We’ve never been ones to create “best of” lists, primarily because photography—as in all creative arts—is deeply subjective and personal. What might strike us as a breathtaking image may resonate differently with someone else. That said, exceptional photography is the heart and soul of Magnolia Rouge and we place it at the forefront of what we publish, so we’re thrilled to introduce the first in our “Vendors You Need to Follow” series. In this edition, we’re shining a spotlight on 20 extraordinary photographers who capture the essence of love and celebration in California and beyond. With styles ranging from refined fine art to a more candid, documentary approach, this curated selection showcases the diversity and artistry within the wedding photography world.
A great wedding photographer balances candid moments with posed elegance, ensuring every detail—from the smallest gesture to the grandest event—is remembered. By blending creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of each couple’s unique love story, wedding photography becomes a timeless keepsake, allowing couples to relive the emotions of their special day for years to come. So whilst this is in no way extensive, here’s the first in our series to highlight some incredible talents we want you to know about. Be sure to bookmark this post and take the time to follow these remarkable talents—you’ll find inspiration for your special day and beyond.
KRISTIN PITEO is a California-based wedding photographer with over 12 years of experience documenting weddings across the United States, Europe, South Africa, Asia, and South America. She is drawn to capturing the light in others and is committed to uncovering the emotions within each couple’s unique love story. Kristin’s approach to photography invites deep and meaningful connections, aiming to create spaces where intimacy and timeless memories are preserved, and where the bond between two people is authentically portrayed.
Kristin strives to foster genuine conversations led by emotion, allowing her to naturally capture the essence of each couple’s love language. Her goal is to document their feelings from the inside out, crafting images that leave an eternal imprint. Kristin brings a high level of expertise, honesty, and understanding to each couple’s story and vision. She seeks to fold connections into lasting memories through her pursuit of authentic beauty and the art of photography, ensuring each love story is preserved through her lens.
Kristin strives to foster genuine conversations led by emotion, allowing her to naturally capture the essence of each couple’s love language.
LUCY MUNOZ understands that photography goes beyond just capturing moments—it’s about creating an effortless and enjoyable experience from the very first communication. She prides herself on being responsive and quick to reply, ensuring that clients are never left waiting for days for a response. Since pictures are so important to her, she knows they must be equally valuable to her clients.
Lucy recognizes that people often say their wedding day goes by in a flash, and having photographed many weddings, she knows this to be true. That’s why she’s committed to capturing every moment, allowing couples to relive their special day as if they had experienced every second. From candid shots to traditional poses, Lucy aims to deliver a complete narrative of the wedding day through her images. With an attention to detail and passion for her craft, Lucy is excited to work with you and capture your big day.
Lucy understands that photography goes beyond just capturing moments—it’s about creating an effortless and enjoyable experience from the very first communication.
LARISSA CLEVELAND first picked up a camera at age 13 and has been refining her ability to capture the world in an honest, artful light ever since. Encouraged by her family to pursue an artistic career, she found her passion for photography early on. For Larissa, photography isn’t just a profession; it’s a deep love. She considers it a privilege to be a professional artist, sharing her work with clients and knowing that her photos will inspire joy and preserve life’s most important moments for years to come—and for future generations.
Over the past decade, Larissa has had the opportunity to work with powerhouse couples and industry leaders—innovators, creatives, and trendsetters. Her career has taken her across the globe, allowing her to experience some of the most beautiful places on earth. Larissa’s goal isn’t to create cookie-cutter pictures but to produce iconic, emotional photographs that transport her clients back to their most precious moments. Her approach to wedding photography defies niche categorization. Nicole captures everything from sun-soaked outdoor celebrations to moody urban events, from fabulous weekend-long destination parties to intimate ceremonies at home. She loves it all, embracing the unique energy and story each celebration tells.
Encouraged by her family to pursue an artistic career, she found her passion for photography early on. For Larissa, photography isn’t just a profession; it’s a deep love.
NORMAN & BLAKE is the creative collaboration of Shannen Norman and Emily Blake, a dynamic photography duo with over 20 years of combined experience. Throughout their careers, they have worked internationally, capturing moments in iconic locations such as New York, Paris, Greece, and Thailand. Their stunning work has been featured in prestigious publications as well as numerous online platforms.
After photographing several events together, Shannen and Emily recognized the unique benefit of having two seasoned photographers offering distinct perspectives on a wedding day. The results were rich, diverse, and complementary images that told a fuller story. This led them to officially form Norman & Blake in early 2017, combining their expertise and artistic vision. Today, they operate their successful photography studio from Los Angeles, continuing to capture beautiful moments worldwide.
