the journal
Alison and Zach eloped a little over a year ago at Falling Rock on a hot August evening. A year later, they returned to the Black Hills for their anniversary and a babymoon session, turning this trip into a beautiful Black Hills maternity celebration as they await their new arrival in October. I feel so, […]
There’s something so special about weddings that take place at home. Eli and Elizabeth’s wedding day began in the bride’s own backyard, surrounded by their closest friends and family. The intimate ceremony was filled with laughter, happy tears, and the kind of joy that only comes when you’re gathered in a place that already feels […]
It’s been a minute since I’ve shared here, but this session deserves its spotlight. As summer fades and fall picks up steam, I’m easing back into the rhythm of photographing families against the wild, golden backdrop of the Black Hills. When Emma reached out about a session at their family cabin near Keystone—complete with her […]
Joe and Lilly have a thing for national parks. So when Joe finished his Doctorate of Physical Therapy (which is no small feat!), they knew exactly how they wanted to celebrate: a quick escape to South Dakota’s rugged corner of beauty, the Black Hills and Badlands National Park. They planned for sunshine, of course. But […]
I'm Michaela mader Tully
The Michaela you'll find making beautiful images of your family.
I’m a storytelling photographer based in the Black Hills of South Dakota, specializing in family connections, intimate weddings, and elopements.
My style? Think warm evening light, authentic moments, and a dash of Mary Oliver poetry—because life’s best stories are a little wild, a little soft, and always real.
When I’m not behind the camera, I’m probably chasing my kids, hiking trails that smell of Ponderosa pine, or sipping coffee that’s gone lukewarm because, well, #momlife.
Let's create something beautiful and real together.
The kind of photos that feel like home, like belly laughs and evening light, like the fleeting moments you never want to forget. Ready to tell your story? Let’s do this.
