Your Love Story Is A Wild One
// Let's capture it together.
Hi, I'm Mary, the lead photographer at M/K Studios.
I'm so excited to meet you! With six years of experience capturing breathtaking moments in the most stunning locations, I have dedicated my career to capturing your unforgettable memories.
My journey into the world of photography began in high school when I started associate shooting with Pheifer Photography LLC in Wisconsin. I learned so much from that experience and used it as a launching pad for my own venture, which began in 2019. Since then, I have worked with amazing couples, telling their unique love stories through my lens.
When I'm not photographing weddings, you can usually find me out exploring. I love spending time outdoors and finding new ways to appreciate the natural beauty around me. It's no surprise that my love for the outdoors is reflected in my photography. I specialize in capturing the perfect shot in outdoor and scenic locations, and I believe that the beauty of nature makes the perfect backdrop for your special day.
In addition to my photography work, I have also been fortunate enough to work remotely m-f in the ski industry as a technical writer, sponsored athlete, and ambassador for various brands and environmental groups. Through these experiences, I have gained a unique perspective on the importance of sustainable practices and environmental conservation, and I always strive to incorporate these values into my work as a photographer.
On wedding days, I'm always comfortable, laid-back, and ready to go with the flow. I love befriending my clients and their hectic bridal parties, and I believe that the best photos come when everyone is relaxed and having fun. I'm here to make sure that your special day is captured in a way that is authentic, beautiful, and uniquely yours.
If you're interested in learning more about me and my work, I would love to chat with you! Let's grab coffee - or craft brew- or schedule a consultation to talk about your vision for your special day.
Fun fact about me: I've lived in several different places throughout the Midwest, including Grand Rapids, Marquette, Houghton, Waupaca, Neenah, and Gaylord. I've attended Northern Michigan University, Michigan Technological University, and the University of Wisconsin, so I have a pretty diverse educational background!
Kyle Sitkins - Aerial & Associate Photographer
Meet Kyle, the newest addition to M/K Studios! While he initially joined the team in 2020 to help out during a wedding shortage, he's quickly become an invaluable member of our crew. Kyle's expertise lies in all things technical, and he's especially talented when it comes to aerial photography. He's also our go-to guy for capturing those special moments with the groom and his male party.
But Kyle's skills don't stop there. He brings previous wedding day experience from the event rental industry, where he honed his ability to set up large tents with ease. This skill has come in handy more than once, ensuring that our clients have a seamless and stress-free wedding day experience.
Kyle is also a Mechanical Engineer locally in the Houghton Area. It is not uncommon for this to be a connection between him and wedding parties.
Support Staff Gallery // By Kyle, Olivia & Adam
PUBLICATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS
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The Nitty Gritty
& other deatils
"I grew up in a Catholic household, though currently, I don't have a specific parish or community that I call home. Living intentionally and staying connected to nature and my surroundings are values that hold great importance to me.
Originally from Neenah, WI, I now find joy as a Michigan/Yooper transplant. My preferred pronouns are she/her, and I am proud to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
As a photography enthusiast, I absolutely adore Canon gear and firmly believe in the power of Mirrorless cameras and prime lenses for capturing extraordinary moments over zoom lenses.
Since 2019, I've had the incredible privilege of photographing over 50 weddings. Along this journey, I've traveled to and captured unforgettable moments in six different countries. Scotland and Costa Rica, in particular, have been inspiring and captivating destinations.
Beyond photography, I find pleasure in indulging in coffee and craft beer. Cooking, surfing, skiing, journaling, attending yoga classes at Fresh Coast, and savoring meals at The Fitz are among my cherished hobbies. I'm also passionate about camping, playing video games like Legend of Zelda, ACNH, and Fortnite, and advocating for sustainability and social justice. The beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula holds a special place in my heart, and I'm currently making a dedicated effort to become an avid reader.