We believe print photos can be beautiful family heirlooms, treasured and passed on for generations to come.
Growing up in a Northern Nevada valley, ERICA’S small-town roots instilled in her an appreciation for life’s finest details—beautiful scenery, close relationships, and the little things, like love, that bring life’s best moments to light. Now based in Los Angeles, Erica approaches photography with a blend of editorial posing and honest moments, creating timeless, authentic images that tell the unique story of your wedding day. With a refined yet easygoing style, she captures the beauty of thoughtfully designed celebrations while embracing the spontaneity of joyous moments, like popping champagne on the dance floor. Her background as a history teacher deepened her passion for storytelling, ensuring every image preserves the essence of your day. Erica specializes in beautifully tailored weddings for the refined and effortlessly devoted, creating memories that are as meaningful as they are timeless.
With a refined yet easygoing style, she captures the beauty of thoughtfully designed celebrations while embracing the spontaneity of joyous moments.
NICOLE IVANOV, a talented wedding photographer originally from Detroit, Michigan, spent four years building her business in the Midwest before moving to Los Angeles in 2016 to pursue her dream of photographing weddings along the California coast. Little did she know, her move would not only advance her career but also lead her to meet her future husband at a church conference in 2019. The couple married in 2020, celebrating their love during a memorable COVID-era wedding.
Nicole’s passion for photography stems from her deep love of capturing the unspoken moments of a wedding day—those candid, fleeting interactions that tell the story of a couple’s unique journey. With over 10 years of experience, Nicole has mastered the art of documenting each wedding in a way that evokes the emotions felt in those special moments. Her goal is to create timeless images that bring joy and love to the couple each time they look back at their photos.
She believes that every detail of a wedding is significant, and her aim is to capture those details in a way that beautifully preserves the couple’s story for generations to come.
Nicole has mastered the art of documenting each wedding in a way that evokes the emotions felt in those special moments.
KELLY BROWN is a wedding and lifestyle photographer with over 14 years of experience documenting people’s stories. Her background in photojournalism gives her a talent for capturing candid, authentic moments, while her love for editorial photography adds a refined, artistic touch to her work. This combination results in a style that feels both natural and polished, offering a perfect balance for couples seeking genuine yet beautifully composed images.
Kelly uses a mix of digital and film cameras, bringing a unique perspective to every wedding she photographs. The blend of modern and classic techniques ensures that each event is captured with timeless quality and sharp detail, creating a lasting narrative of the day. When Kelly isn’t photographing weddings, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. The California desert, which she calls home, serves as both a place of inspiration and tranquility, often influencing the natural beauty and simplicity found in her photography.
Kelly’s background in photojournalism gives her a talent for capturing candid, authentic moments.
MATOLI’S passion for photography and storytelling blossomed while she was pursuing her Master’s degree in Biotechnology. Her scientific background gives her a unique approach to photography, as it informs how she analyzes and interprets light, resulting in images that are not only captivating but also timeless and authentic. This distinct perspective elevates every frame she captures, whether it’s an editorial portrait, a wedding, fashion, or commercial project.
Born in Cameroon, West Africa, Matoli moved to the U.S. at the age of 13, bringing with her a rich cultural background that continues to inspire her work. Her ability to blend creativity with precision makes her photography stand out, as she consistently captures the essence of her subjects in an artful, genuine way. Now based in Southern California, Matoli lives with her husband and son. Her dedication to both family and her craft drives her to create imagery that resonates with emotion and beauty, leaving a lasting impression.
Her ability to blend creativity with precision makes Matoli’s photography stand out, as she consistently captures
the essence of her subjects in an artful, genuine way.
SCOTT & DANA are wedding photographers passionate about capturing love stories with authenticity and refined artistry. Based in Northern California, they are inspired by the stunning landscapes stretching from Lake Tahoe to Carmel. However, their love for travel and adventure means they eagerly journey to destinations beyond their familiar surroundings, ensuring every couple’s unique story is beautifully preserved. Their purpose is to see and retell love through mindful, artful images that provide couples with a visual and tangible way to remember the most meaningful day of their lives. Whether exchanging vows on the breathtaking shores of Lake Tahoe, celebrating amidst the enchanting beauty of Carmel, or hosting a destination wedding elsewhere, Scott and Dana bring a keen eye for detail and heartfelt dedication to every event. With their timeless photography, they capture the essence of each cherished moment, ensuring it lives on as a treasured memory for years to come.
