Chicago is a city like no other. Getting married here is a statement in itself. Whether your celebration is set in the heart of downtown or tucked away in the elegance of the suburbs, I’m here to ensure your experience feels intentional, elevated, and entirely you.
Weddings in Chicago come with their own rhythm. The wind, the traffic, the energy of the city can quickly shift the pace. Without the right photographer, timelines slip and the day can lose its ease. Photographs can start to feel posed instead of natural. I understand how quickly it moves, and I’m here to bring calm to it all.
As your Chicago editorial wedding photographer, my role is to guide and support. From the morning moments to the final toast, I’ll be present for it all. You can soak it in without worry, knowing each moment is being documented with care and artistry.
So how do I help? I come prepared. I research, scout, and plan for the pace of the city. From photo timing to light patterns, everything is curated to let your celebration unfold beautifully.
"As a wedding planner, her upbeat personality, ability to direct the wedding party, and absolute insane level of energy during the day-of, while still maintaining a calm energy are just a few things that we absolutely love about her. "
- BEYOND EVENTS & RENTALS
When you have a Chicago wedding photographer who knows the city and brings thoughtful planning into every step, the day flows exactly as it should. Your timeline supports your experience. The people you love feel included. And you feel calm, confident, and celebrated.
You’ll be surrounded by the city’s most timeless backdrops and supported by top-tier vendors. Together, we’ll create a photo-friendly schedule designed to reflect both elegance and ease.
The experience should feel just as good as the photos look. That is exactly what I offer.
There’s something extraordinary that happens when I photograph a couple in Chicago. The city doesn’t stop moving, but in those moments, it feels like it belongs to just the two of you. There is a stillness in the connection, a cinematic kind of magic that never gets old.
Chicago has always been part of my story. I grew up taking the train from South Bend to the city for concerts, school trips, and visits with family. It is also where I had my first kiss, which makes it all the more special to return here again and again.
While you soak in every moment, I’ll be by your side — gently guiding when needed, and quietly capturing the beauty unfolding around you with artistry and care.
We’ll connect over a 20-minute video chat to explore your vision, answer your questions, and ensure we’re the perfect fit for your celebration.
Through your engagement session and planning touchpoints, we’ll build trust and refine your vision—so everything feels effortless and entirely you.
"At Ellie Styled, we work with so many talented vendors, but Hayley truly stands out. She’s so kind, calm, and professional, and her attention to detail is unmatched. From her gorgeous editing to the way she captured every emotion and detail, they are some of the most beautiful wedding photos I’ve ever seen. She perfectly highlighted the venue, our decor and florals, and, of course, the couple. She’s not only a talented photographer but someone we hope to work with more often in the future. We can’t recommend her enough!"
Ellie Styled, 2024
"Working with Hayley was an absolute dream!!! We truly couldn’t have asked for a better photographer to perfectly capture our wedding day. Hayley is organized, creative, incredibly talented, and an absolute joy to work with. Her photography is so beautiful and thoughtful and you can tell she really cares about her clients. We couldn’t recommend Hayley more and look forward to working with her again!"
Stephanie, 2024
As a film wedding photographer, I fell in love with the art of slowing down and capturing moments with intention. Film brings softness, depth, and true-to-life color that digital simply cannot replicate. I offer film photography as a signature bonus during engagement sessions and wedding coverage. These images are not just extra, they are part of the full story you will hold on to for years to come.
Whether it’s a rooftop welcome party at one of Chicago’s iconic hotels, an intimate rehearsal dinner overlooking the skyline, or a farewell brunch aboard a boat on the river, I would be honored to photograph your entire weekend. These moments deserve to be remembered just as much as the day itself.
A complimentary engagement session to get to know you and your partner
Lifetime access to your curated online gallery
Thoughtful planning support
A refined blend of digital + film chic wedding photography that tells your love story
A personalized, connection-first approach for imagery that feels true to you
A custom-tailored wedding collection designed around your unique celebration
Because every wedding day is unique, I ensure a minimum delivery of 60 images per hour of contracted coverage. Each one is thoughtfully edited to reflect the emotion, detail, and atmosphere of your day.
For all couples, the process begins by filling out the contact form and scheduling a discovery call. To officially reserve your wedding date, a 30% retainer and signed agreement are required.
I am wholeheartedly committed to traveling wherever love leads. Before your day arrives, I’ll research and scout picturesque locations to ensure your destination is reflected beautifully in every image.
Because film requires careful processing and every digital image is edited with intention, I aim to deliver your full gallery within 4–6 weeks.
I do. Film offers a creamy, luminous quality that I absolutely love. It requires presence and precision, and it brings an artful depth to your wedding collection that simply can’t be replicated.
Drawing on years of experience, I promise that every meaningful moment and thoughtful detail will be beautifully captured. During our final consultation, we’ll build a customized family formals list and talk through any specific moments or guest interactions you’d like prioritized. Your vision matters, and I’m here to honor it with care and intention.