust a move on the dance floor every now and then.

“I cannot recommend Clayton and his team enough. He was so easy to communicate with, extremely professional, warm and kind, and so, so talented. Our wedding photos and film came out even better than I could have imagined. They are high quality, gorgeous, candid, and captured the magic of our day. It was a joy to have Clayton and his team by our sides all day. I love them so much. We were so lucky to have them as part of our day, and they really contributed to making the day perfect. I cannot recommend them enough. Every time I look at our photos or watch the film, I cry!! Just the best.”

Gabrielle O., a year ago

Quick responder

Jessica Max

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $4,200
Serves Essex, IL

I am a documentary wedding & elopement photographer based in West Michigan. Forever obsessed with nature, travel, rocks, and documenting everyday life. I spend most of my time between Michigan and the southwest, eating pizza, finding the best vintage stores, checking out national parks and bike parks, and watching as many sunsets as I can.

“Jessica is so personable, she makes you feel comfortable even if you are nervous in front of the camera. Our engagement and wedding photos are gorgeous! Highly recommend!”

Lexy, 4 months ago

Quick responder

Kate Kaplan Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $4,500
Serves Essex, IL

I work to craft images about connection - photographs that have warmth & tell a story about the love you share as a couple or as a family. I believe your wedding photos should stand the test of time. You want to feel completely confident that your story is going to be captured in a way that is beautiful and true to who you are as a couple. Not only that but we should probably have some fun along the way! I feel so honored to play a small part in your best day ever. I am here to help you enjoy this season of your life and have you feel well taken care of from day one.

“Hire Kate as your wedding photographer!! Kate was one of our absolute favorite vendors from our wedding and the day truly wouldn't have been the same or gone they way it did without her. From the initial meeting, to the check-ins, and the day-of, Kate was so kind and so professional. We had Kate photograph our welcome event the day before our wedding and it was a great way to get us and our guests comfortable before our big day. On the day of the wedding, we got so many compliments about Kate from the wedding party and our families. She made sure everyone knew where they needed to be, how to pose, and was so efficient with family photos before our ceremony. After the wedding, we received SO many sneak peeks within a week of the wedding and it was so fun getting to relive the day through her beautiful photography. If you're wondering if Kate is the right choice, just do it, you won't be disappointed! Thank you Kate for capturing our day and making everything so special.”

Rebecca T., a year ago

Quick responder

Hanna Lucille Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $3,600
Serves Essex, IL

Hi!! I'm Hanna Lucille, but you can just call me Hanna. I'm a Midwest + Florida wedding photographer who's ready to capture your wedding exactly as you remember it... and get down with you on the dance floor! I consider my style to be "documentary-ish' - carefree, imagery that portrays your story in an authentic way. My approach ensures you get those gorgeous instagrammable portraits AND the 'blink or you'll miss it' candids. (Alexa, play 'Best of Both Worlds by Hannah Montana)

“Hanna was wonderful!! I know wrangling my wedding party for photos was not easy and Hanna took it all in stride. Would book again in a heartbeat!”

Molly M., 10 months ago

Quick responder

Mae Krell Photo

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $4,250
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

Hi! My name is Mae, and I live in Brooklyn with my girlfriend, our two dogs Apollo and Bia, her cat Gigi and my lizard, Basil! I’ve always been passionate about capturing moments as authentically and magically as possible, and as i’ve settled more into this career path, I love that i’ve landed in a place where I have the privilege to capture and preserve people’s love stories. Weddings and elopements are so distinctly and uniquely human, and it’s truly the biggest honor to be trusted to document them.

“Mae Krell Photo was the perfect choice for our wedding photography. From the very first interaction, they were communicative, professional, and made us feel so comfortable and at ease. As a queer couple where one of us is plus-size, we were nervous about being in front of the camera, but Mae put us right at ease. The photos they captured are absolutely beautiful - they have such an artistic eye and really highlighted the love and joy of our special day. We had never had professional photos taken before, but Mae made the entire experience comfortable and affordable. We would highly recommend Mae Krell Photo to any couple looking for gorgeous, personalized wedding photography.”

Jo D., 6 months ago

Quick responder

HEARTS in FOCUS

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $1,000
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

Hi, I’m Heather! (that's me on the left) I'm a wedding photographer with a deep passion for capturing the genuine moments and raw emotions that make each wedding day so special. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling through photography, and over the years, I’ve developed a style that combines artistry with authenticity. My goal is to not just take pictures, but to tell the unique love story of each couple I work with, from the grand moments to the quiet, intimate details. My husband is a wedding videographer. So, if you are also looking for video, look no further!

“HEARTS in FOCUS was an excellent choice for our wedding photographer and videographer. From the very beginning, Heather's communication was fast and responsive, which put us at ease during the busy wedding planning process. On the day of the wedding, they were professional, discreet, and captured all the special moments beautifully. The final photos and video exceeded our expectations - the quality is truly great and we are thrilled with how they turned out. We would highly recommend this company to any couple looking for a talented photography team that delivers wonderful results.”

Erika A., 4 months ago

Quick responder

Angela Mallett Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,000
Serves Essex, IL

Angela is a Destination wedding photographer capturing timeless memories. She loves providing couples with candid images that they can look back on for a lifetime. Her passion is to connect and tell couples’ love stories through the beauty and emotion of the moments captured.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the experience we had with Angela Mallett as our wedding photographer! From the very first call to the final delivery of our photos, Angela demonstrated an extraordinary level of professionalism and creativity. We love Angela’s journalistic style and ability to capture both the big moments and the small, intimate details. Each photo is a beautiful work of art that tells the story of our day with such elegance and emotion. Not only is Angela incredibly talented, but she is also a joy to work with. When we met her it felt like we had known her for years! Her friendly attitude helped us feel relaxed and natural in front of the camera, which truly made a difference in the quality of the photos. She went above and beyond to make sure every shot was perfect, and her attention to detail was evident in every frame. The photos exceeded our expectations and will be cherished for a lifetime. We cannot recommend Angela Mallett highly enough to anyone looking for a photographer who brings both skill and heart to their work. Thank you, Angela, for capturing our special day so beautifully!”