Their purpose is to see and retell love through mindful, artful images that provide couples with a visual and tangible way to remember the most meaningful day of their lives
ALICIA MINK is a fine art wedding photographer documenting weddings all over the United States. Her photography journey began nearly a decade ago when she studied fine art photography. She graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree and since she graduated her work has been featured in several top wedding publications. Her dedication to her craft ensures that each couple receives a collection of images that captures the true essence of their love and celebration. For Alicia, it’s not just about taking pictures—it’s about telling a story. She understands that the little moments and personal touches are what make each wedding memorable, and she strives to highlight these in her work.
Alicia understands that the little moments and personal touches are what make each wedding memorable, and she strives to highlight these in her work.
With a focus on authentic connections and intentional artistry, TWAH DOUGHERTY is a sought after & internationally recognized photographer known for her personalized approach. She is based in New York and California, specializing in private estate and destination weddings worldwide. Twah is listed as a Top Photographer by the prestigious wedding publication Over The Moon and Top 15 NYC Wedding Photographers by Wed Vibes. Her timelessly chic work has been seen in Vogue, Brides, Martha Stewart, Huffington Post and more.
Her photography style blends timeless elegance with an editorial essence, combined with a photojournalistic approach that captures genuine, heartfelt moments.
FOOLISHLY RUSHING IN Photography is a husband-and-wife team passionate about creating beautiful stories that celebrate the unique love of every couple. Based in California and serving clients worldwide, their style blends laid-back luxury with organic elements, effortless romance, and a flair for fashion. They believe in the power of a great story and pour their hearts into every wedding, capturing both the seen and unseen moments of love, beauty, and connection. With a seamless balance of editorial artistry and photojournalistic authenticity, their approach preserves honest, real memories in an organic, natural atmosphere. Rooted in gratitude and a shared love for their craft, Foolishly Rushing In Photography creates timeless, heartfelt imagery for couples who value passion, beauty, and the magic of their wedding day.
They believe in the power of a great story and pour their hearts into every wedding, capturing both the seen and unseen moments of love, beauty, and connection.
MICHELLE BELLER PHOTOGRAPHY specializes in luxury and destination wedding photography, capturing the essence of each couple’s unique love story from California to destinations worldwide. Based in Los Angeles, Michelle draws inspiration from her clients’ individuality, blending fashion, art, architecture, journalism, and ambiance to create vibrant, timeless narratives. Her love for both film and digital mediums allows her to let the tools shape her artistry, resulting in a seamless blend of creativity and precision. With formal training at Brooks Institute of Photography and over a decade of experience, Michelle works closely with planners and designers to ensure every detail is thoughtfully captured, starting with her clients’ style as the foundation. Together with her assistant, she provides a seamless and personal experience, weaving candid moments and intentional artistry into each wedding weekend. Grateful for the privilege of preserving life’s most meaningful moments, Michelle creates timeless, editorial imagery that reflects the joy, individuality, and elation of her couples’ love stories.
Her love for both film and digital mediums allows her to let the tools shape her artistry, resulting in a seamless blend of creativity and precision.
A Bay Area native with roots in Washington State, VALORIE DARLING brings a deep passion for storytelling and connection to her craft. Her career began with a dedication to social activism, co-founding SoCal HeARTs in 2009, an arts program supporting foster kids and low-income families in South Central LA. Initially documenting the program’s work, she discovered her calling behind the camera. Her first wedding shoot, encouraged by her co-founder, launched a career that now spans over a decade. She fell in love with capturing authentic moments, connecting with families, and collaborating with creative partners across stunning destinations. Known for her commitment to presence and real moments, she believes the best photos come from a team dedicated to ensuring couples truly enjoy their day. Supported by a long-standing team that shares her vision, she now focuses on select weddings and editorial projects that push her artistry while continuing to direct her team’s incredible work.
My craft is to capture moments of meaning and beauty in a true and honoring light so we may return to them – be inspired by them and pass them forward.
Nostalgia is a beautiful thing, but memories can fade with time—that’s where Tyler’s work comes in. As a wedding photographer based in Orange County, CA, TYLER BRANCH has spent over a decade documenting love stories across the globe, from Italy to Guatemala, Sweden to Switzerland, and New York to Los Angeles. His approach is guided by creative energy, family heritage, timeless legacy, and a passion for authentic connection. Tyler believes the photos he takes reflect who he is at his core: someone who values Jesus, family, and loving people. He’s drawn to couples with big hearts who are deeply passionate about each other and the journey of marriage. With a heart for storytelling and a camera in hand, Tyler aims to create images that speak volumes about love’s depth and beauty. Available for travel worldwide, he welcomes inquiries for pricing and availability to capture your unforgettable moments.
With a heart for storytelling and a camera in hand, Tyler aims to create images that speak volumes about love’s depth and beauty.
