Your story full of magic, emotion, and meaning. My approach is rooted in authenticity: meeting you where you are, capturing the real, unscripted moments that matter most. From quiet glances to big celebrations, I’m here to freeze those fleeting seconds into timeless images you’ll treasure. This isn’t just a photoshoot, it’s a collaboration shaped around you. No stiff poses, just natural connection, laughter, and ease.
With a documentary eye, I focus on the in-betweens, the soft touches, details, the sparks of joy, the raw beauty of now. Whatever chapter you're in, I’ll help you preserve it authentically.
MAY - IRELAND
June - Chicago
July - Chicago, LOS ANGELES
August - CHICAGO, MINNESOTA, YOSEMITE, SAN FRANCISCO
September - NEW YORK CITY, Chicago
NOVEMBER - NEBRASKA, SAN FRANCISCO, LONDON,
LOS ANGELES
DECEMBER - WASHINGTON STATE, MEXICO CITY
Whether you’re planning an intimate mountain elopement, a ceremony along the coast, or a celebration somewhere farther from home, I’m always open to traveling for A LOVE story. If your location is already on my travel list, there may be reduced travel costs available.
I’m always adding new places, and custom TRAVEL INCLUSIVE destination proposals are created around your location and plans.
SCOTLAND
Switzerland
Mexico
Yosemite, Zion, Glacier,
JACKSON HOLE
OREGON
Hawaii
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!
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.
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!
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.
All portrait sessions require a 35% deposit to secure a date and then the remaining amount is due 14 days before the session! For weddings a 35% deposit and signed contract is required in order to book your wedding date, then the remaining amount is due 30 days prior to your wedding
Weddings have a 8-12 week turnaround time, and lifestyle sessions have a 3-4 week turnaround time
You’ll have full rights to print, share, and post your photos wherever you’d like, just keep in mind that copyright stays with the photographer.
I don’t deliver unedited or RAW files, as they don’t represent the finished quality and creative vision of my work. All delivered images are carefully edited to reflect a collaboration of my style and your story.
A second shooter means more coverage, more moments, and more magic. While I focus on the big moments, they’re capturing the quiet, candid ones — like your partner’s reaction while you walk down the aisle or behind-the-scenes memories you didn’t even know were happening. It adds depth, variety, and a fuller story to your gallery — and don’t worry, every photo is still edited by me to match my signature style.
Ready to turn your stories into emotion filled images ?
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@marleneornellaphotos