PHOTOGRAPHER | Helaine

Based on the East Coast, Chaise Helaine Tinsley photographs weddings under her namesake brand, HELAINE. Her approach leads with an editorial narrative while never compromising the in-between moments. She believes in both candid and curated images and wants couples to see themselves in her work. Through HELAINE, she’s developed an artful style that suits big-hearted, effortlessly cool couples looking to have an amazing time with their guests.

Tell us about your business!

With a background in hospitality and design, my work celebrates meaningful experiences, distinctive gatherings (with a hint of quirk) and shared travels. Drawing inspiration from natural elements, thoughtful design, and the energy of a well-dressed crowd, I create images that feel true to life, personal, and full of joy.

For the past eight years, I have brought a welcoming presence to my couples, helping them feel instantly at ease and fully present in the moment.

Where are you based?

After years of life in the city, my husband and I recently moved back to a small surf town in Florida. While most of my work takes me to New York and New England, it’s a treat to return to the rhythms of coastal living. We love being a short walk from the ocean again and our dogs are thriving. 

Do you travel for weddings?

I travel for all of my weddings. It’s a pleasure getting to experience places that hold meaning for my couples.

Whether your celebration unfolds in the city, at a nature-inspired venue, or in the backyard of your childhood home - the setting matters. I’ll make sure it’s woven well into your visual story.

How would you describe your style?

I approach wedding photography with my couples at the center. My process honors tradition while making sure it doesn’t take away from experience. I want your photos to feel like you and I’m a big fan of relaxed timelines. It’s a laid-back approach to luxury that’s backed by great communication, trustworthiness and years of experience.

The small moments matter to me just as much as the big ones. I focus on candids as much as I do classic portraits. All those details you spent months planning? Got em. My goal is to capture feelings in their many forms on a wedding day alongside your design. 

What motivates you to do what you do?

I love being invited into occasions that hold weight. I’m inspired by the comfort that comes from community. There’s a reason why we choose to celebrate our highs and lows together. Above all else, this idea of connection is what drives us. Getting to document a glimpse of that nuanced feeling is what motivates me to continue capturing wedding days.

How would you describe your working style?

My personality was born in the South and refined in the city. With that, you’ll find deep rooted hospitality, good taste and the ability to deliver. I’m wildly approachable, have an insane work ethic and a knack for making people feel like old friends.

When working with couples, I find balance is really important. The way I show up on a wedding day is gentle, adaptable and supportive. I’m warm, but professional. I know when to step in, when to step out and how to match the energy of a moment. I bring a calm, positive presence to the spaces I’m photographing. My style isn’t intrusive and it guides couples away from the sometimes performative nature of wedding days.

I pride myself on soft skills like communication, reliability and going above and beyond for my couples, their guests and other vendors. In short, I want it to be really easy and enjoyable to work with me.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

Yes! Each proposal is custom. I want to make sure couples have an experience that feels personal and a plan for photography that feels valuable. All of my collections include travel making pricing simple and clear.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

Currently, I’m in love with wedding weekends at boutique properties. It’s such a fun way for couples to spend quality time with their guests. I get to see a different side of clients, become part of the friend group and create lifestyle images that highlight all of their favorite people. Some of my best conversations happen between photos at a welcome party.

In terms of location, my heart will always be split between the coast and the mountains. A bulk of our work is done in upstate New York and New England. I’m a sucker for well-designed hotels, dinner parties, memorable food and nature-forward designs.

Who is your dream client?

I find delight when working with discerning couples that value experience over perfection. They have a strong vision for their day, but are also really flexible, allowing for organic moments to occur.

They enjoy curated details in a lived-in, easygoing sort of way. Elements of fashion, design and meaningful locations are found throughout their wedding day.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Make sure you give yourself space to be present and take it all in. Find vendors that make your  experience the priority and align with how you want to feel. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is your love and the community you surround yourself with. 

Don’t have a strenuous photography timeline. It takes away from your day when you’re stuck in the production of it all. Let’s capture memories as they unfold and see what magic we find in the spaces in between. 

Helaine

Website: hellohelaine.com

Instagram: @hellohelaine