The lighting of her pics on her website and the way the pics turned out were exactly what I wanted for my engagement/wedding photos
About
Catholic wedding photographer, photography studio owner, lover of love — and bees.
Meet Marlaina
H there! I’m Marlaina. My photography career started in 2011 after an amazing and inspiring experience of having my high school senior portraits taken. I’m known as Metro Detroit’s Catholic wedding photographer these days, and I’m proud to own my own photography studio in Shelby Township.
A few things I believe in.
I believe in the beauty of love and love stories. I believe in happily ever after’s and the sacrament of marriage. I believe in dreams that come true and the power of family.
I also believe in the importance of genuine connection.
I take time to get to know my clients ahead of time to foster that connection, which is invaluable in ensuring your photos are a true reflection of you. I’ll also use my personal and professional experience to make sure you feel comfortable during your shoot, have fun and LOVE your photographs!
Clients say there’s just something special about the lighting in my work.
Truly understanding lighting is SO important!
After attending Macomb Community College (as the only student with no prior photography experience!) I was fortunate to work with Prestige Portraits — the training and mentorship I received from the experts there helped me become a master of studio lighting.
I’m thrilled to use this skill in my studio in Shelby Township, MI… and I have even hosted lighting workshops at my studio for other photographers. From controlling the sun in outdoor photo shoots to capturing stunning images in even the most dimly lit churches, there’s no lighting situation I can’t handle.
Before launching my business full-time, I spent 11 years learning the ins and outs of running a business through running my Dad’s manufacturing facility. My experience there helped prepare me for running a professional, successful business of my own — and my clients love how my organizational skills translate to a session or wedding day that runs smoother than they could have thought possible!
Sound like we might be a good fit? I’d love to hear from you!
Fun Facts About Marlaina
First and foremost — I’ve eaten a lot of wedding cake!
I love bees! I have a mission to create a garden that brings all the bees to my yard.
I grew up on a farm in Michigan and had 52 pets at one point! I originally wanted to be a veterinarian, but my asthma said “no.”
My husband Isaac is my favorite person ♥️
Isaac and I once took a week-long camping trip exploring the west side of Michigan
My favorite liquor is whiskey. I’ve visited the Jack Daniels distillery and a few local Michigan distilleries.
My husband and I are now welcoming our first child!