Forget the rules. Embrace the moments.
Let’s create a wedding day that’s unapologetically you.
Rapid City Wedding Photographer
I know you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels real, intimate, and true to who you are—not just a checklist to get through.
You’re a couple who values experiences over expectations, connection over convention. You’re craving a wedding day that feels like you—something intimate, intentional, and filled with meaning. You want to celebrate your love in a way that’s as adventurous and authentic as the life you’re building together. I see that, and I’m here to help make it happen.
It’s overwhelming trying to fit your love story into someone else’s expectations. You’re feeling the pressure to please everyone, but deep down, you just want a day that feels authentic and meaningful—a day that’s truly yours. I see you, and I understand how much this matters.
photos that make you feel something.
In your head, you’re asking, How do we make this day ours? In your heart, you’re craving simplicity and meaning.
You’re scrolling through endless Pinterest boards, hoping for something that sparks joy, but it all feels so cookie-cutter. You’ve tried explaining your vision to friends or family, only to be met with confusion or pushback—but why not just do it the traditional way? It’s exhausting trying to balance their expectations with your deep desire for a day that’s uniquely yours.
What you really want is to look back on your wedding and feel like every moment mattered, like every detail reflected your love story. Because this day isn’t just a celebration—it’s a declaration of who you are, together. That’s why it matters so much.
View my wedding portfolio
Hey, i'm michaela and small weddings are my jam.
When I was a bride, I knew I wanted beautiful photos, a stunning location, and to have a really fun day where I ended up married to my BFF.
I now help couples have their dream days, whatever that means to them. It's the best job ever. I can already picture myself in the afterglow of your wedding day, thinking, "how is this even my real job?"
A wedding day that feels like you—laid-back, sentimental, unforgettable.
Picture this: exchanging vows in the rugged beauty of the Black Hills or the dramatic landscapes of the Badlands. every moment feels effortless, joyful, and deeply you.
You’re craving a wedding that feels like home—a day that reflects your love, your story, and your wild, adventurous hearts. Imagine standing together under a vast Badlands sky or nestled among the quiet pines of the Black Hills, sharing vows that bring tears and laughter. You feel free, present, and completely connected, with every detail aligned with who you are.
Whether you're spending your day together or with your closest friends and family, I'm here to help you have a beautiful day and feel natural and comfortable in front of the camera.
Small, intimate weddings and elopements in the black hills
Wedding experiences crafted for you.
My intimate wedding and elopement packages are tailored to fit you. Whether you’re envisioning a quiet ceremony with just the two of you or a heartfelt gathering with family at a cozy vacation rental, I’ve been there. With dozens of small weddings under my belt, I know how to help you create a day that feels effortless, meaningful, and even better than you imagined.
Guidance to craft a wedding day
Stunning locations in the Black Hills and Badlands
customizable packages
Timeless, Cinematic Edits
Before your wedding day, I want to really get to know you. Whether it’s a coffee date or a virtual chat, we’ll talk about what makes your story yours—what you love, what matters most, and how you want your day to feel. I’ll also send over a short questionnaire to help me dig into the little details that make your relationship unique. This way, when your day comes, I’m not just your photographer—I’m someone who truly gets you and knows how to capture the moments that matter.
With years of experience in the tourism industry, I’ve explored and written about some of the most stunning spots in the Black Hills. I know the trails, hidden gems, and breathtaking views that are perfect for every kind of celebration—from quiet ceremonies to adventurous elopements. Let me guide you to the places that will make your day unforgettable.
I offer flexible options to fit your vision, including add-ons like extra hours of coverage, highlight films, 35mm film, and officiant services.
Your photos should feel like stepping back into the story, every time you look at them. That’s why I use film-inspired editing to give your images a timeless, cinematic vibe—rich tones, soft textures, and a warmth that feels just right. It’s all about creating a gallery that not only tells your story but makes it feel like a classic you’ll treasure forever.
Picture the process
I've crafted a seamless process to make sure that you feel seen and heard, that questions you didn't even know you had are answered, and that ensures you're the most comfortable with me on your wedding day, that we'll feel like pals even if we haven't met IRL.
let's connect
save the date
Your Day, Your Story
Adventure elopements for the outdoorsy or indoorsy
When your wedding day arrives, I’ll be there to document it all—the big moments, the in-betweens, and the magic you didn’t even know was happening. You can relax, celebrate, and trust that your story is in good hands. Afterward, you’ll receive a beautifully curated gallery that brings you right back to those heartfelt, joy-filled moments.
