PHOTOGRAPHER | Jillian Blanc

Jillian Blanc boasts a decade of experience in capturing weddings using digital, Super 8, and medium format film formats. Her style combines documentary and editorial elements, characterised by a calm and intuitive approach. She is drawn to creative, intentional, and design-focused couples, and she aims to create images that evoke memories, filled with nostalgia, emotion, and artistry. Based in Minneapolis, Jillian Blanc is available for travel worldwide.

Tell us about your business!

I’m a Minneapolis-based wedding and elopement photographer documenting love through an editorial, nostalgic lens. My work is rooted in honest storytelling. The kind of imagery that feels lived-in, a little imperfect, and deeply connected to the people in front of me. I want my clients to be fully present in the moments that matter while I quietly capture them as they unfold.

What would you like couples to know about you?

I’m here for the real connection, I don’t care about how much experience you have in front of the camera. I’ll pick up on the way you move together, the way you show love, the energy you bring into a room, the subtle moments you might miss in the chaos of the day. Your wedding isn’t a performance; it’s a reflection of who you are. I’m here to document that in the most elevated and intentional way.

Where are you based?

Minneapolis, MN.

Do you travel for weddings?

Absolutely. Growing up both of my parents were flight attendants so travel has always been a huge part of my life. I always think it’s so funny, yet not surprising, that I ended up with a job that allows me to travel all over. I’m constantly inspired by architecture, light, fashion, movement, and landscapes. If I could document a wedding somewhere new every single time, I would. Travel is woven into my perspective as an artist, and I love letting each environment inform the story I tell.

How would you describe your style?

Editorial nostalgia, inspired by film. A blend of documentary truth and artful intention. The art of noticing. The in-between moments, the glances, the movement, the way light falls across a space. Photos that feel like memories, not just portraits. The emotion and the image go hand in hand.

What is your most memorable career moment?

This is almost impossible to answer. Aside from quitting my 9-5 to pursue photography full time, I’d have to say my first international wedding in a castle with the most amazing couple, and a team of vendors who made it all feel surreal. It was one of those out-of-body moments where you realize you’re doing exactly what your younger self hoped for. It reminded me how important it is to pause, look around, and recognize how far you’ve come.

What inspires you?

I find inspiration everywhere. Light, architecture, cinema, fashion, movement, design, the moon, the ocean, landscapes, the way people interact when they think no one is watching, unique features, and the nostalgia you feel when flipping through a family album. I love couples who are creative, design-driven, and unafraid to showcase who they really are through their wedding day.

How would you describe your working style?

I’m as laid back as a Virgo can be. Calm, observant, intuitive. I’m not there to create a production. I’m there to step in when it makes sense, but I’m never going to interrupt a moment for the sake of a photo. I’m here to bring your vision to life in the most natural way possible. I guide when needed, but most of the time I’m quietly documenting the energy around me. I’m there to create a space where you can be fully yourselves — present, connected, and completely in the moment.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

Both. I’m a hybrid photographer shooting digital, medium format film, and Super 8.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

Yes — every wedding day is different, and I’m always happy to tailor coverage so it fits your story and your priorities. From courthouse elopements with just the two of you to full wedding weekends with everyone you know. Everyone has different priorities on their wedding day and I have packages that will fit those needs.

What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?

FILM! Super 8. I absolutely adore everything about Super 8 film. The colors, the movement, the imperfections. The way it’ll never go out of style. There is not acting around a Super 8 camera. No pretending to put in an earring 4 times to get the best shot. Getting Super 8 scans back feels like Christmas. Medium format film feels like a love letter to the day. Both elevate a wedding into something timeless and deeply personal.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

In the US: Hotel Peter & Paul (New Orleans), TWA Hotel (New York), Hotel Chelsea (New York), Sea Ranch Lodge (CA) and anywhere along the West Coast.

Internationally: Take me anywhere. I’d love to document weddings in the south of France, Portugal, and Mexico City.

Who is your dream client?

Creative couples who value design, emotion, and intentionality. People who want their wedding to reflect who they are — not trends, not expectations — just their connection, their style, and their story. I love when couples aren’t afraid to take risks with design & fashion. I love vintage gowns, unique getting ready attire, unexpected pops of color. People who know what they want and do it instead of doing what someone else tells them they have to do. They hire me for my work and trust me fully as a collaboration to bring their vision to life. They care about the photography as an art form and not just another vendor to check off the list.

How do you select music for your films?

I take inspiration from the music used throughout the day and weave that in with vows (if/when it makes sense).

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Don’t do anything you do not want to do. Don’t let anyone tell you how to run your day. Sit down and think about how you want to feel during your wedding day, and create a day based around that feeling. If you want it to be a party – go for it. If you’d rather a smaller intimate day that’s peaceful, set up your morning to be intentional to set the tone for the day. This is about YOU. Surround yourself with people who make you feel grounded, trust your vendors, and allow yourselves to fully experience every moment as it comes.

Jillian Blanc

Website: jillianblanc.com

Instagram Handle: @jillian_blanc