documentary wedding photographer for Chicago, Kentucky + wherever your story takes you
WEDDING DAY COVERAGE BEGINS AT $3600
Digital + 35mm film wedding photography for couples who want their wedding documented honestly. With room for movement, emotion and places that make their stories theirs. Based between Chicago and Kentucky, available worldwide.
Photography that keeps you in the moment.
You deserve photos that feel like your memories actually felt.
The loud laughter. The shaky hands. The quiet in-between moments no one else noticed.
My approach blends documentary observation with gentle editorial guidance so you never feel overly posed or disconnected from your day. I step in when needed, step back when it matters, and document your story as it naturally unfolds.
Every wedding is photographed digitally and includes 35mm film for imagery that feels textured, nostalgic, and alive.
A different Kind of wedding experience.
You don't have to know what to do → I'll give you direction when you need it, then get out of the way when you don't. Most couples tell me they're nervous in front of a camera. There's no pressure of a perfect moment. Just love.
Your people matter, too → I'm watching the room, not just the two of you. The hugs, reactions, chaos and moments you didn't realize were happening.
Nothing needs to be performed → Your wedding doesn't have to become a photoshoot for you to have incredible photos of it.
Digital + 35mm, together → Digital gives me the freedom to document the whole story. Film gives me some of those moments texture and imperfection of memory.
Danielle was an absolute godsend on our wedding day! She was on time, super communicative and everyone fell in love with her! My family is not easy to photograph (and we tend to scare people away being a large group of extroverts)...She managed to sneak into tender moments and snap shots I had no idea she was even in the room for....We had her for 6 hours and we wanted to keep her forever! I could not recommend her more. Photos are something worth splurging on, and you cannot go wrong with Danielle, she really is knowledgeable, trustworthy and just an absolute joy to be around.
"Danielle was an absolute godsend on our wedding day!..."
what clients remember.
Our experience with Danni was hands down A1! From booking, to getting a feel for the photoshoot vision, to day of shoot and timeliness of the final product, all an exceptional experience. She absolutely has an eye for capturing exactly what her clients wants and prioritized our needs & vision beginning to end. If you’ve been thinking about booking with her, do so asap! I promise you’ll be nothing short of satisfied & happy you did.
"...absolutely has an eye for capturing exactly what her clients wants and prioritized our needs & vision..."
what clients remember.
I had such an amazing experience working with Danielle! She is super easy to work with and really takes the time to understand your vision, making sure every shot captures exactly what you’re looking for. During the shoot, she creates such a relaxed and fun atmosphere that makes the whole process enjoyable and effortless. If you’re looking for a talented photographer who truly cares about bringing your ideas to life while keeping things easygoing and stress-free, I highly recommend her!
"...she creates such a relaxed and fun atmosphere that makes the whole process enjoyable and effortless..."
what clients remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're awkward in front of the camera. Can you help?
We're awkward in front of the camera.
Can you help?
Most of my couples say this before booking. My approach is gently guided, never overly posed. I’ll help with direction when needed while leaving space for real moments to unfold naturally.
What is documentary photography?
Documentary wedding photography focuses on honest moments as they naturally happen while still incorporating gentle editorial direction when needed. The goal is imagery that feels emotionally true rather than overly staged.
Is film included in packages?
Yes. 35mm film coverage is available as an add-on for sessions and included in all wedding collections. Film adds texture, softness, movement, and nostalgia in a way digital imagery alone cannot fully replicate.
Do you travel?
Absolutely. I photograph weddings throughout Chicago, Kentucky, and destinations beyond.
How much does wedding photography cost?
Do you offer videography or content creation?
Yes! I offer videography as a stand alone service. Content creation and videography can also be added on to any collection. I work closely with a select group of videographers that I'm more than happy to reach out to!
How far in advance should we book?
Most couples book anywhere from 6–18 months in advance depending on the season and location. Reach out as early as possible for the best availability.
Do you help with posing?
Yes, gently. My approach blends documentary observation with natural direction so nothing feels stiff or forced.
What happens after we inquire?
Once your inquiry is submitted, I’ll reach out to schedule a consultation call so we can connect, talk through your vision, and see if we’re the right fit for each other.
An inquiry normally receives a response within a couple of hours! If you have not heard from me within 24 hours, please do not hesitate to reach directly by email!
book@byjlanee.com
Chicago documentary wedding photography on digital + 35mm film
Based between Chicago and Louisville travelling throughout the U.S.,, I photograph weddings, elopements, and intimate celebrations with an editorial-documentary approach rooted in emotional presence and honest storytelling.
