Finding a wedding photographer who aligns with your values is essential to enjoying your wedding day and the days leading up to it. Because when you find someone who values the same things you do and has a photo style you love, you’re practically golden.

This was true for Kaitie and Kerry, who wanted an LGBTQ-friendly photographer and an artist able to capture mood lighting. From the MZP galleries and our stance on celebrating all love stories, they could see that we welcome all couples to use our services. They also got a sense of how we capture light in any situation, indoor or outdoor, rain or shine. 

And the sunshine was abundant on Kaitie and Kerry’s autumn wedding day at Rock Island Lake Club. 

For the couple’s first look moments, we started at the lake dock, where Kaitie could take a few twirls in her gown. You wouldn’t know it from the photos, but when these two reached out, they mentioned being camera shy! Which isn’t surprising. A majority of our couples feel nervous in front of the camera and unsure of how it all works. 

But like with Kerry and Kaitie, we make it a point to create a comfortable atmosphere so that you can step in front of the lens and be yourself. And feel great about it! 

That’s exactly what these two did, and they had a blast. 

After dancing on the dock, we captured some stunning dappled light in the woods. The couple’s portraits we took on the swing, walking the wooded paths, and in the lake boat are Kaitie and Kerry’s favorite moments from the day. 

The couple had an outdoor ceremony and an indoor cocktail hour before capping off the event with an emotion-filled reception and packed dance floor. 

“Our reaction when seeing the photos for the first time – so many laughs and tears,” Kaitie said. “Trust your instinct, and don’t settle. The photos will be your memories for a lifetime.” 

And for Kerry and Kaitie, these are some amazing memories. 

Vendor List:

Ceremony + Reception Venue: Rock Island Lake Club

Caterer: Rock Island Lake Club

Videographer: Mesh Films

Florist: Strange Vine Studios

Entertainment (Band/DJ): Jason Jani of SCE Entertainment

HMU: Michele Elise Artistry

Suit(s): Bindle & Keep

Paper Goods/Calligraphy: Amaryllis Paperie

Dessert: Palombo Bakery

Officiant: Leone Quach (friend)