WEDDING & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

shanell

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I’m a Detroit-based wedding and portrait photographer, capturing love stories for couples, families, and more. For over thirteen years, I’ve been immersed in this incredible career, with even more time spent in the wedding industry. My journey has taken me to cities, states, and even destinations around the world, photographing hundreds of weddings along the way. While traveling has been a beautiful part of this adventure, my heart always leads me back home to Michigan. Northern Michigan, in particular, is my happy place—if I could choose one place to explore more, it would be there!

A michigan WEDDING & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

WELCOME, I'm shanell

xoxo, -s

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Hi! I’m Shanell, as an artist and storyteller, my passion is creating imagery that is joyful, romantic, authentic, and beautifully timeless. I strive to capture each client as they truly are, showcasing their love story in the most meaningful way.

With over thirteen years in the wedding industry and hundreds of weddings photographed worldwide, I’ve learned not only how to document the day but also how to help it run seamlessly. Taking the timeline into my own hands has been one of the biggest benefits to my clients. You’ll always know where you need to be and when—because I’ll be right there, guiding you. My goal is to earn your complete trust, from directional posing to managing your bridal party, ensuring your wedding day unfolds flawlessly.

I am endlessly inspired by the magic of love and the wonder of this world—finding beauty in every moment, big or small. I cherish the joy of watching a love story unfold and capturing it all, giving my clients a tangible heirloom of their most cherished memories.

My journey as a photographer began in 2010, and by 2013, I was specializing in weddings. Since then, my work has been featured in renowned publications such as Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, The Knot, and more. I’ve also been recognized as one of Michigan’s Top Wedding Photographers by Wezoree. Over the past decade, I’ve refined my craft, becoming a true wedding expert—so you don’t have to be. Knowing when to step in and guide a moment and when to step back and let it unfold naturally. I understand that small details make a big difference in how you feel about your photos. From the tilt of your head to the angle of your hips, I instinctively make adjustments to highlight your best features, ensuring you look and feel amazing.

My signature aesthetic is timeless, joy-filled, and romantic, with an editorial edge. I take the time to understand your vision, working closely with you and your planner to create a seamless experience. In the months leading up to your wedding, we’ll review timelines, discuss priorities, and ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned. On your wedding day, I’m there to support, adjust, and help in any way needed to bring your vision to life effortlessly.

Let’s create something beautiful together!

Please explore my work and reach out with any questions—I’d love to hear from you.

meet the artist

Engagements

I believe the love you share becomes your legacy, and my goal is to preserve those moments for you. Photography is more than just a person behind a camera—it’s about thoughtfully crafting and capturing the moments that define your life, telling your story in a way that is authentic, heartfelt, and timeless.

EXPLORE MY portfolio

Weddings

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Michigan

Brittany +Alex

Shanell and her team, were absolutely phenomenal as our wedding photographers! They went above and beyond in every way, and it was a joy to work with them. Their energy and creativity truly brought the venue to life, capturing the essence of our special day beautifully.

From brainstorming unique and amazing ways to capture the event to adding an extra special touch to every moment, their dedication was evident. Their professionalism and friendly demeanor made the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free.

I highly recommend Shanell and Jay to anyone looking for top-notch wedding photographers. We are so excited to see the final photos and relive the magic of our wedding day through their incredible work. Five stars all the way!

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Michigan

Randi & Matthew

Shanell is amazing! I am SO glad she was recommended to me by several of my friends. She's such a nice person and so talented. I've followed her on social media since booking her and have loved every single photo she's posted. We recently received our engagement pictures and we LOVE them!! Shanell made the day fun and easy. She was all for doing our sports themed pictures and capturing them exactly how we wanted them! The time flew by and she got so many great shots. We are so glad she will be doing our wedding pictures as well. It's a great feeling to not have to worry how your pictures will turn out because you trust your photographer 100%. I would recommend her to anyone!!!

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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

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