Mr & M., 8 months ago

Quick responder

Wendy Schreier Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,000
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

Hello! I am Wendy, an award winning Chicago wedding photographer. I personally, will be the photographer on your wedding day, I am a one woman small business. My photo journey started 12 years ago shooting concerts, most recently Depeche Mode! I fell in love with the art of photography and started capturing weddings! I love seeing all the details you so lovingly design into your wedding day and capturing the big picture of how awesome you, your wedding and guests are.

“Wendy was the sweetest photographer ever!! She was so kind right from the beginning. We had an engagement session with her and my husband and I were awkward and she helped us feel comfortable in front of the camera. As for the wedding she met all our expectations she made sure we covered all my ideas I sent her. The pictures came out so beautiful and made me cry all over again. I would book her again and again. Thank you Wendy truly.”

Jasmine Q., 7 months ago

Quick responder

Debra Aslanidis Photography

4.6

Photojournalistic style
Serves Essex, IL

We specialize in documentary-style micro weddings and elopements, which means we focus on capturing your day as it naturally unfolds. Instead of staging or posing moments, we observe and photograph the real, unscripted emotions, connections, and intimate details that make your celebration unique. Our goal is to tell your love story authentically, preserving the genuine moments that reflect the true essence of your special day.

“They did the photography for our wedding and reception. Our pics are beautiful! Way beyond our expectations! They are super easy to work with and we had some of our photos the very next day:) My husband and I had waited a very long time for our day and they captured it perfectly. Beyond blessed. Highly recommend.”

Angela F., 2 months ago

Alivia Gray Studios

4.4

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,400
Serves Essex, IL

I captured my first wedding in August of 2018, it was the day I fell head over heels in love with wedding photography. It's all about capturing the love story for me..the feels from beginning to end. When you book with AGS, you're signing on for an adventure. Your engagement session is a celebration full of us getting to know one another, lots of laughter, and having fun! As your wedding nears closer AGS will help with your timeline, connect with your vendors ( or introduce you to some of the best) and help plan out the perfect photo locations, along with any other needs to create the perfect day.

“So easy to work with. Pictures turned out so perfect. Not to mention she’s so kind and full of positivity! Would highly recommend!”

Ryne and A., a year ago

Quick responder

Sarah Nader Photography

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $4,400
Serves Essex, IL

I'm an award winning wedding photojournalist from Chicago, Illinois. I was raised in the Chicago suburbs but now call Lincoln Square home with my husband and our two Golden Retrievers, Missy and Felony. When the dogs aren't keeping me busy I love traveling all over the world, cooking amazing meals, jumping on my Peloton and eating Thai food while binging Netflix.

“From the moment we first contacted Sarah Nader Photography, we were impressed by her open, easy, and quick communication style. Sarah has an incredible attention to detail, which was evident in the beautiful photos she captured of our special day. Sarah even went the extra mile by coming to our home to take photos, making us feel comfortable and at ease. We'll forever cherish the stunning images she took, especially the emotional and meaningful photos she captured of me breastfeeding my two young children during a surprising and bittersweet moment. Sarah's work is truly exceptional, and we highly recommend her services to any couple looking for a talented wedding or family photographer.”

Clare L., 18 days ago

Quick responder

Anders Maagaard

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $2,490
Serves Essex, IL

Hej, I’m Anders, originally from Denmark, I made the move to the United States in 2019 to marry my wonderful wife, Kristin. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and I've coupled that with my love for adventure. Whether it's traveling the world, scuba diving, hiking, or ultra running, I've always found ways to incorporate photography into these experiences. However, everything changed for me when I shot my first wedding. Being part of such a special day, filled with love and magic, made me realize that this is what I truly want to do.

“Anders hopped on board to shoot our elopement just a couple days before the event. In the short time leading up we had a quick intro call to say hello, chat expectations, and plan for the shoot. During the ceremony he managed to get shots of our rings and other key moments without distraction - was genuinely surprised looking at the gallery to see what he'd been able to capture without us even realizing on the day! Throughout the shoot he worked with us to capture he sweet moments and the silly ones -- the most fun I've had getting my picture taken. Friends and family who have seen the photos since have nothing but rave reviews, and so do we. An appreciated bonus - print ordering and gallery are well organized and easy to navigate. 12/10 would absolutely work with Anders again.”

Emily & L., 4 years ago

Quick responder

Spectacular Photographer - A Better DJ and Photographer Nationwide

5.0

Photojournalistic style
Starts at $799
Serves Essex, IL
Offer

We've been in business over 26 years! Don't spend thousands of dollars for your wedding photos! Before you book your photographer visit our site for over a million beautiful photos and thousands of testimonials, then give us a call! Elopements are just $499 and full wedding photo packages start at just $899. We will capture amazing photos in natural color and create a custom online album where you can share all your photos from. You can purchase prints at wholesale prices. Planning help is included in every package! We also provide top level DJ & video services in budget friendly packages! We are available nationwide including your area!

“Their staff was prompt, professional, involved! Our pictures are top of the line! The DJ was great got people up dancing in the sweltering weather!”

Barbara B., 10 months ago