PHOTOGRAPHER | Mariah Jones

Mariah Jones is a film and digital wedding photographer serving Chicago and destinations worldwide. Her imagery is documentary-inspired with an editorial flair, capturing the artful balance between structure and spontaneity. With a focus on modern design, refined details, fashion-forward elements, and genuine connection, Mariah Jones documents celebrations that feel intentional, soulful, and distinctly timeless.

What would you like couples to know about you? 

I prioritize the experience of the day over the photos themselves—the images exist to reflect the genuine moments, emotions, and connections of the celebration. I maintain a collaborative and thoughtful relationship with couples throughout the planning process, so they feel supported, confident, and fully present on their wedding day. I’m detail-oriented yet easygoing, an introvert at heart, and deeply invested in the nuances of each couple, their people, and their story.

Where are you based? 

I’m based in the Chicago area but also serve couples across the U.S. and internationally.

Do you travel for weddings? 

Yes! I love traveling for weddings, whether it’s within the U.S. or internationally. Each location brings its own energy, beauty, and storytelling opportunities, which I incorporate into the imagery.

How would you describe your style? 

My approach is documentary at heart—focused on capturing genuine moments as they naturally unfold. I blend candid observation with intentional editorial compositions to create images that feel thoughtful and beautifully composed. It’s hands-off and relaxed, with light guidance when needed.

What inspires you? 

I’m inspired by the moments that reveal real connection between people, the way thoughtful design shapes an experience, and by light that transforms a moment. Fashion, architecture, travel, music and art all feed my creativity and influence how I see and capture a celebration.

How would you describe your working style? 

I love being a fly on the wall—observing moments as they naturally unfold—while also offering gentle direction when it feels right. I aim to strike a balance between letting moments happen organically and stepping in to help my couple and their guests look and feel their best. It’s about nurturing the moments that need no guidance while lending a subtle, artful touch where it enhances the story of the day.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both? 

I shoot both digital and film. Film offers an imperfect balance to digital, bringing a nostalgic quality to images. Together, they help me tell the full story of the day, from the small details to the big moments.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs? 

Yes, I offer a few base packages, as well as custom proposals tailored to the couple and the event. I focus on capturing the full wedding day—and often the entire wedding weekend—so couples can be fully present while knowing every moment and detail will be documented beautifully.

Where would you love to travel to for work? 

I’m drawn to places with inspiring landscapes, history, and design. I love the West Coast, from the rugged California and Oregon coastlines, moving inward to the Rocky Mountains around Jackson Hole, Aspen, and Vail. Some dream locations include Tuscany, Lake Como, and the Amalfi Coast in Italy, as well as Mallorca and Barcelona in Spain.

Who is your dream client? 

My dream clients are couples who value creativity, intentional design, and doing things their own way rather than following tradition. They embrace bold, fashion-forward details and want a wedding that truly reflects who they are. They care about being fully present, enjoying the day with their guests and each other, and are excited by celebrations that feel modern, thoughtfully designed, and entirely their own.

What is your advice to couples getting married? 

Be present, savor the moments, and prioritize connection with each other and your guests. Let your day reflect who you are—forget the rules, embrace what feels meaningful, and trust that the most memorable moments are the unscripted ones.

Mariah Jones Photo 

Website: mariahjonesphoto.com

Instagram: @mariahjonesphoto