Meet Ella

Ella Richards

What really lights me up? The love stories. I’m a full-blown, unapologetic romantic at heart—always have been. Give me a spark-filled glance, a hand squeeze mid-laughter, or a teary “I do,” and I’m all in. From the time I was a kid, I’ve been obsessed with two things: swoon-worthy romance novels and the magic of freezing time through a camera lens.

It’s that raw, electric connection between two people—the real, unscripted moments—that made me ditch the corporate grind and chase my dream. Now, I get to tell love stories for a living, and honestly, I can't imagine doing anything else.

Fun fact: I have a growing collection of quirky vintage cameras (yes, I totally geek out over them). I’ve been lucky enough to have my work published internationally in over 100 magazine features, and I’ve been honored with the Best of Atlanta Wedding Photography award four years in a row (2020–2023). But the real win? Getting to witness love unfold, one beautiful frame at a time.

We’re a house full of animal lovers and unapologetic nerds—and I wouldn’t have it any other way! I’ve got two incredible kids: my oldest, Jacob, just turned 21 (cue the proud tears and disbelief!), and my youngest, Michaela, will be 10 this November. Life with them is a beautiful mix of chaos, joy, and endless movie quotes.

Our fur family is just as wonderfully over-the-top as we are. We’ve got two pugs with names that are as whimsical as their personalities: Sir Charles "Charlie" Xavier Pugsington III, Duke of Kibble, and Dame "River" Song Pugsington, Professor of Cuteness and Duchess of the Curly-Tails. And let’s just say we have... a mysterious number of cats. I won’t admit how many, but they’re all deeply loved (and totally in charge).

I’m so glad you’re here! I’m a mama, a writer, an artist—and yes, a devoted fan Diet Dr Pepper and I tend to put a little too much creamer in my coffee. I’m a full-time wedding, engagement, and portrait photographer originally born and raised in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. These days, I’m calling the Chicago area home, just outside the city—and I’m loving every second of building new roots here while still staying connected to the South.

I specialize in capturing bright, timeless images with a pop of color and real, unscripted emotion. There’s nothing I’d rather be doing than telling love stories—whether that’s on a rooftop in downtown Chicago, beneath the mossy oaks of Georgia, or anywhere your heart takes you.

As a partner and a busy mom of two spirited little ones, I know how quickly life moves—and how important it is to hold onto those fleeting, beautiful moments before they become memories. That’s why I approach every session with the intention of building lasting relationships, capturing every season of your journey—from your Chicago skyline proposal to your Atlanta wedding day, and all the love-filled milestones to come.

Your story matters. It's worthy of being celebrated, documented, and cherished—and I can’t wait to help you do just that.

IT's NICE TO MEET YOU

We’re big fans of anything geeky—Doctor Who, Marvel, magic, mythical creatures, anime—you name it. Movie nights, video game tournaments, family card games, spontaneous beach trips, and hikes through Atlanta’s beautiful trails are just part of our rhythm.

We also love to travel and check off those dream destinations one by one: Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Big Sur, Sequoia National Park, New York, Las Vegas—we’re chasing memories coast to coast.

When I’m not behind the camera capturing your love stories, planning sessions, or editing gorgeous albums, you’ll likely find me cozy on the couch with a fluffy blanket, Charlie snuggled in my lap, or working on a new YouTube tutorial for fellow photographers.

Let’s chat—I can’t wait to hear your story.

Love, light & boundless blessings, 

I love surprising my couples with same day reveals during their reception! 

I'm always there to help in whatever way I can, even if that mean mending your gown.