To get straight to the point, I'm a go-with-the-flow, candid, and natural-light-loving wedding and elopement photographer based in Northern Michigan. My approach revolves around capturing genuine emotions and organic moments. I'm not afraid to take charge and ensure things run smoothly, even if it means wrangling unruly wedding parties or keeping things on schedule. Flexibility and being easy to work with are qualities I take pride in, and I strive to bring a calming presence to your big day. If you're searching for a photographer who will allow you to be your authentic self and capture the true magic of your wedding, I would be thrilled to connect and discuss your vision further. Let's have a chat!"
FAQ &
MORE INFORMATION...
How would you describe your style?
We describe ourselves as Natural Light Lifestyle Photographers. We're all about achieving that organic emotion and candidly capturing photos of our subjects. For the best idea of our style, scroll through our Recent Work! If you are more of a number person, I would say I'm 75% photo-journalists / 25% posed come a wedding day!
How long does it take for us to receive our photos?
Our turnaround time varies 4-8 weeks, but we tend to share a sneak peak with you & on our Facebook page a few days after the event.
Do I get a hard copy storage of all the high-res edited photos?
Yes, for 2022 weddings! You'll get a flash drive with all the high-res edited photos. A digital gallery will also be shared. This is where we can make albums, canvas, and high-quality prints of your gallery.
How long do you spend on formal family photos at weddings?
We like to spend about 15 minutes taking a few quick family photos. If you want a picture with your third cousin once removed, we can grab that at the reception.
How long have you been a wedding photographer?
I started photographing weddings as an assistant in 2015. When my lead photographer closed her doors, I opened mine in 2019 and have been enjoying the love since.
What is a first look and should we do one?
A first look is a wedding life-saver. It just is. Here are nine reasons why you should do one! If not with your significant other, it's always a great moment for a dad/daughter, mother/daughter, etc.
Can I upload my wedding photos to Facebook or share the ones you post?
Certainly! You can use any of your photos as long as you promise not to alter them in any way. You will have full rights to the high-resolution images
What's in your camera bag?
We use Canon bodies currently 5d mark III and Canon RP's. We favor our 50 & 85mm Canon lenses. Kyle favors the paparazzi, ultra-long, stalker lens , he isn't as social as I am. We also like to break out a couple of film cameras if we're feeling saucy and the party looks alive! We ideally keep the flashes in the bag until the sun goes down! If you are looking for a more up-to-date, technical breakdown, shoot me an email! My inventory changes occasionally.
Can I have all of the unedited photos you took at our wedding?
No sir! You'll receive all of the photos that we took of your day - Just none of the blinking & lame faces. We fancy our editing style and never deliver any images that are incomplete or meet our standards.
How many wedding/engagement photos will I get?
You'll receive at least 500 photos from your wedding day. We like to spoil our clients, so it's likely you'll receive way more than the stated 500. Engagement photos start at 75min photos.
Can we get a wedding book or album?
You betcha. We use an online gallery & store for printing and easy image sharing. If you want to do this via a third party like Shutterfly or Wallgreens, you also can!
Do you have any advice from a Photographer's perspective for our wedding day?
Splurge on an awesome (tidy/clean) hotel room or a unique (tidy/clean) location for your getting ready photos - do the first look with someone if not with the person you are marrying - keep the lighting as natural as possible by utilizing windows & outdoor locations - don't let your DJ talk you into colored mood lighting at your reception - outdoor receptions are best for natural light photographers - Set a time for sunset photos for just to two of you, its a great time to take a moment and absorb the day - splurge on what matters to you - outdoors will always make for prettier backdrops, utilize it as a decoration!
How does covering travel expenses work?
My travel fees are included in all of my packages so you do not have to worry about any unexpected costs.
Are you Vaxxed?
One shot, two shot, three shot, maybe more? Answer is yes, including any support staff as well!
What happens if you get sick on my wedding day?
Luckily - I have a handful of photographer friends I can call upon if needed! This is yet to happen to me thankfully!
- knock on wood -
Are you 420 friendly?
I do not mind being around cannabis, cigars, or those who consume nicotine products or vape. I appreciate a heads up or notice prior to the day's event if it's going to be a large element of the wedding day such as with a Bud Bar or your family overly enjoys cigars.