Serving St. Louis and wherever love unfolds
Capturing the chapters of life's stories by meeting you exactly where you are in your journey
Your storyteller for nostalgic memories
Wedding & destination photography rooted in emotion and romance
Learn more about how I document your story here
As your photographer, I don’t just capture how life looks — I capture how it feels. The soft glances, wind-blown laughter, and raw, fleeting magic — all documented with heart, nostalgia, and intention.
Rooted in connection and guided by creativity, my work blends romance, warmth, and painterly tones to tell your story honestly and artfully. Whether it’s golden hour joy or quiet intimacy, I’ll preserve it with soul.
Let’s turn your real moments into something timeless. Something you.
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember — from doodling during class in elementary school to designing fashion sketches in high school. That love evolved into digital design and, eventually, photography — where I found my truest form of storytelling.
Now, I get to capture stories filled with feeling — nostalgic, tender, joy-soaked moments that reflect the beauty of who you are. I’ll be there to gently guide you, cheer you on, and turn real life into something that feels like art (and maybe a little like your favorite movie montage).
Let’s create something you’ll want to hold onto forever.
hopeless romantic, golden retriever mom, and your go-to storyteller
Learn more about Marlene
Hey Lovebirds, I'm
Marlene
We had so much fun during our shoot with Marlene Ornella! From the very beginning, she made us feel totally comfortable — like we were just hanging out with a friend. Her energy is warm, creative, and genuinely uplifting, which made the entire experience feel effortless and fun. Felt Like Hanging Out With a Friend and the Photos Are Gorgeous!
She captured us in such an honest and beautiful way, the photos feel like us. Every image is full of emotion and personality, and we were honestly blown away by how thoughtfully she documented those moments.We’ll treasure these photos forever. Couldn’t recommend her more!
xoxo, Olivia
"Felt Like Hanging Out With a Friend — and the Photos Are Gorgeous"
Being in front of a camera has always made me feel exposed in the worst way, like I needed to pose or shrink myself to be “photogenic.” But working with Marlene was completely different. From the moment we started, she made space for me to just exist, without pressure or expectation. It was the first time I’ve ever felt like the camera wasn’t trying to change me — just reflect me.
She paid attention in the small ways, to the way we held hands when we didn’t think she was looking, to the breath I took before letting myself relax. I’ve never felt more seen in front of a camera! Somehow, she made all those in-between moments feel worthy of being remembered.
xoxo, Alex
" I’ve never felt more seen in front of a camera! Somehow, she made all those in-between moments feel worthy of being remembered."
From start to finish, Marlene made the entire session feel effortless and joyful. Her keen eye for unique details and her artistic approach bring a fresh, imaginative vibe to every photo while still making sure the moments felt true to us. Beyond just snapping pictures, she truly understands how to connect with her clients, making the experience relaxed and full of genuine laughter. I always feel seen and comfortable in front of her camera, and the results capture not just moments, but real emotions and stories. I can’t wait to work with Marlene again and see what beautiful memories she helps create next!
xoxo, Jamie
"I always feel seen and comfortable in front of her camera, and the results capture not just moments."
From the very beginning, Marlene made planning our engagement session so easy and fun. She took the time to understand our vision and made sure every detail felt personal to us. During the shoot, her relaxed and friendly vibe helped us feel completely comfortable, which made everything flow naturally. Marlene has a true gift for seeing the magic in big and everyday moments and turning them into beautiful, heartfelt images. We’re beyond happy with how our photos turned out and grateful for such a memorable experience.
xoxo, Sarah
"Marlene has a true gift for seeing the magic in everyday moments and turning them into beautiful, heartfelt images!"
Bedhead laughs // First looks // Love letters // Golden hour // Sunset cuddles // In-home coziness // Rainy kisses // Vows // Dance floor chaos // Toast tears // Tiny details // Guest hugs // Bookstore dates // Road trips // Late-night tacos // Headlight moments // Honest laughter // Quiet love // Fleeting magic
Weddings
Portraits
Elopements
Lets tell your story here
the packages
To love and be Loved
To love and be Loved
To love and be Loved
Forever feelings, told through
Step into a carefully curated art gallery of some of the images and stories that inspire me most. It’s a glimpse into my style and the stories I love to tell through my lens. Take a look, see if my vision connects with yours, and if it does—let’s create something memorable together!
my GALLERIES ARE LIKE...
Joy filled images
View my most recent work
Milestones big & small
A collection of stories preserved forever
Telling stories in the midwest & wherever
Ready to turn your stories into emotion filled images ?
Let's Get Rolling
is it your turn?
Let's talk about your day
Love unfolds
Check out more stories on insta
@marleneornellaphotos