Capturing life's fleeting moments
Preserving the light, emotions, and fleeting moments that make your story unique
investment & services
Every moment you live is a chapter in your
the creative process
They're 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.
Send a letter to Marlene about your day
One-of-a-kind story
Artful Storytelling for the Lovers, dreamers and hopeless romantics
It’s here — your wedding day! I’ll be there to capture every moment with care and intention. Within 24 hours, you’ll receive a sneak peek gallery to relive the magic right away. Your full gallery will be delivered within 10 weeks, with the option to order prints, albums, or canvases to bring your memories to life.
How it works
Step two: Wedding day & delivery
Start by reaching out through my contact form! Share a bit about your story, your wedding vision, and what you’re dreaming up. I’ll respond with all the details, availability, and any answers you need to get started.
Step one: Inquire
We’ll connect over Zoom or in person to talk through your wedding day, find the package that fits best, and start building your timeline. Once you’re ready, we’ll secure your date with a signed contract and deposit.
Step two: Planning & booking
IV. 35 mm add on
CLICK TO VIEW SERVICES
III. Portraits
II. Elopements &
destinations packages
I. Wedding packages
The Services
Wedding packages
- Additional hour coverage
- 1 hour bridal portraits before wedding day
- Rehearsal dinner & Rehearsal coverage
- Camcorder highlight reel
Eternal Wedding Package
Classic Wedding Package
- Up to 6 hours of wedding day coverage
- Optional engagement session
- Add a second shooter for $300
Starting at $3500
Starting at $4,200
Starting at $2,600
OPTIONAL ADD ONS
- Up to 8 hours of wedding day coverage
- Poloroids
- Includes a second shooter
- Optional engagement session
Timeless Wedding Package
- Up to 10 hours of wedding day coverage
- Includes a second shooter
- Polaroids
- Optional engagement session
Inquire about your big day
Elopements & Destinations packages
Reach out for more details on destination wedding coverage and travel fees.
Inquire about your elopement
Portrait packages
PROPOSALS, ENGAGEMENTS, FAMILIES, MATERNITY
Starting at $500
$375
- 90 minute session
- 2 locations
- 2 outfits
- 65+ Images
Collection 2: Eternal & Timeless
- 60 minute session
- One Location
- One Outfit
- 40+ images
Inquire about your session
Collection 1: sweet and classic
35mm add on
Ask me about adding film
June - Charleston. SC ; Chicago
July - Chicago
September - France, Belgium
October - California, Chicago
Lets go on an adventure
Dreaming of a celebration in one of these epic spots? I’m already halfway packed.
Whether you’re eloping in the mountains, saying “I do” on the coast, or chasing golden hour in a national park, I’m always down to travel for love. If your dream location is on my list, you might even get a special travel deal. And if it’s not? Reach out anyway — I’m always adding new places and I just might fall in love with your idea too.
Let's capture love
Upcoming travel dates
Travel bucket list
United Kingdom
Switzerland
Mexico
Yosemite, Zion, Glacier, or any National Park
Washington
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!
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!"
Frequently asked
Do you require a deposit?
All portrait sessions require a $75.00 deposit to secure a date and then the remaining amount is due a week 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
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECEIVE THE PHOTOS AFTER MY SESSION AND HOW WILL THOSE BE DELIVERED?
Weddings have a 8-12 week turnaround time, and couples and senior shoots have a 3-4 week turnaround time
WILL I HAVE A RIGHT TO THE PHOTOS
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.
Can I receive the unedited or RAW files?
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 my style and your story.
WHY INCLUDE A SECOND SHOOTER IN YOUR WEDDING PACKAGE?
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.
Questions
Have more questions? Lets chat
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