For NIRAV PATEL photography has helped him find a voice I never knew he had. “It’s a medium that has given me the freedom and ability to share the unique way I see the world. Self-expression never came easy for me growing up, but through photography, I discovered an entirely new side of myself. I have been fortunate to capture so many heartwarming and beautiful stories, each one making a profound impact on my life. These stories have allowed me an intimate glimpse into people’s lives and the way they love and connect with each other, which has inspired me in so many ways.” Doing this as a profession is an incredible honor for Nirav. The trust his couples place in him means the world to him. When photographing a wedding, he doesn’t aim to shape their story into a generic or staged template. Instead, Nirav’s mission is to craft a unique and authentic narrative that preserves the genuine memories of one of the most significant days in their lives. His approach celebrates a love story that reflects who they are as individuals, as a couple, and as part of a cherished community.
Nirav’s mission is to craft a unique and authentic narrative that preserves the genuine memories of one of the most significant days in their lives.
CATHERINE MARIE TAYLOR is a passionate Southern California wedding and elopement photographer based in Los Angeles, capturing love stories with a blend of clean, modern, editorial, and documentary styles. With over a decade of wedding photography experience, Catherine’s work is defined by its timeless quality and heartfelt authenticity. Her goal is for couples to look back at their photos 5, 10, or even 50 years later and relive the emotions, from the joyful tears of a parent to the blissful moments on the dance floor. A first-generation Colombian American, Catherine is fluent in English and Spanish, bringing warmth and personal connection to her work. Growing up in South Florida and having lived in North Carolina and Portland, she now shares her life in LA with her husband and their dog, Cardinal. Catherine cherishes building genuine relationships, ensuring clients feel like friends and not just another wedding.
With over a decade of wedding photography experience, Catherine’s work is defined by its timeless quality and heartfelt authenticity.
LE VIE PHOTOGRAPHY is dedicated to crafting timeless imagery that captures life’s most meaningful moments. As a hybrid film photographer, Le Vie blends the artistry of traditional film with the versatility of digital technology. Film’s unique ability to embrace light and create natural, emotional tones allows Le Vie to capture images that are both beautiful and deeply evocative, while the precision and adaptability of digital ensure every moment is preserved, even in challenging conditions. This approach combines the best of both worlds: the timeless elegance of film and the reliability of digital photography. With a focus on storytelling, Le Vie creates photos that resonate with emotional depth and authenticity, curating artistic heirlooms to be cherished for generations. Committed to providing a luxury experience, Le Vie values the trust of each client and approaches every wedding as an opportunity to document love in its truest, most beautiful form.
With a focus on storytelling, Le Vie creates photos that resonate with emotional depth and authenticity, curating artistic heirlooms to be cherished for generations.
As a husband-and-wife team, Thomas and Emily—known as THE GANEYS—are passionate about capturing real moments and documenting love stories in a natural, organic way. They’re inspired by color, authenticity, and the spirit of adventure, which shines through in every wedding they photograph. Some of the most rewarding aspects of their work for them are hearing unique love stories, meeting incredible people, and traveling to new places with their couples. After photographing over 200 weddings, Emily still wakes up each day excited to respond to inquiries, edit photos, and help plan meaningful wedding day timelines. Their favorite part of the process is always getting to know each couple and bringing their love story to life through our lens. As natural light photographers using both film and digital mediums, they bring a timeless, organic approach to every wedding. Based in San Francisco, they primarily work throughout the Bay Area and West Coast, with strong ties to Seattle.
As natural light photographers using both film and digital mediums, they bring a timeless, organic approach to every wedding.
ANYA KERNES is a destination wedding photographer based in Los Angeles, renowned for capturing heartfelt celebrations and once-in-a-lifetime moments for couples worldwide. Her passion for photography began early, developing her first roll of film in a university darkroom in Boston, sparking a love for the art that has since become her life’s work. Anya’s approach combines harmony, balance, and a sense of restraint, creating elevated yet effortless images that feel deeply romantic and nostalgic. She draws inspiration from understated elegance and timeless simplicity, striving to craft photographs that resonate with genuine emotion and enduring beauty.
Clients describe their experience with Anya as smooth, memorable, and filled with care. With a deep understanding of wedding dynamics, she ensures every detail and fleeting moment is beautifully preserved. Her work attracts couples who appreciate authenticity, refined artistry, and a commitment to storytelling, making each wedding as unique and special as the love it celebrates.
Anya’s approach combines harmony, balance, and a sense of restraint, creating elevated yet effortless images that feel deeply romantic and nostalgic.
