this is me irl on my way to shoot an elopement
As a wedding photographer, my goal is to capture your story as it unfolds, creating a stunning visual narrative that you’ll cherish for years to come. I love being able to preserve a specific moment in time and telling that story for generations to come. It feels like an incredible honor to have that kind of trust, and I strive to uphold it every single time.
My style is best described as true to color and dramatic. I aim to capture real, authentic moments—the big ones and the quiet ones in between—while adding a touch of drama to make each image uniquely yours. My ideal clients are the kind of people who aren’t afraid to get a little dirty, kick off their shoes, and run through a flower field or hike up a hill to watch the sunrise together.
I'M kirsten. a chicago based wedding & elopement photographer. I BELIEVE YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS SHOULD BE WORKS OF ART.
ABOUT cooper's Mill PHOTOGRAPHY
this year i have spent a lot of time as a lead photographer for a luxury wedding brand in chicago. while elopements have my heart being able to keep my creative juices flowing has been such a blessing!
loving my job more than ever
2025
i had the pleasure of officiating AND photographing a lakeside elopement in glacier national park! the trip was unbelievable and we made memories that I'll treasure forever!
first national park elopement
2024
COVID really shook up how people chose to get married! this was my first micro wedding with less than 20 people. we had vaccine requirements, quarantined and tested to keep everyone safe!
first micro wedding
2021
after almost 20 years of taking photos I finally made this little hobby legal and started paying taxes.
launching the dream
2019
OVER THE YEARS
cappuccino
COFFEE ORDER
baking sourdough
Secret Talent
skiing
I'd rather be
sky diving
on my bucket list
friends & family
Perfect day includes
strawberry
Favorite Ice cream
mountains
Favorite Place
birkenstocks
obsessed with
leather bags
Guilty pleasure
I try to stay under 15 weddings a year so that all of my couples get the best care and attention they deserve. I am only a one woman show and I like to provide a boutique experience. If you're looking for more support - I also work with Fox + Ivory who has the full studio experience.
I prefer quality over quantity
Chicago has a vibrant community of talented photographers, and I'm proud to call many of them friends. I believe in community over competition, and I’ve found that my unique perspective appeals to those who are a little "left of center." If you’re looking for a photographer who sees beyond the traditional and is excited to capture your one-of-a-kind story, you've found the right place.
community over competition
Watching you two in your element is my jam. But if I see a taco truck, I'm suggesting we get tacos. I'll always ask your comfort level and never put you in a position you don't want to be in!
I thrive capturing the day as it happens but...
I got to celebrate my thirty-fifth birthday on a roadtrip to Glacier National Park, Banff and everywhere in-between for the most amazing elopement!
This is a picture of Moraine Lake the day before we left. We saved our hardest hike for this day and naturally it snowed non-stop!
fun fact
a few more things you should know
follow me...