Think of this as our first coffee date! Fill out my contact form to share all the dreamy details about your big day—how you met, what makes your love story unique, and your vision for the celebration. Within 48 hours, you’ll hear back from me with my availability, pricing guide, and a link to book a consultation call. We’ll chat all about your plans, so we can make sure I’m the perfect fit for your day.
Once we’re all-in on making photo magic together, I’ll send over a contract and invoice to lock in your date. After that, we’ll plan your engagement session (because you deserve gorgeous photos before the big day, too!) and chat through your wedding timeline to ensure we capture every special moment. I’m here for all the questions, ideas, and little details along the way!
"We could not have asked for a better photographer for our wedding day."
Michaela is so easy and wonderful to work with! We are in love with our photos. We could not have asked for a better photographer for our wedding day.
Michaela did an amazing job shooting our wedding photos. She is super easy to work with and made us feel so comfortable during the whole process.
After the party, the photos are what remain.
Let’s be real: deciding to invest in wedding photography is no small thing. Maybe you’re thinking:
“Is photography really worth it?”
“Do we even need a photographer?”
“There are so many—how do we choose?”
Take a breath. You’re not alone in these thoughts. But here’s what I want you to know:
Your wedding day deserves to be captured in a way that feels like you—beautiful, real, and full of heart. The tears, the laughter, the way your partner looks at you when you walk down the aisle—these moments won’t happen again. Without intentional photography, they’ll fade.
It’s not just about pretty pictures. It’s about preserving your story, your legacy. Imagine flipping through your album years from now, reliving the day with your future kids or grandkids. That’s priceless.
And choosing the right photographer? You’re already on the right track. My approach is about connection and storytelling—capturing the big moments and the in-between ones that make your day uniquely yours.
Let’s make it happen.
What is included?
What is included in your wedding photography experience:
one-on-one calls or meetings to discuss your vision, timeline, and special moments you want captured.
You’ll feel confident and organized, knowing we’ve got every detail covered, and your photos will reflect what matters most to you.
A handful of edited photos delivered within 48 hours of your wedding.
Relive the highlights of your day and share them with loved ones while waiting for your full gallery.
High-resolution images delivered through an online gallery.
Stunning, ready-to-print photos that are timeless and easy to share with family and friends.
4k Slideshow
An emotional and cinematic way to relive your day and share it with family and friends in a format that feels dynamic and heartfelt.
Classic, timeless moments captured on 35mm film.
Adds a touch of nostalgia and artistry, with one-of-a-kind images that feel rich and authentic.
Professional officiating for your wedding ceremony.
A seamless experience where my team can help guide you through heartfelt vows and make your ceremony personal, meaningful, and stress-free.
investment
Hourly coverage begins at $650
Wedding dates book up fast, especially during peak seasons, and I only take on a limited number of weddings each year to give each couple the attention they deserve. If your date is in 2025 or beyond, now’s the time to reach out!
faq
Here are some answers to my most-asked questions:
How far in advance should we book you?
Do you travel for weddings?
do you include engagement sessions?
How long does it take to get our photos?
What if we’re not sure we’ll look good in photos?
Wedding dates fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. I recommend booking as soon as you’ve chosen your date and venue—ideally 9-12 months in advance.
Elopements with more flexibility require 3-4 months typically, but if you're super spontaneous, I can be too!
How far in advance should we book you?
Do you travel for weddings?
Do you include engagement sessions?
How long does it take to get our photos?
What if we’re not sure we’ll look good in photos?
Yes! I love capturing love stories wherever they unfold. Whether it’s a Black Hills elopement, a destination wedding, or something in between, I’m happy to travel. Additional travel fees may apply, and I’ll include those in your custom quote.
How far in advance should we book you?
Do you travel for weddings?
Do you include engagement sessions?
How long does it take to get our photos?
What if we’re not sure we’ll look good in photos?
How far in advance should we book you?
Do you travel for weddings?
Do you include engagement sessions?
How long does it take to get our photos?
What if we’re not sure we’ll look good in photos?
How far in advance should we book you?
Do you travel for weddings?
Address any specific details that didn’t make it into the above sections.
How long does it take to get our photos?
What if we’re not sure we’ll look good in photos?
Let's get you married
The second easiest yes.
I'd love to be a part of your wedding planning journey. I hope to be the second easiest yes in your adventure.
